Industrial Process Operator Degree, AAS
Are you curious about how things work, and do you enjoy working with your hands? San Juan College's Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Industrial Process Technology may be a perfect fit for you. Learn about the design, operation, and maintenance of equipment and systems used in manufacturing, water treatment, and production.
Our two-year Industrial Process Operator program gives you the hands-on experience you need to succeed in this industry. From pharmaceuticals to food and beverage production, an industrial process technology associate degree can open up a world of opportunities for you. Learn more about our program and prepare for an exciting career as an industrial process operator.
Why Enter an Industrial Process Operator Program?
With an associate degree in industrial process operation, you can become an entry-level industrial process operator in just two years. Industrial process operators ensure the smooth and safe operation of many systems and processes. You can work at manufacturing plants, commercial facilities, refineries, and water treatment facilities. They monitor and adjust equipment to maintain quality, efficiency, and productivity. As an industrial process operator, you can work in various industries, such as:
- Alternative fuel production
- Breweries
- Food and beverage processing
- Manufacturing
- Mining
- Oil and gas processing
- Pharmaceuticals
- Power generation
- Semiconductor production
- Water treatment
Industrial process operators are in high demand because technical processes have become more complex. In addition, greater demand for products and services has led to a need for skilled operators. By entering an industrial process operator training program, you'll have the knowledge you need to join this stable and lucrative field.
Many industrial process operator programs offer a certificate or associate degree. If you do not yet have a degree, consider the Industrial Process Operator AAS at SJC. It teaches you the communication and critical thinking skills employers look for so you can be ready for better-paying jobs and quicker promotions.
Why Earn an Industrial Process Operator Degree at San Juan College?
Hands-on Training
At SJC, we understand that real-world experience is essential to success in the industrial process operation field. That's why our experienced faculty is dedicated to teaching you the ins and outs of the systems and processes you will use in your career. Practice your skills in our $5 million state-of-the-art equipment lab not found at other community colleges.
A Diverse and Supportive Environment
At SJC, we believe that everyone deserves equal opportunities for education and career success. Our diverse community of learners is made up of 24% women and 48% Native Americans, who are all welcomed into supportive classrooms. Our compassionate staff is dedicated to helping each student thrive, providing personalized support to ensure they understand course materials and stay on track.
Affordable Tuition for an In-Demand Career
Because of SJC's low tuition rates, our Industrial Process Operator AAS is an excellent investment for you. You'll receive a rigorous, real-world education that will prepare you for your future career. Find out if you can get your degree tuition-free through the NM Opportunity and Lottery Scholarships.
What You'll Learn in the Industrial Process Operator Program
Be ready for a career as an entry-level industrial process operator in just two years. SJC's degree program fosters the development of the skills you need to operate different types of systems and equipment. Join a variety of industries, from plastics to gasoline to water processing.
Your industrial process operator courses cover:
- Gas processing and refining
- Instruments and instrument systems used in the process industry
- Operations in process technology
- Power generation
- Safety and environmental concerns
- Troubleshooting
The Industrial Process Operator AAS also offers an optional track for water processing and water utilities. You can choose to take courses in municipal water treatment and wastewater operations.
As part of your degree requirements, you also complete Energy Pathway core requirements. Learn about different industrial workplace settings, machinery, and tools to prepare for your career. You'll also take general education courses that ensure you receive a well-rounded education.
Industrial Process Operator AAS Curriculum
Careers and Outcomes
Industrial process operators are in high demand across various industries, from energy to manufacturing. With an Industrial Process Technology AAS, you will have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this dynamic field. Graduates of the program can find rewarding careers as industrial process operators, with opportunities for advancement and growth.
Graduates from our Industrial Process Technology program work in fields such as:
- Mining
- Natural gas
- Petrochemical plants
- Pharmaceutical processes
- Power generation
- Refineries
- Semiconductors
- Water Treatment
- Wastewater Management
Students of SJC's Industrial Process Operator AAS have gone on to work for:
- Chevron
- City of Aztec
- ConocoPhillips
- Dow Chemical Company
- Jacobs
- Phillips 66
Student Spotlight
"I knew this was the right program for me. I'm more of a hands-on thinker, and I knew coming into this right off the bat I was going to be moving valves and lining valves properly for the process of the plants."
Next Steps
To enroll in the Industrial Process Operator program, you must first apply to San Juan College. It's easy, and you can apply online at any time!
If you are already a student at San Juan College, talk to your advisor about our Associate of Applied Science Degree for the Industrial Process Operator program.
