Manufacturing Technology

Welcome To Manufacturing Technology

Advanced manufacturing offers some of the highest paying and most satisfying career opportunities available in today's job market. A wide variety of career opportunities exist, including production operations, welders, machinists, CNC operators, CAD designers, composite fabricators, electrical and electronic assemblers, testing technicians, industrial maintenance technicians, and automated/robotic systems operators. The modern manufacturing company employs workers who are knowledgeable about workplace safety, can work effectively in a manufacturing team environment, able to operate standard industrial tools and equipment, skilled users of computer technology, can read and interpret industrial blueprints, work safely with power sources, and demonstrate effective written and verbal communication skills.

Modern industry relies on highly complex production systems to produce high-quality, economical products for an ever demanding world. Manufacturing industries are looking for employees who understand basic manufacturing processes and can work safely and efficiently in a production environment. SVC's manufacturing program focuses on employment with industries that make products from metal, plastics, wood, composites and other materials, as well as those producing aeronautical equipment, solar panels, biofuels, petrochemicals, alternative energies, pharmaceuticals, food, and semiconductors. Workers need to be capable of running and servicing the sophisticated machinery that manufactures all of these products. Workers in these industries must understand and practice principles aimed at maintaining safety, improving quality, eliminating waste, and reducing or eliminating the impact of operations on the environment.

The manufacturing program "stackable" certificate options, integrate the following elements of the Advanced Manufacturing Instructional Model:

• Electrical Systems – AC/DC systems, motor controls, basic wiring, generators, power distribution, rotating machines, etc.
• Electronics – AC/DC electronic devices, programmable controllers, PLC networking options & analog controls, etc.
• Automation Systems – articulated servo robotics, automated material handling, flexible manufacturing systems, mechatronics, computer integrated manufacturing (CIM), etc.
• Manufacturing Processes – quality assurance, plastics, composites, welding, design processes, CNC machine tools, etc.
• Workplace Skills – teamwork, communication, problem-solving, personal responsibility, etc.

Program Options

At SVC the Manufacturing Technology program provides the skills needed for many entry-level manufacturing jobs by introducing students to key workplace skill areas often found in advanced manufacturing-related industries. This unique certificate program is actually a cluster of program areas designed to provide students with "stackable" skills that employers have identified as necessary in order to get a job in manufacturing and advance up the career ladder. Courses offered within the certificate and micro-certificate options will help enhance employability skills and provide preparation for continuing education in specific manufacturing-related program areas.

Options in the Manufacturing program combine classroom theory with real experience. You will work with materials in a large shop equipped with the latest computer and electronic components. The Manufacturing program includes pathways into several trade specialty areas.

The estimated program length is based on full-time enrollment. It is the student's responsibility to discuss sequencing and work out their individual schedule with a counselor or program advisor. Any developmental coursework a student may be required to complete may increase the program length. The certificate program is not intended for university transfer.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Manufacturing Technology program will

• Work effectively in a manufacturing environment.
• Apply technology to operate and contribute to business and manufacturing systems.
• Use and operate standard industrial tools and equipment safely and effectively.
• Demonstrate basic and precision measurement methods.
• Understand Statistical Process Control and how it is applied in the workplace.
• Contribute to the maintenance of a safe and healthy work environment.
• Interpret and use industrial blueprints.
• Participate and contribute to the effectiveness of work teams.
• Use fundamental skills in writing, reading, speaking, listening & computing to meet the needs of the workplace.

You May Study

• Manufacturing Processes and Systems
• Industrial Safety and CPR
• Materials Science in Manufacturing
• Precision Measurement
• Hand and Power Tools
• Print Reading in Manufacturing
• Workplace Skills
• Quality Assurance Standards
• Data Collection Strategies
• Statistical Tools & Technology
• Computer-Aided Design

Entry into the Program

Please apply to the Admissions Office. Make an appointment to take the college's COMPASS Test. Please be aware that some classes/sequences are not offered every quarter. It is recommended that students complete at least one year of high school algebra, or take WMATH 100 (Professional Technical Applied Math) before starting any of the micro-certificate sequences. All courses in this program require extensive reading and use of computer technology. The ability to read English at the 8th grade level or above is highly recommended. Students should be skilled users of computer technology. Some key courses are only offered at specific times during the year. For further information, contact the Department Chair or the Admissions Office.

