How an Industrial Technology Major Prepares You for the Job Market
An industrial technology degree prepares students to enter numerous fields that require industry management and production knowledge. Industrial technology programs teach basic engineering principles and technical industry skills, with an emphasis on industrial engineering and managerial duties. Industrial technology students acquire practical knowledge of materials and production processes, so that they can optimize efficiency and profits in their future line of work. In addition, industrial technology students learn about industrial management, as well as human relations and organizational behavior to ensure professionalism and good communication. Students also gain valuable computer skills by using various software programs, drafting projects and making presentations on the computer.
Best Career Paths for Industrial Technology Majors
Industrial technology is a combination of industrial engineering and business. Therefore, industrial technology graduates can offer their knowledge and trained skills to many jobs, including these top career paths:
- Industrial Production Manager. Industrial production managers are in charge of planning, directing and monitoring the production of various manufactured goods. They may oversee production within the entire manufacturing plant or just one area. Industrial production managers strive to meet production goals while staying within the plant's or company's budget. Industrial production managers implement quality control programs and note any worker performance or mechanical problems. The majority of production managers work at manufacturing industries that produce metals, transportation equipment, computer and electronic products. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, industrial production managers made an average salary of $83,290 in 2008.
- Industrial Engineer. Industrial engineers find effective ways to make products or provide services using the basic elements of production. They are interested in maximizing efficiency and increasing productivity, by managing workers, using business skills and applying their technology knowledge. Industrial engineers design manufacturing and information systems using mathematical methods and engineering models in order to meet product requirements and fulfill output. They are also concerned with the physical distribution of goods and services, and offer their design or improvements to systems to help speed up production and ensure quality products. Industrial engineers handle many administrative and managerial duties, such as developing wage and salary systems and creating job evaluation programs. Industrial engineers made an average salary of $73,820 in 2008, according to the Bureau.
How to Market Your Industrial Technology Degree
An industrial technology degree is very useful in the job market today. As more fields look for ways to increase their productivity and reduce costs, they will need the knowledge and skills of industrial technology graduates to make this happen. Therefore, it is important to market your advanced technical and managerial skills, as well as your understanding of production systems and management needs. Graduates have the ability to meet technical, managerial and industry requirements by designing systems and new production processes that will improve all aspects of productivity. Plus, your ability to effectively communicate ideas and opinions in a professional manner makes you an ideal candidate in the industrial technology workforce.
