PCC, Pacific Office Automation launch new technician training certificate
Photos and Story by James Hill
The Field Service Technician Foundations certificate is offered through PCC’s Electronic Engineering Technology Program.
In a move to bolster the local workforce and provide career opportunities, Portland Community College has teamed up with Pacific Office Automation (POA), the largest independent office equipment dealer in the U.S., to launch a new Field Service Technician Foundations certificate. The 12-week course is designed to equip students with the essential skills needed for a successful career as a field service technician.
The program, set to begin on Sept. 23, was developed in collaboration with industry experts at POA and the college’s Electronic Engineering Technology Program. It focuses on providing students with hands-on training in key areas such as equipment installation, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and customer service. These skills are highly transferable and applicable across various industries, including agriculture, heavy machinery, and manufacturing, in addition to the office equipment sector.
Academic Pathways: Science & Engineering
The Electronic Engineering Technology and Microelectronic Technology programs, as well as the college’s wide array of mechatronics training courses, are part of the Science & Engineering academic pathway. This pathway consists of programs that lead to great careers or provide valuable science class credit, which will transfer to a university.
One of the standout features of the program is the career-readiness it offers. Upon successful completion, students are guaranteed an interview with Pacific Office Automation. Additionally, POA is offering full tuition reimbursement for graduates who secure employment with the company.
“Our goal with this program, alongside POA, is to remove barriers to these career paths, making them accessible to anyone interested in becoming a technician,” said Patty Hawkins, dean of Electronic Mechatronics and Advanced Manufacturing at PCC. “This is an excellent opportunity for students who are eager to enter the workforce with a solid foundation of skills.”
The demand for field technicians is on the rise, with the industry expected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032, according to MyFuture Career. Pacific Office Automation alone has 33 field technician positions open, with plans to hire 10 to 12 technicians annually at its Portland branch. The partnership between POA and PCC aims to meet this growing demand while supporting the local workforce.
The 13-credit program will be offered year-round, with classes available during fall, winter, spring, and summer terms. While the program will primarily be delivered in-person, there are plans to expand it online in the future. The course is open to all, with no prior experience required.
Admissions for the fall term close on Sept. 9. Prospective students can learn more and register for the program by visiting PCC’s website at www.pcc.edu/enroll, or the Electronic Engineering technology Program.
About James Hill
James G. Hill, an award-winning journalist and public relations writer, is the Director of Public Relations at Portland Community College. A graduate of Portland State University, James has worked as a section editor for the Newberg Graphic... more »