This course plan, its lessons and its assessments has not yet been verified by a licensed engineer or certified journey-level tradesperson or by a certification or approval body. It is a study draft and may contain errors. Do not use it as instructions for work on a job site or on live equipment. Always follow your instructor, your supervising professional, and current official references and regulations.
VoTechWorks program approval and accreditation are still in progress. Credentials are issued only by the certifying bodies named in each program, after their own exams.
10 courses · 1,800 clock hours · 12 mo full-time. Grading is competency-based: each course requires the written exam, a competent skills demonstration with zero safety faults, a signed log, and a passed safety audit; percentage weights only rank performance above the competency floor.
This foundational course equips adult learners entering industrial maintenance with the safety knowledge, trade mathematics, technical literacy, digital tools proficiency, and professional skills required on the manufacturing and marine plant floor. Lessons align directly to OSHA 10-Hour General Industry requirements, MSSC CPT Safety & Quality domain competencies, and the NCCER Core Curriculum prerequisites. Successful completion establishes the baseline every technician needs before touching mechanical, electrical, or fluid power systems.
OutcomesThis foundational course equips adult learners entering industrial maintenance with the safety knowledge, trade mathematics, technical literacy, digital tools proficiency, and professional skills required on the manufacturing and marine plant floor. Lessons align directly to OSHA 10-Hour General Industry requirements, MSSC CPT Safety & Quality domain competencies, and the NCCER Core Curriculum prerequisites. Successful completion establishes the baseline every technician needs before touching mechanical, electrical, or fluid power systems.
How the course runs. 7 blocks: Hazard Recognition and OSHA 10 General Industry Core; Lockout/Tagout, Confined Space, and Industrial PPE in Practice; Trade Math: Fractions, Decimals, Unit Conversions, and Measurement; Technical Reading: Manuals, SDS, Work Orders, and P&IDs; Digital Tools: CMMS, Digital Instruments, and Workplace Communication Technology; Career Readiness: Professional Workplace Behaviors, Teamwork, and Trade Ethics; Credential Overview and Integrated Course Review.
What competent looks like. Demonstrate compliance with OSHA 10-Hour General Industry hazard recognition and control standards, including lockout/tagout procedures and correct PPE selection for at least five identified hazard classes. Perform trade math calculations—including fractions, decimals, unit conversions, ratio and proportion, basic geometry, and tolerance interpretation—with 80% or greater accuracy on timed problems representative of industrial maintenance tasks. Read and extract critical information from equipment nameplates, maintenance manuals, safety data sheets, P&IDs, and work orders using correct trade terminology. Use digital tools—including a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) interface, digital multimeter, and caliper with digital readout—to record, retrieve, and communicate maintenance data accurately. Demonstrate professional workplace behaviors including punctuality, written and verbal communication, teamwork, and conflict resolution skills aligned with employer expectations in manufacturing and marine facilities. Describe pathways, exam domains, and study strategies for the NCCER Industrial Maintenance and MSSC CPT credentials, identifying how program courses map to each credential's competency areas.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hazard Recognition and OSHA 10 General Industry Core | 28 | theory | Students will identify the major OSHA General Industry hazard categories, explain the hierarchy of controls, and describe employer and employee rights and responsibilities under the OSH Act. |
| OSHA 10-Hour General Industry student packet, OSHA.gov citation database printouts, hierarchy of controls poster, GHS pictogram chart, sample SDS sheets for common industrial lubricants and solvents, PPE sample kit (safety glasses, hard hat, gloves, hearing protection, steel-toed boots) | Students score 70% or higher on the official OSHA 10 end-of-module quizzes to receive the OSHA 10 card; instructor also grades hazard hunt worksheet with a rubric requiring correct identification of at least 80% of planted hazards. |
| 2 | Lockout/Tagout, Confined Space, and Industrial PPE in Practice | 18 | lab | Students will execute a six-step lockout/tagout procedure on a de-energized training panel and select correct PPE for confined-space entry in compliance with OSHA standards. |
| LOTO training panel (multi-energy-source: electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic), personal locks and tags, zero-energy verification tools (non-contact voltage tester, pressure gauge), confined-space entry permit form, CPR manikins, AED trainer unit, first aid kit, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 reference card, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146 confined-space reference card | Instructor uses a 10-step LOTO performance checklist; students must complete all steps in correct order with zero critical errors (skipping any isolation or verification step is an automatic re-do) to pass. CPR/AED competency signed off by certified instructor per course requirements. |
