Process Technology
The Process Technology Program offers courses that prepares students to become process technicians in the refining, petrochemical, polymers, plastics, pulp/paper industries, power generation, oil and gas production, food and other process industries. Technical knowledge and skills are gained in areas such as operating equipment, instrumentation systems, process systems, safety, quality control, process troubleshooting and computer applications. The program provides hands-on training in the classroom and laboratory environments.
For students who require employment in the Process Technology and Operations industry, the Associate of Applied Science degree in Process Technology program that will prepare students to become process technicians in the refining, petrochemical, power generation, oil and gas production, food and other process industries.
Technical knowledge and skills will be gained in areas such as operating equipment, instrumentation systems, process systems, process troubleshooting, and computer applications.
The Process Operating Program is recognized by the Texas Workforce Investment Council (TWIC) which verifies that the knowledge and skill competencies required by industry are included within the curriculum. In addition, the Process Operating Technology Advisory Committee reviews the curriculum to ensure that current industrial needs are met.
Graduates are encouraged to seek membership in NAPTA (North American Process Technology Alliance) www.naptaonline.org after graduation.
The Process Technology Program is recognized by the Texas Workforce Investment Council (formerly the Texas Skills Standards Board) which verifies that the knowledge and skill competencies required by industry are included within the curriculum.
Program Outcomes
- Use technology to access operator-specific documentation and training.
- Use and identify specific equipment and operating parameters to meet industry standards.
- Describe the principles of quality control.
- Diagram the process control elements in a control loop.
- Identify basic processes, equipment, and systems to meet industry standards.
- Implement standard safety procedures as required in industry.
Communication
Empirical and Quantitative Reasoning
Teamwork
Social Responsibility
Personal Responsibility
Knowledge of OSHA Safety Rules and Regulations
Dependability
Adaptability
Troubleshooting
Career Information
A degree in Process Technology opens opportunities in Petrochemical, Refinery, and LNG Operations.
Process operators generally work rotating shifts, climb tall towers, work with chemicals, and must meet certain physical requirements. Graduates of the Process Technology Program may be required to complete a drug screen, background check, and a physical exam to be employed.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Process Technology graduates can expect a bright outlook in job opportunities in the local area and throughout Texas. Regional manufacturers and processors forecast a high demand for workers with a degree in process technology.
| Course | Title | SCH |
|---|---|---|
| First Semester | ||
| PTAC 1302 | Introduction to Process Technology | 3 |
| PTAC 1408 | Safety, Health, and Environment I | 4 |
| PTAC 1410 | Process Technology I – Equipment | 4 |
| ITSC 1401 | Introduction to Computers | 4 |
| Second Semester | ||
| PTAC 1432 | Process Instrumentation I | 4 |
| PTAC 2314 | Principles of Quality | 3 |
| PTAC 2420 | Process Technology II – Systems | 4 |
| TECM 1301 or MATH 1314 | Industrial Mathematics or College Algebra | 3 |
| Third Semester | ||
| XXXX x3xx | Humanities/Fine Arts | 3 |
| ENGL 2311 or ENGL 1301 | Technical & Business Writing or Composition I | 3 |
| CHEM 1305 | Introductory Chemistry (lecture) | 3 |
| CHEM 1105 | Introductory Chemistry (lab) | 1 |
| PTAC 2336 | Process Instrumentation II | 3 |
| SPCH 1315 | Public Speaking | 3 |
| Fourth Semester | ||
| PHYS 1315 | Physical Science I (lecture) | 3 |
| PHYS 1115 | Physical Science I (lab) | 1 |
| PTAC 2438 or PTAC 2487 | Process Technology III – Operations or Internship – Process Technology/Technician | 4 |
| PTAC 2446 | Process Troubleshooting | 4 |
| XXXX x3xx | Social/Behavioral Science | 3 |
| Total | 60 | |
| course | title | sch |
|---|---|---|
| First Semester | ||
| ITSC 1401 | Introduction to Computers | 4 |
| PTAC 1410 | Process Technology I – Equipment | 4 |
| PTAC 1302 | Introduction to Process Technology | 3 |
| PTAC 1408 | Safety, Health, and Environment I | 4 |
| Second Semester | ||
| PTAC 2314 | Principles of Quality | 3 |
| PTAC 2420 | Process Technology II – Systems | 4 |
| TECM 1301 | Industrial Mathematics | 3 |
| PTAC 1432 | Process Instrumentation I | 4 |
| Total | 29 | |
What kind of salary can I expect?
The median salary for a Process Technology graduate is $29.77 an hour. According to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics,instrumentation graduates can expect a bright outlook in job opportunities.
How long will it take to graduate?
The Process Technology degree takes two years, while the certificate takes a year. Courses taken in the certificate degree plan transfer to the associate’s degree for students who choose to earn the full degree.
Does Lamar State College Port Arthur offer internship opportunities?
Yes. As part of the degree plan, students are placed with local petrochemical and manufacturing companies where they will receive hands-on experience in the process technology field.
James Powell, Instructor
UITC Room 201D
(409) 984-6344
powellj@lamarpa.edu or
process@lamarpa.edu
Tom Janise, Adjunct Instructor
UITC Room 201H
(409) 984-6247
janiseth@lamarpa.edu or
process@lamarpa.edu
Kenneth Ballou, Adjunct Instructor
UITC Room 201A
(409) 984-6418
ballowkw@lamarpa.edu or
process@lamarpa.edu
Justin Whitewood
Alpha Beta Gamma
Association of Process Technology
Student Testimonials
"…the program has great teachers and Lamar State College-Port Arthur has good internship programs you can get into."
"I have been to other universities, but Lamar State College-Port Arthur is my favorite. I am not saying that one university is better than the other, but this one is a great fit for me. It feels like home."
"I chose Lamar State College-Port Arthur for my program of study because several of my family members attended here for the same degree. I also like the instructors on this campus."
"I chose the Process Technology program at Lamar State College-Port Arthur because it is a reputable program in the area."
LSCPA's Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is provided in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (20 USC § 1092(f), 34 CFR 668.46).
Overview
Associate of Applied Science
Certificates
Contact
- George Bohn
- Program Director
- UITC Room 201C
- 409-984-6391
- bohngw@lamarpa.edu
Leads to a BS in Industrial Technology at a four-year college/university