Automation Technology

The Automation Technology program offers an in-depth exploration of the components, circuits, instruments, and control systems integral to industrial automation. Students will cultivate a versatile skill set encompassing electronics, mechanics, pneumatics, hydraulics, and computerized controls, preparing them for sophisticated integration tasks.

Key focus areas of the program include industrial automation, robotics, process technology, industrial network communication, computer numerical control (CNC), and precision machining.

This program will equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles of automation technology. Through diverse, hands-on training, graduates are prepared to apply their skills across various sectors such as green energy technology, electronic systems, robotics, manufacturing, and production, adapting to evolving technological landscapes and enhancing industry efficiency.

The Technical Certificate in Industrial Electronic Technology is designed to enhance the technical skills and job-related knowledge of individuals currently employed in the industrial field and other persons seeking careers in industrial automation. The majority of the technical courses are offered on campus. Courses taken for the certificate may be applied to the Associate of Applied Science degree in Automation Technology.

The Certificate of Proficiency in Industrial Controls is a course of study that prepares students for entry-level employment in industrial maintenance, computer networking, or engineering-related fields. This certificate of proficiency may be applied to the Technical Certificate and the Associate of Applied Science degree in Automation Technology.

The Certificate of Proficiency in Machinist Operations program prepares students for entry into the manufacturing of mechanical parts. Students will use lathes, milling machines, welders, and grinders to produce precision metal parts. Machinist operators work in machine shops, manufacturing, and tool rooms. Employment projects are based on replacing an aging workforce and potential manufacturing growth in the region.

This certificate of proficiency may be applied to the Technical Certificate in Industrial Electronic Technology and the Associate of Applied Science degree in Automation Technology.

High school students may begin the Automation Technology program by taking classes concurrently with their regular studies and earning credit toward a certificate of proficiency, which will apply to the technical certificate and associate of applied science degree.

AT 1103 Programming I

Cross-listed with CIS 1103. This course lays a robust foundation in programming logic and problem-solving skills, applicable across multiple programming languages. Students will gain proficiency in developing logical frameworks and writing basic programs using a generic programming language, drawing parallels to Python and C++. Emphasizing practical skills and logic, the course enhances students' ability to design industrial programming solutions utilizing ladder logic, relay logic, Python, and C++. The curriculum aims to equip students with solid logical skills essential for industrial programming, preparing them for complex challenges in automation.

Ozark CTE General Technology Fee: $51.

AT 1113 Industrial Networking

This course equips participants with the skills to establish, configure, monitor, and manage basic Ethernet networks in an Industry 4.0 environment. Learners will interpret and assign IP addresses for devices like PCs, PLCs, and robots, connect devices to Ethernet networks, and set up Layer 2 managed Ethernet switches. Training includes configuring managed switch subnets, identifying network topologies, setting static and dynamic addressing, and analyzing network performance and diagnostics. Additionally, the course covers industrial networking protocols such as LonWorks, Modbus, BACnet, and RS-485 serial communications.

Lecture 3 hours, Ozark CTE General Technology Fee: $51.

AT 1123 Semiconductors I

Prerequisite: AT 1163 and 1173.

Ozark CTE General Technology Fee: $51.

AT 1133 Introduction to Manufacturing Components

This course provides a foundation in modern production processes, including hand and power tools, power transfer, precision measurement, blueprints and schematics, advanced automation controls, and troubleshooting. Students will learn the proper and safe use of various tools and test equipment. Students will also be exposed to Advanced Manufacturing concepts, equipment, and processes. The students are expected to be able to transfer the skills learned in this course into a wide range of automated workplaces.

Lecture 3 hours, Ozark CTE General Technology Fee: $51.

AT 1143 Introduction to Digital Logic

An introductory course in the study of digital logic systems. Basic digital logic gates, truth tables, numbering systems, and different types of TTL integrated circuits are studied.

Ozark CTE General Technology Fee: $51.

AT 1163 Fund Electricity I (DC CRCTS)

Co-requisite: AT 1173.

