Electro Mechanical Engineering Technician Program Offers Practical Approach

Did you know that at the heart of virtually all advanced manufacturing industries are automated systems? Professionals with knowledge of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), hydraulics, pneumatics, electronics and robotics are needed to build and operate these automated systems. Additionally, professionals may launch careers in technical sales and service as well as integration (with automation houses).

At Centennial College's electro mechanical engineering - Automation and Robotics offering, students obtain the know-how they need to launch their careers after two years of study. This program combines a thorough understanding of theory, along with practical, hands-on laboratory experience.

Students' studies consist of a heavy hands-on focus that sees them spend much of their time in labs particularly designed for the curriculum of the program. Housed at Progress Campus, these labs are part of one of the largest trades training centres in the province. Here is a closer look at some of the courses in this offering - which is accredited by Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB) - that demonstrate how beneficial it is for attendees.

Electric Circuits: Students split their time between theoretical lectures and labs in which they apply what they have learned about the fundamental principles and theorems of D.C. and A.C. series and parallel resistive circuits. The labs allow students to work with D.C. power supplies, digital multimeters (DMM), oscilloscopes, function generators and use of electronics-circuit simulation design software.

Robotic Devices: In a lab setting, students gain programming skills and apply them to the industrial robots. Among specific topics are: programming the ABB robots, challenges of the integrated systems, robot safety guidelines, terminology and classification of robots, definition of robotics in CIM systems, and end of arm tooling.

Mechanics and Materials: This course examines concepts of Forces (tension, compression, shear, bearing, bending), stresses and strains due to applied loads and temperature changes. Students also learn about the shear force diagram, bending moment diagram, centre of mass/centre of gravity/centroid and properties of metals. Students become comfortable with selecting the size and proper metal material to be used in building their robot components.

Hydraulic Systems 1, 2, 3: Presented in three advancing classes, this course deals with concepts and laws of hydraulics. In the first course, students gain hands-on practice with the circuit assembly, operation and testing of components. The second course, meanwhile, examines advanced pressure and flow controls components and their industrial applications. Students are required to design more advanced systems based on specific industrial uses. The third Automation robotics engineering course wraps up the examination of hydraulics with a look at hydraulic motor applications in open and closed loop circuits. Cartridge and proportional valves are introduced and students are required to perform practical lab operations with these valves, demonstrating their use in modern hydraulic circuits.

Electro Mechanical Technicians Career Information

Electro-mechanical technicians are responsible for solving technical problems in electronic and electrical machines, devices, equipment, circuits and systems. They are typically employed in construction, automotive, manufacturing, aircraft, and rail, power, oil and gas and telecom sectors. They handle a large number of job duties, including installation, maintenance, testing, troubleshooting and repairing of electrical and electronic devices and systems. In addition to this, they are also employed in the areas of customer service and sales.

Building a Career as an Electro-Mechanical Technician in Canada

In order to work as an electro-mechanical technician in Canada, it has become important for individuals to have undergone a postsecondary training in electrical/electronic engineering technology combined with mechanical engineering. They may consider enrolling themselves into a two-year post-secondary electro-mechanical engineering program. Such programs help them gain expertise in the field of automation and robotics, which are at the heart of all advanced manufacturing industries.

In addition, they gain a thorough understanding and hands-on laboratory experience in hydraulics, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), electronics, pneumatics and robotics. The emphasis is also placed on report writing in technical environment, business communications and ethics in technology and the environment. Students considering this career option should take maths as a compulsory subject during their secondary education. This is the basic requirement to enter a post-secondary electro-mechanical engineering technician program. With this, they must be proficient in English language.

Additional Skills

The electro-mechanical technicians must be able to work on all traditional and modern electro-mechanical devices. Employers are keen on hiring professionals who not only have undergone a formal education and training but are also capable of troubleshooting and repairing these devices and equipments. They are also expected to possess good communication, interpersonal and sales skills, as they may need to deal directly with the customers.

Studying Electro-Mechanical Engineering in Canada

There are a number of colleges in Canada that offer two-year post-secondary courses to aspiring electro-mechanical technicians. However, most colleges provide general education and theory. Technical understanding and hands-on laboratory and work experience in a real-world setting play a vital role in seeking a decent-paying job after course completion.

