Electrical & Instrumentation Technology at SAU Tech
Train Jobs in Industrial Electrical Systems and Control Technologies
The Electrical & Instrumentation Technology program at Southern Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech) is designed to prepare students for high-skill, high-demand careers in industrial settings. Offered as an emphasis area under the Associate of Applied Science in Industrial Sciences and Technology, this program provides hands-on training in electrical systems, electronic components, and instrumentation controls used across a wide range of industries.
Whether your goal is to start as an apprentice, enter the workforce quickly, or pursue long-term advancement in automation or systems control, this program offers a solid technical foundation.
Career Opportunities in Electrical
& Instrumentation Technology
Graduates of this program are prepared for entry-level positions in a wide range of technical and industrial environments. With the growth of automation and the demand for skilled electrical professionals, opportunities are strong across Arkansas and the U.S.
Common job titles include:
Electrical Technician
Instrumentation Technician
Industrial Electrician
Maintenance Electrician
Automation Technician
Process Control Technician
Control Systems Technician
Electrical Maintenance Specialist
Industries hiring these professionals include:
Manufacturing and production
Power generation and utilities
Chemical and petrochemical plants
Construction and electrical contracting firms
Water and wastewater treatment facilities
Food processing and packaging plants
Pulp and paper mills
These careers often offer competitive wages, on-the-job advancement, and opportunities to specialize in areas like PLC programming, SCADA systems, or industrial automation with further training.
Electrical Instrumentation Technology Program Overview
Degrees & Certificates Offered:
- [AAS in Industrial Sciences & Technology – Electrical & Instrumentation Technology]
- [Technical Certificate (TC) in Electrical & Instrumentation Technology]
- [Certificate of Proficiency (CP) in Electrical & Instrumentation Technology]
Format: In-person, hands-on training with modern lab equipment
Duration:
- CP and TC programs can be completed in less than 1 year
- AAS typically takes 2 years (full-time)
Stackable Credentials: All certificate courses apply toward the AAS degree
Career Focus: Prepares students for entry-level employment as electrical or instrumentation technicians
What You’ll Learn In Electrical Instrumentation Technology
The program focuses on the operation, installation, and maintenance of electrical and instrumentation systems in industrial environments. Students develop essential skills through practical training in:
- Industrial electrical wiring and motor controls
- Programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
- Instrument calibration and troubleshooting
- Electrical code compliance and safety procedures
- Process control systems and automation
- Reading and interpreting schematics and blueprints
- Maintenance and repair of sensors, relays, and control circuits
This program is aligned with industry needs and emphasizes the knowledge required to function as a reliable technician in high-tech environments.
Where Electrical & Instrumentation Techs Work
Graduates of this program are prepared for jobs in industries such as:
- Chemical and Petrochemical Plants
- Power Generation and Utilities
- Manufacturing and Industrial Automation
- Construction and Electrical Contracting
- Water Treatment Facilities
- Pulp and Paper Mills
- Food and Beverage Processing Plants
Skilled technicians are in demand to ensure safe, efficient operation of systems that control production, safety, and quality assurance processes.
Program Goal
To prepare students for:
Entry-level employment in electrical and instrumentation roles
Continued education or specialization in industrial systems, automation, or engineering technology
Safe and effective performance in technical environments using current tools, skills, and procedures
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates will be able to:
Apply knowledge of electricity, circuits, and instrumentation in industrial settings
Use modern diagnostic tools and software to troubleshoot control systems
Read and interpret technical schematics and wiring diagrams
Demonstrate safe work practices and ethical responsibility on the job
Communicate effectively within technical teams and across disciplines
Get Started in
Electrical Instrumentation Technology
Today
Interested in working in automation, power systems, or industrial control? SAU Tech’s Electrical & Instrumentation Technology program gives you the tools to start strong and grow in a technical career.
