Automated Packaging Systems Technician

32-454-1 Technical Diploma (two-year) Campus: New Richmond

Catalog Page (pdf)

Local. National. Global.

Learn from expert instructors who recognize the value of hands-on training, classroom instruction, and participating in the Institute of Packaging Professionals meetings and trade shows. You will learn a broad range of skills necessary to the package industry from engineering and machine layout to electrical and mechanical concepts–including machining, welding, and interpersonal business skills. Employers in the packaging industry and the Packaging Machinery Manufacturing Institute (PMMI) provide extremely strong support for this program, with equipment donations and tool scholarships for students.

Special Features

This program is unique in the state. An outstanding feature of this program is the reliance on actual automated packaging machinery. Global career opportunities are available. The packaging industry, both locally and nationally, provides unique support to the program by providing scholarships, equipment, and supplies.

Each student has the opportunity to apply for a tool scholarship in the form of a tool kit provided by the Packaging Machinery Manufacturing Institute (PMMI). At the completion of the program, the tools become the property of the student.

Admission Requirements

Students in this program must:

• Complete application form and submit with fee (fee waiver may apply if previously submitted)
• Complete Accuplacer entrance assessment to determine placement (waiver may apply with acceptable alternative test scores and/or postsecondary degree completion)
• Complete admissions interview with a WITC counselor (above requirements should be completed prior to interview)

Quality. Responsibility. Judgment.

Successful graduates have certain characteristics and skills that help them succeed in the industry. As you prepare for your career, you should strive to reach a comfort level in the following courses or skills:

• Basic Math/Algebra/Geometry
• Computer skills
• General science
• English
• Print Reading
• Drafting
• Welding/Metals/Machine Shop

Find out what the Automated Packaging Systems Technician program
can help you do in the Career Impact article Not your father's manufacturing technology.

Program Outcomes

Employers will expect Automated Packaging Systems Technician graduates to be able to:

• Demonstrate safe practices and techniques
• Install power transmission components, fluid power components, and automation components
• Maintain power transmission components, fluid power components, and automation components
• Troubleshoot power transmission components, fluid power components, and automation components
• Electrically connect automation components
• Troubleshoot automated machine control systems
• Create electrical systems diagrams for automated machines

Program Costs

The estimated total program cost for the two-year Automated Packaging Systems Technician program is approximately $9,750. This program is eligible for financial aid. View more information on program and costs.