Industrial PLC Technician, Associate in Science Degree

Orange Coast College

The Industrial PLC Technician Associate of Science degree is designed to provide students who have completed the PLC Technician Certificate of Achievement the opportunity to earn an associate's degree. Students will leave with the skills and knowledge required to work on the PLC-based industrial control systems commonly found in advanced manufacturing facilities. Students will gain hands-on experience with Siemens and Allen-Bradley controllers. Upon completion of this certificate, students will be able to troubleshoot PLC based systems, replace faulty electrical components, and program and commission systems. Students must complete the Industrial Electronics Technician Certificate of Achievement (13-14 units) as a part of the required coursework. Program Outcomes Students will gain the basic knowledge required to take the CET (Certified Electronics Technician) exam. Students will be able to work safely in accordance with NFPA 70E. Students will acquire the skills necessary to connect to a PLC, diagnose system problems, backup a program, and restore a program to a controller. Students will gain proficiency in reading and creating schematics, wiring diagrams, and ladder logic diagrams for advanced control systems. Students will acquire hands-on skills working with HMIs, SCADA, and industrial communication protocols.