School of Engineering, Technology, and Advanced Manufacturing
From drafting and construction to building automation and controls to electronics, network engineering and mechatronics—engineering technicians are finding satisfying careers in Central Florida.
Career Programs in:
- Advanced Manufacturing and Automation Technology
- Biotechnology Laboratory Sciences
- Computer Aided Drafting and Design
- Computer Information Technology
- Computer Programming and Analysis
- Construction and Civil Engineering Technology
- Cybersecurity and Network Engineering Technology
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology
- Energy Management and Controls Technology
- Plant Science and Agricultural Technology
- Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM)
Calling all Problem Solvers
Ever wonder how highways and buildings are designed and built? Do computer networks or electrical circuits intrigue you? Do you enjoy designing things or building models? If so, a career in engineering and technology may be just for you. Engineering technology is a diverse, dynamic and hands-on field where you’ll work with an engineering team to solve technical problems, design, service and maintain electrical and computer systems, or turn concepts and plans into models for actual production.
Job Outlook
Competitive pressures will force companies to improve and update manufacturing facilities and product designs, resulting in more jobs for engineering technicians. Get help with job search strategies, employment readiness, interviewing and more at one of our four on-campus Career Centers.
Biotechnology Laboratory Sciences
(Salary Range: $36,000 – $45,000)
Through this program, you’ll learn the fundamentals of biotechnology, and be prepared to assist in lab experiments for genetic modification that are used to create useful products for medicine, agriculture and alternative energy. Grads will be able to:
- Understand the biochemical properties of DNA, RNA and PCR steps
- Perform techniques relevant to biotechnology
- Follow and demonstrate proper lab safety and documentation
Potential Careers:
- Bio-Manufacturing Assistant
- Biological Technician
- Cell Culture Technician
Computer-Aided Drafting and Design
(Salary Range: $43,000 – $50,000)
Our drafting program teaches you how to master state-of-the-art drafting techniques with computer-aided drafting and design equipment. These skills are the key to taking concepts one step closer to completion and play a vital role in the engineering process. Graduates will be able to perform the following tasks:
- Prepare plans and detailed drawings from sketches and notes for engineering or manufacturing purposes
- Use computer-assisted drafting (CADD) equipment and software in the design of various building and construction projects
Potential Careers:
- CADD Operator/Specialist
- Drafting Designer
- Drafting Designer
- Drafting Technician
- Mechanical Drafter
- Mechanical Engineering Assistant
- Tooling Drafter
Computer Information Technology
(Salary Range: $48,000 - $55,000)
IT is booming and skilled customer support specialists are in high demand. With a degree in Computer Information Technology, you will gain the skills to become either a technician who provides hands-on technical assistance, or a specialist who offers system support. With this degree, you will be prepared to:
- Provide customer service support and technical assistance using the latest technology
- Provide hands-on technical assistance such as computer repair and software installation
- Deliver system security using the latest software and hardware
Potential Careers:
- Help Desk Support Technician
- Internet Security Specialist
- PC Support Technician
- Security Administrator
- Technical Support Analyst
Computer Programming and Analysis
(Salary Range: $56,000 - $65,000)
With an A.S. degree in Computer Programming, you will have the skills it takes to enter the fast-paced world of information technology. Core courses provide knowledge and hands-on training in the foundations of computer technology, databases, web applications, user applications and computer programing. Graduates will have the skills to perform the following tasks:
- Design, implement and test computer applications developed with the latest programming languages and web technologies
- Develop applications for both client- and server-side Windows and web applications
- Use current modeling techniques to analyze business problems that require an IT solution
- Provide technical solutions to customer problems and needs
Potential Careers:
- Computer Programmer
- Applications and Systems Programmer
- Programmer/Systems Analyst
- Software Tester
- Web Developer
- Web Programmer
- Webmaster
Construction and Civil Engineering Technology
(Salary Range: $50,000 – $60,000)
This program will give you the skills to work with the best architects, engineers, contractors and building officials in the business. You can choose from two tracks: Construction Management or Civil/Surveying. Upon graduation, you will be able to perform the following tasks:
- Study building plans and estimate materials, labor and equipment
- Obtain necessary building permits and licenses
- Survey project sites and draft detailed drawings
