Manufacturing Careers

Train for high-demand manufacturing careers in Illinois

Elgin Community College is developing programs and facilities to train workers for smart factories and Industry 4.0 jobs.

ECC prepares you for a global manufacturing career, offering flexibility and community connections. With shorter, stackable credentials and upskilling programs, you can incrementally build skills and stay relevant in the workforce. ECC adapts to industry changes, ensuring a skilled workforce. Our advanced technology integration meets evolving community needs, incorporating essential skills like data analysis, programming, problem-solving, and project management. Programs also include collaborative projects, team assignments, and communication exercises to align with employers' expectations.

ECC can help you enter the workforce more quickly or continue your education while working. Community colleges can be pivotal in preparing a skilled, adaptable workforce by adapting to the manufacturing sector's changing demands. This workforce is essential for driving the industry forward.

New Manufacturing Technology Center

Elgin Community College is building a 150,000 sq ft manufacturing and technology center, set to open in 2026. The center reinforces ECC's commitment to manufacturing, offering educational and training opportunities, and preparing the workforce for the future. It includes in-demand mechatronics training. Mechatronics combines mechanical elements, electronic components, and computer control to create functional and intelligent systems. Join ECC's new center to experience exciting opportunities and help shape the future of manufacturing and technology.

Learn More

Degree Programs

Certificate Programs

Plan of Study and Course Descriptions

Please refer to the ECC catalog for program details and course descriptions.

ECC Catalog

Instructor with student going over manufacturing motor controls — ECC’s Mechatronics trainer is the only one in the area and is part of our maintenance technology program. You’ll get hands-on experience in automation, robotics, troubleshooting, and programming—building real skills for high-demand industrial engineering careers. Pair your education with an apprenticeship and learn how to work with hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical systems used in modern manufacturing. You’ll be prepared for Industry 4.0 environments that use smart technology to improve and streamline production. Use the link below to explore our Motor Control Lab virtual tour.

Student at a CNC machine — We're committed to providing our students with cutting-edge and advanced training equipment. Our manufacturing programs are the only ones in community colleges to feature multi-access CNC machines, which are crucial in precision-demanding industries. You'll get hands-on experience with various machines, including 3- and 5-axis HAAS machines and 7- and 9-axis SWISS machines. Use the link below to take our CND Lab virtual tour.

Student with instructor in front of an electrical panel — Our shipping container solar array advances ECC's solar panel photovoltaic education and training, promoting sustainability. Helps upskill or retrain existing HVAC technicians by exploring ways to provide added value to their customers. Students will build the device for placement within the new manufacturing and technology center. Use the link below to take the virtual tour of our Energy classrooms.

two students fixing a motor drive on a machine — Student-focused instructors create collaborative classrooms that connect coursework to real-world applications, fostering a deeper understanding of the material. Our programs emphasize hands-on learning and practical experience, helping students develop job-ready skills that employers value. By going beyond traditional education, ECC prepares graduates to succeed in today’s job market and make meaningful contributions across a wide range of industries. Use the link below to take a virtual tour of our classrooms.

Student with a 3-D printer — Our programs are designed to build in-demand employability skills that prepare students for today’s competitive job market. One example is our CAD certificate program, which incorporates 3D printing technology into the curriculum. This hands-on training closely aligns with current manufacturing industry needs, helping students develop job-ready skills that employers are looking for. Use the link below to take a virtual tour of our CAD lab.

Person standing next to light fixtures. — ECC's CAD, CNC Machining, Industrial Maintenance Technology, and HVAC programs provide students with a direct connection to employers, free tuition, and guaranteed job placement. The apprenticeship combines on-the-job training with classroom courses at ECC, providing practical experience alongside formal education. Several students join a company as apprentices each year, often initiated by an apprenticeship signing event, such as the one pictured here.

Group of students with a handcart listening to instructor. — This personalized approach to education helps students feel valued, supported, and confident as they work toward their academic goals. Approachable, relatable professors build strong connections with students and provide guidance every step of the way.

Students gathered around welding instructor using torch to cut metal — Elgin Community College prepares individuals for this evolving landscape through its curriculum, aligning education with the demand for skilled workers in the resurging U.S. manufacturing sector. Our development of mold-making courses brings crucial skilled trades to the Midwest, aligning education with the demand for specialized skills in the resurging U.S. manufacturing sector. Use the link below to take our virtual tour of our student life areas.