| 3 | Trade Math: Fractions, Decimals, Unit Conversions, and Measurement | 24 | practice | Students will accurately perform arithmetic operations with fractions and decimals, convert between US customary and metric units, and read analog and digital measuring instruments to the correct precision for industrial maintenance work. |
| Scientific calculators, machined steel specimen set, 12-inch steel rules, vernier calipers, digital calipers, 0–1 inch outside micrometer, dial indicator with stand, simplified mechanical drawing set, NCCER Core Curriculum math module, unit conversion reference cards | Timed 20-question math quiz covering all sub-skills; passing score is 80%. Measuring instrument data sheet graded for accuracy: readings must be within the stated tolerance of instructor's calibrated reference measurements on at least 8 of 10 measurements. |
| 4 | Technical Reading: Manuals, SDS, Work Orders, and P&IDs | 20 | theory | Students will extract accurate procedural, safety, and equipment data from maintenance manuals, safety data sheets, work orders, and a simplified piping-and-instrumentation diagram. |
| Actual SDS sheets (manufacturer-issued for lubricants, solvents, and hydraulic fluid), sample maintenance work orders (instructor-prepared from real formats), simplified P&ID diagram, ISA symbol legend reference sheet, NCCER Core Curriculum technical reading module | SDS form and work order exercise graded with an answer key; students must achieve 80% accuracy on each. P&ID question set scored; 80% correct required. Errors on safety-critical SDS items (PPE, first aid) flagged individually for immediate remediation. |
| 5 | Digital Tools: CMMS, Digital Instruments, and Workplace Communication Technology | 20 | demo | Students will log a work order, retrieve an equipment history record, and record a measurement reading using a CMMS interface and a digital caliper, demonstrating basic data entry accuracy. |
| Computers or tablets with CMMS training access (or equivalent simulation), digital calipers, digital multimeters, known-value resistor set, reference pin gauge set, email/word-processing software, communication rubric | CMMS entry reviewed by instructor for completeness and accuracy: all required fields populated, measurement values within ±0.001 inch of reference, and work order status correctly closed. Email/report graded pass/fail on rubric: must meet all five clarity criteria (correct recipient, clear subject, accurate facts, professional tone, correct spelling) to pass. |
| 6 | Career Readiness: Professional Workplace Behaviors, Teamwork, and Trade Ethics | 18 | practice | Students will demonstrate professional communication, reliable attendance behavior, and collaborative problem-solving skills expected of entry-level industrial maintenance technicians in manufacturing and marine environments. |
| Role-play scenario cards, professional behavior checklist, career plan template, industry panel contact coordination, NCCER and MSSC CPT credential overview handouts | Role-play graded with behavior checklist: students must demonstrate all three professional response criteria (respectful language, on-topic response, constructive outcome) in at least two of three scenarios. Career plan evaluated pass/fail against a six-item rubric; all six items must be present and plausible to pass. |
| 7 | Credential Overview and Integrated Course Review | 20 | theory | Students will map the ten courses of the Industrial Maintenance program to the specific exam domains of the NCCER Industrial Maintenance credential and the MSSC CPT credential, and demonstrate integrated recall of safety, math, and communication content from the entire Universal Core course. |
| NCCER Industrial Maintenance module content outline, MSSC CPT content outline, credential domain mapping template, review station question sets, mock Safety domain quiz, whiteboard for class discussion | Credential mapping matrix graded against instructor answer key: at least 85% of course-to-domain links must be accurate. Mock MSSC CPT Safety quiz scored; results recorded as a diagnostic baseline (no pass/fail threshold for this lesson, but results inform individual study plans discussed in Lesson 7 debrief). |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OSHA and Workplace Safety Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 70% correct (matches OSHA 10 card requirement threshold) with no unanswered safety-critical items | A 50-question multiple-choice examination covering OSHA General Industry hazard categories, hierarchy of controls, lockout/tagout procedures, confined-space permit requirements, PPE selection, GHS/SDS interpretation, and first aid response. Questions are written at the same cognitive level as OSHA 10 module assessments and MSSC CPT Safety domain items, providing dual-purpose preparation. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
| Trade Math and Technical Reading Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 80% correct overall, with no section scoring below 70% | A 40-question timed exam (60 minutes) divided equally between trade mathematics (fractions, decimals, unit conversion, measurement reading, tolerance interpretation) and technical reading (SDS section lookup, work order interpretation, P&ID symbol identification). Calculator permitted; reference formula sheet provided. Results map to NCCER Core Curriculum math and reading competency requirements and support MSSC CPT Quality domain readiness. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
