Did you know that in just one year, you could be “job ready” for a high-paying, in-demand position as a programmable logic controller (PLC) and robotic automation technician? With average annual salaries exceeding $74K, this is one career opportunity you won’t want to pass up if you have a passion for problem solving and figuring out how to make things work. With PLC and robotic automation spring classes starting at Vaughn College in January 13, 2025, now has never been a better time to lock in your career plans and join this growing field.

What is a PLC and robotic automation technician?

Programmable logic controllers and robotic automation technicians are skilled professionals who specialize in programming, maintaining and troubleshooting industrial automation systems. This career is essential to modern manufacturing and industrial environments, which makes it a lucrative career for those with expertise in PLCs and robotic automation. For example, at Amazon, PLCs are used to control the actions of warehouse robots which track inventory, identify items packaging and optimize storage space. These functions are vital to the overall process flow of Amazon fulfillment centers. PLCs can control anything from a simple conveyer belt to complex robotic arm movements in production lines.

Growing demand

The demand for technicians in the field of robotic process automation is currently high and expected to continue growing steadily as more industries adopt automation technologies to improve efficiency, reduce costs and enhance product quality. There is currently a gap in the workforce for these positions, so the need for skilled technicians is high, which is where Vaughn’s PLC and robotic automation certificate program comes in. Graduates of the program will be eligible for jobs at companies such as Amazon, American Airlines, Con Edison, GE Healthcare and Cox & Company, among many others. Automation is currently being used in manufacturing, transportation and healthcare, but is increasing across many new sectors including pharmaceuticals, food and beverage production and power distribution.

Fast-track your career in just two semesters

At Vaughn College, our comprehensive 13-credit (two-semester) PLC and robotic automation certificate program can fast-track your path to becoming a robotic automation technician. You will gain essential skills and hands-on experience that will enable you to step into a high-paying job immediately after completing the program. Technicians can progress into more advanced, higher-paying roles like integrators or automation engineers with further experience. Learn more about the program in episode 17 of our podcast featuring Doug Jahnke, assistant professor of engineering and technology.

Here is what you will learn during Vaughn’s program:

• How to design, operate and troubleshoot robotic systems and automated machinery.
• Gain expertise in Siemens and Allen-Bradley PLCs.
• Build a foundation in electrical circuits, industrial machinery and networking.

Graduates will be prepared to pass SACA (Smart Automation Certification Alliance) exams and earn industry-recognized certification and eligibility for job titles including:

• Automation Systems Specialist
• Control System Specialist
• Robotics Systems Specialist

Stepping stone to a mechatronic engineering degree

While the PLC certification program will prepare you for immediate employment, should you choose to continue your education and expand your career choices in engineering, all credits earned are transferable toward a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechatronic Engineering at Vaughn College.

Other engineering certificates to fuel your future

Earning additional certificates in engineering and technology will not only add value to your skillset but will also boost your résumé and earning potential. Vaughn offers several certificate programs

• Composite Manufacturing
• Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Subtractive Manufacturing
• Computer-Aided Design for Additive and Subtractive Manufacturing
• UAS Design, Application and Operation Certificate

It’s time to take the first step toward a brighter future and make 2025 your year to shine. In just two semesters, you can become job-ready to earn over $74K a year working in the fastest growing field of automation and robotics. Apply today!