Morrison Tech Announces Launch of Automation Specialization
Morrison Institute of Technology is pleased to announce the launch of a new specialization in Automation and Process Control Systems. This field of study supports manufacturers that rely on automation or intelligent systems for their operations and helps support companies looking to add this capability. The congressional support organized by Representative Cheri Bustos and the support and input of local manufacturers was instrumental in the program’s creation. Black Hawk Hills Regional Council and the Whiteside County Economic Development Office also provided their support and expertise.
Automation has been a watchword in manufacturing for decades, but recent years have seen rapid expansion in this area. The technology has become cost-effective and provides solutions to manufacturing problems in the production of delicate products, those that require a sterile production environment, and helps to maximize a company’s labor resources. Over recent years several area manufacturers have expressed interest in a program that addresses automation and process controls.
For manufacturers, obstacles to integrating automated processes include the initial cost of automation, locating the skilled workers needed to design, implement, and maintain automated systems, and the expertise and resources needed to support the transition. Providing this workforce development will be key to maintaining and growing local, regional, and statewide manufacturing.
This program will also add to the advanced capabilities of the Morrison Institute of Technology’s Innovation Center and enhance manufacturing support through the expansion of business services. President Chris Scott expressed his thoughts on the project, “The current economic uncertainty makes this the ideal time to strategically prepare for the future needs of industry. This is a great opportunity to invest in the future workforce of the region and embrace tomorrow’s future today.”
Students may currently enroll for the new specialization which begins in the Fall of 2023 by visiting the Morrison Tech website. The first class will graduate in May of 2025. The program will add topics in electricity, hydraulics, programmable logic controllers, and process automation to a sound core of general studies and engineering coursework.
Automation and Process Control Systems Curriculum and Course Descriptions