Manufacturing Technologies

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Manufacturing is one of the state’s key industry clusters. As noted by Michigan’s Workforce Development Agency, despite the reduction in jobs during the downturn, this segment is vital to the economy. Indeed, it is the fastest growing industry sector in Michigan, gaining 81,000 jobs since 2010. This is an increase of 17% ‐ nearly 13% higher than manufacturing jobs nationwide. As technology and manufacturing processes become more complex, more and more training is demanded to continue to train not only current workers but also the next generation. An associate’s degree and related training leads to such jobs as electrical and electronics repairs, heat treating equipment operation, mechanical drafting and CAD, machining, mixing and blending machine operation, mechanical and technical engineering, industry machinery mechanics, and welding.

Electrical‐Electronic Systems

Building a body of knowledge and understanding of these topical areas provide the ability to work with electrical applications involving transformers, ACDC motors, electrical-electronic controllers, sequencers and sensors. Foundational skills include understanding and application of the National Electrical Code, electrical wiring techniques, wiring system installation, raceways, and conduit bending. Electrical‐Electronic Systems is an Open Entry/Open Exit program, allowing open enrollment in most courses any time during the year.

With an Associate’s Degree in Electrical/Electronic Systems…

Machining

The ability to operate computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery efficiently, while producing quality parts, is a skill in demand in today’s manufacturing environments. WSCC’s program concentrates on developing students’ knowledge and skills in four ways: 1) measure dimensions accurately with high‐precision devices, 2) read and understand blueprints and technical drawings, 3) understand concepts of design, and 4) operate saws, drills, grinders, manual mills and lathes, and program and operate CNC mills and lathes to produce precision parts.

Mechanical Systems

Mechanical equipment maintenance technician careers offer some of the highest paying and most satisfying opportunities available as companies increase their use of newer and more complex machinery. WSCC’s program includes training in mechanical drives, pumps, pneumatics, hydraulics, electricity‐electronics, welding, and piping. To perform well, technicians must have higher skill levels in a wider range of technologies than ever before.

With an Associate’s Degree in Mechanical Systems…

With a Bachelor’s Degree in this field…

Mechatronics

Mechatronics workers need to know automation components as well as understand how these components integrate into a system. Manufacturing industries are increasing their use of ever more sophisticated automation systems, often involving higher speeds, greater precision, and seamless integration of IT networks. Students in Mechatronics at WSCC gain skills and knowledge of precision measurement, electricity, electronics, robotics, mechanics, fluid power principles, and troubleshooting.

With an Associate’s Degree in Welding…

Welding

Welders use a variety of equipment to apply intense heat to metal for the purpose of joining them together or for cutting or trimming them to desired sizes or shapes. Manual welding is done under the complete control of the welder. Semiautomatic welding is done using equipment such as an electrode‐feeding gun, which requires some control and manipulation by the welder. Automatic welding is done by a machine, which performs most of the welding functions under the attention of a welding operator.

Programs

• Electrical-Electronics Certificate
• Electrical-Electronics, AAAS
• Mechanical Systems Certificate
• Mechanical Systems, AAAS
• Mechatronics Certificate
• Mechatronics, AAAS
• Precision Machine Technology, AAAS
• Welding Certificate
• Welding, AAAS

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