Technician in her workplace. Courtesy photo
UNM-LA News:
According to the recent Occupational Outlook Handbook, Electro Mechanical Technicians can make an average of over $21 an hour—and that is with a 1-year degree. Electro-mechanical technicians work with robotics, plastics, communication equipment, solar equipment and electronic circuits, usually in manufacturing facilities.
As a generalist, Electro-mechanical technicians have a broad set of skills that maintain a high demand for their services. New Mexico has the second highest concentration of jobs in this field, according to the May 2016 Bureau of Labor Statistics. To meet this need in this field, UNM-Los Alamos offers a certificate in Electro-Mechanical Technology in 30 credit hours or just one year of university classes.
The UNM-LA Electro Mechanical Certificate is a specialized program designed to build a workforce that is customized to the needs of the labor market in Northern New Mexico. The program provides basic academic and specialized hands-on skills for entry-level technicians in rapidly evolving technical fields. Students gain the skills of technicians by learning how to use tools such as oscilloscopes, electronic voltmeters, and bridges; how to read blueprints, schematics, diagrams, and technical orders to determine methods and sequences of assembly; and how to analyze and record test results to prepare written testing documentation.
The technical nature of the certificate program emphasizes STEM areas and assists students in preparing for employment as entry-level technicians, by providing a balanced combination of classroom and laboratory instruction. The courses encourage intellectual development in several areas of study, including writing and communication, mathematical reasoning, and scientific methods in the physical sciences. They also provide technical skills that address general issues related to every day work as a technician, such as industrial shop practice and blueprint reading.
Classes offered in this area for Fall 2017 include: Chemistry 111: Elements of Chemistry; CT 111: Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting and Design; DRFT 103: Drafting and Introduction to Drafting; and ELCT 101: DC Circuit Analysis. Mathematics, English, Industrial Shop Practice and Welding classes are also offered on a regular basis.
Classes begin Aug. 21. Students wishing to pursue an Electro-Mechanical Technician Certificate should enroll in classes as soon as possible.
For more information about the certificate program in Electro Mechanical Technology, visit https://losalamos.unm.edu/degrees-certificates/certificates/electro-mechanical-technology, or call Student Services at 505.662.5919.