Moreover, not all programs are accredited. Centennial College's two-year post-secondary program in electro-mechanical engineering technician is accredited by Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB). Centennial College has also received key-school status with the U.S. based Fluid Power Education Foundation (FPEF). Besides, the course provides an in-depth understanding of engineering fundamentals to advanced systems and hands-on laboratory allowing students put their learning into practice. The program graduates can either choose to pursue their careers or continue for additional study and co-op experience in three-year automation robotics engineering technology program.

Applying for a Post-Secondary Electro-Mechanical Engineering Program

Interested students need to fill an application form and submit secondary school diploma certificate along with scores in English Grade 12 C or University or equivalent and Math Grade 11 m or 12 C or University or equivalent. Applicants not meeting academic requirements must take English and Math assessments conducted by the college for admission. The application can be submitted in person or by mail or online.

Automation and Robotics program lets students handle automated systems and robots in labs

Movies have long predicted that the real-world may soon turn to robots for services and manufacturing of products. The future is not far as many of the complex systems companies use are automated by robots. However, humans are in the lead, as they control and maintain technology. Workers learn the tools of the trade from an automation robotics engineering program. Centennial College offers the Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technician - Automation and Robotics (4105) for avid learners, wishing to pursue careers in robotics.

The lessons taught from the program's advanced courses can identify with the tasks that professionals perform. The skills learned at Centennial are valuable and sought-out by many employers. Here are some key learning outcomes from the program:

• Practice basic technical drawing and mechanical engineering graphic skills through the computer-aided drafting tool AutoCAD software.
• Learn the principles of DC and AC electrical circuits and perform electronic equipment testing to measure voltage, current, and resistance.
• Examine hydraulic systems, including circuit assembly and operation and testing of pumps, cylinders, and other components. Students will apply this knowledge as they designand build a basic hydraulic system.
• Explore the basics of a pneumatic system, executing mathematical calculations accurately, including calculation of pressure, force, and air flow.
• Apply programming skills to build industrial robots in Centennial's state-of-the-art laboratory.
  
• Project-driven course, called Machine Shop, allows students to manufacture products related to several subject areas, such asdrills, mills, lathes, andgrinders.
• Study the theory of automation system maintenance and troubleshooting, then applying it in the labs as students perform troubleshooting procedures and preventative maintenance.

Students can expect various technical jobs in the manufacturing sector in various industries, including automotive, food, pharmaceuticals, aircraft, and communications. Centennial teaches its student a broad spectrum of skills that can be applied in different work settings. Graduates can expect to do the following job tasks:

• Complete quality assurance tests, preventive and corrective maintenance, and calibration of equipment
• Assemble parts of mechanical systems, ensuring safety and quality standards are met
• Collaborate with team members on reports and special projects
• Provide technical support on mechanical and control system issues
• Work time may include shift work, overtime, and weekends

The program can get competitive so students must obtain the minimum academic requirements and other eligibility requirements:

• An Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent high school credentials; or mature student status for applicants at least 19 years of age; or midterm grades for current high school applicants
• English Grade 12 college or university level, or equivalent; or complete the English Skills Assessment at Centennial's testing centre
• Mathematics Grade 11 college/university or university level, or Grade 12 college or university level, or equivalent; or complete the Engineering Math Skills Assessment test

The automation robotics engineering program educates students with the academic achievement and practical experience they need as they launch their careers in the manufacturing sector as engineering technicians. Employers seek college-trained individuals who are skilled for the tasks on the job. Graduates of the electro mechanical engineering program enter the workforce with a good starting pay and job titles such as Avionics Systems Technician, Calibration Metrologist, Electro-Mechanical Technician, and Robotics Maintenance Technician.

Electro Mechanical Engineering Program Details and Career Opportunities

Electro-mechanical engineering is a comprehensive post-secondary program that focuses on automated industrial systems including hydraulics, programmable logic controllers, pneumatics, robotics and electronics. The program combines in-depth study on basic and advanced systems, industrial visits, automation and robotics events, hands-on-laboratory and computer aided drafting.

