code, and control meet.
RATE Students who are employed within 6 months of graduation
Electronic Systems Technology
The Electronic Systems Technology program at Lake Area Tech prepares you to work with the systems that power modern manufacturing, automation, and digital infrastructure. From control panels to production lines, these systems rely on technicians who understand how everything connects and performs.
In this 18-month program, you’ll start with electronics at the component level, then build into more advanced systems including microprocessors, motor controls, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and robotics. Training also covers circuit board design, surface mount soldering, and system troubleshooting, giving you the ability to diagnose and repair complex equipment.
The program is hands-on by design, with lab-based learning that reflects real-world environments. Graduates are prepared to work across industries including manufacturing, automation, technical support, and electronic systems design, with opportunities tied to strong and ongoing demand for skilled technicians.
If you plan to continue your education, tools like Transferology can help you understand how your coursework applies toward a four-year degree and explore your next steps.
Electronic Systems Technology Program Learning Outcomes
- Use test equipment effectively.
- Troubleshoot circuits based on schematics and symbols.
- Interpret mechanical drawings.
- Effectively use a computer for communication, programming, research, and networking.
- Work effectively as a team to design and create an automated process.
E-Degree Option
Lake Area Tech offers hybrid E-degree programs for students who need flexibility without sacrificing quality. These programs combine online coursework with required on-campus experiences, giving you the ability to learn on your schedule while still completing hands-on training when it matters.
Is online learning right for you? Learn what it means to be a hybrid learner, how it works and what you can expect.
Electronic Systems Technology Careers
Below are several careers you could pursue with an Electronic Systems Technology degree. Visit our job board to see job opportunities in the Electronic Systems Technology sector.
Electronics Technician
Graduates of the Electronic Systems Technology program can pursue careers as Electronics Technicians, working with the equipment and systems that power today's connected world. In this role, you'll install, test, troubleshoot, and repair electronic components and systems used in industrial, commercial, and technical environments. It's an excellent career path for individuals who enjoy problem-solving and working with technology.
Where you might work:
• Manufacturing facilities
• Industrial automation companies
• Electronics manufacturers
• Utility providers
• Technical service organizations
Industrial Maintenance Technician
As an Industrial Maintenance Technician, you'll help keep critical machinery and production systems operating at peak performance. Graduates can expect to troubleshoot electrical and electronic systems, perform preventative maintenance, and repair equipment that supports manufacturing and industrial operations. This hands-on role is ideal for individuals who enjoy diagnosing problems and finding practical solutions.
Where you might work:
• Manufacturing plants
• Food processing facilities
• Ethanol and biofuel plants
• Industrial production facilities
• Distribution and logistics centers
Automation Technician
Automation Technicians work with the systems that allow modern facilities to operate efficiently and safely. In this role, you'll install, maintain, and troubleshoot automated equipment, sensors, and control systems used throughout industry. Graduates often enjoy the combination of electronics, programming, and mechanical systems that make automation careers both challenging and rewarding.
Where you might work:
• Automated manufacturing facilities
• Robotics and automation companies
• Packaging and processing plants
• Distribution centers
• Industrial production facilities
Controls Technician
As a Controls Technician, you'll work with the electronic and computerized systems that monitor and control industrial equipment. Responsibilities often include programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining control systems that help facilities improve efficiency, safety, and productivity. This career is well suited for graduates who enjoy technology, critical thinking, and solving complex technical challenges.
Where you might work:
• Manufacturing facilities
• Process control operations
• Utility companies
• Food and beverage processing plants
• Industrial automation firms
Manufacturing Technician
Manufacturing Technicians play an important role in keeping production systems running smoothly and efficiently. Graduates in this position help operate, maintain, and improve the equipment used to manufacture products across a wide range of industries. The role combines technical knowledge with hands-on problem-solving and continuous improvement efforts.
Where you might work:
• Advanced manufacturing facilities
• Electronics manufacturers
• Medical device manufacturers
• Industrial production plants
• Consumer goods manufacturers
Robotics or Automation Support Technician
Graduates pursuing careers as Robotics or Automation Support Technicians help install, maintain, and support robotic and automated systems used in modern industry. You'll work closely with advanced technologies that improve productivity, accuracy, and efficiency while helping organizations keep automated systems operating reliably.
Where you might work:
• Robotics integrators
• Automated manufacturing facilities
• Warehousing and distribution centers
• Packaging operations
• Industrial automation companies
Field Service Technician
As a Field Service Technician, you'll travel to customer locations to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair equipment. This role combines technical expertise with customer interaction, making it a great fit for graduates who enjoy variety in their workday and solving problems in real-world environments. No two days are exactly the same.