This course will introduce electricity, metering, troubleshooting, circuit design, and circuit analysis. Topics covered include resistance, current, voltage, power, measuring electrical units with a digital multimeter, Ohm’s Law, and how to find measurements for both parallel and series circuitry. Ozark Campus CTE fee: $51.

AT 1173 Fund Electricity II (AC CRCTS)

Co-requisite: AT 1163.

This course introduces students to key concepts in alternating current, including transformers, inductance, capacitance, motor troubleshooting, and AC measurement. Students will apply formulas to calculate transformer ratios, inductive reactance, capacitive reactance, and other critical AC electrical parameters. This hands-on approach helps students understand how various components behave differently when exposed to alternating current.

Ozark CTE General Technology Fee: $51.

AT 1183 3D Modeling and Simulation

This course is designed for engineers and designers looking to learn Fusion 360 for 3D mechanical design. Ideal for beginners, the course covers the key workspaces of Fusion 360, including DESIGN, ANIMATION, and DRAWING. Students will gain hands-on experience in creating detailed 3D models and learn the essential tools and techniques for effective design, animation, and technical drawing within the software.

Ozark CTE General Technology Fee: $51.

AT 2013 Introduction to Industrial Robotics

This course explores the fundamental operation of robots, with a focus on safety, power-up and shutdown procedures, manual operation, homing, and end-effector use. Students will learn basic robot programming, including movement and end effector commands, as well as interfacing and material handling techniques. The course also covers application development, flexible manufacturing cells, quality control, production control, and work cell design.

Ozark CTE General Technology Fee: $51.

AT 2033 Industrial Robotics Program

Prerequisite: AT 2013.

This course is designed for operators, technicians, engineers, and programmers who need to set up and program robots, either physically or virtually. The curriculum covers robot operations along with the tasks required to configure specific applications, test, run, and refine programs and production setups. Students will gain hands-on experience with Fanuc or ABB robot programming.

Ozark General CTE Fee: $51.

AT 2043 Robotics and Motion Control

Prerequisite: AT 2143, 2153 and 2013.

This course teaches students Fanuc 2D IrVision programming and setup, along with motion control using Studio 5000. Topics include the installation and configuration of servo equipment, adding motion commands and servos in Studio 5000, understanding Cartesian motion concepts, and applying vision principles with a robot-mounted camera.

Ozark General CTE Fee: $51.

AT 2123 Industrial Fluid Power

Prerequisite: AT 1163, 1173 and 1133.

This course provides hands-on training in industrial hydraulic and pneumatic applications, focusing on the operation of directional control valves and the interpretation of related schematics. Students will gain a solid understanding of fluid power systems, including the formulas used in their design, as well as practical skills in troubleshooting and optimizing hydraulic and pneumatic circuits.

Ozark CTE General Technology Fee: $51.

AT 2133 Introduction to Programmable Controls

Co-requisite: ICS 2123, 2143, 2153, and 2163.

Prerequisite: ICS 1123, 1163, 1173, and 2123.

NOTE: ICS 2123 may be taken before or concurrently with ICS 2133. An introduction to programmable controllers (PCs). The PC is a microprocessor-based programmable device used in controlling mechanical machinery, energy management systems, computer integrated manufacturing, and other applications. Lecture: 3 hours, laboratory: 6 hours. This course is designated as "Green".

Ozark CTE General Technology Fee: $51.

AT 2143 Programmable Controllers

Co-requisite: AT 2153.

Prerequisite: AT 2203.

This course provides students with hands-on experience in setup, installation, communication configuration, driver setup, and ladder logic programming. Through design projects, students will develop critical thinking skills while mastering key topics such as XIO and XIC commands, counters and timers, comparison and math instructions, data manipulation and movement instructions, MCR commands, and program design based on equipment operation.

Ozark CTE General Technology Fee: $51.

AT 2153 Introduction to Industrial Automation

Co-requisite: AT 2143 Programmable Controllers.

Prerequisite: AT 1163 and 1173.

