Program: 68100

The Engineering Technology Support Specialist Certificate prepares the individual for initial employment as an engineering support specialist or engineering technician in various specialized arenas. Additionally, it provides supplemental training for an individual previously or currently employed in either of these occupations. This certificate program is comprised of the core curriculum of the Associate in Science in Engineering Technology degree. Credits earned toward this certificate can be applied to the degree.

This program focuses on broad, transferable skills, acquisition of information, and demonstration of the following elements of the Engineering Technology Program: production materials and processes, quality production, computer-aided drafting, electricity and electronics, mechanics, instrumentation, and safety. The program’s technical-skills standards align with those of the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council (MSSC), which defines the information, skills, and abilities required of today’s frontline manufacturing workers. The curriculum provided within the certificate’s core courses prepares the student for the MSSC Certified Production Technician Examination.

This program is not provided through traditional lectures and laboratory sessions at specifically scheduled times; instead, all of the material is formatted into self-study modules (called “units”) that contain both theory and hands-on components. These modules provide information on applied engineering competencies, components, circuits, mechanisms, and equipment that are widely used in manufacturing facilities. Several unit modules make up one course. 

The Engineering Technology facilities at the Clear Springs Advanced Technology Center in Bartow provide high-quality laboratory equipment for numerous hands-on activities that develop the skills required to construct, operate, analyze, and program a wide range of circuits and equipment used in this field. An instructor monitors the student’s progress, grades exams, and determines the final letter grade for each course completed. The instructor also assists the student in selecting appropriate courses to progress through the program. A student is able to enroll in and begin classes in Engineering Technology at almost any time during any regular semester session. Scheduling is flexible and independent from traditional fall, spring, and summer term-enrollment dates at the College.

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs):Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate is able to:
PLO 1: Demonstrate fluency with industrial processes and material properties.
PLO 2: Generate and interpret computer-aided drawings.
PLO 3: Apply concepts related to electricity and electronics.
PLO 4: Incorporate industrial safety, health, and environmental requirements.
PLO 5: Demonstrate proficiency in the use of quality-assurance methods and quality-control concepts.
PLO 6: Demonstrate proficiency in using tools, instruments, and testing devices.
PLO 7: Assess and apply basic troubleshooting skills.
PLO 8: Demonstrate appropriate communication skills.
PLO 9: Apply appropriate math skills.
PLO 10: Identify and apply modern business practices and strategies.
PLO 11: Demonstrate the skills needed for employability.