PLCs 2 Mechatronics Certification test identifies technicians for high-demand positions

PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, is introducing its newest Mechatronics Certification Test, “Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) 2,” at Pack Expo Las Vegas.

The nationally portable mechatronics credential will help employers identify workers best qualified for technician positions. The test covers advanced principles and applications of PLCs and builds on the topics covered on the Programmable Logic Controllers 1 test. Topics include advanced applications of PLCs, industrial network communications, program control, math functions and data handling.

“Multi-skilled technicians with PLC skills are in high demand,” said Maria Ferrante, vice president, Education and Workforce Development, PMMI. “This certification test will help manufacturers identify highly-skilled technicians for the job.”

PMMI’s Mechatronics Certification Tests are based on industry-developed standards and recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor and the Manufacturing Institute’s Skills Certificate System, which is part of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM).

A recent NAM report predicts 2 million of the nearly 3.5 million manufacturing jobs expected to open up over the next decade will go unfilled because of a lack of skilled workers.

“PMMI’s Mechatronics Certification Tests address the skills gap. They’re critical for manufacturers who are having trouble finding, hiring and developing staff who have the skills needed to troubleshoot, maintain and operate automated equipment,” Ferrante said, adding, “PMMI’s Mechatronics Certification is designed for service technicians and maintenance workers. The tests reduce the time and cost related to technician training. PMMI partners with technical and community colleges across North America to provide the training and education needed to prepare for these tests and ultimately careers in manufacturing.”

To learn more about “Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) 2,” and the other PMMI Mechatronics Certification Tests as well as the partner schools that can provide training, visit the PMMI team at PMMI’s booth in the Central Lobby at Pack Expo Las Vegas 2015 (Sept. 28–30; Las Vegas Convention Center), the Education and Workforce Development Pavilion in the Upper South Lobby or pmmi.org/mechatronics.

“Employers will also benefit from the increasing level of confidence they’ll have in their staff and its ability to move the company forward,” Ferrante said. “This is a win for everyone involved.”