| Integrated Practical Skills Project: Plant-Entry Safety and Communication Dossier | Project | 25% | Rubric score of 80% or higher across all four domains; any safety-critical error (e.g., missing LOTO step, incorrect PPE selection for the scenario) requires full remediation of that section before the credential can be recorded | Each student independently completes a four-part dossier for a simulated new-equipment installation scenario: (1) a completed LOTO procedure and energy-isolation checklist for the assigned equipment; (2) an SDS summary and PPE selection justification for the chemicals involved; (3) a work order written in correct trade language with all required fields; and (4) a one-page supervisor communication memo. The dossier is graded against a detailed rubric covering technical accuracy, safety compliance, completeness, and professional communication quality. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
| Career and Credential Readiness Oral Defense | Oral / panel | 25% | Pass on all three evaluator criteria: technical accuracy, professional communication, and credential awareness; any criterion scored unsatisfactory requires a targeted re-defense within five school days | In a 10-minute individual session with the instructor and one industry-connected evaluator, the student presents their personal career plan, answers two unscripted scenario questions testing safety judgment and math application drawn from course content, and explains how the NCCER Industrial Maintenance and MSSC CPT credentials differ, what each exam covers, and why both are relevant to their target industry sector. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
Students develop hands-on competency in the selection, installation, alignment, tensioning, and troubleshooting of mechanical power transmission systems including V-belt and synchronous belt drives, roller chain drives, gear drives, and shaft couplings. The course integrates manufacturer specifications, OSHA lockout/tagout procedures, and predictive maintenance indicators to prepare students for industrial maintenance roles in manufacturing and marine environments. Lesson content maps directly to NCCER Industrial Maintenance core curriculum modules on mechanical drives and supports MSSC CPT competencies in maintenance awareness and manufacturing processes.
OutcomesStudents develop hands-on competency in the selection, installation, alignment, tensioning, and troubleshooting of mechanical power transmission systems including V-belt and synchronous belt drives, roller chain drives, gear drives, and shaft couplings. The course integrates manufacturer specifications, OSHA lockout/tagout procedures, and predictive maintenance indicators to prepare students for industrial maintenance roles in manufacturing and marine environments. Lesson content maps directly to NCCER Industrial Maintenance core curriculum modules on mechanical drives and supports MSSC CPT competencies in maintenance awareness and manufacturing processes.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: Energy Control and Lockout/Tagout for Mechanical Drive Systems; Mechanical Drive Fundamentals: Power, Torque, and Speed Ratios; V-Belt Drive Components: Identification, Selection, and Service Factors; V-Belt Installation, Tensioning, and Guard Replacement; Synchronous (Timing) Belt Drives; Roller Chain Drives: Components, Lubrication, and Installation; Gear Drive Fundamentals and Inspection; Shaft Couplings: Types, Selection, and Alignment Theory; Shaft Alignment with Dial Indicators and Laser Tools; Drive System Troubleshooting and Failure Analysis; Predictive Maintenance Indicators for Mechanical Drives; Comprehensive Drive System Build and Documentation.
What competent looks like. Perform lockout/tagout on mechanical drive systems and identify all energy sources before any maintenance task, meeting OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 requirements. Select, install, and tension V-belt, synchronous belt, and roller chain drives to manufacturer and industry specifications using appropriate tools and measuring instruments. Align rigid, flexible, and fluid couplings using dial indicators and/or laser alignment equipment to within published tolerance for the drive type. Inspect and diagnose common failure modes in belt, chain, gear, and coupling systems, documenting findings on a maintenance work order. Apply trade math—including speed ratio, torque, horsepower, and service factor calculations—to size and evaluate mechanical drive components. Demonstrate safe removal, inspection, and reinstallation of drive guards, sheaves, sprockets, and gear covers while maintaining proper PPE throughout.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Energy Control and Lockout/Tagout for Mechanical Drive Systems | 11.5 | theory | Students will explain the requirements of an energy-control procedure and correctly write a machine-specific LOTO procedure for a belt-driven conveyor before performing any drive work. |
| OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 standard printout, NCCER Industrial Maintenance Module 35101 (Core: Safety), machine energy-control diagrams, blank LOTO procedure forms, lockout hasps and tags (demonstration set), PPE: safety glasses, gloves | Student-written LOTO procedure is evaluated against a 10-point instructor rubric; all six required steps must be present and correctly sequenced; pass mark is 80%. |
