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Automation & Instrumentation Technology
Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
Why choose Automation & Instrumentation Technology?
- Get the training you need to optimize productivity, save energy, and reduce downtime and pollution in high-tech manufacturing.
- The work of instrumentation and controls engineering technicians is a rewarding mix of art and science.
- An excellent career choice for those with math skills, problem-solving ability, and comfort with electronics.
It’s widely known that industrial processes are highly automated today, but there is another layer of automation in industry that not many are aware of: control systems. Control systems measure, record, and control any automated process, making it possible to optimize productivity, save energy, and reduce downtime and pollution—and these systems are surprisingly dependent on humans to run them.
Program Locations
AMETA™ Center
5000 Coye Drive
Stevens Point, WI 54481
Delivery:
In Person
Daytime
Full-Time or Part-Time
16-Week Classes
Varying Class Schedule
Length of Program: Two Years
Credits: 60
Start Dates: Fall
Start at any time or campus by taking general education courses.
What You'll Learn
Unique in the Wisconsin Technical College System, the Automation & Instrumentation Technology program at Mid-State prepares graduates to measure and control industrial processes in today’s high-tech manufacturing environments.
In this program you’ll apply mathematical skill and basic laws of physical sciences to design, install, calibrate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair industrial control systems. You’ll learn to use a variety of different forms of instrumentation and have access to state-of-the-art equipment. Field trips and summer internships at locations that have process control systems as an integral part of operations extend your hands-on experience into the real world.
Outcomes
- Apply safety standards.
- Utilize troubleshooting strategies.
- Optimize instrumentation systems.
- Optimize hardware and output devices.
- Demonstrate programming in ladder logic.
- Demonstrate networking principles.
Employability Skills
- Behave Responsibly: Ethical Behavior, Self-Responsibility, Conflict Resolution, Collaboration
- Communicate Effectively: Writing, Technical Documentation, Listening, Speaking, Interpersonal Communication, Reading
- Critical & Creative Thinking: Inquiry, Evidence Collection, Analysis, Reasoning, Reflection (Metacognition)
- Cultural, Social, & Global Awareness: Global Awareness, Social & Cultural Awareness, Social Responsibility
- Use Appropriate Technology: Use of Technology, Confidentiality, Security, Digital Civility
Learn more about employability skills at Mid-State.
Estimated Entire Program Cost
Cost based on the 2024/25 academic year.
- Tuition & Fees: $10,134.95
- Books: $1,308.85
- Supplies, Uniforms, and/or Exams: $0
- Total Estimated Cost: $11,443.80
Financial Aid Eligibility
This program is eligible for full Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Learn more about Cost of Attendance, an estimated budget that includes categories of expenses a student can expect to incur while attending.
This course has options available to receive credit for prior learning (CPL) or work experience.
| Catalog# | Title | Credits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10605105 | Electrical Circuits I | 3 | |
| 10801136 | English Composition 1 | 3 | |
| 10804118 | Intermediate Algebra with Applications | 4 | |
| 10605169 | Instrumentation Principles | 3 | |
| 10605131 | Process Equipment | 2 | |
| 10605112 | Process Documentation | 1 | |
| Term Total | 16 Credits | ||
| Catalog# | Title | Credits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10623106 | Introduction to AutoCAD | 1 | |
| 10605110 | Electrical Circuits II | 3 | |
| 10804196 | Trigonometry with Applications | 3 | |
| 10605117 | Automation 1 - Beginning PLC | 3 | |
| 10462107 | Industrial Safety | 2 | |
| 10605145 | Industrial Networking | 2 | |
| 10607106 | Excel for Engineering | 1 | |
| Term Total | 15 Credits | ||
| Catalog# | Title | Credits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10605109 | Process Measurements Instrumentation | 2 | |
| 10804195 | College Algebra with Applications | 3 | |
| 10605118 | Automation 2 - Advanced PLC | 3 | |
| 10809198 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | |
| -or- | 10809188 | Developmental Psychology | 3 |
| 10605121 | Process Control Strategies | 2 | |
| 10462133 | Electric Controls for Industrial Automation | 3 | |
| Term Total | 16 Credits | ||
| Catalog# | Title | Credits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10801196 | Oral/Interpersonal Communication | 3 | |
| -or- | 10801198 | Speech | 3 |
| 10605119 | Automation 3 - HMI's & Robotics | 2 | |
| 10605133 | Process Troubleshooting Strategies | 1 | |
| 10809166 | Introduction to Ethics: Theory and Application | 3 | |
| -or- | 10809122 | Introduction to American Government | 3 |
| 10605172 | Process Systems | 2 | |
| 10462131 | Industrial Electric Power Applications | 2 | |
| Term Total | 13 Credits | ||
| Program Total | 60 Credits |
Instructors
ROBERT BRYLSKI, BS, MS
Robert earned his master of science degree from Florida State University. His experience includes engineering, management and executive positions in the energy industry as well as trade organizations. He has also taught for several years at colleges throughout Wisconsin in a wide range of subjects, including chemistry, engineering, energy, and brewing science. He currently owns an energy consulting company and is chief operating officer for a fuel production company.
“I believe we can make a positive difference in the lives of others through what we do every day. Teaching provides a direct pathway and is one of the most significant ways to create positive change for others. I have learned through my experiences that there are similarities across disciplines and that learning the fundamentals of one subject often transfers to new, seemingly unrelated subjects. This is what I try to impress upon my students every day.”
Careers
- Automation/Controls Engineering Technician
- Electrical and Instrumentation Technician
- Instrument Technician
- Industrial Electrician
- Process Control Technician
- Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Technician
- Mechatronics Technician
Video
Fast-Track
High school students are eligible to enroll in this program and all courses required. Learn more about Mid-State Fast-Track.
Take the Next Step
"The education I received from Mid-State greatly prepared me for work in the instrumentation field. From working with older equipment to state-of-the-art technology, I can apply my education to anything that comes my way with confidence."
ROBERT WUNROW
GRADUATE
Choose Your Path
Career pathways help you take your education one step at a time to maximize your investment and make college fit your life. Earn a credential and start using it in the workforce. Continue with another stack of related courses to gain a more advanced diploma or degree. Explore this program’s pathway in the graphic below. For an even quicker first step to a degree or diploma, check out our short-term certificates.
Transfer • Dual Credit • Credit for Prior Learning
