Electrical wiring is an integral part of industry, commercial enterprises, and residential homes. The Electrical Technology program at Trenholm State offers instruction for all of these areas.

The Electrical/Instrumentation Technology curriculum integrates basic electrical skills and high tech instrumentation for a wide range of industrial employment. The term "instrumentation" refers to instruments used to measure and control manufacturing conversions or treating processes. Knowledge of electricity and process control gives a person a more marketable skill to offer all industries. These fields expand into SMART instruments, PLC/DCS interface and AC variable frequency motor controls.

The Electrical Technology program is designed to teach the basic principles of electricity, the National Electric Code, and the safe installation of electrical wiring and equipment. Electrical/Instrumentation Technology is designed to teach basic instrumentation for measurement and control in manufacturing. Through the various courses, a student will gain knowledge and practical hands-on experience in both technologies for servicing, troubleshooting and monitoring these systems and equipment.

Occupational Choices

Electrical and electronics installers and repairers held about 158,000 jobs in 2004. Electrical and electronics installers and repairers work on factory floors, where they are subject to noise, dirt, vibration, and heat. Most engineering technicians work at least 40 hours a week in laboratories, offices, manufacturing or industrial plants, or on construction sites. Some technicians may even be exposed to hazards from equipment, chemicals, or toxic materials.

Average Full-time Wage

Median annual earnings of electrical and electronics engineering technicians were $46,310 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $36,290 and $55,750. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $29,000, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $67,900.*

Additional Requirements

• Student must be at least 16 years of age.

• Student must have an official copy of high school transcript or GED certificate and transcript from other colleges on file in the admissions office.
  

• Student must make satisfactory score on the COMPASS test.
  

• Student must be able to perform simple mathematical computations correctly.
  
  

Awards Available

• Associate Degree in Applied Technology in Electrical  Technology
• Associate Degree in Applied Technology in Electrical/Instrumentation Technology
• Specialized Training Certificate in Electrical Technology 
  •  Emphasis: Electronics/Instructmentation/Electrical Technicians Helper

Estimated Length & Cost*

* Tax not included.  Prices are subject to change without prior notice; cost of books may vary considerably among suppliers.  The length of the program is based on full-time status of 12-15 credit hours per term.  Enrollment in transitional level general education courses will alter the length of the program.

^**Data obtained from the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2006-2007.