Student and instructor standing in front of a machine — An ECC student’s success at the WKA/Margay Ignite Challenge at Daytona International Speedway highlighted the power of teamwork and hands-on learning. While preparing for the race, the student partnered with welding and manufacturing students to turn complex drawings into CNC programs and create custom foot and heel supports for the kart. The team also collaborated on purge blocks, used to join delicate materials, giving students across programs real-world experience and shared problem-solving skills.

Two students talking on campus — Elgin Community College is more than a place to learn a trade. It’s a welcoming campus community where students enjoy getting involved in athletic teams, extracurricular activities, and student events. These experiences make it easy to meet new people, build friendships, and feel connected on campus. Use the link below to take a virtual tour of our student life spaces.

ECC in the News

Professor George Rosa poses in an HVAC lab in Building O.

Faculty Profile

Published 05/07/2026

Two Decades In, and Still Building Futures

ECC Faculty and Alum George Rosa has taught for almost 20 years, and is looking forward to many more years mentoring students and the start of a new chapter with the new Manufacturing and Technology Center opening in September 2026.

Read Article

ECC student and apprentice Henry Piehl poses next to equipment at his job at Haumiller Engineering in South Elgin.

Student Profile

Published 05/01/2026

Hands-On Learning, Real-World Results

ECC student and apprentice Henry Piehl talks about his journey as a student and working adult as a machinist at Haumiller Engineering in South Elgin.

Read Article

ECC student Geovany Medina poses in one of his classrooms next to equipment.

Student Profile

Published 04/20/2026

ECC Student Finds His Path in Industrial Maintenance

ECC student Geovany Medina now has a clear path forward in industrial maintenance technology, thanks to ECC's WIOA (Workforce Innovations and Opportunity Act) program and professors like Steven Wood and Michael Marin.

Read Article

Faculty Profile

Published 04/15/2026

Dual Credit Manufacturing Teacher Prepares Students for Future Success in the Field

Dual credit manufacturing teacher Matt Erbach has been teaching South Elgin High School students for almost two decades, and now his classes allow his students to earn college credit.

Read Article

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pursue a degree apprenticeship combo at ECC?

Elgin Community College partners with businesses to offer apprenticeships, allowing students to earn while gaining valuable work experience. If you're interested in CNC Machining, Industrial Maintenance Technology, or HVAC, fill out our form. Our apprenticeship coordinator will contact you to explore opportunities. ECC partners with the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Apprenticeship Training for supplemental instruction in local apprenticeships. Our Energy Management programs are endorsed by the National Association of Stationary Operating Engineers (NASOE).

What career opportunities are available for individuals with expertise in manufacturing technology?

Manufacturing technology involves using tools, machinery, and processes to transform raw materials into finished products on an industrial scale. When you study at ECC, you’ll have industrial engineering and technology expertise with many different career paths. Look for engineering, production management, quality assurance, industrial automation, welding, and supply chain management roles.

Facilities Designed for Student Success

We offer in-person and hybrid manufacturing programs to accommodate your diverse schedules and learning preferences. Experienced instructors deliver classroom lectures on theoretical concepts and oversee hands-on labs and workshops. This training prepares you for industries like manufacturing, automotive systems, aerospace, medical devices, consumer electronics, and more.

Register for a campus tour today!

Tour our beautiful campus and explore programs, student resources, and academic spaces. Tours are offered every other Wednesday at 4:00 pm and are led by a friendly student ambassador or an admissions staff member.

In-Person Campus Tours

Grand Opening Fall 2026

Take an Interactive Tour

Imagine yourself at Elgin Community College from wherever you are. View the classes and spaces you’ll walk in as a student. No matter where you are in your college search, we can help.

Launch the Tour

Contact

Admissions & Recruitment

Building B, Room B110
847-214-7385
Fax: 847-608-5458
admissions@elgin.edu

Hours
Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 7 pm
Fridays: 8 am to 4 pm

*Bilingual Admissions Coordinator: 847-214-7689

Contact

Career and Technical Education Programs

Building O, Room O125
847-214-7900
mtcinquiries@elgin.edu