LCC provides training for high demand careers
Ian Webb of Beulaville is working on a hydraulic systems trainer. Submitted photo
Lenoir Community College has recently redesigned its Industrial Systems Technology degree program with the intention of eliminating the shortage of skilled maintenance workers in the local area. Students receive high quality training in many industrial maintenance related disciplines including machining, welding, CAD, electronics, hydraulics, pneumatics, and safety so that they are well prepared for the advanced manufacturing jobs of both the present and the future.
It is well documented that there is a nationwide shortage of workers in hands-on, skilled trades, and it is no different in our area. While there are many careers that fall under this category, one of the most intriguing is a career as an Industrial Maintenance Technician. These workers are responsible for keeping advanced manufacturing facilities up and running at all times.
Technology and automation are becoming increasingly common in all segments of manufacturing. As a result, people with the knowledge and skills to troubleshoot, repair, and maintain this equipment are in very high demand. Over the past several decades, fewer people have chosen to enter this career field, and the current workforce of maintenance technicians is now at or nearing retirement age. This has led to a shortage of technicians, and companies are actively searching for the next generation of skilled workers.
Jeff Mobley of Beulaville is working on a mechanical systems trainer. Submitted photo
According to the Career Coach job analysis, there are 457 annual job openings for industrial maintenance technicians within 100 miles of Kinston. “Not only are workers with the necessary skillsets in high demand, but companies are paying very well when they find the right candidate,” LCC Dean of Industrial Programs Dr. Maggie Brown said. “New workers are generally hired at a wage between $15-20 an hour. The median salary for maintenance workers is around $50,000 a year. Experienced workers can earn $70,000+ in this area.”
What kind of person makes a good maintenance technician? “Typically, people who are interested in learning why things do what they do, love working with their hands, enjoy solving problems, and take a great deal of pride accomplishing tasks make excellent candidates for this career field,” LCC Industrial Systems Technology Program Chair Stephen Edwards said. “Finding a job that frequently provides the instant satisfaction of ‘saving the day’ can be challenging; however, this is the everyday life in an industrial maintenance department.”
Edwards said multiple times each day, these workers are called to troubleshoot and repair poorly functioning equipment in order to help the company meet production quotas and remain profitable. “It is critical that these workers have a broad knowledge of modern industrial systems and the necessary skills to fix whatever problem arises each day.”
LCC has built partnerships with several local employers to strengthen instruction and assist students with job placement upon graduation. Fall classes within the Industrial Systems Technology program begin soon, and registration is open now. Financial aid is available for many students, and class schedules are flexible.
For more information, contact Stephen Edwards at svedwards071@lenoircc.edu or 252-527-6223, ext. 109 or Dr. Maggie Brown at mlbrown46@lenoircc.edu or 252-527-6223, ext. 721 to see how LCC can help you achieve your educational and career goals.
