What is the average salary of an engineering technician?
According to Indeed.com, the average salary of an engineering technician in the United States is $63,191 per year.
What is advanced manufacturing?
According to Manufacturing.org, advanced manufacturing refers to the use of innovative technologies to create new and existing products.
Does this course prepare you for a certification?
No.
What specific skills in advanced manufacturing will I learn in this course?
These are just a few of the advanced manufacturing skills you will learn in this course:
- Advanced Manufacturing Processes: Understanding various manufacturing techniques like CNC machining, 3D printing, additive manufacturing, and automation.
- Industrial Automation Systems: Knowledge of PLC programming and robotics, a skillset that is becoming increasingly important.
- Mechatronic Systems: Understanding the integration of mechanical, electrical, and computer systems is valuable in advanced manufacturing.
Does the course include a focus on quality control and process improvement techniques?
Yes, this course has one lesson on Lean and one lesson on Quality. The lessons focus on ISO 9001, process design and development, lean manufacturing, and Six Sigma.
How is advanced manufacturing different from traditional manufacturing, and does the course cover these differences?
Traditional manufacturing relies on manual or mechanical processes that have been used for decades (e.g., lathes, mills, welding).
Advanced manufacturing uses innovative technology like automation, robotics, CNC machines, additive manufacturing (3D printing), and AI.
Example for an engineering technician:
- Traditional: An engineering technician uses a manual lathe to cut a metal rod to size, measuring by hand with calipers.
- Advanced: A technician uploads a CAD file into a CNC machine, which automatically cuts the metal rod to exact specs using digital controls, then inspects it using a laser scanner.
This covers three different types of CNCs, as well as basic programming and program execution on the machines. The course also provides a module on manual machining, so the learner will have versatility in this evolving industry.
How will this course prepare me for a specific role in advanced manufacturing?
This course will prepare you for an early-career role, such as a junior engineering technician, engineering assistant, or engineering technician.
Does this course cover current trends in manufacturing, such as automation, IoT, or sustainable manufacturing practices?
Yes, this course covers the manufacturing trends of additive manufacturing, composites, and robotics.
How will this course help me meet the qualifications for entry-level roles in advanced manufacturing?
These are just a few of the concepts taught in this course that would help you qualify for an entry-level advanced manufacturing role:
- Operating Machinery and Equipment: Familiarity with various types of equipment, including hand tools, robots, and automated systems.
- Understanding Manufacturing Processes: Knowledge of production methodologies, quality control procedures, and safety protocols.
- Basic Technical Knowledge: Understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, as well as the ability to read blueprints and schematics.
How can I use the skills learned here to qualify for more advanced manufacturing courses or programs?
The skills learned in this course can help prepare you for coursework as a CNC programmer, senior engineer technician, automation/controls technician, or quality assurance specialist.
When can I start the course?
This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.
How long does it take to complete this course?
This course is self-paced and open enrollment, so you can start when you want and finish at your own pace. When you register, you'll receive eighteen (18) months to complete the course.
What if I don't have enough time to complete my course within the time frame provided?
The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.
What kind of support will I receive?
Our courses are designed to accommodate various learning preferences. Depending on the course structure, you may get different forms of support. Self-paced courses are designed to be user-friendly and independent, minimizing the need for external support. In courses with instructors, our direct platform support feature includes opportunities for questions, discussions, and remediation, with email and phone support available for select courses. Our student advising team is available to guide you on program requirements and administrative requests, but they do not provide assistance with course content. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary support for success, whether it's through self-paced exploration, direct communication, or guidance from our advising team.
What happens when I complete the course?
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion.
Am I guaranteed a job?
This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.
Can I get financial assistance?
This course is non-credit, so it does not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards will pay for qualified students to take our courses. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial assistance when they enroll, if they meet certain requirements. Financing is available from select schools. Learn more about financial assistance.
How can I get more information about this course?
If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-877-221-5151 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us" form.