Certificate Options - Descriptions

See SVC Course Catalog for a complete overview of each certificate/degree option and course descriptions.

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY Three certificate options available

Learning Outcomes: upon completion of this program, successful students will have demonstrated the ability to apply their skills and knowledge in the following ways:

• Work effectively in a manufacturing environment.
• Apply technology to operate and contribute to business and manufacturing systems.
• Able to use and operate standard industrial tools and equipment safely and effectively.
• Demonstrate basic and precision measurement methods.
• Understand Statistical Process Control and how it is applied in the workplace.
• Contribute to the maintenance of a safe and healthy work environment.
• Able to interpret and use industrial blueprints.
• Participate and contribute to the effectiveness of work teams.
• Use fundamental skills in writing, reading, speaking, listening & computing to meet the needs of the workplace.

Manufacturing Technology Certificate (45-54 credits)

Expanding on the Manufacturing Foundations Certificate, the Manufacturing Technology Certificate defines a path for the student looking for more than an entry level position. With the addition of one quarter of general education requirements, this certificate gives the student a solid base of communication skills needed in the manufacturing environment. This combined with the introductions to CAD design and the concepts of Quality Assurance will result in well-rounded manufacturers in their trade of choice.

Manufacturing Foundations Certificate (35-44 credits)

The Manufacturing Foundations Certificate provides the basic skills needed for many entry-level manufacturing jobs. Students are introduced to key workplace skill areas often found in advanced manufacturing-related industries. This unique certificate program is actually a cluster of program areas designed to provide students with entry-level manufacturing skills and/or a foundation to pursue other certificates and two-year degrees in a manufacturing or trade-related specialty areas. Students complete the Manufacturing Fundamentals Micro-Certificate plus two additional "trade specialty" micro-certificate program options. A typical sequence will be a minimum of 35 credits.

Manufacturing Fundamentals Micro-Certificate (14 credits)

The Manufacturing Fundamentals Micro-Certificate is your key to starting and advancing a career in manufacturing. Earning the certificate credential indicates to employers that you have mastered the core skills and knowledge that manufacturing employers want to see in any new applicant or current worker. The certificate also provides the educational foundation needed to pursue certificates and degrees in other manufacturing-related specialty trade areas.

COMPOSITES TECHNOLOGY Two certificate options available
View COMPOSITES web page for more detailed program information.

Learning Outcomes: upon completion of this program, students will...

• Execute safety procedures.
• Operate tools and equipment safely.
• Demonstrate ability to use composites terminology related to equipment, tools, accessories, and materials commonly used in the workplace.
• Produce various types of composite structures.
• Understand and apply proper use of different types of composite materials for job or task.
• Repair composite structures.
• Apply various types of catalyzed coatings and paints.
• Understand environmental issues related to manufacture and use of composite structures.
• Understand and follow laws and regulations as they relate to composites certifications.

Advanced Composites Manufacturing Technician Certificate (31-34 credits)

Composite manufacturing has evolved into a diverse industry and can be found in the marine, aerospace, automotive, sports equipment, construction, alternative energy, medical devices, and many other industries, creating an expanding wealth of opportunity for talented practitioners. The Advanced Composites ManufacturingTechnician Certificate provides students with skills and knowledge in plant safety, manufacturing processes, composite materials, gelcoat/controlled spraying/fluid handling applications, vacuum infusion process, part and tooling design techniques. Students learn chemical safety, design, modern vacuum-infusion techniques, and construction of molds to construct a variety of parts.

Composites Repair Technician Micro-Certificate (13 credits)

The Composites Repair Technician Micro-Certificate program provides students with an overview of composites and their application across a spectrum of industries. Instruction covers materials commonly used in composite manufacturing processes such as hand lay-up, filament winding, compression molding, resin-transfer molding, and pultrusion. Introduction to fiberglass reinforced plastics with emphasis on chemical safety applicable to poly and vinyl-ester resins, solvents, and epoxies. Students will receive hands-on training in use of molds, gel coats, release agents, resins, cosmetic color matching, and reinforcing materials in hand layup and structural repair. Industry-appropriate shop safety standards and correct use of Personal Protection Equipment is also covered.

