Composites Technology

Also see Manufacturing  and Marine Maintenance Technology  

Program Overview

The Composites Technology (CMPST) program at Skagit Valley College is designed to provide a comprehensive education for the next generation of composite technicians. Marine, aerospace, transportation, medicine, construction, energy, and sports equipment represent some of the industries where composites are used. The growing demand for stronger, lighter and more efficient building materials is driving the demand for skilled composites technicians who can work with these new materials and processes.

Students work toward taking American Composites Manufacturers Association (ACMA) certification exams - the standard for composites credentialing. The Composites program offers the student options for short and long-term certificates.

Certificate Options:

Program Map - Advanced Composites Manufacturing Technician Certificate  

Program Map - Composites Repair Technician Micro-Certificate  

Program Map - Composites Wind Blade Repair Micro-Certificate  

Learning Outcomes:

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Composites Technology program will be able to:

• Possess the skills and knowledge required for successful entry-level employment in composite-related industries.
• Understand the safety hazards and workplace precautions that need to be taken when working with hazardous chemicals typically found in a shop environment.
• Identify resins, initiators, promoters, solvents and all chemicals by sight, smell and touch, and handle according to established safety standards.
• Demonstrate ability to correctly apply various types of catalyzed coatings and paints.
• Demonstrate ability to use the correct technique for repairing a variety of composite structures.
• Demonstrate ability to develop a full size plug from a scaled drawing, and correctly finish the surface using various mediums current to industry standards.
• Correctly perform contact molding, vacuum bagging techniques, out of oven autoclave, and oven curing techniques.
• Demonstrate silicone bag part building and rigid B side part building techniques using current industry standards.
• Distinguish and operate support equipment in Closed Cavity and Light Resin Transfer Method.
• Demonstrate ability to use advanced composite nomenclature related to equipment, tools, accessories, and materials commonly used in the composites workplace.
• Understand environmental issues related to manufacture and use of composite structures.
• Understand and follow laws and regulations as they relate to composites certifications.

Program Admissions:

Why Enroll in the Composites Technology Program at Skagit Valley College?

• The field of composites is growing.
• The Skagit Valley College program prepares students for entry into many industries using composite technology.
• Courses are developed and taught by leaders in the field - instructors hold ACMA credentials and have worked in industry.
• Comprehensive courses integrate skill sets with technology found in industry and supported by industry input.

Specialized Program Information:

For more information, please contact the department chair, Bruce Poole, at 360.416.6549 or bruce.poole@skagit.edu.