Automation AAS – Instrumentation & Electrical Technology
If you're looking for the best schools for automation technician training in Texas, Odessa College offers a comprehensive Automation Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree designed to prepare students for high-demand industrial careers.
Our automation program trains future Instrumentation & Electrical (I&E) technicians with the technical knowledge and hands-on experience needed to succeed in modern industrial environments. Students develop the skills to design, install, maintain, troubleshoot, and improve automated systems used in manufacturing, oil & gas, utilities, and processing facilities.
What You’ll Learn in Our Automation Courses
The Automation AAS provides in-depth automation courses covering foundational and advanced technologies, including:
- Basic Electricity – DC and AC circuit fundamentals
- Basic Electronics – Analog devices, power supplies, amplifiers, timers
- Digital Electronics – Microcontrollers, sensors, motors, and digital systems
- Motor Controls – Wiring, connections, and control strategies
- National Electrical Code (NEC) – Residential, commercial, and industrial applications
- Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) – Industrial PLC programming and troubleshooting
- Process Instrumentation – Measurement and control systems used in process industries
- Industrial Automation – Integrated automation systems, motors, controllers, and sensors
Students gain practical, hands-on experience using state-of-the-art lab trainers and real-world simulations that mirror industrial scenarios. Courses emphasize safety, problem-solving, and critical thinking — essential skills for today’s automation tech workforce.
Why Choose Odessa College’s Automation Associates Degree?
Our automation associates degree is accredited by SACS (The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools) and follows WECM (Workforce Education Course Manual) course outcomes, ensuring high academic and workforce standards. Experienced instructors with industry backgrounds guide students through project-based learning that reflects current industry demands.
The program prepares graduates not only for immediate employment but also for continued advancement in instrumentation, electrical technology, and automation engineering fields.
What Kind of Jobs Can You Get With an Automation Degree?
Graduates of the Automation AAS program are qualified for roles such as:
- Automation Technician
- Instrumentation Technician
- Electrical Technician
- PLC Technician
- Industrial Maintenance Technician
- Controls Technician
- I&E Technician
The median annual salary for an automation tech is approximately $72,000, with strong demand across Texas industrial sectors including energy, manufacturing, utilities, and chemical processing.
Start Your Career in Automation
Odessa College’s Automation AAS equips students with the technical expertise and hands-on training needed to thrive in rapidly evolving industrial environments. Whether you are entering the workforce or upgrading your skills, this program provides a clear pathway to a stable, high-paying technical career.