Electrical Technology: Career Associate

Electrical Technology: Career Associate at Harrisburg Area Community College is an innovative program designed to prepare students for rewarding careers in the rapidly evolving field of electrical and electronic technologies. This comprehensive associate degree offers a strong foundation in the principles and practices of electrical systems, circuit analysis, digital electronics, safety procedures, and troubleshooting techniques. Students will gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, practical projects, and internship opportunities, enabling them to develop the skills required for entry-level positions in various industries such as manufacturing, telecommunications, energy, and construction.

The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the workforce. Courses cover essential topics including electrical circuitry, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), electrical code standards, and renewable energy systems, among others. The program also fosters problem-solving skills, technical communication, and teamwork, preparing students to adapt to technological advances and work effectively in diverse environments.

Designed for those seeking a career technical education, the Electrical Technology: Career Associate at Harrisburg Area Community College aims to produce competent and confident technicians who can contribute to the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems. The program collaborates with local industries to provide internship opportunities that enhance real-world experience and facilitate employment upon graduation. Graduates of this program are qualified to pursue careers in electrical maintenance, installation, and support across a variety of sectors, or to continue their education in related fields such as engineering technology or computer networking. With a focus on hands-on training, industry standards, and a strong theoretical background, the Electrical Technology: Career Associate program at HACC is an excellent pathway for students to launch a successful career in the electrical technology industry.

General Education   
ENGL 101 English Composition I  3 
ENGL 104 Technical Writing  (or)  3 
  ENGL 102 English Composition II  (or)  (3)
  ENGL 106 Business Writing  (3)
COMM 101 Effective Speaking  (or)  3 
  COMM 203 Interpersonal Communication  (3)
Core A Elective  3 
Core B Elective  3 
Core C Elective  3 
Free Elective  3 
Physical Education & Wellness  1 

Major Requirements   
ELOC 153 Fundamentals of Electricity (or)  4 
  HVAC 101 Basic Electrical Fundamentals  (4
ELOC 157 Electrical Wiring I  4 
ELOC 163 Electrical Wiring II  4 
ELOC 165 Alarm & Phone Cabling  2 
ELOC 168 Introduction to Fiber Optics  3 
ELOC 171 Electrical Service  2 
ELOC 172 National Electrical Code  2 
ELOC 175 Electrical System Troubleshooting  3 
GTEC 101 Safety: OSHA-30 & NFPA-70E  3 
GTEC 110 Construction Print Reading  3 

Other Required Courses   
*MATH 162 Technical  Math for Elec Tech  3 
**Program Electives  11 

This curriculum is designed to prepare students to:

Demonstrate a variety of technical skills in the electrical field

Recognize and practice safe and healthy work procedures

Perform basic electrical mathematical calculations

Properly and safely handle electrical tools and materials

Read and interpret blueprints necessary for specified installations

Interpret the National Electric Code and use it in specific applications

Demonstrate procedures used in residential, commercial, and industrial electrical construction

Wire complex motor and control circuits

Install, maintain, and repair automated electrical systems

Solve complex problems of circuit design and analysis

Troubleshoot equipment and demonstrate proper repair procedures

Write and speak effectively

Appreciate accomplishments in the arts and sciences

Apply for a Full-Ride Scholarship

Are you a future student and ready to apply to HACC? 
By applying to HACC, you have the opportunity to apply for a full-ride scholarship! HACC will fund two years of your education – enough to complete your associate degree.

Thanks to the support of the HACC Foundation, the College is able to offer FREE money to support future students, like you, in reaching your educational goals. Six full-ride scholarships are available – one from each of the five campuses and one through HACC’s Virtual Learning Program. 

Please note that current students are not eligible for the full-ride scholarships. However, there are more than 250 scholarships available for current students.

What should you know about the full-ride scholarship?

The scholarship covers tuition, books and fees for a full academic year. 

The scholarship will automatically renew each term for up to six consecutive terms if you maintain your eligibility.

Once you apply to the College and receive a HACC ID and email address, you may apply for the full-ride scholarship. You do not have to register for classes before applying for the scholarship.

Are you eligible?

To be eligible, you must:

Apply to HACC

Take 12-15 credits each term for no more than six consecutive terms (two years)

Live in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, Schuylkill or York county

Have a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.0

Provide a 480 SAT reading score, 21 ACT or comparable scores on the College’s placement test

Maintain a GPA of 3.0 while enrolled at HACC

Participate in at least two HACC student organizations

The Electrical Technology: Career Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the electrical trades and related fields. The program focuses on providing students with foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary for careers that involve the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems. Throughout the coursework, students learn about electrical theory, wiring, circuitry, electrical code requirements, safety procedures, and the use of various tools and equipment. The curriculum typically combines classroom instruction with hands-on labs to ensure that students gain real-world experience alongside theoretical understanding.

Students in this program are often instructed in subjects such as electrical fundamentals, blueprint reading, motor controls, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), and basic automation systems. The program also emphasizes safety standards and practices mandated by the National Electrical Code (NEC), which is crucial for protecting workers and ensuring compliance with legal regulations. In addition to technical skills, students develop problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in team settings, which are essential qualities in electrical professions.

Graduates of the Electrical Technology: Career Associate program may find employment in various sectors including construction, manufacturing, maintenance, and utility companies. Typical job roles include electrical technician, maintenance electrician, electrical apprentice, and other entry-level positions that allow for further professional growth and specialization. The program aims to provide a pathway for students to enter the workforce quickly, with some graduates choosing to pursue further certifications or advanced education in electrical engineering or related disciplines.

Harrisburg Area Community College often collaborates with local industry partners to ensure the curriculum remains aligned with current industry standards and technological advancements. The program's facilities are equipped with modern electrical training equipment and laboratories, enabling students to gain practical experience with the latest tools and systems used in the field. Students are encouraged to participate in internships and cooperative education opportunities that can provide valuable industry experience and help with job placement after graduation. Overall, the Electrical Technology: Career Associate program provides a solid foundation for individuals aiming to build a successful career in the electrical trades, combining technical training with practical application to meet the demands of today's dynamic job market.