AUTOMATED SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY One certificate option available

Automated Systems Technology Micro-Certificate (15 credits)

This micro-certificate program provides graduates with the basic skills needed to find entry-level employment at a company using high-end automation equipment. This equipment ranges from devices controlled by programmable logic controllers (industrial computers) to robotic devices. Students learn core electronics skills, characteristics and operation of various types of electric motors, pneumatics, and embedded controllers.

Learning Outcomes: upon completion of this program, students will...

• Apply electronic fundamentals to electromechanical systems.
• Program robotic arms and autonomous robots.
• Design a computer controlled process system.
• Interface computer controls into an industrial process.
• Use C++ programming language in control applications.

TECHNICAL DESIGN Three certificate options available
View TECHNICAL DESIGN web page for more detailed program information.

Learning Outcomes: upon completion of this program, successful students will have demonstrated the ability to apply their skills and knowledge in the following ways:

• Apply drafting concepts and knowledge to produce the desired product.
• Proficiently use a CAD work station including storage and retrieval of CAD documents.
• Use a variety of computer-aided design software as would be required in an entry-level technical drafting position.
• Apply appropriate techniques and procedures for solving basic design problems.
• Use calculation skills to determine the precise size of features shown on technical drawings.
• Use computer technology to exchange information and develop technical drawings.
• Communicate orally, graphically and in writing using technical language in ways that maximize production.
• Use a systematic, problem-solving approach for product development that begins with planning and concludes with a finished product.

Technical Design Certificate (46-52 credits)

The Technical Design Certificate focuses on Product Development. Starting with initial concept sketches, the designer utilizes the array of software tools available to build and revise their product to meet the demands of the manufacturing setting. As with the Manufacturing CAD Certificate, the student picks a trade focus to guide their path of study. Students choose their trade specialty from the Composite Technology, Welding Technology or Automated Systems certificate programs offer at SVC. The additional General Education requirements for this certificate foster the important communication skills that the manufacturing design trades require. The certificate concludes in a CAD/CAM studio seminar where the student develops a new product of their own design-from the initial idea and sketches culminating in a prototype of their design.

Computer-Aided Design Technician (39-41 credits)

The Computer-Aided Design Technician Certificate puts conceptual computer modeling into the hands of the technician. With a solid basis in manufacturing fundamentals and a trade specialty, the manufacturing CAD operator will engage the latest tools to solve problems on the production floor and feed that information back up stream to influence the overall design process. Students will complete the CAD technical core courses, plus additional manufacturing fundamental courses. In addition, the student will pick a trade-specialty focus to guide their path of study. CNC operation and CAM processes would be a natural progression for the student who focuses on Automated Systems Technology. The Composites Repair Technician uses design skills to enhance their work with a variety of composite materials. With a Quality Assurance emphasis, the student will influence process control as well as product quality.

Technical Drawing Micro-Certificate (15 credits)

This micro-certificate program prepares students for entry-level work as a technical designer/drafter and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) operator. The program is designed to provide training for individuals seeking entry-level employment as drafting technicians using computer-aided design software to prepare technical drawings and models for architects, construction companies, contractors, utilities and engineering firms. Drafters use their skills to provide dimensions, materials, and visual instructions to construct products and structures in various fields of engineering. Almost every company involved with design and/or manufacturing has one or more design/drafting positions. .  Students will be introduced to a variety of software design tools commonly used in industry, such as:  AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Inventor and 3D Studio Max.

QUALITY ASSURANCE TECHNOLOGY One certificate option available

Quality Assurance Micro-Certificate (19 credits)

This program is designed to introduce students to the concepts of Quality Assurance as applied in a manufacturing environment. Skills learned in this program can be applied to quality assurance and inspection work at all stages of manufacturing, from examining materials received from a supplier before sending them to the production line or inspecting components and assemblies during production to performing final checks on finished products and packaging. Quality assurance technicians apply engineering and management principles to improve quality, efficiency, and profit for the companies they serve. They play vital decision making roles, and are increasingly in demand. Companies in all areas of business and industry (including automotive, aviation, chemical, computer, electronics, energy, food, mechanical, plastics, and pharmaceutical) employ quality assurance personnel.

