Do you like building, designing or figuring out how things work? Advanced manufacturing careers let you turn those interests into real, well-paying jobs and you don’t have to wait until after high school to get started. At College of DuPage, you can explore and discover how advanced manufacturing combines hands-on skills with cutting-edge technology like robotics, computer automation and design software.
A career in advanced manufacturing means:
- High-demand jobs, good wages and benefits
- Strong career growth
- Engaging work environments
- Hands-on, problem-solving work with cutting-edge technology
- The chance to design, build, and repair products people use every day
Educational Pathways
Begin learning in high school and build your skills step by step through:
- On-the-job training – COD’s Project Hire-Ed Apprenticeship Program gives you paid experience while you learn.
- Certificates and associate degrees – Careers such as fabricator or electronics technician may only require a certificate or associate degree.
- Bachelor’s and beyond – Fields such as mechanical engineering or computer engineering often require a four-year degree or higher.
Courses You Can Take
Get out of the classroom and into the labs where you will apply what you learn through a mix of hands-on activities with different machines and technologies!
Example Courses
- Manufacturing Processes – Learn fabrication, thermoforming, assembly, casting and more.
- Robotics – Build and Program and operate robots for real-world manufacturing.
- Engineering Management – Discover how to manage teams, budgets and projects like an engineer.
- Quality Assurance and Control – Make sure products meet the highest standards using data and testing.
- Product and System Design – Create and test new product ideas with industry-standard tools.
Your Career Ladder
Manufacturing careers grow with you. At COD, you can build your skills to be ready for the next opportunity through stackable certificates and degrees:
- Entry-level: CNC operations certificate – hands-on machining fundamentals.
- Design skills: CAD certificate –computer training with 3D design software.
- Automation: Automated manufacturing certificate – robotics and production systems.
- All-in-one degree: Associate in Applied Science in Automated Manufacturing Systems – a complete training package of design, machining and automation.
From there, you can transfer into bachelor’s or even master’s programs in industrial technology, operations and leadership.
Career Options in Advanced Manufacturing
Here are a few exciting careers you can explore:
- CAD technician – Design and make products with advanced software.
- Mechatronics technician – Test and repair machines that combine mechanical, electrical and computer systems.
- Fabricator – Assemble parts into finished products using the latest technology.
- Machinist – Shape metal with lasers, jets and high-tech machine tools.
- Electronics technician – Build prototypes and test electrical systems.
- Dental technician – Create crowns, bridges and other dental devices with precision.
- Mechanical engineer – Design everything from elevators to medical equipment.
- Robotics engineer – Program and operate automation robots used in manufacturing.
- Computer hardware engineer – Operate the systems that power modern technology.
Get Started Today
Learn more about Manufacturing Technology at COD and talk to us about how you can begin building your future today.
Contact Information
Dan Jacobson, Program Support Specialist
Manufacturing Technology Program
Phone: (630) 942-2324
Email: jacobsond@cod.edu