Electrical work has some of the best opportunities for career stability, especially for electrical technicians. If you want to start a career as an electrical technician, this 100% online course will teach you the fundamentals of working with, and repairing electrical equipment.
Kevin Feeley
BS in Electrical Engineering
HVCC Class of 2005
- Electrical technicians earn up to $43,000 annually on average, according to Burning Glass.
- Burning Glass data also shows that job demand for electrical technicians will grow 2% over the next decade.
- Electrical technicians work across several high-demand industries, including scientific and technical services, transportation equipment manufacturing, and electronic parts manufacturing.
Electrical Technician FAQs
While electricians and electrical technicians both deal with electrical systems, the nature of their work is different. Electricians install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair the wiring in buildings, whether that be residential homes, offices, or commercial properties. On the other hand, electrical technicians work on electrical systems within machinery, specialty equipment, and other commonly used devices.
Electrical technicians help maintain and repair electronic components in any equipment or device that uses electricity. Their work can vary from helping with product design to working on site to keep machinery and power systems running correctly.
Yes. As with any technology, electrical work evolves and electrical technicians need to understand emerging automation, such as programmable logic controllers (PLC) and network communication, robot-controlled equipment, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Electrical Technician Objectives
- Master the basics of electrical theory and systems
- Learn PLC equipment and communication
- Understand advances in robot maintenance and installation
- Learn the basics of Six Sigma, 5S, Lean, and TPM
Prerequisites and Requirements
There are no prerequisites to take this course. This course is 100% online. Start anytime.
Curriculum
- Math
Fractions and decimals, units of measurement and basics of tolerance; algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and blueprint reading
- Inspection
Introduction to GD&T, optical comparators and CMMs; standards for inspecting and calibrating holes, threads and surfaces
- Safety
OSHA, personal protective equipment, SDS and hazard communication; hand and power tool safety, safety for lifting devices, and powered industrial truck safety
- Quality and Manufacturing Management
Lean manufacturing, 5S and continuous process improvement; Six Sigma, conducting Kaizen events and value stream mapping
- Machining
Safety for metal cutting; introduction to CAD and CAM for machining
- Electrical/Mechanical Systems and Motor Controls
Electrical units, AC and DC power sources, distribution systems; introduction to circuits, relays, contactors, and motor starters
- PLCS
Basics of Siemens PLC hardware, communication and inputs and outputs; Siemens human machine interfaces; SIMATIC PLCs and hand-held programmers
- Automation
Automated systems and control; robot troubleshooting, maintenance, and installations
- Fasteners
Intro to fastener threads, fastener ergonomics and properties; understanding torque
Instructors
This is a completely self-pace course. Additional support will be provided through email and phone.
