Appliance Technician
Technical Diploma — Downtown Milwaukee Campus

Program Code: 31-445-1

This page was last updated in March 2007.

Overview — Home appliances play an essential role in the daily routine of the average American household. Accordingly, there has been a tremendous rise in the quantity and variety of household electrical appliances being marketed today. Because many of these are complex automatic and semiautomatic appliances, a greater degree of knowledge is required to diagnose and service them. Appliance Technician is a two-semester technical diploma program that combines coursework with hands-on lab experience to acquaint you with the fundamental knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career in this challenging field.

Career Outlook — The need for trained service technicians qualified to maintain appliances has increased. Appliance technicians install, service and repair automatic washers, dryers, ranges, refrigerators, dishwashers, compactors and other major appliances. They also write job orders, complete reports or billing, and maintain records for parts inventories, future service calls and quality control purposes. Other related job possibilities are parts person, salesperson, dispatcher and field service representative. It’s possible to advance to a service manager position, as well as operate your own business.

Career Preparation and Expected Learning Outcomes — Potential employers will expect you, as a graduate of this program, to have:

• A sound understanding of basic electronics and the functions of typical electrical hardware such as thermostats, relays, switches, circuitry, etc.
• Electromechanical knowledge and skills to diagnose and correct appliance difficulties
• Oral and written communication skills
• Good “people skills” when dealing with customers
• A valid driver’s license
• Ability to be insured
• Good math skills
• Courteous behavior and good grooming

Preparation for Admission — The following are required for admission to the program:

• Ability to keep accurate and legible records
• Demonstration of proficiency in basic skills through an admissions assessment

Good manual dexterity, a high mechanical aptitude, and an inquisitive, analytical mind are important. You will need to be able to do some bending and lifting. A high school diploma or GED is recommended.

Possible Careers:

Appliance Repair
Appliance Servicing Technician
Service Manager (Brand Name)
Service Technician

Related Programs:

Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Heating
Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology
Fluid Power Maintenance
Preparatory Plumbing

For more information, call 414-297-MATC.

Curriculum effective 2007-2008.

Hours per Week: r = related, s = shop

Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

For course descriptions, class times and locations, visit INFOnline.