Where you might work:
• Equipment manufacturers
• Industrial service companies
• Automation and controls providers
• Utility companies
• Technical support organizations
Degree Pairings
Explore relevant classes and certificates below to see how they can increase hirability post-graduation.
Electronic Systems Technology+ Manufacturing Maintenance Certificate
Students also have the option to pursue a Manufacturing Maintenance certificate, designed to build focused skills in troubleshooting and repairing manufacturing systems. The program covers safety, mechanical systems, and operational processes, preparing students to step into maintenance roles that support critical production environments. This 18-credit, two-semester certificate is offered on campus and is not currently eligible for financial aid.
Every class, every semester. Find the right pathway to achieve your degree on your timing.
Getting all of this straight can be tough – but you're not alone. Our representatives are here to help.
"Attending LATC isn't much different than high school. It's not a huge university where you can get lost in the shuffle."
Estimated Cost
At Lake Area Tech, there are no surprises. View expected expenses below, so you can plan ahead for a successful year.
| Tuition | $9,648 |
| State Fees | $3,240 |
| Departmental Fee | $3,508 |
| Campus Support Fee | $2,232 |
| Tools/Kits | $1,150 |
| Books | $1,200 |
| Laptop (What laptop should I get?) | $2,025 |
| Total Estimated Program Cost: | $23,003 |
We know that college is a large financial undertaking, and our main priority is that there are no surprises as you navigate this journey. Our goal is to offer you the most transparent look at potential costs associated with your degree.
Note that other indirect costs, such as housing, food, transportation, personal and other miscellaneous costs will vary for each student’s situation, and are not included in this estimate.
We strive to offer a variety of financial aid options, as well as helpful resources regarding outside financial aid options.
Electronic Systems Technology FAQs
Get the details you need to decide if this program is the right fit for you.
How long does it take to earn an electronics technician degree? What does Lake Area Tech’s electronic systems technology program cover?
The Electronic Systems Technology (EST) program at Lake Area Technical College prepares students to design, build, integrate, and troubleshoot modern electronic systems used in manufacturing, automation, energy, and industrial environments.
Students receive hands-on electronics technician training in areas such as:
- Electronic circuits and printed circuit board (PCB) design
- Analog and digital electronics
- Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), motor controls, and industrial control panels
- Sensors, instrumentation, and input/output (I/O) devices
- Embedded systems and microcontrollers
- Robotics, automation systems, and machine vision integration
- System-level troubleshooting using industry-standard tools and equipment
The Electronic Systems Technology program is a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.
Students attend full time and graduate career-ready with extensive hands-on lab work, real-world projects, and practical electronics and automation experience.
What skills do you learn in electronics school?
Students in the EST program develop a broad, industry-relevant skill set, including:
- Reading and interpreting electronic schematics, wiring diagrams, and P&IDs
- Building, testing, and troubleshooting electronic circuits
- Printed circuit board (PCB) design and fabrication
- PLC programming and industrial electrical wiring
- Sensor selection, configuration, and diagnostics
- Using digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, and electronic test equipment
- Systematic troubleshooting of electronic and automated systems
- Integrating electronics with robotics, HMIs, and automation equipment
These skills directly prepare graduates for electronics technician and automation careers.
What will I learn in a digital electronics course?
Digital electronics courses teach students how modern electronic systems process and control information, including:
- Binary numbers and logic levels
- Logic gates and truth tables
- Combinational and sequential circuits
- Counters, timers, and registers
- Digital inputs and outputs used in PLCs and controllers
- Troubleshooting digital logic at the system level
Digital electronics knowledge directly supports careers in automation, robotics, PLC systems, and embedded electronics.
Does electronics school include hands-on lab training?
Yes. Hands-on lab training is a core component of Lake Area Tech’s electronics program.
Students spend significant time:
- Building and wiring electronic circuits
- Designing and fabricating circuit boards
- Programming PLCs and microcontrollers
- Integrating electronics with motors, sensors, robots, and vision systems
- Troubleshooting real industrial equipment and automated systems
Projects are based on real-world industrial applications—not simulations alone.
How much does an electronics technician make after graduation?
Starting salaries for electronics and automation technicians typically range from:
- $50,000–$65,000 per year for entry-level positions
Higher wages are common with experience, overtime, or specialized skills in automation, controls, or robotics. Many graduates see rapid wage growth due to strong employer demand.
What industries hire graduates with an electronics technology degree?
Graduates of the Electronic Systems Technology program are employed across a wide range of industries, including:
- Advanced manufacturing
- Automation and robotics
- Energy and utilities
- Industrial maintenance
- Food and beverage processing
- Agricultural technology
- Electronics manufacturing
- Systems integration and field service
Any industry that relies on automated or electronically controlled systems needs skilled electronics technicians.
Electronic Systems Technology Staff
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