With the increasing use and rise of artificial intelligence (AI), automation, robotics, and other high-tech advancements, everything is “online.”

The good news is that with this rise, professionals in technology, machining, hands-on, and creative work are creating more things than ever.

Furthermore, while becoming an electrician is a common career pathway for individuals interested in these industries, there are a wide variety of other careers available utilizing the same transferable skills.

This article will cover four alternative careers for electricians and individuals interested in the technology and machining industries.

High-Value Skills Needed in Technology and Machining Industries

Like any career, obtaining and building technical and “soft” skills is essential to set yourself up for success.

In addition to a career as an electrician, the following skills will help candidates pursue a variety of other professions in the technology and machining industries:

• Equipment management and maintenance
• Problem-solving
• Customer service
• Subcontracting
• Project and strategic planning
• Team building
• Organization
• Project management

1. Industrial Maintenance Technician

Industrial maintenance technicians are skilled mechanics who install, oversee ongoing facility maintenance, and complete commercial or industrial machinery repairs within organizations.

They ensure all machines function properly through troubleshooting and preventive maintenance service, with duties ranging from fixing machinery to plumbing and heating.

Additional responsibilities include:

• Reading and interpreting engineering blueprints
• Installing new production equipment
• Adjusting mechanical parts using hand and machine tools
• Communicating with production teams and maintaining clean work areas
• Preparing and submitting maintenance reports

According to the Bureau of Labor Services (BLS), the median annual wage for industrial machinery technicians is $59,380, with a fourteen percent growth rate by 2031.

Did you know that Goodwin University now offers an 18-credit Industrial Maintenance Technician certificate program?

Learn more today!

2. Maintenance Supervisor

Maintenance supervisors coordinate the maintenance and repairs of electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, carpentry, painting, and other building systems. They typically manage teams who execute a project’s tasks while maintaining the requirement at each site they oversee.

In addition to understanding building maintenance, repairs, and procedures, maintenance supervisors should have strong problem-solving and decision-making skills and a thorough understanding of health and safety measures.

These professionals also benefit from a knowledge of administrative tasks as they are responsible for hiring and training staff, preparing weekly maintenance schedules, and monitoring the inventory of materials and equipment.

3. Mechatronics Technician

Mechatronics technicians operate, test, and maintain electromechanical or robotic equipment by combining their knowledge of mechanical technology with their knowledge of electrical and electronic circuitry.

These professionals operate, test, and maintain automated, hydraulic, robotic, or electromechanical equipment.

Additionally, duties include:

• Determining the method and sequence of assembly of machines and equipment by understanding blueprints, schematics, and diagrams
• Inspecting parts for surface defects
• Verifying dimensions of parts with precision measuring instruments
• Analyzing and recording test results

Mechatronics technicians work at production sites and offices for companies and organizations using computer and electronic products in professional, scientific, and technical services.

Lastly, they earn a median annual wage of $60,360, and despite further potential for automation, mechatronics technicians will always be needed to operate and maintain robotic equipment.

4. Electromechanical Technician

As their title suggests, electromechanical technicians operate, test, and maintain automated, robotic electromechanical equipment by working closely with electrical and mechanical engineers.

These professionals find work in many industrial sectors, like:

• Aerospace
• Communications equipment manufacturing
• Medicine
• Automotive
• Computer
• Energy
• Plastics

Electromechanical technicians save businesses time and money by streamlining manufacturing processes and ensuring specialized machines run smoothly. This career path is excellent for individuals with a combined interest in mechanical technology, electronics, computers, and electrical systems.

Goodwin University’s Mechatronics Certificate Program

Pursuing the careers mentioned above starts with a solid, career-focused education and training program. These programs prepare candidates to work in multiple manufacturing environments and qualify for various mechatronics-driven jobs.

Our thirty-six-credit mechatronics certificate program at Goodwin University explores the exciting fields of modern manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution. It also introduces students to logistics and supply chain concepts and their relationship to local and global economies.

And students will learn effective management techniques, including analysis of warehouse locations, operations, and management, to set them up for success in supervisor or managerial-type roles.

Full-time students can complete our program in just two semesters, and we also offer flexible, part-time options.

Courses include:

• Principles in manufacturing mathematics
• Basic electrical
• Motor control
• Industrial robotics
• Industrial electrical maintenance
• Hydraulics and pneumatics

Industry experts teach and lead students as they rotate between practice (workplace) and theory (classroom) throughout the program. Not to mention that we are one of the leading manufacturing schools in Connecticut, and graduates of our program are known to stand out among the competition.

As our world grows increasingly digital, the more the multifaceted field of mechatronics becomes the future of manufacturing.

Combine your passion for mechanical, computer, and electrical engineering with machining, robotics, and information technology through our certificate program today. Let’s jumpstart your new career in this cutting-edge field together!