- Conduct materials testing and analysis, and prepare reports with results
Potential Careers:
- Building Inspector/Plans Reviewer
- Civil Engineering Technician
- Civil/Surveying Drafter
- Construction Estimator/Scheduler
- Construction Manager/Supervisor
- Surveyor/Field Inspector
Cybersecurity and Network Engineering Technology
(Salary Range: $55,000 – $65,000)
With the number of cyberattacks on the rise, information security analysts are in high demand. With this program, you will learn to design, administer, maintain, secure and support local and wide area network systems. Grads will be able to:
- Deploy LAN, WAN and remote access services
- Integrate voice over IP, wireless, mobile communications, virtualization and convergence technologies into the Network Enterprise Center
- Manage data center facilities and support infrastructure operations
- Harden information systems and network infrastructure against security breaches
Potential Careers:
- Data Center Support Specialist
- Information Security Analyst
- Network/Systems Administrator
- Network Security Specialist
- Network Support Technician
Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology
(Salary Range: $52,000 – $60,000)
This program is designed to produce highly skilled technicians capable of assisting in the design, production, operation and servicing of electronics, optics, photonics, lasers, robotics and mechatronics systems and equipment. Students will be able to:
- Build, test, modify or repair electrical and electronic equipment
- Install and repair a wide variety of optical, electro-mechanical and telecommunication equipment
- Work with telecommunication equipment
- Work with electronic or industrial production equipment and instruments, including photovoltaics
Potential Careers:
- Electronics Technician
- Fiber Optics Specialist
- Instrumentation Technician
- Laser Specialist
- Mechatronics Technician
- System/Field Technician
Energy Management and Controls Technology
(Salary Range: $55,000 – $65,000)
This one-of-a-kind program teaches students how to manage and control a building’s electrical and mechanical systems efficiently using a broad range of current and emerging technologies. Upon completion, you will be trained to enter the building automation industry as a skilled technician who can:
- Install energy management systems
- Construct a secure energy management system data network
- Evaluate energy management system operational data
- Develop strategies to improve efficiency in commercial buildings
Potential Careers:
- Building Automation/Controls Technician
- Building Operator
- Energy Auditor/Manager
- Facilities Manager
- HVAC Installation and Service Technician
- Systems and Controls Technician
Advanced Manufacturing and Automation Technology
(Salary Range: $53,000 – $60,000)
Like to solve problems? With an A.S. degree in Advanced Manufacturing and Automation Technology, you will be trained to become a skilled technician capable of installing, repairing and maintaining equipment and systems used in manufacturing and logistics companies and supply chain distribution centers. Graduates will be able to:
- Setup and operate electro-mechanical equipment
- Adjust and calibrate equipment to optimal specifications
- Perform diagnostic tests to detect potential problems
- Repair or replace broken or malfunctioning parts
Potential Careers:
- Industrial Technician
- Maintenance Technician
- Machinery Maintenance Worker
Plant Science and Agricultural Technology
(Salary Range: $33,000 – $40,000)
It takes many specialized skills and technicians to grow plants and incorporate them into attractive landscape designs. The A.S. degree in Plant Science and Agricultural Technology takes a well-rounded approach to providing these skills by offering three areas of specialization. Graduates of this program will be able to perform the following tasks:
- Propagate, grow, maintain and market plants
- Inspect, diagnose and treat plants for disease and health
- Design, construct and maintain landscapes
- Oversee landscape operations in parks and other recreational areas
- Design and maintain a crop management program
Potential Careers:
- Agriculture Specialist
- Horticulture Manager
- Horticulture Specialist
- Landscape Designer
- Landscape Manager
- Landscape Specialist
- Nursery Manager
- Park Supervisor
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM)
(Salary Range: $40,000 – $50,000)
If you want to engineer a STEM career. We have the formula for your future success. This program prepares you for future education and careers in Engineering, Computer Science and Biological/Chemical Sciences. You will learn about different aspects of the STEM industry and be prepared for advanced STEM programs and opportunities. Graduates will be able to:
- Apply scientific methods in the laboratory setting
- Use computer programs to solve technical problems
- Test and debug software solutions
- Solve engineering problems using engineering, physics and math
Potential Careers:
- Biological Technician
- Programming and Systems Analyst
- Software Tester
- Engineering Assistant
- Engineering Support Specialist
Valencia College provides equal opportunity for educational opportunities and employment to all. For more information, please visit valenciacollege.edu/equalopportunity