There are a few different paths you can take to become an industrial maintenance technician, but you’ll need to finish high school or earn an equivalent qualification to begin any of them. You’ll need to improve your math and communication skills, as well as a basic understanding of the sciences. After high school, you can pursue a career as an industrial maintenance technician by enrolling in a post-secondary degree or certificate program, or by applying for an entry-level position that will prepare you for an apprenticeship later on.
If you want to work as an industrial maintenance technician, you should consider taking college courses toward a certificate or degree. While many employers do not require a college diploma, in this highly complex profession, more and more employers prefer college graduates. College coursework will prepare you for a variety of tasks you will perform as an industrial maintenance technician, as well as for any certification or licensing exams you may need to pass. Some colleges even provide career placement services to assist you in finding work after graduation.
If attending college is not an option, you can still work as an industrial maintenance technician by completing on-the-job training or apprenticeships. You’ll probably need to apply for an entry-level job with an industrial company and then take advantage of any on-the-job training that is available. Work hard and learn as much as you can during this stage of your career, as this is a critical time to learn the fundamentals and impress management by demonstrating that you are a valuable employee worth the training investment.
An apprenticeship is a period of time when you work under the supervision and guidance of a more experienced industrial maintenance technician. This apprenticeship can last anywhere from one to five years, and you’ll learn all of the skills you’ll need to work as an industrial maintenance technician once you’ve completed your training. During your apprenticeship, you will be paid, though it will be less than a full-time technician. During your apprenticeship, you will be required to participate in some classroom training, and you should also be prepared to take certification or licensing exams.