To work as an engineering technologist or technician, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• have an associate degree.

Education after high school

Most people prepare for this occupation by getting an associate degree. Many schools offer two-year programs in engineering technology. You can also get a four-year degree in engineering technology from a university.

Many vocational schools offer engineering technology programs. However, the kind and quality of these programs varies greatly. Carefully select your program. Check with employers to see which schools they prefer. In addition, ask the schools for the names of employers where they have placed graduates. Make sure the school has the type of training you want, up-to-date equipment, and qualified instructors.

In addition, make sure the school's program offers courses related your engineering specialty. For example, mechanical technician programs should offer courses in fluid mechanics and mechanical design.

Training programs approved by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) meet standards set by the industry. Graduating from an ABET accredited program can give you an advantage with employers.

Pre-engineering programs are not the same as technology programs. Pre-engineering programs stress classroom theory. In contrast, engineering technology programs stress hands-on training.

Work experience

Working in jobs that give you practical experience in the areas you wish to work is good background for this occupation. For instance, repairing, installing, or assembling electronic devices is good experience for electronics technologist and technician jobs.

On-the-job training

As a new technologist and technician, you perform routine tasks while closely supervised by an experienced technician or engineer. As you gain experience, you work on tasks that are more difficult. Training may last up to a year.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be unmanned vehicle (UV) operations specialists. This occupation requires knowledge of science and engineering. Training lasts three to 30 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training is on the job.