Production and Automation in Missouri focuses on preparing students for careers in automated manufacturing systems, production control, and facility operations. This pathway addresses the state's transition toward Industry 4.0 technologies and smart manufacturing. Students learn programmable logic controllers (PLCs), automation systems, production planning, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement methodologies.
The curriculum covers automation fundamentals, PLC programming, industrial control systems, production management, and quality assurance. Students gain hands-on experience with automated equipment, programming interfaces, and manufacturing simulation software. Emphasis on efficiency, waste reduction, and continuous improvement reflects modern manufacturing practices. Missouri's manufacturing sector increasingly demands professionals with automation expertise.
Graduates work as automation technicians, production supervisors, process engineers, and manufacturing coordinators. The pathway bridges traditional manufacturing and emerging smart factory technologies.
Production and Automation at a Glance
4
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Missouri's production and automation standards require competency in automation systems, PLC programming, production management, and lean manufacturing principles. The curriculum aligns with industry certifications and modern manufacturing standards.
Students must demonstrate proficiency in automation equipment operation, programming basics, production scheduling, quality control, and safety compliance. State standards incorporate lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| Introduction to Web Technologies |
| Web Development and Design |
| Cloud Computing Fundamentals |
| Advanced Web and Cloud Solutions |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Automation Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $66,730 - $119,020
Adjusted for cost of living: $72,722
Production Operator
Entry LevelSalary range: $54,210 - $88,900
Adjusted for cost of living: $59,078
Process Engineer
ExperiencedSalary range: $66,730 - $119,020
Adjusted for cost of living: $101,373
Production Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $82,340 - $139,780
Adjusted for cost of living: $115,650
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Work experiences with automated manufacturing facilities, automotive suppliers, food processing plants, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and automation integration companies across Missouri.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Missouri CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
Missouri Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with Missouri's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Missouri standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in Missouri
Engineering
Engineering in Missouri provides foundational and applied engineering principles for students interested in designing, developing, and improving products, systems, and infrastructure. This pathway connects to Missouri's diverse manufacturing sectors including aerospace, automotive, pharmaceuticals, and advanced manufacturing. Students gain competency in engineering design, problem-solving, technical documentation, and project management. The curriculum covers mechanical engineering principles, electrical systems, materials science, and computer-aided design (CAD). Students learn to apply engineering concepts to real-world problems, conduct testing and analysis, and develop prototypes. Emphasis on sustainability, efficiency, and innovation reflects current industry needs. Missouri's strategic location and manufacturing heritage create strong career opportunities for engineering professionals. Graduates pursue engineering technician roles, pursue four-year engineering degrees, or enter manufacturing and design careers. The pathway emphasizes the bridge between technical skills and advanced engineering education.
Advanced ManufacturingIndustrial Machinery
Industrial Machinery in Missouri prepares students for careers installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting industrial equipment and systems. This pathway addresses high demand for technicians who can keep manufacturing facilities, food processing plants, pharmaceutical facilities, and other industrial operations running efficiently. Students gain expertise in machinery operation, preventive maintenance, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, and electrical troubleshooting. The curriculum covers industrial equipment fundamentals, safety protocols, maintenance procedures, and diagnostic techniques. Students learn to read technical schematics, understand machinery specifications, and implement maintenance schedules. Hands-on experience with industrial equipment, tools, and testing instruments prepares students for immediate workplace effectiveness. Missouri's diverse manufacturing sector creates numerous career opportunities. Graduates work as industrial machinery technicians, maintenance supervisors, equipment specialists, and facility maintenance managers. The pathway emphasizes keeping manufacturing operations safe, efficient, and productive.
Advanced ManufacturingRobotics
Robotics in Missouri prepares students for careers designing, programming, installing, and maintaining robotic systems used in manufacturing and industrial applications. This pathway reflects the growing adoption of robotics across Missouri's manufacturing sectors including automotive, food processing, and advanced manufacturing. Students gain expertise in robot programming, system integration, safety protocols, and collaborative robotics. The curriculum covers robot fundamentals, programming languages used in industrial robotics, system integration, and maintenance procedures. Students work with various robot platforms including collaborative robots (cobots) and industrial robots. Hands-on programming, simulation, and real-world projects prepare students for immediate workplace contribution. Emphasis on human-robot collaboration and safety reflects modern manufacturing trends. Graduates work as robotics technicians, robot programmers, systems integrators, and automation specialists. The pathway positions students at the forefront of manufacturing technology.
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