NEWPORT, Ark. — Arkansas State University-Newport is launching a new Automation and Electrical Technology program designed to prepare students for high paying careers in advanced manufacturing, energy production and food processing.
The career-focused Associate of Applied Science degree will teach students to install, program, calibrate, troubleshoot and maintain the automated equipment and processes used in modern industrial environments.
To support the new program and the university’s growing emphasis on advanced technical education, ASUN has also established the Division of Electrical Technologies and Advanced Manufacturing. Michael Nowlin, previously dean for applied science, has been named dean of the new division.
“The Automation and Electrical Technology program represents the kind of responsive, workforce-driven education that is central to ASU-Newport’s mission,” Interim Chancellor Ike Wheeler said. “Automation is transforming manufacturing across Arkansas, and this program will give students the technical skills and hands-on experience they need to pursue the career opportunities being created by that growth.”
The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on laboratory experience using industry-standard equipment and technology. Coursework will include electrical troubleshooting, electrical schematics, programmable logic controllers, industrial control systems, motor controls, instrumentation and computer-based industrial networks.
Students will learn how electrical, mechanical and computer-based systems work together in an automated environment. They will also develop the skills to diagnose equipment problems, perform root-cause analysis and make repairs that keep industrial systems operating safely and efficiently.
“This program is designed around the real equipment, systems and challenges students will encounter in the workplace,” Nowlin said. “Students will not simply learn how automated technology works. They will learn how to install it, program it, maintain it and determine what went wrong when a system stops operating as it should.”
Graduates will be prepared to work with automated systems in industries including food processing, durable goods manufacturing, consumer goods production and other sectors that depend on advanced industrial technology.
As manufacturers increase their use of automation to improve productivity, efficiency, workplace safety and product quality, the need for employees with electrical and automation skills continues to grow.
“Employers need technicians who can understand an entire system rather than focus on only one component,” Nowlin said. “Our students will learn how to analyze problems, identify the source of a failure and make the repairs needed to restore operations safely and efficiently.”
The new Division of Electrical Technologies and Advanced Manufacturing will provide academic and administrative support for the Automation and Electrical Technology program while helping ASUN strengthen partnerships with regional employers and respond to emerging workforce needs.
“Creating this division allows ASU-Newport to build on its technical education programs and develop additional opportunities in fields that are essential to the future of Arkansas industry,” Wheeler said. “It is an investment in our students, our employers and the economic strength of the communities we serve.”
For more information about the Automation and Electrical Technology program, visit www.asun.edu.