Process Technology is an extensive program that provides students with knowledge and skill-based training to work in Process Technology positions in various industries. It is taught 4 days per week in morning or evening sessions for a total of 8 terms in 96 weeks. The program is 24 months during the day and evening sessions. Students must participate in 360-day or evening class sessions to complete the program.

The objective of this program is to prepare students to operate industrial process equipment in entry-level positions including:

• Chemical Process Technicians
• Power Plant Technicians
• Assistant Plant Operators
• Water Treatment Technicians
• Waste-Water Treatment Technicians
• Petroleum and Gas Process Technicians
• Energy Plant Technicians

Program Overview

The Process Technology Program teaches basic concepts, skills, and terminology for graduates to obtain entry-level jobs in this occupation. Studies include classroom and laboratory work in these areas:

• Introduction to Industrial Process and Systems
• Success Skills in the Workplace
• Industrial Safety and Environmental Practices
• Review of Basic and Related Mathematics
• Process Instrumentation Concepts
• Pressure, Level, Temperature, Flow
• Mechanical and Fluid Dynamics
• Pump Applications, Operations, Maintenance, and Troubleshooting
• Compressors, Turbines, and Their Prime Movers

The program includes introductory courses in personal computers, technical writing, and workplace communications. The last quarter of study covers specialized training in computer- based control systems and troubleshooting. Other courses are specific to equipment operation such as furnace and boiler operation, heat exchanger theory, operating principles and problems along with distillation systems.

Chemistry courses include basic and organic chemistry and water treatment. Environmental awareness, ecology, industrial hygiene, and industry’s responsibility to the community are embedded throughout the course. Modern equipment, tools, and training aids are coupled with an environment solidly based on industrial process concepts.

Program Teaching Methods

The teaching methods used in this program include classroom theory and lab sessions that are coupled with an atmosphere solidly based on “real work” industrial concepts. Studies are individualized and progress is monitored with assignments, quizzes, and laboratory evaluations.

Process Technology Job Description

Process Technicians should have a strong working knowledge of computer operations, basic math, and use their skills to ensure processes function properly. They perform these duties:

• Apply analytical skills to solve problems
• Research, collect, analyze, and use relevant data
• Use communication skills effectively
• Apply detail-oriented thought and methodology
• Monitor and improve manufacturing processes
• Inspect, monitor, and operate processing equipment
• Plan workflows and maintain production logbooks
• Practice and maintain workplace safety
• Test product batch quality
• Document and report equipment malfunctions

Industry Career Paths

Graduates may apply their Process Technology skills to their present occupation or become employed with different industrial groups such as: