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Frequently Asked Questions by Manufacturers
What is Integrated Systems Technology?
Integrated Systems Technology (IST) in Advanced Manufacturing is a new, high-demand career opportunity that involves cross-training in the areas of electrical, mechanical, and electronic systems. American industries are becoming much more dependent upon the use of high-tech equipment that involves multiple, integrated systems. It is critical that companies be able to recruit and employ individuals who know how to operate, troubleshoot, and maintain this high-tech equipment.
 
Where can I find employees who are trained to understand, operate, troubleshoot, and maintain high-tech equipment?
Individuals who have completed a new and unique Integrated Systems Technology (IST) training program are cross-trained in electrical, mechanical and electronic systems and are ready to help your company! Contact one of the AM/IST training sites to inquire how to contact these individuals.
 
How do I find out about advanced manufacturing training for my current employees?
Your local community college may be able to provide short-term incumbent worker training programs to assist you in filling the skills gaps of employees within your company. This training will provide an upgrade of skills so that your employees can maintain employment in the current and emerging high-skill, high-demand occupations requiring academic and technical competency. To locate community colleges participating in this grant funded project, click here. In addition, other community colleges around the nation may be offering integrated systems technology training, so be sure to check with your local community college to see how they can help you with your training needs.
 
What is the format for the IST training?
For adult learners, the Integrated Systems Technology (IST) program provides an exciting, stimulating, and rewarding learning experience. It incorporates a variety of features that specifically accommodate the diverse learning styles of adults.
  • Modular Instruction. The instructional content and tasks to be performed are broken down into small, applied segments. This provides the learner with constant feedback and reinforcement. Each learning module builds on the skills attained in previous modules, reinforcing prior experiences and building knowledge as learners progress through the curricula.
  • Industry-Designed Curricula. The learning experience is heightened because individuals engage in learning activities that are specifically based upon industrial tasks they will be performing in future manufacturing jobs.
  • Self-Paced Learning. Individuals may choose to “move at their own speed” throughout the learning process.
  • Team Activities. Individuals may also work in teams of two to complete tasks and attain specific competency levels.
  • Multi-Media Instruction. The computer-based curricula provide a combination of CD-ROM video, interactive software, and hands-on activities utilizing industry-designed training equipment to maintain a high level of interest and skill attainment.
  • Hands-On Training. Instructors carefully blend theory and information with practical, hands-on activities. This approach maintains learner focus on specific tasks and increases motivation to continue learning.
  • Troubleshooting, Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking. Learners are continuously challenged as they apply concepts and skills learned to troubleshoot and solve “real” industrial problems.
  • Authentic Assessment. Learners are asked to demonstrate specific skills they have learned. The attainment of these skills can then be easily documented by the instructor and shared with prospective employers or other interested individuals.
  • Web-Enabled Curricula. A portion of the curricula is currently available via the Internet. Industry partners suggest that some curricular segments, such as theory, vocabulary development and tool identification, are appropriate for distance learning technology. They stress that skill attainment and documentation of authentic assessment results should occur on-site, in the IST lab(s).
 
Illinois State University - National Center for Integrated Systems Technology, Campus Box 4090, Normal, IL 61790-4090
Phone: (309) 438-7440, FAX: (309) 438-5069, Email: ncist@ilstu.edu
Location: 305 S. Linden St., Normal, IL 61761

This product was funded by a grant awarded under the President's High Growth Job Training Initiative as implemented by the U.S. Department of Labor's Employment & Training Administration. The information contained in this product was created by a grantee organization and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. All references to non-governmental companies or organizations, their services, products, or resources are offered for informational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement by the Department of Labor. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it and is intended for individual organizational, non-commercial use only.