Automation Technician Certificate

Keeping computer-controlled machines and robotics running smoothly is key to manufacturing processes. As an automation technician, you will be a vital team member in these operations. 

Oakton’s Automation Technology certificate is a 15-credit program that prepares you for this field. You will learn how to operate, set up and maintain industrial automation systems. With courses covering occupational safety, industrial drafting, motors and controls, and more, you will gain the theory and practical skills needed to keep things running. 

You’ll learn from expert faculty who have first-hand experience. Oakton student resources like the Apprenticeship Program and Career and Transfer Center can connect you to a vast network of manufacturing industry partners.

Turn your curiosity and problem-solving skills into a career or go on to study the Supply Chain Automation A.A.S.

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Advanced Mechatronics Certificate

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Automation Programming Certificate

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CNC/CAM Programming Certificate

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What's Next?

We are glad you are considering attending Oakton College. No matter where you are in your decision-making process, we are here to help you with your next steps. Whether you're ready to apply now, need information on paying for college or have questions and want to contact someone, we're here to help.

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Enrolling at Oakton College can save you thousands of dollars and help you earn more over the course of your career. Our tuition is among the lowest in the region, and we offer many ways to bring your costs down even more.

99 percent of Oakton students graduate without debt.

To help you get there, you can apply for a scholarship, which you don’t have to pay back. We award $12 million in scholarships annually. Financial Aid includes grants, loans, and other forms of financial assistance that can reduce your costs of attending college.

We offer payment options that give you control over how you pay. Pay all at once or spread your payments over the course of the semester.

Learn more about your options for paying for your education

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As your community college, we serve students from various backgrounds. We aim to make the application process as easy and as clear as possible for everyone.

We can help you get started on a degree or certificate. Applying to Oakton is fast and easy.

Your first step before you begin your studies is filling out an admission application and completing your enrollment process.

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Oakton College students celebrate graduating in full regalia.

Meet Your Faculty and Experts

Oakton's Manufacturing Technology faculty is experienced in the classroom and in the manufacturing field. The Manufacturing Technology program curriculum is overseen by an expert advisory committee composed of industry veterans, innovators and educators.  

Boguslaw Zapal
Professor and Chair
CAD/Mechanical Design and Manufacturing
A.A.S. Oakton College
B.S. University of Rzeszow, Poland
M.S. University of Rzeszow, Poland
bzapal@oakton.edu
847.376.7707
Office: P135, Skokie

Pawel Baran
Professor and Coordinator
Mechanical Design and Manufacturing/Mechatronics
B.S. University of Chicago, IL
pbaran@oakton.edu
847.376.7612
Office: P131, Skokie

Ken Albert
Teacher – Industrial Arts
Niles North High School

Josh Altergot
Adjunct; College of Lake County
Technical Support
Computer Aided Tech Inc. - SolidWorks

Denny Bahl
Engineering Manager
SolidWorks Users Group – Des Plaines
President
Innovative Plastech, Inc.

Keith Cahill
Director of Operations
ITW Signode Service Business

Michael Cotton
Marketing Manager

Keiko Mimuro
Marketing Specialist
OSG Tap & Die Inc.

Jackson Harlan
Architect

Steven J. Huy, President
Ultra-Metric Tool Co.

Greg Korack
Unit Leader
Avon Products, Inc.

Olya Koteva
Manufacturing Engineer
John Crane Inc.

Jacques Krikorian
Associate Professor-MFG
Harper College

Richard Leopold
RIGHTech Fabrications

John Manfredy
Interior Design Faculty
Illinois Institute of Art
Animated Division

Hank Ofenlock

Anthony Stulpinas

Ken Johnson
Tempel Steel

Chris Sikora
Associate Professor – Computer Aided Design

Cody Starr
Advanced Process Engineer

Richard Stein
GIS Project Management

Gregory Turnowski
Engineer - Woodward

Erik Voight, PMP
MGP, Inc.

Ron Worth
Principle Flashcut CNC

Kristen Hanes Zelazo
Director of Human Resources

Yong Yoo
"Oakton made my career happen. The professors were really willing to help me. They connected me directly to companies in the manufacturing industry."

Yong Yoo

Oakton Alum

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