August 11, 2021 by St. Petersburg College
Nothing in life is free, but St. Petersburg College’s new Mechatronics Electromechanical Technician Training (METT) costs nothing but time. If you’re a problem solver who likes working with your hands, this program will give you credentials that place you at the center of a fast-growing field.
Mechatronics is a type of advanced manufacturing that uses automation to change the way many industries do business. This fusion of mechanical engineering, electronics and computer technology is driving improvements across many fields.
“You don’t need to be a high school or college graduate,” said Christopher Cain, SPC Program Grant Manager. “Anyone who is trying to change career fields or is coming out of high school and not sure what to do but wants skills to get in job market is invited to sign up. You only have to be 18 or over.”
Funded by a $1.6 million Job Growth Workforce Training grant from the State of Florida’s Department of Economic Opportunity, the program seeks to fill needed employment gaps by offering certifications in Robotics, Electronics, Electrical Preventative Maintenance, Mechanical Preventative Maintenance, Ready to Work and Fluid Power.
“You get free industry certifications in areas where the jobs are there, but people trained to do them are not,” Cain said. “Certificates are a force multiplier because they make you that much more marketable. You go in with a good foundation and can learn everything else on the job.”
The free certifications can be completed in as little as six months, and can be completed in person or mostly online, with students coming into the lab for hands-on practice. Cain says the certifications offer lucrative starting salaries, and with access to SPC’s resources, getting a job shouldn’t be a problem.
“Job placement isn’t part of the grant, but we have relationships with local employers like TSE Industries, Honeywell, Jabil and Monin,” he said. “Our Career Services department can help students get their resumes looking good, and then help them find available opportunities.”
Cain said anyone interested shouldn’t hesitate to apply.
“Because why not?” he said. “They say time is money, and if all it costs you is a little time, with the return on this – that’s a good investment.”
Anyone interested in applying for the METT training can learn more here.
Posted in Clearwater, employment, Job Training, St. Petersburg College | Leave a Comment
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