Choosing a Career in Electronics Technology

Choosing a Career in Electronics Technology 

What skills do I need to become an electronics technician?
If you enjoy working with your hands, a career in electronics technology may be the right choice. In addition, other physical attributes are also needed, like good eyesight, depth and color perception, and dexterity when working with small or delicate devices. The ability to problem solve, troubleshoot and understanding the equipment and tools themselves are paramount, so an analytical mind, special perception, and an aptitude for how electronics and electrical things work are necessary. Those who wish to become an electronics technician should have a strong interest in science, math and physics. Communication is also is a key component, as technicians work with people and for people who need help understanding what is going on, what to expect from the installment/repair process, etc.

Our certificate program in Electronics Technology prepares you for entry-level employment and/or further on-the-job training as a service technician in the field of consumer, commercial and industrial electronics.  Our Associate of Occupational Studies Degree in Electronics Technology provides graduates with an excellent knowledge of electronics’ data communication, telecommunications, computers and networking.

What are the training and education requirements for an electronics technology program?
Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED.

There are several types of education program an aspiring electronics technician can opt for. Course content covers DC/AC, Solid State and Digital circuits; electronics fabrication; electronics test equipment; and computer hardware. Another type of education program available to electronics technicians is a certificate of completion program. Electronic technicians transport, install, maintain, inspect, test, repair, replace and upgrade electronic and electrical equipment.

Students in this program will receive all the basic fundamentals in theory, which is reinforced through practical laboratory work and experimentation, using the various test equipment for trouble-shooting and repair of electronics circuit and devices.

Will I need to earn electronics certification?
An Electronics Technology certificate will provide you with knowledge, training and experience to advance in your career. In most cases, electronics technicians are required to have certification. Technicians who work with communications equipment must also have a Federal Communications Commission (FCC)-granted restricted radiotelephone operator license. Certificate programs for technicians are designed to prepare you for a variety of certification and licensing exams, including FCC licensing, National Center for Aerospace and Transportation Technologies - Aircraft Electronics Technician (NCATT-AET) certification.

What is the career outlook for an electronics technician?
Industry today places great emphasis on the utilization of electronic test equipment.  No matter how carefully designed and technically perfected the field of electronics becomes, there will always be a need for technicians with test equipment knowledge and the expertise to use them.  Typical job-related activities for the certificate graduate my involve assembly, installation, maintenance, testing, troubleshooting and repairing equipment and circuit boards, while Associate degree graduate opportunities exist in such areas as industrial equipment, electronic consumer goods, biomedical electronic equipment, digital office equipment, computer repair, local area networking, wide area networking, data communications and telecommunications.  Many students may choose to work for various government organizations such as the post office, FBI, FAA, FCC, FAA, or the Secret Service. 

Overall employment of electronics technicians is expected to grow by 5 percent between 2008 and 2018. Job prospects for electronics are excellent. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2008, the federal government employed 35,300 engineering technicians. State governments employed 31,300, and local governments employed 25,100.

  • What sets PCI apart from other schools?

    Our bottom line is helping you start a career. Period. We focus our energy on student success, because that's how we measure our own success. Students from all walks of life can prepare for a variety of careers through our comprehensive, focused and accelerated programs.


  • I need a career so I can take care of myself and my family. How can PCI help?

    The programs we offer at PCI are focused on meeting the specific needs of employers so you can hit the ground running as soon as you graduate. We won't waste your time on subjects that aren't relevant to the skills you need for a new career.


  • Do I really need more than a high school diploma to get ahead in today's workspace?

    Simply put: Yes. New studies show that the value of continuing your education past a high school diploma truly pays off in both job security and in higher salaries. While effects vary by occupational field, the average Associate or Bachelor’s degree holder earns about $130 or $410 more per week, respectively, than a person who holds only a high school diploma.

    Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Population Survey, 2013-02-18


  • How can I juggle my family and my current job while I learn?

    At PCI, we design our programs with adult learners in mind. Some of our programs – and many of our courses – are offered on campus and online. If you have any doubts, please contact us now by filling out the form on this page. We can help you design a schedule that works with your life.


  • What types of careers are available in alternative energy, trades & technical, medical, and health & fitness fields today?

    There are a variety of career opportunities in the alternative energy, medical, trades & technical, and health & fitness fields. In fact, a person's involvement in these fields is limited only by one's imagination. The list of potential careers includes: Electronics Installer, Electronics Repairer, Medical Assistant, Medical Records Clerk, Wind Turbine Technician, Personal Trainer and Massage Therapist, just to name a few. When you take into account that almost half of all careers that will exist in the next 10 years do not exist today, the possibilities for career development in these fields are easy to see.


  • What is Boot Camp?

    Many of our programs include a "Boot Camp" where students can test their newly developed knowledge and skills in realistic situations and environments. Each program that includes a Boot Camp has its own unique approach. Boot Camp adventures can include making your first tower climb in the Wind Turbine Technician program, training with professional fitness experts and more, depending on which program you choose. To find out if the program you're interested in has a Boot Camp experience, fill out the form on this page for more information.


  • I'm worried about the cost. How can PCI help me?

    At PCI, financial aid is available for those who qualify. Fill out the form on this page so we can help you explore your options.


  • Are your programs accredited?

    Yes! Our reputation has been built on providing students with career-focused education in a friendly environment. This commitment to quality has been recognized at all of our locations and our online programs by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.


  • Why is training for careers so popular today?

    The greatest reason most people seek career training is because they see potential for careers in the medical, trades & technical, health & fitness, and alternative energy fields. In an era in which only 47 percent of Americans are satisfied with their jobs, more people are looking for satisfying careers that will offer them the opportunity to work in an exciting industry, under good working conditions with benefits and salary what supports a quality lifestyle.
    The Conference Board Job Satisfaction Survey, 2011


  • My question wasn't answered. What now?

    That's what we're here for. Nothing inspires us more than discussing your personal and professional goals. Fill out the form on this page so we can plan an approach to education that's right for you!