This curriculum is designed to train technicians for jobs in an industry requiring knowledge of electrical and electro-mechanical systems installation, repair, and maintenance. Courses are designed to develop technicians competent in the practical applications of electrical/electronic theory and procedures for industrial machines and controls. Students learn electrical code requirements, read blueprints and schematics, determine repair procedures, and make necessary repairs and/or adjustments.
Graduates will be prepared to maintain computer-based systems, programmable logic controllers, and solid-state AC & DC drives that are now becoming commonplace in automation applications.
Programs
| Title | Credential | Credit Hours | Link to program details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical Systems Technology A.A.S. | Degree | 76 | |
| Electrical Systems Technology Diploma | Diploma | 39 | |
| Building Instrumentation & Control Certificate | Certificate | 17 | |
| Electrical Wiring Certificate | Certificate | 13 | |
| Advanced Electrical Wiring Certificate | Certificate | 17 | |
| Solar Photovoltaic Energy Technology | Certificate | 16 | |
Career Opportunities
A.A.S. Degree
Electro-Mechanical Technicians
2014 Median Salary in the United States: $25.52/hr
(Source: U.S. Department of Labor, 2016)
Diploma
Electrical and Electronic Repairers, Commercial and Industrial
2014 Median Salary in North Carolina: $25.23/hr
(Source: U.S. Department of Labor, 2016)
Certificate
Electricians
2014 Median Salary in North Carolina: $18.50/hr
(Source: U.S. Department of Labor, 2016)
Good to Know
- Choose your credential:
- Electrical Systems Technology A.A.S. Degree
- Electrical Systems Technology Diploma
- Electrical Systems Technology Certificate - Electrical Wiring
- Electrical Systems Technology Certificate - Building Instrumentation and Control
- Apply to A-B Tech online at Admissions Overview
- Apply for the Electrical Systems Technology program in person at Student Services in the Bailey Building, Asheville Main Campus.
Harrison Orr, Chair
Electrical, Electronics & Computer Engineering Technologies
- Phone: (828) 398-7392
- Email: harrisonporr@abtech.edu
As the population and economy grow, more electricians will be needed to install and maintain electrical devices and wiring in homes, factories, offices, and other structures. New technologies will also stimulate the demand for these workers. Buildings need to increasingly accommodate the use of computers and telecommunications equipment and the increasing prevalence of robots and other automated manufacturing systems in factories will require more complex wiring systems to be installed and maintained. Additional jobs will be created as older structures are rehabilitated and retrofitted, which usually requires that they are brought up to meet existing electrical codes.
The following list of skills and abilities will be beneficial to success in this promising career field:
- Customer Service skills - Most electricians and technicians work directly with property owners, manufacturers, and business owners on a daily basis, making strong people skills a must.
- Time Management skills - Another important "soft skill" is being able to effectively manage a work/job schedule while remaining organized. Many electricians respond to multiple calls or job assignments a day and need to be able to efficiently finish each task in order to move on to the next job without delay.
- Education - Many electricians choose to acquire a formal degree. These programs can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. A-B Tech offers hands-on training that will support you in the field. Apprenticeships and certification requirements may extend the education timeframe.
- Mechanical skills - Although mechanical skills can be learned in training, it is important that electricians and electrical system technicians are comfortable in their work environment.
- Troubleshooting skills - nothing is more frustrating for a homeowner, manufacturer, or business owner than to "flip the switch" and have nothing happen! Electricians are essential to find, evaluate, and fix the problem as soon as possible.
Daily tasks of an electrician may include some or all of the following:
- read blueprints, work orders, and plans
- take readings of results from electronic measuring equipment
- read descriptions and installation instructions related to the work
- read training material
- log and document work and hours worked
- write an invoice, contract, ordering, and other information in forms and documents
- report work progress to supervisors or other staff
- talk to suppliers
- talk to persons involved in the apprenticeship training
- make estimates of costs
- recognize the correct version and interpret serial numbers on equipment
- measure and record sizes
- estimate the time needed to complete a job