The two-year program helps students strengthen their fundamentals in mathematics, physics and statistics. Besides, students are also taught about

• Hydraulic systems
• Pneumatic components
  
• Electronic devices
• Digital electronics
• Pneumatic circuits
• Robotics devices
• Mechanics and materials
• PLC interfacing
• Robotic applications
• Maintenance and troubleshooting

In addition to this, students gain an understanding of ethics in technology and environment, global citizenship - from social analysis to social action and report writing in technical environment. Upon course completion, graduates can choose to either work as technician or continue for additional study and co-op work experience in three-year automation and robotics technology program.

Applying for an Electro-Mechanical Engineering Program 

Students considering building a career in automation and robotics need to complete a course in electro mechanical engineering. In fact, this is the basic requirement to seek entry-level positions in the industry. Centennial College's automation robotics engineering program is accredited by Canadian Technology Accreditation Board and enjoys key-school status with the U.S. based Fluid Power Education Foundation. To apply for this program, you will need:

• Secondary school diploma
• English Grade 12 C or University or equivalent
• Mathematics Grade 11 M or 12 C or University or equivalent

Students currently in high school can also apply for this program. Their midterm and final term scores will be transmitted directly to the college.  

Career Opportunities 

Electro-mechanical engineers bring the principles of electrical and mechanical engineering, because of which they are preferred over other engineering professionals. They can be involved in designing, development, installation, maintenance, repairing and replacing of all types of electrical and mechanical devices, equipments, circuits, products and systems. The professionals may work in diverse areas such as manufacturing, maintenance, integration and technical sales and services across diverse industries, such as automotive, food, aircraft, communications, packaging, pharmaceuticals, computers, oil and gas, defense, chemical, construction, rail, power generation, telecom and utility. Although the demand for electro-mechanical engineers is higher than other engineering professionals but employers are interested in hiring those graduates who possess good knowledge of electromechanical concepts, practical experience and good interpersonal skills. This is because the professionals working in technical support and service organizations need to deal directly with the customers.  

Job Roles and Responsibilities 

The exact job roles and responsibilities may vary depending upon the industry, job title and individual work experience. However, typical roles and responsibilities may include:

• Fabricating and assembling electrical, mechanical or electronic components
• Installing, maintaining and repairing electrical, mechanical, electronic or electro-mechanical devices, equipments or systems
• Ensuring proper functioning of all the systems, devices and equipments
• Selecting the right electrical, mechanical, electronic or electromechanical components that meet functional specifications
• Translating electromechanical drawings into design specifications
• Estimating costs of designing, developing, maintaining or repairing a particular system or device
• Complying with environmental standards and regulations and technological benchmarks
• Testing and analyzing thermodynamic systems
• Maximizing the efficiency of systems installed within a particular space

For more advanced career opportunities and supervisory roles, individuals can opt for higher education in the field of electromechanical, automation and robotics.

Building a Career in Automation and Robotics with Electro Mechanical Engineering

The job of an automation robotics technician is to help senior engineers and organizations design, build, test, install, maintain and troubleshoot automated systems. However, the actual job duties and responsibilities vary, depending upon the individual qualifications, skills, experience and nature of the business and job title.

The professionals work with different industries such as automotive, aircraft, food, pharmaceuticals, packaging and communications in the areas of manufacturing and maintenance, installation, testing and troubleshooting and technical sales and services. The individuals may require working in field as well as industrial settings, depending upon the company they work for.

The electro-mechanical technicians have a thorough understand of and hands-on-experience on PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), hydraulics, robotics, electronics and pneumatics. They also have knowledge in and are able to work on widely-used technologies in different industries.

Career Prospects in the Field of Automation Robotics Engineering

Job prospects in this field of technology are good, especially for the young students. There have been more automated products in the market now than ever. And there is no stopping. This will further increase the demand of skilled professionals in the industry. Technicians with strong business and interpersonal skills can climb the ladder faster and can build a rewarding career in a short span of time.

However, in order to become employable, you need to have

• Solid understanding of computer programming
• Understanding of software development and testing
• Ability to identify the problems in an automated system
• Strong theoretical basics
• Relevant work experience

A course in automation robotics engineering opens doors for students to many job opportunities as robotics technicians, junior engineers, robotics systems maintenance technicians, robotics testing engineers, technical support staff, robotics sales engineers, etc. However, there is a higher demand for technicians who have undergone a formal training in manufacturing sector than any other industry.

