What is a Maintenance Technician?

A maintenance technician is a skilled professional responsible for the upkeep and repair of various systems, equipment, and facilities. Their duties may include performing preventative maintenance, troubleshooting and repairing malfunctioning equipment, and ensuring the smooth operation of a wide range of mechanical, electrical, and HVAC systems. Maintenance technicians play a crucial role in keeping businesses and organizations running efficiently.

Training Requirements

To become a maintenance technician, individuals typically need to complete a combination of formal training and on-the-job experience. Many employers require a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as technical or vocational training in fields such as HVAC, electrical systems, or industrial maintenance. Some maintenance technician positions may also require specialized certifications or licenses, depending on the industry and the specific job requirements.

What's the Fastest Someone Can Become a Maintenance Technician in Milwaukee?

In Milwaukee, the fastest path to becoming a maintenance technician often involves completing a vocational or technical program. These programs, which can be found at local community colleges or trade schools, typically range from 6 months to 2 years in duration and provide comprehensive training in the necessary skills and knowledge required for the job. By completing one of these programs, individuals can gain the necessary qualifications and start their careers as maintenance technicians in a relatively short amount of time.

Maintenance Technician Classes in Milwaukee

Milwaukee offers a variety of maintenance technician classes and training programs to help aspiring professionals acquire the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in this field. Here are a few examples:

Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC)

• Program: Associate of Applied Science in Facilities Maintenance Technician
• Length: 2 years
• Cost: Approximately $5,000 per year for in-state residents
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
• Overview: This program provides comprehensive training in HVAC, electrical systems, plumbing, and facility maintenance, preparing students for a career as a maintenance technician in a variety of settings.

Milwaukee Career College

• Program: Maintenance Technician Diploma
• Length: 9 months
• Cost: Approximately $15,000
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
• Overview: This program focuses on the essential skills needed for maintenance technician roles, including electrical, HVAC, and mechanical systems repair and maintenance.

WRTP/Big Step

• Program: Pre-Apprenticeship Maintenance Technician Training
• Length: 6 weeks
• Cost: Free (funded by grants and community partnerships)
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, basic math and reading skills
• Overview: This pre-apprenticeship program provides hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials to prepare individuals for entry-level maintenance technician positions or apprenticeship programs.

Exploring a Career in Maintenance Technician Outside Milwaukee

For anyone looking to become a Maintenance Technician but is in a different state, your opportunity to work as a Maintenance Technician might be found in Bakersfield, Dallas/Fort Worth, New Orleans, Rochester, or Toledo. Should these not be viable options, Dreambound eases the process of discovering and comparing Maintenance Technician classes with a zip code-based search. With the drive to succeed and the support of resources like Dreambound, anyone can forge a successful path in trade, construction, and industry, no matter where they are.

Online and Free Options in Milwaukee

In addition to the in-person training programs, Milwaukee also offers online and free options for individuals interested in becoming maintenance technicians.

Online Options Several online schools and platforms, such as Udemy and Coursera, offer online maintenance technician courses and certifications that can be completed remotely. These options provide flexibility for individuals who need to balance work, family, or other commitments.

Free Options The WRTP/Big Step pre-apprenticeship program mentioned earlier is an example of a free maintenance technician training option available in Milwaukee. Additionally, some local community organizations and workforce development centers may offer free or low-cost maintenance technician training programs or workshops.

Certification Process

Depending on the specific industry or employer, maintenance technicians may be required to obtain various certifications or licenses. Common certifications include the EPA 608 Refrigerant Handling Certification, HVAC Excellence Certifications, and the Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician (CMRT) credential. The certification process typically involves passing an exam and may require ongoing continuing education to maintain the certification.

Job Environment in Milwaukee

Milwaukee is home to a diverse range of industries that employ maintenance technicians, including manufacturing, healthcare, hospitality, and commercial real estate. Some of the largest potential employers for maintenance technicians in the city include:

• Harley-Davidson Motor Company
• Rockwell Automation
• Aurora Health Care
• Komatsu Mining Corp.
• Rexnord Corporation
• Northwestern Mutual

Maintenance technicians in Milwaukee can expect a stable job market with opportunities for career advancement and competitive wages.

Final Thoughts

Milwaukee's thriving job market and variety of maintenance technician training options make it an attractive destination for those looking to pursue a career in this field. Whether you're seeking a well-paying maintenance technician job or want to earn a competitive maintenance technician salary, Milwaukee offers the resources and opportunities to help you become a skilled and in-demand maintenance professional.

If you're thinking of a new career path, Dreambound offers in-depth guides to understand various job choices:

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