Robots are advancing the ways in which we live, work, and function. They are streamlining operations, automating processes, and completing tasks with precision and efficiency. Within the workforce, robots are becoming an increasingly important player in fields like healthcare, manufacturing, and even service-based industries. However, despite popular belief, the growing presence of robots is not replacing the need for human specialists.
As the use of robots grows, so does the need for humans who specialize in robotics. In other words, humans are still needed to build, maintain, test, and fix the robots. These professionals are most often known as robotics technicians.
Robotics technicians are trained to configure, operate, and maintain robotic equipment. These professionals have an incredible knowledge base of computer programming, motor control, schematics, automation, and other mechanical systems. They are well-versed in industrial robotics and computer-aided design (CAD) programs. And, while this may all seem high-brow, you might be surprised to know that robotics technicians can launch their career in a matter of months, through a postsecondary training program.
If you are wondering how to become a robotics technician, read on. Below we detail the educational prerequisites and skills requirements needed to launch your robotics career.
Robotics technician education requirements
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), robotics technicians (as well as other types of electromechanical and mechatronic technicians) typically need either a postsecondary certificate or an associate degree to enter the field. This education should be specialized and relevant to the field of robotics. For example, aspiring robotics technicians can pursue a Robotics and Automation certificate through a career-focused college or university.
Robotics certificate programs generally take between one and two years to complete. At Goodwin University, for example, our program can be completed in just three short semesters, while still providing a comprehensive education and hands-on training experiences for aspiring robotics technicians.
In general, robotics technician programs cover topics related to:
- Automation programming
- Computer aided design
- Electrical schematics
- Industrial robotics
- Manufacturing mathematics
- Motor control
However, it’s important to note that robotics training programs go beyond the classroom walls. At Goodwin, students also learn how to operate and troubleshoot machinery in state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. Through these practical experiences, students gain computer programming skills, mechanical aptitude, and a working knowledge of robotics operations.
Become a highly sought-after robotics technician through our training program.
Robotics technician skills requirements
Due to the in-depth nature of a robotics technician career, there are a variety of skills required to excel in this position. Rest assured: Many of these skills will be developed and honed through your postsecondary training program.
The top skills needed to become a robotics technician include:
- Ability to read and follow instructions or specific sequences (as outlined by engineers)
- Attention-to-detail and precision
- Communication
- Critical thinking skills
- Dexterity, with the ability to operate hand tools and work on small circuitry
- Mathematics to analyze, design, and troubleshoot tasks
- Mechanical skills like machine operation
- Problem solving
- Report writing (to detail robotics construction, test results, etc.)
When asked about the skills most important in a robotics technician career, one expert technician, Camden West, explains: “Communication is big no matter what you’re doing. Also, pretty much everything you deal with has some sort of scale or dimension, so you need to know how to read blueprints and recognize where robots are being used in the process. And you should have basic computer skills: creating spreadsheets and presentations, doing word processing. A lot of the robots use software that you program offline and walk to the production line to upload.”
Do you need to be certified to become a robotics technician?
While aspiring robotics technicians should earn a certificate from a postsecondary robotics program, professional certification is not necessary to launch a career in this field.
However, for those who wish to stand out to employers and showcase their skill sets, professional certifications are available. Robotics technicians may earn optional certifications like the following, as cited by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, to demonstrate their competencies in the robotics field:
- Certified Automation Professional (CAP) designation from the International Society of Automation
- Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) certificate from the International Society of Automation
- Certification in electrical power testing (among other specialties) from the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technicians – Note, however, that some of these require four-year degrees
Become a robotics technician at Goodwin University
So many industries, from manufacturing to military, healthcare to hospitality, are relying on automated systems and robots to run businesses smarter. With this, the demand for robotics technicians is increasing, too. Becoming a robotics technician means breaking into an exciting, hands-on, in-demand career where you can work with evolving technologies.
And the journey to become a robotics technician does not require a large investment of time or tuition. You can become a robotics technician with a small and short investment in a postsecondary training program, offered at the certificate level.
At Goodwin University, the Robotics and Automation program is flexible, with part-time and full-time scheduling available. It is also full of hands-on training experiences, led by industry professionals, to get you prepared for a career fast. With just 24 credits under your belt, you can become a robotics technician in Connecticut.
Ready to get started? Click here to request more information about our training program.
Goodwin University is a nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Goodwin University was founded in 1999, with the goal of serving a diverse student population with career-focused degree programs that lead to strong employment outcomes.