Becoming an Automation Robotics Technician

As mentioned earlier, you will have to undergo a formal training in automation and robotics to become a technician. There are a number of colleges in Canada that offer two-year, post-secondary electro-mechanical engineering programs. They also have special courses in automation robotics.

For being able to apply for a diploma course, you will need to produce Secondary School Diploma Certificate or equivalent and English Grade 12 C or University and Mathematics Grade 11 M or 12 C or University certifications or scores.

 

Before submitting your application for admission in a particular college, make sure that

• The college is affiliated to a state board or university
• The program is state or nationally accredited
• The program offers relevant hands-on-laboratory experience
• The program features field placement or practical work experience

A diploma in automation robotics engineering covers various subjects including physics, mathematics, statistics, computer aided drafting, electric circuits, hydraulic systems, electronic devices, pneumatic components, robotics devices and applications, digital electronics, machine shop, PLC and maintenance mechanics and materials and troubleshooting and report writing in a technical environment.

The program combines classroom lectures, hand-on-lab experience, industrial visits, hands-on-experience and career events. You can choose to either work or study further after completion of the two year diploma course.

Programmable Logic Controllers, Automation and Robotics, and More At Centennial College

Do you possess an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent or are19 years of age or older? Have you completed compulsory English 12C or U or skills assessment or equivalent and Math 11M or U, or 12C or U or skills assessment or equivalent? Do you have an interest in electro mechanical engineering, automation and robotics, and programmable logic controllers? If you answered yes to all of these questions, you may want to consider applying for the Electro Mechanical Engineering Technician - Automation and Robotics program at Centennial College in Toronto, Ont.

The field of Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technicians is concerned with machine design and building, manufacturing, application support, components testing, systems integration, maintenance, technical sales and services. Essentially, it builds and maintains the robots that are used in assembly lines. That means programmable logic controllers are used in industries such as: communications, consumer good, aircraft and automotive. In order to prepare students for the field, Centennial College emphasizes automated systems, which are at the heart of virtually all advanced manufacturing industries.

In addition, it emphasizes, Centennial prides itself on flexibility. Therefore, Automation and Robotics allows students to either graduate as a technician after two years, or continue for additional study and co-op work experience in Centennial's three-year Automation and Robotics Technology program. The main difference between the two is that the latter offers a co-op experience, which sees students participating in a work placement during which they apply what they have learned during their courses and have a chance to network. The two-year program offers a networking opportunity through its strong on-campus Automation and Robotics Student Society, which organizes events such as career nights and industrial visits.

Automation robotics engineering program offers a thorough understanding of theory, along with practical, hands-on laboratory experience. Basic technology used in building and operating automated industrial systems is covered, including: Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), hydraulics, pneumatics, electronics and robotics. Specific courses within this programmable logic controllers-focused program include: Computer Aided Drafting (the dual purpose of this course is to allow students to become familiarized with the basic technical drawing elements of mechanical engineering graphics as well as the concepts and features of the AutoCAD computer-assisted-drafting program); Technology, Society, Ethics and Environment (examines ethical issues governing social, technological and environmental policies, and the impact of their implementation); Electric Circuits (students are introduced to capacitors and their series and parallel circuit combinations in D.C.); and many others.

There are many jobs in electro mechanical engineering - Automation and Robotics, especially in, programmable logic controllers. One option is maintenance, in which professionals fix assembly lines or technical sales and service, in which professionals them. In addition electro-mechanical engineers can design, program and install robotic systems and the associated interfacing with other factory control systems including programmable logic controllers, human-machine interfaces and supervisory control and data acquisition software.

Steps to Becoming an Electro Mechanical Engineering Technician

Electro Mechanical Engineering Technician - Automation and Robotics is the program at Centennial College that prepares students to work in the field of automation and robotics. It especially emphasizes automated systems, which are at the heart of virtually all advanced manufacturing industries.

With a combination of theory and practice in fully-equipped labs, where gain hands-on experience in Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), robotics, hydraulics, pneumatics and electronics, students are field-ready in two years to enter positions in technical sales and service, manufacturing and maintenance, and integration (automation houses).