Learning Outcomes: upon completion of this program, students will

• Communicate effectively and efficiently with diverse individuals and employee teams, customers, and suppliers by means of verbal, written (memos, reports, emails, etc.), graphics, symbols, and effective listening skills and using appropriate technology.
• Apply quality systems, principles, and concepts, and utilize appropriate math, measurement, data collection and statistical tools and technology to improve processes and product quality, and to enhance productivity.
• Incorporate safety awareness, principles and practices in every aspect of work and as a way of life, including machine safety, environmental safety, chemical safety, and personal/ employee protection.
• Interpret drawings using proper dimensioning, tolerancing for size and geometry, and proper industry standards and conventions.
• Complete tasks and projects on schedule through the effective use of time management, appropriate math skills, and teamwork that fosters synergized efforts in problem identification, and troubleshooting.

WELDING TECHNOLOGY Three certificate options available
View WELDING web page for more detailed program information.

Learning Outcomes: upon completion of this program, students will...

• Safely and effectively use and operate standard industrial tools and equipment, including the hand and power tools commonly used in metal work.
• Identify and know characteristics of a variety of metals used in the fabrication industry.
• Select and apply the most appropriate welding process to industrial applications.
• Demonstrate competence in the selected welding process (SMAW, GMAW, or FCAW).
• Apply and practice workplace safety policies and procedures.
• Work effectively in a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrate basic and precision measurement methods.
• Able to interpret and use industrial blueprints.
• Participate and contribute to the effectiveness of work teams.
• Communicate effectively through verbal and written methods.
• Prepare for the Washington State Building Officials (WABO) welding test in the applicable process.

Manufacturing in Welding Certificate (40 credits)

This program is designed for students who want to develop the skills necessary to obtain entry-level welding employment in a manufacturing-related industry. Earning this particular credential indicates to employers you have mastered the core skills and knowledge that manufacturing employers want to see in any new applicant or current worker, plus the trade specific skills and certification needed for entry-level welding employment. Students enrolled in this program will complete the Manufacturing Fundamentals Micro-Certificate (14 cr), plus a Welding Specialty Sequence (26 cr). There are three Welding Specialty options to choose from: Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Wirefeed Welding (FCAW), or Inert Gas and Aluminum Welding. Each welding option culminates with an industry certification component. Individuals having the welding skills necessary to weld to the standards required by the Washington Association of Building Officials (WABO) may participate in SVC's certification testing service.

Welding Fundamentals Micro-Certificate (14-19 credits)

This micro-certificate program is designed to familiarize students with the SVC Welding program and to provide an introduction to the manual and semiautomatic welding processes used in industry today. Students will learn the basic theory of operation and safety requirements for each of the covered processes and be introduced to hands-on welding techniques in the shop setting. There are two Welding Fundamentals specialty options to choose from:

• Welding Fundamentals-Steel (19 cr)
• Welding Fundamentals-Aluminum (14 cr)

Career Opportunities and Job Search Information

The Occupational Information Network (O*NET) is the nation's primary source of occupational information. The O*Net Online database is an interactive research tool for exploring and searching occupations. The database, developed by the US Department of Labor, contains information on hundreds of standardized and occupation-specific descriptors, and provides a variety of FREE Career Exploration Tools.

O-Net Online: http://www.onetonline.org

According to the recent State of Manufacturing in Washington 2010 Report, over 250,000 Washingtonians, or 8.5% of the total workforce, are employed in family-wage manufacturing jobs, and those jobs support an additional 750,000 service and support jobs. To learn more about Career Pathway opportunities available in Manufacturing, view the Career Pathway Chart. (link to PDF career pathway chart)

According to the recent State of Manufacturing in Washington 2010 Report, over 250,000 Washingtonians, or 8.5% of the total workforce, are employed in family-wage manufacturing jobs, and those jobs support an additional 750,000 service and support jobs. To learn more about Career Pathway opportunities available in Manufacturing, view the Career Pathway Chart.

For more detailed information about employment trends, wage rates, employment opportunities, job tasks, etc. search the websites listed below:

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: www.bls.gov/oes/current
• Worforce Explorer: www.WorkforceExplorer.com
• America's Career InfoNet - Career One Stop: www.careerinfonet.org

Placement Rate

Placement and Completion Data