This hands-on course focuses on electrical motor control wiring, teaching students to design and wire circuits using relays, transformers, limit switches, float switches, pressure switches, timers, and operator stations equipped with pushbuttons and LED indicators. Students will gain practical experience in building and troubleshooting motor control systems, learning how to integrate various components for effective operation and control.

Ozark CTE General Technology Fee: $51.

AT 2163 Industrial Automation

Prerequisite: AT 2143 and 2153.

This course covers advanced PLC concepts, troubleshooting techniques, and programming for industrial machinery. Students will gain hands-on experience in diagnosing and resolving issues by troubleshooting programs on virtual industrial equipment.

Ozark CTE General Technology Fee: $51.

AT 2203 Computer System Components

This course studies how microprocessors and programmable logic controllers, sensors, actuators, and communication methods are combined to function as a system in an automated workspace. The student is taught how to set up and program these systems and troubleshoot the hardware and software that make up these systems. The students are expected to be able to transfer the skills learned in this course into a wide range of automated workspaces.

Ozark CTE General Technology Fee: $51.

AT 2213 Semiconductors II

Prerequisite: AT 1123 Semiconductors I.

This course equips individuals with the skills to connect, adjust, operate, and troubleshoot industrial electronic switching circuits used in motor control, switching power supplies, and heating systems. Students will develop troubleshooting expertise, including system diagnostics, component testing, and the use of digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, and status indicators. Key components covered include FET, JFET, MOSFET, and IGBT transistors, PWM amplifiers, switching DC power supplies, variable frequency amplifier circuits, operational amplifiers, SCR DC motor control circuits, and TRIAC-based AC motor control and heating circuits.

Ozark CTE General Tech Fee: $51.

AT 2223 Introduction to Process Technology

This course equips students with the mechanical, electrical, and digital skills essential for Industry 4.0 and Advanced Manufacturing processes. Students will learn to apply process control safety protocols, interpret system documentation, operate and configure loop controllers, integrate sensors, and program, tune, and manage control systems for modern automated environments.

Lecture 3 hours, Ozark CTE General Technology Fee: $51.

AT 2513 Blueprints, Measurements, and Safety

This course introduces students to interpreting and accurately working with technical drawings, emphasizing the importance of precision and attention to detail. Students will also learn the proper care and use of precision measurement instruments, along with essential machine safety practices. The course provides foundational skills for working in technical and manufacturing environments, ensuring students understand both the technical and safety aspects of the trade.

Ozark CF Machining Fee: $75; Ozark CTE Fee: $51.

AT 2514 CNC Milling

Prerequisite: AT 2513 and 2523.

This course explores the innovative technologies shaping modern manufacturing, including Computer Numerical Control (CNC), Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software, and specialty materials. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of CNC machining, from uploading and downloading programs to applying machining techniques for part production. The course culminates in hands-on experience with a CNC milling machine, where students will machine an actual part, connecting virtual design concepts with real-world applications. By the end of the course, students will have a full understanding of the entire CNC machining process, bridging theory with practical experience.

Ozark Machining Fee: $100; Ozark CTE Fee: $68.

AT 2523 Machining Technology

This course introduces students to machining operations in the metalworking industry, covering essential topics such as machine shop safety, the use of measuring tools, and the operation of key equipment including lathes, drill machines, and layout instruments. Students will gain hands-on experience with these tools and processes, developing the skills necessary for working in a professional machining environment.

Ozark Machining Fee: $75; Ozark CTE Fee: $51.

AT 2524 CNC Turning

Prerequisite: AT 2513 and 2523.

This course introduces students to the cutting-edge technologies driving modern manufacturing, including Computer Numerical Control (CNC), Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software, and specialty materials. Students will learn all aspects of CNC machining, including how to upload and download programs to CNC machines and apply machining techniques to produce parts. The course culminates in hands-on experience with a CNC Turning Machining Center, where students will gain practical skills in machining parts using a turning machine. By the end of the course, students will have a solid understanding of both the theoretical and practical elements of CNC turning.

Ozark Machining Fee: $100; Ozark CTE Fee: $68.

AT 2993 Automation Special Topics

Various topics will be covered in Automation Technology.

Academic Catalog

Automation Technology

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