Let's take a look at some of the specific courses that are especially beneficial in preparing students for graduation.

Computer Aided Drafting :- There is a two-fold purpose that this Engineering course serves. First, it introduces students to basic technical drawing elements of mechanical engineering graphics as well as the concepts and features of the AutoCAD computer-assisted-drafting program. At the same time, it discusses the implementation of the drafting theory by using the computer as an electronic drafting board and design tool. A series of specifically designed illustrative exercises assigned during this course provide students with the necessary practice for skill development.

Robotic Applications :- The focus of this Engineering course is on testing out programming skills in the laboratory. Among the topics covered are: programming the ABB robots, robot safety, and robot interface with the outside world by input signals and output devices. Further studies include automation sensors, work cell support systems, robot and system integration, and an automation case study of the CIM systems.

Pneumatic Components :- Pneumatic actuators are used in many automated and manual systems in manufacturing plants. This course introduces students to the components of a basic pneumatic system, as well as the design and operation of each device from compressor to actuator.

Pneumatic Circuits :- With the Pneumatic Components course under their belt, these courses helps students to examine how pneumatic devices are controlled. Students investigate the operation and design of industrial pneumatic control circuitry and then have the opportunity to design control systems using pneumatic pilot circuitry and electrical relay control. Manual, automatic, emergency and safety controls will also be designed to produce safe, efficient operation of automated machinery.

PLC/Pneumatic Interfacing :- This automation robotics engineering course introduces students to the operation of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), which are widely used to control pneumatic devices in modern factories. The components of typical PLCs are examined and various configurations are evaluated. Since any control system is only as good as the information supplied to it, the wide range of sensors available to the automation industry is also covered. Using current industrial equipment, students investigate theory topics in laboratory sessions.

Master Automation Robotics Engineering Technician Duties in Two Years

Did you know that if you have completed at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent, or are 19 years of age or older; possess English 12C or U credit or skills assessment or equivalent, and Math 11M or U, or 12C or U credit or skills assessment or equivalent; and have an interest in electrical mechanical engineering program, you can apply to attend Centennial College’s Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technician program.

In this automation robotics engineering offering, students spend two years focusing on automated systems, which are at the heart of virtually all advanced manufacturing industries. Due to this specific emphasis, automation robotics engineering training at Centennial College includes in-depth study that goes from fundamentals to advanced systems, instills an understanding of theory, and offers practical, hands-on laboratory experience. The hands-on experience, which plays a huge role in the automation robotics engineering offering includes: Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), robotics, hydraulics, pneumatics and electronics. Meanwhile, specific courses within this electrical mechanical engineering technology-focused program include: Electronics Devices (introduces students to the Electronic Semiconductor Diodes and Transistors and their basic circuits); Computer Aided Drafting (allows students to become familiarized with the basic technical drawing elements of mechanical engineering graphics as well as the concepts and features of the AutoCAD computer-assisted-drafting program); Robotic Applications (topics include robot safety, programming the ABB robots, and robot interface with the outside world by input signals and output devices. Further studies include automation sensors, work cell support systems, robot and system integration, and automation case study of the CIM systems), and more.

 

In addition to the in-depth study offered within the automation robotics engineering program, students also benefit from the fact that the program has key-school status with the U.S.-based Fluid Power Education Foundation (FPEF) and offers a useful networking opportunity through its strong on-campus Automation and Robotics Student Society. The society organizes events such as career nights and industrial visits.

Students of this automation robotics engineering-focused program may graduate as technicians after two years or continue onto the co-op work experience in Centennial’s three-year Automation and Robotics Technology program. The main difference between the two offerings is that the latter offers a co-op experience, which gives students the opportunity to partake in a work placement where they apply what they have learned during their courses, work alongside seasoned professionals and network.

 

Once they complete their electrical mechancial engineering technology and automation robotics engineering training, students find careers in the manufacturing sectors of areas such as automotive, food, pharmaceuticals, packaging, aircraft and communication. The Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technicians field, no matter the sector, is focused on machine design and building, manufacturing, application support, components testing, systems integration, maintenance, technical sales and services. Essentially, it is responsible for building and maintaining the robots that are used in assembly lines.