(CIP: 150403)

Instrumentation Process Technology, A.A.S, is a program that includes foundation education in both mechanical and electrical instrumentation processes. With safety at the forefront of every applied technology program, West Virginia Northern Community College is preparing a skilled workforce for regional employers. Instrumentation technicians spend time installing, calibrating, and troubleshooting various instruments in addition to complete control systems. Students should possess strong interpersonal skills and be motivated and disciplined in order to learn these technical skills. Reading, writing, mathematics, psychology, and communication are important in this field.

Process technicians are skilled plant operators who work for refining, power generation, water, oil, waste management, advance manufacturing and other related manufacturing companies. Process technicians work with the latest computer control systems, work outdoors taking samples and monitor equipment, and solve problems in a collaborative environment.

NOTE: This program has specific entrance requirements, application, and standards of progress requirements. Drug testing is a condition of acceptance to this program.

• This course provides an overview of process technology in various industries, including the responsibilities of process control technicians, and a description of the equipment and processes used across multiple industries.
• This course will also introduce students to the theory and application of process instrumentation and to the variables that affect industrial processes. Students become acquainted with concepts such as process variables, measuring devices, control loops, control valves, and process diagrams. Building on the knowledge from previous courses, students learn how plant equipment is controlled.
• The course explores practical applications related to the transport, storage, control, processing and flow of fluids. It includes measurement of flow, compressible and incompressible fluids, and pumping of liquids and gases.
• The course is intended to prepare students to work alongside engineers as part of an engineering team, as well as prepare students to work as technicians in a manufacturing setting where they might be responsible for the smooth operation of fluid systems.

Job opportunities for graduates of the program are high as manufacturing facilities are faced with large numbers of baby boomers retiring and the need for highly skilled workers to maintain and operate the automated equipment of the modern manufacturing facility. In addition to opportunities with the steel industry, individuals may work in chemical, power generating, and fabricating industries.