Frequently Asked Questions

What do industrial or automation maintenance employees do?

They are responsible for all production lines, equipment and facility maintenance, as well as troubleshooting and repairing mechanical or electrical issues as they arise. They ensure smooth operations in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.

Do I need previous experience or knowledge of this field?

No. The programs are designed for students with or without prior knowledge or experience. You will be trained at the College through lectures and hands-on learning.

What are the start dates?

Start dates vary by semester and course. On this registration webpage, enter the term you are interested in starting and select "Continue." In the "Subject" section, enter "ISET," select it, and then click "Search." Now, you can view the course schedule for the selected term/semester.

What will I receive upon completing the program?

Tri-C has four maintenance programs. Each program offers a College-issued certificate or associate degree.

The Certificate of Proficiency in Industrial Maintenance program covers the processes and applications required to fulfill the duties of an industrial maintenance technician. The program includes both general electrical and mechanical training and specific facility maintenance training on all aspects of keeping a facility fully operational. Included in the coursework is theoretical and hands-on training related to industrial electronics, mechanical and fluid power transmissions, boiler technologies and HVAC.

The Associate Degree in Industrial Maintenance prepares students to diagnose and resolve industrial equipment problems using diagnostic assessment and core troubleshooting skills. Students will learn how to diagnose and maintain HVAC boiler systems, including advanced automation disciplines such as fluid power, mechanical power transmission and electrical automation. Students completing this program will find careers as maintenance repair technicians, electrical maintenance technicians, power plant control room operators or industrial maintenance technicians. The associate degree also prepares students to move into a maintenance supervision role in their career.

The Certificate of Proficiency in Automation Maintenance program covers the processes and applications required to work in an industrial facility that includes automated manufacturing lines and machines. The program includes both general electrical and mechanical training and specific automation maintenance training on advanced platforms like programmable logic controllers, motor controls, etc. Included in the coursework is theoretical and hands-on training related to programmable logic controllers, industrial motor controls, power transmission and fluid power. The skills needed to perform the job on specific applications will be covered.

The Associate Degree in Automation Maintenance prepares the student to diagnose, troubleshoot and repair automated manufacturing lines and equipment. The program includes both electrical and mechanical training and specific automation maintenance and industrial programming, including programmable logic controllers (industrial computers) and robotics. Included in the coursework is theoretical and hands-on training related to programmable logic controllers, industrial motor controls, power transmission and fluid power. Students completing this program will find careers as electrical maintenance technicians, automation maintenance technicians, maintenance technicians or control technicians. The associate degree also prepares students to move into a maintenance supervision role in their career.

What types of jobs will this training prepare me for?

Students who complete one of the programs can be an industrial maintenance technician, industrial maintenance mechanic, installer, electrical maintenance technician, millwright, automation maintenance technician, maintenance technician or control technician, or work in machine/equipment sales.

Is a job or internship guaranteed?

The College cannot guarantee a job or internship. However, internship and job search assistance are available. For help with your resume, interviewing techniques and more, visit Tri-C's Career Center.

Which companies have hired graduates from Tri-C’s Maintenance programs?

Howmet Aerospace, Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, the Great Lakes Group, Hose Master, Anchor Manufacturing Group, Lincoln Electric, Alloy Precision Technologies, Cleveland-Cliffs, Charter Steel, Cargill and many more have hired Tri-C grads.

When do classes meet?

Classes are held mainly in the evenings. View the steps in the third question ("What are the start dates?") to access the course schedule for each term/semester.

What level of reading is needed for these programs?

For the certificate programs, students are more likely to succeed if they can read and comprehend at an early high school level. Strong writing and grammar skills, along with the ability to follow directions and communicate effectively, are essential. While an English reading assessment is available at the College, it is not required for these certificate programs.

For the associate degree programs, a higher level of reading proficiency in English may be necessary. Before enrolling in the first English course in the program, students may need to take an English placement test and complete remedial English courses, if needed. Prior standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT, may also be accepted in place of placement testing.

What level of math is needed for these programs?

For the certificate programs, essential math skills include basic fractions, decimals and fundamental geometry. Students may use these skills to read blueprints, calculate measurements and make accurate cuts in the lab. While more advanced tasks might require algebra and trigonometry, these are generally not necessary.

For the associate degree program, a higher level of math proficiency is required. Prior to taking the first math class in the program, a math placement test may be necessary, along with remedial math courses, if needed. Prior testing, such as the SAT or ACT, may be accepted in place of placement testing or remedial math classes.

An ALEKS math placement test can be used to place students into the math level required for the program.

What are the next steps to continue learning in this field?

Students who complete either of the short-term certificates can apply their earned credits toward the associate degree in Industrial or Automation Maintenance.

Are scholarships available for this program?

Tri-C does not offer maintenance-specific scholarships, but general student scholarships are available for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) occupations. View more information on scholarships.

Contact a Tri-C financial aid representative at 216-273-1075 or via email to learn about financing and scholarship options.

How much does the program cost?

Tri-C is one of the most affordable options in Northeast Ohio. The College maintains modest tuition and fees through support from Cuyahoga County taxpayers and assistance from the state of Ohio. View Tri-C’s tuition and payment schedule.

Are there any additional fees for the programs?

Some courses in the program have additional fees outside of tuition and institutional fees. There are additional lab fees each student must pay. Lab fees cover items such as metals, pipe, tubes, instrumentation upkeep, oils, lubricants, consumables, online access, third-party testing, etc.

I'm interested! What's the next step?

Apply to Tri-C, then review the New Student Checklist for what you need to get started.