Major Code: 245

Industrial Technology, A.A.S. is a program that individuals apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of industrial engineers and managers. Includes optimizing foundational education in both mechanical and electrical theory, with an emphasis on industrial/commercial electrical skill-sets. With safety at the forefront of every applied technology program, West Virginia Northern Community College is preparing a skilled workforce for regional employers. Industrial technicians spend time maintaining, installing, and troubleshooting various mechanical, instrumentation and electrical systems, in addition to complete control systems. Students should possess strong interpersonal skills, be motivated and disciplined in order to learn these technical skills. Reading, writing, mathematics, psychology, and communication are important in this field.

After completion of this program students will be able to: 

• Demonstrate fundamental understanding of  AC/DC electrical circuits and Ohm’s Law. 
• Demonstrate fundamental understanding of fluid power, both hydraulic and  pneumatics. Recognize, maintain and troubleshoot various hydraulic and pneumatic industrial systems.
• Demonstrate fundamental understanding of AC/DC electrical motors, overloads, starters and control systems. Recognize, maintain, install and troubleshoot various electric motors and their control circuits. Demonstrate how a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) works and its usefulness in today’s industry.
• Identify the importance of  Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) in the application of Industrial Automation. Develop the skills needed to write basic PLC logic programs, troubleshoot automation issues and apply installation procedures for PLCs.
• Demonstrate knowledge of various components and functions of Industrial Instrumentation and Process Controls.
• Describe and demonstrate the basics of print reading skills and industrial/commercial common practices for: installations, wiring sizing, conduit sizing and bending, panel building. Develop an understanding of the National Electric Code (NEC).
• Demonstrate basic welding and burning skills.
• Demonstrate the skills needed to troubleshoot, diagnose and solve issues with electrical and mechanical industrial equipment and components.
• The Capstone; combine, demonstrate and utilize all of the learned skills into assembling an automated system process, culminating with the Flexible Manufacturing System trainer (FMS).

CIP Code: 15.0612