Few things still sound as futuristic today as a robot. Even in our hyper-connected society, technology is still human-centric. People may even be skeptical about robots working seamlessly alongside us, performing tasks that were once thought only capable to be performed by humans.
What if you could have a career working hands-on with robotic technology every day? Modern robotic technology makes life easier and automates processes that improve human productivity and minimize errors. As a robotics and automation technician, you would learn how to program robots to perform desired tasks, how to troubleshoot problems, make repairs and have fun interacting with one of the most emerging technological fields.
If you are someone who loves to work with their hands, stay active on the job and are fascinated by the reaches of technology, a robotics and automation degree program could be the perfect next move in your career.
What Is Robotics and Automation?
Robotics and automation are a diverse field, and though people tend to use both terms inter-changeably, they have distinct differences. Robotics is the process of developing, constructing, programming and maintaining robots to perform specific tasks. Each robot has a function when it is built. Automation is the process of using machines to perform tasks that were traditionally performed by humans.
Combined, robotics and automation form the field of using robots to perform tasks in workplaces that make humans\’ jobs easier. There are two main types of automation: IA and RPA. IA stands for industrial automation, and it involves using robots to perform physical tasks. RPA stands for robotic process automation, and it involves programming to perform technological processes such as testing, processing and control systems.
A robotics and automation technician can wear many hats and perform a variety of tasks in both IA and RPA. One of the benefits of this job is the ability to pursue your personal interests and develop a specialization. Whether it\’s electro-mechanical engineering or software programming, you will be exposed to a variety of skill sets through your training that you can continue to develop on the job.
Why Is Robotics and Automation Being Used More Often?
The increased use of technology has made it more affordable to produce and accessible to companies. This has led to the widespread adoption of robotics across all domains, including medicine, customer service and manufacturing. The use of artificial intelligence, which becomes smarter and more capable each year, allows machines to learn as they work. This improves their performance and output, making them even more valuable.
Robots can also perform tasks 24/7, which results in higher output and greater savings for companies. Many people have voiced concerns over this fact, fearful that robotic automation will result in significant job loss in the coming decades. In some fields, this is true, but there will always be a need for robotics and automation technicians to operate and maintain machinery and systems.
What Does a Robotics and Automation Technology Technician Do?
Robotics and automation technicians conduct performance assessments, interpret data and blueprints, perform repairs, and write reports. They often work on robots’ electrical systems to perform maintenance, make improvements or replace old or damaged parts. They also work hands-on with mechanical systems, integrated controls, hydraulics and logic systems to ensure every robot is performing at its best.
Communication is another large part of a robotics and automation technician\’s job. The robots they work with impact an operation on many levels, and the technicians often have to ask questions and give feedback to other professionals. This means writing reports, making and maintaining spreadsheets and giving presentations are a routine part of their job.
Where Does a Robots and Automation Technology Technician Work?
The work environment varies greatly for a certified robotics and automation technology professional. You can align your skills and education with a field of interest including manufacturing, automotive, retail or healthcare. Your chosen field could have you working in an office setting, in a warehouse or in a factory. The freedom to have a say in where you work and what your schedule looks like makes this career largely appealing for those who consider themselves independent professionals.
There is also a tremendous amount of on-the-job learning and growth opportunities. You will need to be up to date with the current trends and future of emergent technologies. This often results in trips overseas or to conferences to witness new robotics. You get to work alongside professionals who love robots and engineering as much as you, and there will always be something to learn from those around you.
What Are the Benefits of Getting a Degree in Robotics and Automation?
Through a degree or certification program, you gain hands-on experience with robotics and automation machines, learn programming and build a solid foundation to find work and launch your career. Becoming a specialist in robotics and automation starts with mastering the fundamentals of this rapidly evolving and ever-expanding field.
Training is highly interactive from day one, and you will be encouraged to work alongside your peers to ask questions, solve problems and build confidence along with your skills.
Some of the courses you can expect to take are:
- Introduction to Electrical Theory
- Electrical Design and Troubleshooting
- Applied and Theoretical Physics and Mathematics
- DC & AC Electrical Theory and Systems
- C and C++ Programming
- Drafting, Imaging and Functional Systems Design
- 3D Printing and Industrial Robotics Concepts and Processing
A degree or certification program prepares you for entry-level work as a robotics and automation technician in a variety of locations and industries. The crossover can be excellent for someone who has a particular field in mind and wants to become qualified to work in their favorite niche or environment.
Final Thoughts
Throughout training, you will learn a wide range of subjects that prepare you for many potential career titles. You could go on to become a technician in research & development, electro-mechanical work, industrial automation, robotics and engineering, field service and many other fields. So, take the first step into the future and learn more about becoming a robotics and automation technician today.
Does a career as a robotics and automation technician interest you? MIAT College of Technology is here to provide you with knowledge and training that will propel you into the growing field of Robotics and Automation Technology. As a successful graduate of one of MIAT College of Technology’s electromechanical training programs, you will be fully prepared for an entry-level career in many different settings. Graduates pursue positions in service, manufacturing, construction, commissioning and sales.
To learn more about the Robotics and Automation Technology Program and to explore if MIAT is right for you, fill out the form on this page. Contact us if you are interested in becoming a robotics and automation technician today.