Education · 1 of 5
The path
Two routes: a two-year college program, or a registered apprenticeship that pays you throughout.
- 1
High school diploma
Grade 12
Algebra, physics and any electronics or shop class. A clean driving record and a drug test are part of every plant hire.
- 2
Pick your route
Decision point
A two-year associate degree in instrumentation, process technology or electronics, or a registered apprenticeship with a plant, a utility or a union local.
- 3
Learn the four disciplines
2 years of study
Pressure, temperature, level and flow measurement, plus the electronics, pneumatics and control loops that tie them together.
- 4
Get hired and get plant-qualified
First 3 to 6 months
Every site has its own safety training, permit systems and hazardous area rules. Expect several weeks before you are allowed to touch anything alone.
- 5
Certify and specialize
After 2 to 5 years on the job
The International Society of Automation runs the Certified Control Systems Technician credential, and manufacturers certify you on their own control platforms.