B.S. in Automation and Control Engineering Technology

Industrial automation is the use of control systems, predominately computer based, to control industrial machinery and processes. Automation has and will continue to play an increasingly important role in the global economy as well as our daily experiences. The Automation and Control Engineering Technology program provides the knowledge and management skills needed to pursue a rewarding career in the field of automation.

Course work includes study in the following areas:

• Electronics and computer technology, including programmable logic controllers, and robotic controls
• Manufacturing technology, including computer numerical control systems, processes and materials, and plastics technology
• Mechanical engineering technology, including CAD, fluid power, solid modeling, and tool and die design
• Technology management, including industrial supervision and industrial organization and functions
• Automation and control engineering, including applied lab experiences
• Physical science, mathematics, and computer science

The program is distinctive in its emphasis on blending the diverse disciplines involved in automation, along with classroom learning and practical experiences.

• Courses in the major are taught by full-time professors who have actual work experience in the field. The department offers small class sizes, which allow for individual attention.
• Course work is centered in the University's John T. Myers Technology Center, which has more than 20 state-of-the-art laboratories filled with up-to-date equipment and supplies. These labs are among the most modern and best equipped in the nation, and utilize industrial grade equipment like computer numerical control (CNC) equipment, robotics, and programmable controllers for instruction areas.
• A number of activities and organizations are available that enable students to interact with other students and professionals in the industry, including: (a) the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), an international organization with over 40,000 members, (b) The International Society of Automation (ISA), a global non-profit organization that develops standards, certifies industry professionals and provides education and training, and (c) Epsilon Pi Tau, the international honorary for professions in technology.
• Other opportunities include the University's Honors Program and study abroad opportunities—which range from summer programs to a single semester or a full academic year in over 25 countries.

Program Guide Sheet

Course Listing

CAREERS:

Are there career opportunities in the field of automation? Yes! The Automation and Control Engineering Technology program at ISU will equip you with the knowledge to launch a professional career in a wide variety of roles in business and industry that involve automated systems. Automation professionals are responsible for the direction, definition, design, development/ application, deployment, documentation, and support of systems, software, and equipment used in control systems, manufacturing information systems, systems integration, and operational consulting. Typical job positions include: Automation engineer, Controls engineer, Production engineer, Project engineer, Manufacturing engineer, Quality engineer and Maintenance engineer. With experience you will advance to managerial positions such as: Team leader, Supervisor, Project manager, Maintenance manager and Technical manager. With extended experience, automation professionals have the background to move into upper level management roles that exist in business and industry.

ACCREDITATION:

The University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. In addition, the Automation and Control Engineering Technology Program is accredited by the National Association of Industrial Technology (NAIT). Further, the ACET curriculum at ISU has been developed to align with the knowledge domains established by ISA for their Certified Automation Professional (CAP) certification program. Graduates of the ACET program will be expected to pass the CAP Associate exam as part of their coursework.

FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS

Students have many sources of financial support for their studies, including financial aid, work-study programs, veterans' benefits, and special scholarships for entering freshmen and transfer students. In addition, the College of Technology offers a variety of scholarships and awards. For information about these awards, contact the College of Technology.