Instrumentation and Control Engineering Technician

Program Overview

The Instrumentation and Control Engineering Technician/Technology program at St. Lawrence College equips students with the skills and knowledge to design, maintain, and control machines and processes in various industries. The program emphasizes hands-on experience and practical application, preparing graduates for immediate employment in a diverse range of fields. Graduates can pursue careers as instrumentation technicians, controls technicians, and SCADA technicians, among others, in industries such as municipal waste and water utilities, assembly and manufacturing, and building automation.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview

The Instrumentation and Control Engineering Technician/Technology program at St. Lawrence College equips students with the skills and knowledge to design, maintain, and control machines and processes in various industries. The program focuses on hands-on experience and practical application, preparing graduates for immediate employment in a diverse range of fields. This program is particularly valuable in the current job market, as the demand for control systems specialists continues to grow.

Objectives

The program aims to:

• Provide students with a comprehensive understanding of process measurement and control theory.
• Train students to work effectively in modern team-oriented environments.
• Develop graduates with the skills to solve problems and perform diverse tasks within the control systems field.
• Equip graduates with the knowledge to apply their skills in various industries, including municipal waste and water utilities, building environment controls, and assembly and manufacturing.

Description

The Instrumentation and Control Engineering Technician/Technology program is a two-year program that offers two pathways:

• Technician Diploma: This path provides students with a strong foundation in the fundamentals of instrumentation and control.
• Technology Diploma: This path builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired in the Technician Diploma program, focusing on more theoretical and advanced concepts in control systems.

Outline:

Program Content

The program covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Electrical fundamentals
• Code and drawing
• Installation methods
• Renewable energy
• Data literacy and communication
• Electro-mechanical systems
• Instrumentation
• Electronics
• Workplace practices
• Wind power in Canada
• Level and flow measurement
• Pneumatic systems
• Technical mathematics
• Digital systems and microcontrollers
• Programmable logic controllers (PLC)
• Power distribution and motors
• Technical writing
• Process systems
• Computer interfacing and communications

Program Structure

The program is divided into eight semesters, with each semester focusing on specific topics and building upon the knowledge acquired in previous semesters. The schedule outlines the specific courses offered in each semester, along with the instructors and meeting times.

Module Descriptions

Each module within the program focuses on a specific area of instrumentation and control. Some examples of modules include:

• Electrical Fundamentals: This module covers the basic principles of electricity, including circuits, components, and measurements.
• Code and Drawing: This module introduces students to electrical codes and drawing techniques, preparing them to design and install electrical systems.
• Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC): This module focuses on the theory and application of PLCs, including programming, troubleshooting, and maintenance.
• Process Systems: This module explores how multiple process systems work together to achieve a specific goal, using case studies of various industrial processes.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods

The program uses various assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

• Assignments
• Quizzes
• Exams
• Laboratory reports
• Projects
• Presentations

Assessment Criteria

The assessment criteria vary depending on the specific assessment method.

• Demonstrate understanding of key concepts
• Apply knowledge to solve problems
• Communicate effectively
• Work collaboratively
• Complete tasks to a high standard

Teaching:

Teaching Methods

The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Laboratory sessions
• Group projects
• Case studies
The faculty members are actively involved in research and industry partnerships, ensuring that students receive current and relevant knowledge.

Unique Approach

The program's unique approach emphasizes hands-on learning and practical application. Students gain valuable experience through laboratory exercises, projects, and industry internships. This approach prepares graduates to seamlessly transition into the workforce and contribute effectively from day one.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths

The Instrumentation and Control Engineering Technician/Technology program prepares graduates for various career paths, including:

• Instrumentation technician
• Controls technician
• Measurement technician
• Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) technician
• Instrumentation & SCADA support/operator
• Laboratory technician

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program can find employment opportunities in various industries, such as:

• Municipal waste and water utilities
• Assembly and manufacturing plants
• Building automation
• Medical simulation labs
• Research labs

Career Outcomes

The program's graduates are highly sought-after by employers due to their strong technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and industry-specific knowledge. The program boasts a high employment rate, with graduates securing positions in various industries shortly after graduation.

Other:

Testimonial

The program receives positive feedback from graduates, who commend the faculty's support and the program's emphasis on practical skills. One graduate, Constable Lisa Castelvetri, highlights the program's effectiveness in helping students achieve their goals and prepare for successful careers.

Summary:

The Instrumentation and Control Engineering Technician/Technology program at St. Lawrence College provides a comprehensive and practical education for students interested in pursuing careers in the field of instrumentation and control. The program's focus on hands-on experience, industry-relevant knowledge, and diverse career opportunities make it an excellent choice for students seeking a rewarding and fulfilling career path.