Elbert County Campus
Industrial Systems Technology
 The Industrial Systems Technology diploma program
is designed for the student who wishes to prepare for a career as an Industrial Systems technician/electrician.
The program provides learning opportunities that introduce, develop, and reinforce academic and technical knowledge,
skill, and attitudes required for job acquisition, retention, and advancement. Additionally, the program provides
opportunities to retrain or upgrade present knowledge and skill. The program has three exit points:
- The Electrical Control Systems major is designed to prepare students in the field of industrial electricians and electrical control systems. The program emphasizes specialized training in computers, PLC's, electrical controls, and instrumentation. The credit required for this exit point is 78 credit hours (5 quarters).
- The Mechanical Control Systems major is designed to prepare students in the field of industrial mechanics and industrial maintenance systems. The program emphasizes specialized training in industrial mechanics, fluid-power, pumps, machine shop, and refrigeration. The credit required for this exit point is 73 credit hours (5 quarters).
- The Industrial Systems Technology program combines the competencies of the electrical and mechanical majors to produce a multi-craft industrial systems technician necessary for automated and robotic systems. Graduates will have studied preventive maintenance and troubleshooting techniques that integrate knowledge of electrical, electronic, fluidic, mechanical, and computer controlled systems. The credit required for this exit point is 90 credit hours (6 quarters).
Career Opportunities
 Graduates of the diploma program are qualified
for entry-level positions as industrial maintenance technicians, industrial electricians, automation specialists,
engineering troubleshooting technicians, electric membership corporation technicians, and electromechanical
maintenance technicians. Depending on which option is chosen, graduates of the associate degree program are
qualified for positions as engineering assistants, programmable control specialists, automation specialists,
industrial electronics specialists, and industrial management positions.
What Does It Take to Succeed?
Industrial Systems Technology is an interesting and challenging field. If you like working with your hands;
operating electrical, electronic, and mechanical equipment; solving electrical, electronic, and mechanical
problems; installing new equipment; and working with motors, motor controls, PLCs, robotics, and computers, you
are an excellent candidate for a career in industrial maintenance technology.
In every industry the men and women behind the scenes who maintain equipment and keep machinery operating are
highly valued employees and major contributors to the continuing operations and success of their companies.
A "Real-Life" Learning Experience
The Industrial Systems Technology program provides a "real-life" learning experience that can be completed in
6 quarters or less. The individualized, self-paced instruction allows students to complete classes with maximum
flexibility for day or night students. Students receive a well-balanced schedule combining individualized and
computer-based instruction with hands-on technical training in electrical operations, control systems, and
mechanical operations. Personal attention is assured through small classes and one-on-one instruction. You can
learn quickly and move into or up to the job you want without wasting time. Working on the same kinds of equipment
found in industry helps develop skills in the broad area of industrial applications.
Employment and Outlook
 Projections show that the number of job
opportunities for industrial maintenance technicians will remain steady through 2006. In the Athens and
surrounding area, projections show an 18 percent increase in job opportunities through 2006.
Annual starting salaries generally range between $25,000 and $45,000. Through overtime, future income
levels between $45,000 and $70,000 are not uncommon. Employment opportunities for industrial systems
technicians and industrial electricians in this area are excellent. Many graduates have advanced into
management positions after only a few years on the job.
Contact
Larry Chastain, Program Director,
lchastain@athenstech.edu or (706) 213-2100
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