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Integrated Engineering Technology
Integrated Engineering Technology (InET) is an innovative program
designed to meet industry needs for multifunctional technicians
in mechanics, computer, telecommunications, and electronics technology.
As an integrated engineering technician, you will work individually
or as a member of a professional team, applying aspects of scientific
and engineering concepts, as well as effective communications and
critical thinking skills, in the implementation and maintenance
of existing technologies and the creation of new technologies.
This
cohort learning community, developed primarily for new students
interested in various technology fields, integrates general courses
in English, Mathematics, Speech and Physics with hands-on courses
in Electro-Mechanical, Electronics and Digital Technology. Students
work in teams on projects which incorporate skills and knowledge
learned in all their classes, as well as develop a number of “soft
skills” (working in teams, communicating effectively, thinking
critically) that are highly sought in today’s workplace.
This provides meaningful learning experiences that prepare students
to enter the workplace as a viable part of a plant engineering
group and/or maintenance or repair technician team. This program
stresses the electrical/electronic aspect, the mechanical aspect,
and the robotic/automation aspect of industrial and manufacturing
processes, as well as working with digital and telecommunications
systems.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Integrated Engineering Technology (InET) students are in demand
by business and industry in installation, maintenance and administration
of computer and telecommunications systems and the development,
operation and maintenance of automated systems. They also find
employment as electronics or electromechanical technicians in a
wide range of industries.
The Associate in Applied Science degree program consists of skills
training in mechanics, computer, telecommunications, and electronics
technology, providing
Program course work includes theoretical background in fiber optics,
industrial electricity, national electrical code, schematic interpretation,
robotics and artificial intelligence, critical thinking for technology
applications, and maintenance and repair coupled with extensive
lab time spent in a “hands-on” learning environment.
Students completing the InET A.A.S. can move directly into the workplace
or continue their education toward a Bachelor’s degree through
articulation agreements with such colleges as Bradley University,
the Illinois Institute of Technology, Northern Illinois University
or DeVry University.
MAJOR EMPLOYMENT AREAS IN INTEGRATED ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY
• Plant engineering technician
• Industrial maintenance technician
• Maintenance mechanic
• Industrial electrician
• Industrial service engineer
• PLC technician/programmer
• Field service repair
• Controls technician
According
to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor
Statistics, employment prospects for Engineering Technicians through
2012 will remain steady, increasing on average with overall employment
trends. The Illinois Department of Employment Security cites
average entry-level yearly wages as ranging from $29,000 to $32,000,
with median annual incomes of about $45,000. |
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