“I am getting paid and learning at the same time.” That was David Shaw’s comment when asked about his internship with Spuntech Industries, Inc. and college courses at Piedmont Community College (PCC).
Shaw enrolled in Piedmont Community College’s short term Siemens Level I training when it was first offered in May, passing the national exam in June. Two months later he is earning a paycheck through a paid internship at Spuntech Industries, Inc. and continuing his education in PCC’s Electrical Electronics Technology curriculum program.
“The experience was wonderful,” shared Shaw. “I had been out of work for one year and noticed the free orientation course at PCC. After taking that course, which was really necessary to understanding the program, I qualified for funding so the full training was also free.”
PCC offers a free orientation for students interested in robotics, electronics, and machinery. During this short orientation course participants learn about the full Siemens Level I training, gain job seeking skills, and have the opportunity to earn their NC Career Readiness Certificate (CRC) credential. Students interested in financial assistance for Siemens Level I are required to first enroll in the free orientation class.
After earning his Siemens Level I certification, Shaw took PCC’s OSHA 10 and Certified Logistics Technician training, which also led to a new certification.
Shaw, who has a manufacturing background, said the orientation and full Siemens Level I training helped him secure a new job and a new opportunity. “It was a real stepping stone for me. After PCC’s training I had two job opportunities. Because [the employers] saw me go through the program and they realized I could help them.”
Since starting his internship, Shaw has fixed motors, reinstalled plant specific parts, fixed lights, worked on pumps and air pressure systems, and aided in other preventative maintenance duties.
Shaw is now enrolled in PCC’s Electrical Systems Technology program where he will study wiring, instrumentation, PLCs, as well as transferable courses like critical thinking. “I’ll be in class on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and part of Fridays this semester. My internship at Spuntech works around that schedule so I can still earn money while getting an education.”
About PCC’s Electrical Systems Technology program
The Electrical Systems Technology curriculum is designed to provide students with the skills and technical background required for entry-level employment in the installation and maintenance of electrical/electronic systems found in residential, commercial and industrial facilities.
Most training is hands-on and includes such topics as AC/DC theory, basic wiring practices, digital electronics, programmable logic controllers, industrial motor controls, and the National Electric Code. Visit www.piedmontcc.edu/elc or contact Mac McCormick at (336) 322-2178 or Mac.McCormick@piedmontcc.edu to learn more about this program.
About PCC’s short term Siemens Level I training
PCC’s Siemens Level I/Mechatronics program focuses on the integration of mechanical, electrical (electronics), fluid power (hydraulics or pneumatics), and computer technologies to control machine movements. Participants will begin with courses in mechanics, sensors, basic electronics, pneumatics, control logic, and robot programming control.
Those successfully completing PCC’s Siemens Level I/Mechatronics program will have the opportunity to become a Siemens Mechatronics System Assistant after passing the certification exam. This program will also give participants a head-start on earning credit towards a degree by successfully passing a credit-by-examination.
The next free Siemens Level I Orientation course begins on Monday, August 21. To learn more or to registered, contact PCC’s Workforce Development Team at (336) 322-2156. Financial assistance is available to qualified unemployed, underemployed, and economically distressed individuals.
Dr. Doris Carver, Vice President of Continuing Education, PCC; David Shaw, Mike Cobb, PCC Instructor, Siemens Level I training
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