Programmable Logic Controllers-Automation

An area of emphasis to provide a student with sufficient skills to obtain an entry-level position in the industry as a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Technician. The skills to be gained with this certificate include usage of program programmable logic controllers to solve machine and manufacturing process problems. Students will gain experience through practical applications, case studies, and hands-on exercises.

Program Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this program, students will have:

·        Gained knowledge of the programmable logic controllers (PLC) applications;

·        Gained practical experience using PLC, problem-solving techniques, and analysis; and

·        Gained knowledge in computer programming language software.

Catalog Description for Each Course in the Degree

CSIS 110:Principles of Information Systems

An introductory course in Information Technology with an emphasis on business and business-related applications.Concepts include computer organization, data processing systems, decision support systems, systems analysis and design, as well as ethics, security,e-commerce, global information systems and application software. The laboratory component consists of hands-on problem solving using software applications including spreadsheets and databases.

CSIS 119:Introduction to Computer Programming

An introductory course in computer programming as a foundation for more advanced programming, computer science, computer networking, or software engineering courses. Emphasis is on the development of problem solving skills as it introduces students to computer programming principles and best practices using modular and Object Oriented programming concepts. Attention is given to development of effective software engineering practices emphasizing such principles as analysis and design decomposition, encapsulation, procedural abstraction, testing and software reuse. Students learn and apply standard programming constructs,problem-solving strategies, and the concept of an algorithm, fundamental data structures, and the machine representation of data.

CSIS 250:Introduction to Python Programming

This is an introductory course in Python programming. Topics covered include basic language syntax,functions, control flow, looping, data types, strings, lists, dictionaries,exception handling, software tools and libraries, and functional vs object oriented programming concepts. This course is intended for persons with a prior background in any programming language.

CSIS 298:Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers-Automation*

An introductory course in Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC). Topics covered include introduction to theory behind Programmable Logic Controllers, emphasis on the application of PLCs in plant and manufacturing systems. Introduction to PLC simulation software with practical applications and hands-on learning.

 *new course

An analysis of data on the Cal-PASS Plus LaunchBoard showed that from 2014-2015, students benefited from the program in a number of ways,including 1,121 transfer, and 31 skills-builders who had an earnings gain. In addition, 2016-2017 data shows, nine colleges in the San Diego-Imperial region had 1,611 completers and awarded 1,808 degrees and certificates in the sector of Information and Communication Technologies. It is anticipated that this certificate will serve as a valuable and strategic certificate within the Computer Science and Information Systems program area.  

Based on COE data this program is recommended to proceed due to high living wages, and employment opportunities. With marketing by Grossmont College and the pull of a regional certificate, increased enrollment is anticipated. The Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Occupations October 2019 report provided by Centers of Excellence, indicates there is a supply gap in the region, salaries and wages are at or above the living wage, and recommends to proceed with the new program.

 In partnership without East County and San Diego Chamber, this program will be disseminated as an option for many of our local employers seeking qualified workers. Additionally,the program will align with the State Chancellors’ Office Vision for Success goals.The program will target students currently not enrolled in community college instruction, including students who are often functionally excluded from traditional on-campus instruction due to practical, cultural, and other barriers. The program will increase the number of students earning industry-recognized,workforce-relevant certificated and will prepare them for continuing education in career pathways and traditional degree programs. The Programming Logic Controller-Automation certificate will be part of the Computer Science and Information Systems department. It is anticipated that the program will carry between 30-40 students in the PLC-Automation COA or its courses per semester.

Grossmont College’s vision is “Changing Lives Through Education” and aims to meet its

vision through several components: “Grossmont College is committed to providing an

exceptional learning environment that enables diverse individuals to pursue their hopes,

dreams, and full potential, and to developing enlightened leaders and thoughtful citizens

for local and global communities.”

Our mission is fulfilled by providing the people of East San Diego County with:

·        Transfer degrees and certificates programs

·        Career technical education and workforce development

·        Basic skills

·        Student support services that promote student access and achievement

·        Community education

The PLC-Automation Certificate of Achievement (COA) supports the career and technical education and workforce development component of Grossmont College. The goals of the COA is to provide relevant workforce development skills that meet industry needs and allow students to successfully place into demand-based job markets. Students who successfully complete the PLC-Automation COA will be prepared to thrive in various industries across San Diego in needs of PLC technicians. This is an area of emphasis leading to an entry-level position which specializes in computer programming, PLC software,installations, testing, and technical support within various industries in San Diego including advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, clean-tech, and information and communications technologies. 

The goals and objectives of the PLC-Automation COA program are directly aligned with Grossmont College’s mission to provide career technical education and workforce development and transform lives through education. The program was developed in collaboration with a knowledgeable local Industry Advisory Council, as well as a wide variety of Computer Science and Information Systems, Geography, Physics, Math faculty at Grossmont College. The PLC-Automation Certificate of Achievement will provide students with a solid foundation and an excellent set of skills which are in demand in the marketplace today and most assuredly in the future.

Total units: 15 units 

*new course