Engineering and Technology

Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and Robotic Automation

Certificate: 13 Credits

Program at a Glance

Degree and credential levels offered :

Certificate

Employer partners :

Amazon | American Airlines | Boeing | Con Edison | Cox & Company | GE Healthcare | John Deere | Magellan Aerospace | PepsiCo

Sample careers graduates pursue :

Automation systems specialist | Programmable logic controller (PLC) technician | Robotic technician | Control system specialist | Robotics systems specialist

Location and facilities :

Vaughn campus 86-01 23rd Avenue, Flushing, New York 11369, adjacent to LaGuardia Airport. Labs: 3D Printing Lab Software: Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software such as CATIA and SolidWorks is used to develop parts for various functions. 

Accreditations and authorizations :

Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA) exam preparation included in curriculum

Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and Robotic Automation

The greater NYC area stands as the largest regional urban economy in the nation, with service industries serving as integral components. Currently, there exists a shortage of technicians possessing the requisite skills to maintain programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and robots, technologies increasingly vital across diverse service sectors including wholesale and retail, pharmaceuticals, hospitals, food and beverage, as well as airport baggage and cargo handling.

In response to the skills gap and workforce shortage, the certificate program prioritizes the training of PLC and Robotic Automation (PRA) Technicians. This comprehensive two-semester (13-credit) program comprises four 3-credit courses and one 1-credit lab in Robotics and Automation. Designed to equip students with the essential skills needed to embark on a career as PLC and Robotic Technicians, the curriculum offers thorough instruction tailored to the specific demands of the industry. Graduates of this program will emerge adeptly prepared to assume roles as PRA technicians within the diverse landscape of service industries.

Furthermore, the credits earned through completion of the certificate program hold the added benefit of being transferable to Vaughn College’s Mechatronic Engineering program, providing students with a seamless pathway to further their education and career prospects. Check out our PLC program flyer for additional information.

We invite you to listen to episode 17 of our podcast to learn more about this certificate program and the types of in-demand careers you’ll be eligible for with this certification.

#1

RANKED #1 In upward mobility nationwide

Moving students from the bottom 40% to the top 40% in income**

Best Regional Colleges New York

8th Best Regional College in New York State

95%

OF VAUGHN GRADUATES

71% in their field—are employed or continue their education within one year*

Curriculum

What You Will Study

In this certificate program, students will engage in courses covering topics such as Introduction to Robotics Technologies, Fundamentals of Siemens and Allen-Bradley PLCs, and Industrial Machinery and Networking. Through hands-on experience, students will learn to design and operate robotic manipulators or automated systems tailored for applications in various service sectors of the industry. Additionally, students will develop proficiency in maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing robots or automated systems through PLC and industrial equipment and networking courses, equipping them with essential skills for success in the industry. 

SAMPLE CLASSES

  • Introduction to Robotics Technologies
  • Electrical Circuit Analysis and Implementation
  • Digital Logic and Fundamentals of PLCs
  • Automation Industry Machinery and Equipment
  • Allen-Bradley PLCs and Industrial Networking

How Much Can I Make?

Graduates are prepared to pass SACA (Smart Automation Certification Alliance) exams, earning industry-recognized certification required to receive roles such as:

  • Automation Systems Specialist
  • Programmable Logic Controller
  • Robotic Technician
  • Control System Specialist
  • Robotics Systems Specialist


Where Vaughn Students Land Internships and Careers

From day one, Vaughn students gain hands-on experience through internships and graduate ready to launch careers with top employers.

Amazon
American Airlines
Boeing
Con Edison
Cox & Company
GE Healthcare
John Deere
Magellan Aerospace
Pepsico
Amazon
American Airlines
Boeing
Con Edison
Cox & Company
GE Healthcare
John Deere
Magellan Aerospace
Pepsico

Ready to Start Your Future in Robotic Automation?

Vaughn’s innovative labs, industry-connected faculty and strong graduate outcomes make Vaughn the best place to launch your career in programmable logic control and robotic automation.

The industry needs problem-solvers, builders and innovators—we’ll help you become one.