Competency-Based Manufacturing Programs

Lake Land College’s Competency-Based Education (CBE) manufacturing programs allow you to build your own class schedule and work at your own pace. If you’ve been thinking of going back to school, but not sure how it will fit into your life – this program is for you! The hands-on labs prepare you for high-demand careers in manufacturing, technology, engineering, logistics and programming. You can even set up apprenticeship opportunities through this course!

Benefits of CBE

Affordable

Cost of learning materials covered by textbook rental system

Accessible

Individualized instruction with online and in-person learning opportunities

Accelerated

Self-paced program on your schedule. Progress as soon as skills are mastered

Flexible Schedule

If you’re working split shifts or have to travel for work, this CBE Manufacturing program is for you! The format works around your life. You can schedule labs every week or you can skip a few weeks to take care of unexpected family commitments or travel. Each lesson builds on the previous one, so you’ll develop valuable skills and confidence as you advance through the class.

  • Schedule your own in-person lab dates and times. Labs are open 12 hours a day, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday
  • Gain one-on-one instruction from experienced faculty
  • Log in online for lectures any time, any where

Hands-On Experience

Photo showing a student in a manufacturing environment

With these programs, we’ll meet you at your level and adapt to your skill set. If you are in need of support to gain experience, our faculty are there to provide personalized attention and one-on-one instruction. If you’re starting with plenty of experience, you’ll be able to advance through the lessons quickly. You can make use of prior job experience to accelerate through the course. If you have already mastered a skill, you can proceed to the next level. This way, you can progress through courses faster than the traditional student timeline.

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Workforce Ready and Industry-Standard Credentials

Three programs with high workforce demand are available in the CBE format. They are Automation Specialist I and Automation Specialist II certificate programs and Applied Engineering Technology degree program, all leading to careers in manufacturing, technology, engineering, logistics and programming.

Once you complete a program, you’ll earn a valuable industry-driven credential. These are recognized by the Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA). In addition, both certificates count toward the Applied Engineering Technology degree. This creates a convenient pathway for you to stack credentials and elevate your career as you complete degree requirements.

Meet the Faculty

Photo of Mike Beavers

Michael Beavers, Electronics Engineering Technology Instructor/Program Coordinator
mbeavers@lakelandcollege.edu
217-234-5341
“The idea behind CBE is that learning can’t always be measured by hours spent in a classroom. In many programs, the best indicator of learning is when a student can take the skills we’re teaching and apply them in real, hands-on exercises. The best part of CBE for students is that it’s education tailored to them. If you’re coming to us with years of career experience, you’re not going to be spending weeks going over concepts you already know. Likewise, if you need a little more time to get the hang of a certain concept, you’re never at risk of falling behind. The pace will be different for each student and dictated by their unique needs.”

Photo of Rob Robison

Walter “Rob” Robison, Applied Engineering Technology Instructor
wrobison@lakelandcollege.edu
217-234-5246
“Competency-Based Education aligns with how skills are developed in industry—through hands-on work, repetition, and proven results. Progress is based on demonstrated practical ability, much like on-the-job training, where learning happens through experience. The structure is designed to work alongside busy schedules and allows learners to take only what they need when they need it. It supports both those new to the field and those building on existing experience, while developing skills that remain valuable over the long term.”

Take your first step toward mastering high-demand career credentials!

More Flexible Options to Fit Education into Your Life

Discover what options Lake Land College offers for trades and technology!

  • Tech2Day – come to campus two days a week for classes.

Contact Us

Michael Beavers

Electronics Engineering Technology Instr/Program Coordinator
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