Overview of Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians
Industrial production technicians are workers who are responsible for efficiently operating, monitoring, and maintaining production machinery and equipment used in the manufacturing process. They enable operational processes to run smoothly and safely – maximizing efficiency and minimizing downtime. Industrial production technicians must be knowledgeable in the fundamentals of engineering, mechanics, and electricity to properly maintain, install, and adjust production machinery and equipment.
What are the career opportunities for graduates with an associate degree in Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians?
With an associate degree in Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians, individuals can find numerous skilled positions within the manufacturing industry. Possible jobs include industrial maintenance technician, quality inspector, production technician, machine operator, and production line worker. In these positions, individuals will be responsible for a variety of tasks including calibrating and troubleshooting equipment, conducting machine maintenance, ensuring proper production levels, and leading teams.
Are there internship or co-op opportunities related to Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians?
Many schools offer internships or cooperative education opportunities. Through internships or co-ops, students gain invaluable experience while gaining valuable experience on the job. Internships or co-ops are beneficial for students to gain applicable skills and knowledge in overseeing, troubleshooting and repairing production equipment, as well as observing and understanding workflow in factories and manufacturing settings.
Are there specialized tracks or concentrations within Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians?
Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians associate degree programs offer a range of specialized tracks or concentrations that cover most aspects of industrial production. Concentrations within the program are designed to give students the skill and knowledge necessary to become experts in their chosen field. Some of the most popular concentrations include industrial automation, industrial safety, mechanical systems, quality control, fabrication, and industrial electronics.
How does an associate degree in Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians prepare students for further education?
An associate degree in Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians prepares students for further education by providing them with a strong foundation in both theory and hands-on application of up-to-date production technologies and methods. Students learn a variety of practical skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and team collaboration. Additionally, established technical competency within the field is developed which may make students more desirable to employers.
Impact of artificial intelligence on Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used within the industrial production field as a tool to improve productivity, reduce waste, and increase safety. AI can be used to help automate tedious tasks, monitor production parameters, and help monitor and predict maintenance needs. This can also lead to increased efficiency, improved safety standards, and improved quality control.
The career outlook for Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians?
The career outlook for Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians is strong, thanks to increasing demand within the manufacturing industry. As the use of automation continues to grow within factories, there is a need for skilled technicians to maintain and install these technologies. Additionally, due to the wide array of positions within industrial production, individuals possess the opportunity to move up into managerial positions or specialized roles.
Here are the top reported starting salaries for graduates in Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians:
- Baton Rouge Community College, Salary: $79,384
- SOWELA Technical Community College, Salary: $74,657
- Olympic College, Salary: $70,594
- University of Alaska Anchorage, Salary: $69,424
- Portland Community College, Salary: $67,691
- Bismarck State College, Salary: $64,379
- Vincennes University, Salary: $60,552
- Tidewater Community College, Salary: $59,969
- ITI Technical College, Salary: $58,033
- Lake Area Technical College, Salary: $57,596
For privacy reasons, not all schools report the first year salaries for students who earned their associate degree in Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians.