Electrical Engineering Technology:
Electronics
Computerization, and the increased use of electronics, has led to products that do more and often – cost less. From research and development to manufacturing, the demand is growing for qualified electronic technicians and associate engineers to design and maintain these sophisticated systems. Career opportunities include electronic technicians, associate engineers, instrumentation technicians, micro-controller programmers, electronic design drafters, and electronic lab technicians. Washington State’s electronics major gives students experience in computer-aided drafting, digital controls, microprocessors, integrated circuits, and electronics. This experience is combined with a strong science and math background and knowledge of AC and DC fundamentals. The electrical engineering technology curriculum leads to the Associate of Applied Science degree. All courses listed are required for graduation.
Upon Completion
Graduates of the program will be able to:
- Produce and present both oral and written technical reports.
- Apply circuit analysis methods to solve D.C. and A.C. networks.
- Determine line and phase currents, voltages, and powers (average, reactive, apparent) in single and poly-phase circuits.
- Use multi-meters and oscilloscopes to measure various D.C. and A.C. circuit parameters.
- Design, breadboard, and troubleshoot basic analog and digital electronic devices and circuits.
- Apply computer software including: word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation programs.
- Use proper soldering and construction techniques.
- Appreciate the similarities and differences pertaining to the values and characteristics of various cultures.
Careers
“Engineering technicians use the principles and theories of science, engineering, and mathematics to solve technical problems in research and development, manufacturing, sales, construction, inspection, and maintenance. Their work is more narrowly focused and application-oriented than that of scientists and engineers. Many engineering technicians assist engineers and scientists, especially in research and development. Others work in quality control, inspecting products and processes, conducting tests, or collecting data. In manufacturing, they may assist in product design, development, or production. Although many workers who repair or maintain various types of electrical, electronic, or mechanical equipment are called technicians, these workers are covered in the Handbook section on installation, maintenance, and repair occupations.
Engineering technicians who work in research and development build or set up equipment; prepare and conduct experiments; collect data; calculate or record results; and help engineers or scientists in other ways, such as making prototype versions of newly designed equipment. They also assist in design work, often using computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) equipment.
Most engineering technicians specialize, learning skills and working in the same disciplines as engineers. Occupational titles, therefore, tend to reflect this similarity.”
“Electrical and electronics engineering technicians help design, develop, test, and manufacture electrical and electronic equipment such as communication equipment; radar, industrial, and medical monitoring or control devices; navigational equipment; and computers. They may work in product evaluation and testing, using measuring and diagnostic devices to adjust, test, and repair equipment.” (from U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos112.htm)
Courses
Course listings with descriptions of each class may be found in the Washington State Community College Catalog. www.wscc.edu (.pdf)
Contact
Admissions Office
740.568.1900
admissions@wscc.edu
Faculty/Advisors
Richard Barrett, Professor
740.374.8716,Ext. 1802
rbarrett@wscc.edu
Tommy Hager, Associate Professor
740.374.8716, Ext. 1803
thager@wscc.edu
