Curriculum Modules

Core Competencies for Technicians Working with Materials

This study focuses on the most important of the competencies (ability, knowledge and expertise) needed by technicians who manufacture products from materials. This includes processing by machining, joining, casting, bonding, molding, extrusion, etc., basically any way that materials are formed into parts. It also includes all materials classes, from metals to composites to electronic materials. This is a summary of results. The study results show that technicians working with materials should be able to:

  1. Materials basics
    • Describe property differences between classes and types of materials
    • Identify proper nomenclature for materials identification
    • Define stress, strain, strength and ductility
    • Read, understand and apply MSDS information
  2. Operations basics
    • Describe basic concepts of quality and safety
    • Describe proper handling of chemicals
    • Describe proper waste disposal methods for chemicals and materials
    • Detail potential problems related to flammability of solvents
    • Describe basic aspects of statistical quality control
  3. Testing of materials
    • Demonstrate preparation and use of correct chemical concentrations
    • Work with testing standards
    • Design experiments and tests as needed
    • Demonstrate basic testing methods for different materials classes
    • Analyze materials structures and microstructures
  4. Manufacturing quality and operations
    • Relate processing techniques to potential materials defect creation
    • Describe the effects of defects on properties and product performance
    • Describe the effects of process changes on materials properties
    • Describe effects of operator and machine variations on properties
    • Differentiate between critical and non-critical defects
    • Describe costs of poor quality parts
  5. Materials in manufacturing processes
    • Describe standard processing methods for most classes of materials
    • Demonstrate knowledge of joining and fastening methods
    • Demonstrate knowledge of cutting, machining and grinding methods
    • Describe tooling, dies, jigs and fixtures used in materials manufacturing
  6. Technicians also need basic skills in communication, measurement, mathematics, computers, teamwork and professionalism. These competency needs are discussed in detail on the MatEd web site.