Automation Technology
settingsAutomation Technology is the backbone of industry, and upon graduation students will have the technical skills necessary to become electricians, automation technicians, or maintenance technicians.
Overview
OFTC’s Automation Technology programs prepare students for high-demand careers in modern manufacturing environments. Students gain hands-on training in electrical systems, mechanical maintenance, and automated controls—skills essential to keeping today’s advanced production systems running smoothly. Upon graduation, students are equipped for careers as automation technicians, electricians, or maintenance professionals.
Programs in Automation Technology can be completed in as little as one semester, making it a fast, affordable path to a rewarding technical career.
Programs
Automated Manufacturing Basics Technical Certificate of Credit
Automation Technology
Certificate of Credit
3 Semesters
The Automated Manufacturing Basics Technical Certificate of Credit provides a foundational knowledge in many areas associated with manufacturing. Students are introduced to computerized process control and the operational requirements associated with automated machines. It provides theory on basic mechanical fundamentals, the use of hand and power tools, and basic equipment systems found in manufacturing facilities.
The HOPE Career Grant is available to HOPE Grant-qualified students who enroll in select majors specifically aligned with industries in which there are more jobs available in Georgia than there are skilled workers to fill them. Learn More
Automation Technology Diploma
Automation Technology
Diploma
4 Semesters
The Automation Technology Diploma program is designed for the student who wishes to prepare for a career as an Automation technician/electrician.
The HOPE Career Grant is available to HOPE Grant-qualified students who enroll in select majors specifically aligned with industries in which there are more jobs available in Georgia than there are skilled workers to fill them. Learn More
Industrial Maintenance Technician Technical Certificate of Credit
Automation Technology
Certificate of Credit
1 Semester
The Industrial Maintenance Technician Technical Certificate of Credit introduces dual enrollment students to industrial maintenance concepts including safety, print reading and industrial mechanics.
Industrial Mechanical Systems Diploma
Automation Technology
Diploma
3 Semesters
The Industrial Mechanical Systems Diploma program provides instruction to prepare students for employment in a variety of positions within the industrial production equipment maintenance field.
The HOPE Career Grant is available to HOPE Grant-qualified students who enroll in select majors specifically aligned with industries in which there are more jobs available in Georgia than there are skilled workers to fill them. Learn More
Industrial Pumping and Piping Technician Technical Certificate of Credit
Automation Technology
Certificate of Credit
1 Semester
The Industrial Pumping and Piping Technician technical certificate of credit program is designed to introduce students to industrial safety, power systems, and pumps and piping systems.
Interdisciplinary Studies – Automation Technology Associate of Applied Science Degree
Automation Technology
Associate of Applied Science Degree
3 Semesters
The Associates of Applied Sciences Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies – Automation Technology program is designed for the student who wishes to prepare for a career as an Industrial Systems technician/electrician.
Interdisciplinary Studies – Industrial Mechanical Systems Associate of Applied Science Degree
Automation Technology
Associate of Applied Science Degree
5 Semesters
The Associates of Applied Science Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies – Industrial Mechanical Systems program provides instruction to prepare students for employment in a variety of positions within the industrial production equipment maintenance field.
Interdisciplinary Studies – Industrial Systems Technology Associate of Applied Science Degree
Automation Technology
Associate of Applied Science Degree
5 Semesters
The Associates of Applied Sciences Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies – Industrial Systems Technology program teaches skills in Industrial Systems Technology providing background skills in several areas of industrial maintenance including electronics, industrial wiring, motors, controls, PLC’s, instrumentation, fluid power, mechanical, pumps and piping, and computers.
Mechanical Maintenance Technician Technical Certificate of Credit
Automation Technology
Certificate of Credit
2 Semesters
The Mechanical Maintenance Technician Technical Certificate of Credit introduces students to industrial maintenance concepts including industrial mechanics, introduction to machine tool, and welding.
The HOPE Career Grant is available to HOPE Grant-qualified students who enroll in select majors specifically aligned with industries in which there are more jobs available in Georgia than there are skilled workers to fill them. Learn More
Features
Job Stability & Security
This field is in demand because the mechanics who are the most experienced are retiring. Companies need to fill these jobs to prevent production delays and lost revenue. Manufacturing has become more advanced, so new workers with the latest skills are also in demand.
Little or No Cost to You
With the Pell Grant, Georgia’s HOPE Grant, HOPE Scholarship, and HOPE Career Grant (for students/programs who qualify) and other scholarship opportunities, many students graduate OFTC with little to no debt.
Tuition & Fees
With tuition at $107 per credit hour, total costs for Automation Technology department programs range from:
- Tuition & Fees*: $1,727.00 – $9,799.00
- Books & Supplies*: $1,450.00
*Visit the OFTC Catalog to view each individual program and its full breakdown of tuition, fees, books, and supplies. Costs are estimated and are subject to change.
Advancement Opportunities
As you gain experience in your area, you’ll have the opportunity to advance in your career either by becoming an expert in a particular skill or by supervising other technicians.
Locations
Oconee Fall Line Technical College has campuses throughout its 11-county service area. We look forward to your visit.
Online
Admissions
Our application process takes just a few minutes to complete, but we want to make sure you have the things you’ll need on hand to complete the application. We’re here to help if you have any questions!
Admissions Process
Your admissions application can be submitted online with your $25.00 non-refundable application fee and takes just a few minutes to complete.
- Submit a completed application and application fee.
- Submit official high school transcript, GED transcript, or official college transcripts, if applicable.
- Submit official entrance score on a validated assessment instrument, if applicable. Visit the OFTC Catalog Program Page to view each individual program and its required minimum scores.
- Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and HOPE applications online using OFTC School Code: 031555.
NOTE: The College may accept transfer credit for other courses according to the College’s transfer policy.
General Requirements
Be at least 16 years of age.
Additional admissions requirements unique to each program are listed on each individual program page in the OFTC Catalog.
Need More Info?
For more information about any of these programs, contact a program advisor:
Sandersville Program Advisor
For additional information on admission to OFTC, contact the Office of Admissions:
Sandersville Office of Admissions
Dublin Office of Admissions
Learning Format
Students can enter Automation Technology programs any semester — because when you are ready to start on the path to a new career and change your life, there’s no reason to wait.
Classes are offered in a variety of formats: on campus, blended, online asynchronous, and synchronous technology.
On Campus
These are courses that are taught primarily in the classroom or lab with less than 50% of instruction online. On campus courses may include lecture, labs, internships, clinicals, and other in-person instructional modalities.
Blended
Blended courses are distance learning courses with the majority of the course content, activities, and interactions occurring online but may require students to come to campus for specific assignments, activities, or events.
Online Asynchronous
These are courses that are taught fully online asynchronously with course content, activities, and interactions occurring entirely online. This delivery method does not require students to be online at a specific date or time, and students may participate in class activities and complete course assignments asynchronously. Online asynchronous courses require proctored events.
Synchronous Technology
OFTC also utilizes synchronous technology to offer courses via distance education means. The course is taught on one campus and then broadcast simultaneously to a classroom on a different campus that is monitored by a class proctor.
Flexible Schedule
We want you to get the most out of college and understand the pressure it adds to your life. At OFTC you can achieve your career goals and fit college into your lifestyle. We offer small class sizes and flexible scheduling.
Courses for our programs are offered during the morning, afternoon, and evenings – plus many are online where you can do your work any time of day.
And the personalized hands-on attention you receive in a small classroom setting allows you to get individualized support, focus and feedback from your instructors. Your instructors will get to know you and help you build the foundation and confidence needed for success in your field.
Apply TodayPaying for College
At OFTC, we realize that many students require financial assistance to achieve their academic goals. We’ll work with you to help you obtain financial aid to assist you in funding your education. We’re committed to helping you find ways to pay for this life-changing investment.
With the Pell Grant, Georgia’s HOPE Grant, HOPE Scholarship, and HOPE Career Grant (for students/programs who qualify) and other scholarship opportunities, many students graduate OFTC with little to no debt.
Financial Aid
OFTC offers several financial aid opportunities that can help you pay for college. Most students apply for federal and state aid, including the Pell Grant, HOPE Scholarship & Grant, and HOPE Career Grant.
OFTC students can also apply for scholarships through the OFTC Foundation and various businesses and civic-sponsored organizations.
Contact the Office of Financial Aid or visit OFTC’s Financial Aid web page to learn more about grants, scholarships and Federal Work Study to help fund your education.
Sandersville
Dublin
Georgia awarded over $934 million in scholarships in AY24
of OFTC students have some form of Scholarship in AY24
OFTC students received over $6.6 million in financial assistance in FY25
More than 75% of OFTC students received some sort of Financial Aid in AY24
Contact
Sandersville
Dublin
Tuition & Fees
With tuition at $107 per credit hour, total costs for Industrial Systems Technology department programs range from:
- Tuition & Fees*: $1,727.00 – $9,799.00
- Books & Supplies*: $1,450.00
*Visit the OFTC Catalog to view each individual program and its full breakdown of tuition, fees, books, and supplies. Costs are estimated and are subject to change.
New Price Calculator
You can also use the Net Price Calculator to get estimated net price information based on what similar students paid in a previous year.
Career Outlook
Employment Opportunities
Machinery is constantly changing as technology advances, which means the mechanics who work on these machines have opportunities for growth with increased knowledge and experience.
The continued adoption of automated manufacturing machinery is expected to create jobs for these workers, as they will be needed to help keep machines in good working order. The use of automated conveyors to move products and materials in factories is likely to be an area of high demand for these workers, because the conveyor belts, motors, and rollers need regular care and maintenance.
BLS.GOV
Industrial Machinery Mechanics, Machinery Maintenance Workers, and Millwrights
- 2024 Median Annual Pay: $63,510
- Job Outlook: 15% growth through 2033
What does this mean to you?
Automation Technology is the backbone of industry, and upon graduation students will have the technical skills necessary to become electricians, automation technicians, or maintenance technicians. There are more jobs available in this field than skilled workers to fill them.
Learn Morejob placement rate for OFTC graduates within the graduation year (AY23)
in-field job placement rate for OFTC graduates within the graduation year (AY23)
of OFTC students enrolled are First Generation college students (AY24)
Program Benefits
Skills Learned
- Read technical manuals to understand equipment and controls
- Disassemble machinery and equipment when there is a problem
- Repair or replace broken or malfunctioning components
- Perform tests and run initial batches to make sure that the machine is running smoothly
- Detect minor problems by performing basic diagnostic tests
- Test malfunctioning machinery to determine whether major repairs are needed
- Adjust and calibrate equipment and machinery to optimal specifications
- Clean and lubricate equipment or machinery
- Move machinery and equipment
Job Titles
- Industrial machinery mechanics
- Maintenance worker, machinery
- Millwright
Diverse Settings
- Manufacturing
- Wholesale Trade
- Commercial and industrial machinery equipment repair and maintenance
- Construction
"Industrial Mechanics and Electricians are in high demand and short supply right now. There are plenty of opportunities in the field for those that are willing to learn the skills and go to work. The pay is pretty good and there is a lot of job security. It's a great time to be in the skilled trades!"