NEW PROGRAMS LOOK TOWARDS THE FUTURE
This fall, Centennial College’s School of Engineering Technology and Applied Sciences (SETAS) will launch three diverse part-time certificate programs that prove the future is now
The programs — 3D printing and part design, program logic controller (PLC)/ automation installation, and programming and solar photovoltaic (PV) installation for electricians (journeymen and apprentices) — will be facilitated during evening and weekends at the college’s Progress Campus. The location, says SETAS’ chair of advanced manufacturing and automation technology, is fully equipped to handle the programs’ demands.
“These programs are very hands-on,” says Donald Wang. “Students learn the basics in the classroom but more importantly, they get practical learning. For example, one of the unique aspects of the solar PV installation program is that we have simulators that allow students to go outdoors and actually install solar panels on a roof. Not many educational institutions have that.
“Meanwhile, for PLC/automation installation and programming, students learn in small classes in state-of-the-art, industry-standard labs. And for 3D printing and part design, students work with 3D units for business and commercial 3D printing.”
Centennial, says Wang, determined the need for these programs based on industry demand. Each, he says, was designed with different learners in mind.
3D printing and part design is an introductory program that will benefit those who wish to obtain a balance between design, software and assembly training to make prototypes. PLC/automation installation and programming is geared towards engineers who aren’t familiar with PLC hardware. Lastly, solar PV installation will add clout to the resumes of electricians who were not provided with solar PV installation during their electrical education.
“Seldom do 3D printing programs offer a comprehensive introduction to software, programming and fabrication but that’s what our students get,” says Wang. “Also, while a lot of PLC training is focused on software, we found that understanding the hardware is where the gap occurs for engineers. We are filling in that missing piece by teaching hardware installation. And for solar PV installation, you just need to take a look around to see how popular solar panels are becoming. Globally, solar is here to stay.”
To learn more about these programs, visit centennialcollege.ca.