Certified Production Technician

Program Description

​Certified Production Technicians (CPT) work in a computer-driven, data-intensive advanced manufacturing workplace from entry-level to front-line supervisor. They perform a number of tasks in the manufacturing process such as align and adjust sensors, assemble mechanical drives, adjust pneumatic systems, connect pneumatic circuits, interface with industrial computers and similar automation components, troubleshoot machinery, and perform quality inspections and audits.

This program prepares students to take the MSSC’s CPT exams in Safety, Quality Practices & Measurement, Manufacturing Processes & Production, and Maintenance Awareness. It covers safety-enhancing workplace practices, improving quality, common measurement systems and precision measurement tools, how manufacturing transforms materials into products, tools and equipment used in a manufacturing facility, and improving productivity through predictive and preventative maintenance.

To be successful, students should be detailed-oriented, dependable, show self-control, follow safety rules, follow directions, posses manual dexterity, have electrical, mechanical and ​​mathematical aptitude, be able to stand for long periods of time, and be able to lift 35 pounds.​​

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, overall employment of production workers is projected to grow 10% from 2020 to 2030 in Maryland.  Projected annual job openings in Maryland are 530.  Additional career information may be found in Career Coach:   https://ccbcmd.lightcastcc.com/.

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this Continuing Education Workforce Certificate, students will be able to:

1.  prepare to obtain the Certified Production Technician Certification from the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council;

2.  ​​fulfill safety and health requirements and implement proper safety-enhancing workplace practices;

3.  identify fundamentals of blueprint reading, use precision measurement tools, and communicate quality problems;

4.  perform and monitor the manufacturing and/or distribution processes according to customer requirements;

5.  perform preventative maintenance and routine repair identifying potential maintenance issues; and

6.  utilize professional communications and effective teamwork.

CCBC Pathway

Technology and Engineering Pathway - Pathways are designed to help you meet your academic and career goals by aligning related courses and programs.  Pathway students participate in a variety of activities that help explore career opportunities in their field of study.  You can meet with a CCBC advisor who help align — or realign — your educational plan with the Pathway that best supports you and your goals.

Program Credentials

CCBC Credential: Students will be awarded a Continuing Education Workforce Certificate and will have access to a Continuing Education academic record (transcript).​

External Credential: Successful completers will have the opportunity to demonstrate proficiency through four certifications from the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC): Safety, Quality Practices & Measurement, Manufacturing Processes & Production, and Maintenance Awareness.    

Certifying Organization: Manufacturing Skill Standards Council, https://www.msscusa.org​

Course costs include fees for MSSC tests to be taken one time.​​

Financial Aid and Payment Options

We offer financial aid by packaging public and private funding options to those who qualify, in select Continuing Education courses and programs. Additional opportunities for financial support include partial payment options through Nelnet Business Solutions and tuition waivers for those who qualify. Resources outside of CCBC may also be available through employer/sponsor paid tuition, the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS), and your local office of workforce development.

Some CE Workforce Development Certificate Programs are eligible for early high school funding through Maryland Blueprint for qualifying BCPS high school students.  Please check with your School Counseling Office to determine your eligibility for the BCPS Tuition Benefit Program. 

Length of Training

Each​ course is 6 to 12 weeks depending on 1/2 day or full day schedule.  Total program length varies based on schedule.

Program Requirements

High School Diploma or GED

Industry work experience and or technical skills preferred

Application Process

To apply, go to www.ccbcmd.edu/apply and complete the CCBC Continuing Education Workforce Certificate program application.  An email will then be sent with program information and any additional requirements necessary to apply for the program.

Open Entry – No screening or documentation required.

Prior Learning Assessment

This program has no options for obtaining course waiver(s) for prior learning.

Program Course Sequence

Career Coach

Research your career interests, explore live job postings, take a career assessment, discover which companies in the Baltimore region are hiring, and more.  View a brief tutorial video on how to use Career Coach at https://youtu.be/C7KpznbPYfA.  Explore career and training opportunities at https://ccbcmd.emsicc.com/.

Program Contact Information

Program Coordinator:  Steve Ricketts | sricketts@ccbcmd.edu | 443-840-4442 | Catonsville BESS 100L

Administrative Assistant:  Denise Bellamy | dbellamy@ccbcmd.edu | 443-840-4712 | Catonsville BESS 100​