| 2 | Mechanical Drive Fundamentals: Power, Torque, and Speed Ratios | 13 | theory | Students will calculate driven-shaft speed, torque, and horsepower for a two-stage drive system using speed-ratio and power formulas with no more than 5% error. |
| NCCER Industrial Maintenance Trainee Guide (Mechanical Drives module), scientific calculators, motor nameplates (samples), drive ratio worksheet packet, whiteboard | 12-problem worksheet graded by instructor; students must score 80% or higher; errors in unit conversion or formula selection are flagged for remediation before Lesson 3. |
| 3 | V-Belt Drive Components: Identification, Selection, and Service Factors | 13 | theory | Students will identify classical and wedge V-belt cross-sections, read a manufacturer's selection table, and specify a belt and sheave combination that meets a given design service factor. |
| Assorted V-belts (classical and wedge, used and new samples), Vernier calipers, manufacturer V-belt selection guide (Gates or equivalent), NCCER Mechanical Drives trainee guide, PPE: safety glasses | Instructor observes calipers use for proper technique; students complete a belt selection form for two applications; both selections must match the manufacturer reference answer to pass (100% accuracy required on safety-relevant specifications). |
| 4 | V-Belt Installation, Tensioning, and Guard Replacement | 15 | lab | Students will install a matched V-belt set on a training drive unit, tension the belts to manufacturer specification using a tensioning gauge, and reinstall the drive guard correctly before re-energizing. |
| Industrial drive trainer with adjustable motor base, matched V-belt set, belt tension tester (Browning or equivalent), torque wrench, combination wrenches, OSHA-compliant belt guard, work order forms, PPE: safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection | Instructor uses a skills checklist (15 steps); student must correctly execute LOTO (go/no-go), tension within 10% of spec, and reinstall guard before sign-off; any LOTO violation is an automatic fail requiring full repeat. |
| 5 | Synchronous (Timing) Belt Drives | 13 | demo | Students will explain why synchronous belts are specified over V-belts in precision applications and correctly install and tension a synchronous belt drive on a trainer to manufacturer specification. |
| Synchronous belt drive bench trainer, assorted timing belts and sprockets, sonic tension meter or frequency app, straightedge, manufacturer installation sheets, PPE: safety glasses, gloves | Instructor observes each pair; tension reading must be within the manufacturer's acceptable range; students answer three oral questions on synchronous belt advantages; both components must pass. |
| 6 | Roller Chain Drives: Components, Lubrication, and Installation | 15 | lab | Students will size a roller chain drive using ANSI chain numbering, install the chain with a master link correctly oriented, set proper sag, and specify the correct lubrication method for the operating speed. |
| Chain drive bench trainer, ANSI roller chain samples (#40, #50, #60, #80), master links, chain breaker/riveting tool, Vernier caliper, ruler, chain lube samples, ANSI B29.1 reference chart, work order forms, PPE: safety glasses, gloves | Instructor inspects master link orientation and sag measurement; sag must be within ±1/8 inch of calculated target; lubrication selection must match reference answer; full LOTO compliance is verified before and after. |
| 7 | Gear Drive Fundamentals and Inspection | 13 | theory | Students will identify spur, helical, bevel, and worm gear types, calculate gear ratio from tooth counts, and list the inspection points for a gearbox during a scheduled maintenance check. |
| Cut-away gearbox training models (spur, helical, worm), functional training gearbox, oil level sight glass, gear ratio worksheet, inspection checklist forms, NCCER Mechanical Drives trainee guide, PPE: safety glasses | Gear ratio worksheet scored by instructor; 80% minimum; inspection checklist must have all 10 items addressed with correct pass/fail notation for the demo unit; instructor verifies accuracy. |
| 8 | Shaft Couplings: Types, Selection, and Alignment Theory | 11.5 | theory | Students will differentiate rigid, flexible jaw, grid, and disc couplings by design and application, and explain the two misalignment conditions (angular and parallel offset) that alignment procedures correct. |
| Coupling specimen set (rigid, jaw, grid, disc, fluid), coupling selection guide, alignment diagram worksheets, manufacturer alignment video, projector, PPE: safety glasses | Labeled diagram worksheet graded; students must correctly identify both misalignment types and provide a written correction step for each; 80% pass mark. |
| 9 | Shaft Alignment with Dial Indicators and Laser Tools | 19 | lab | Students will perform a two-indicator rim-and-face alignment on a coupled pump-motor trainer and achieve alignment within 0.002-inch total indicator reading (TIR) in both planes before re-energizing. |
| Pump-motor alignment trainer with deliberately introduced misalignment, magnetic dial indicator stands, dial indicators (0.001-inch resolution), feeler gauges, shim assortment, laser shaft alignment system (two-head), alignment record sheets, PPE: safety glasses, gloves | Final TIR reading recorded on alignment sheet; both angular and offset must be ≤0.002-inch TIR to pass; instructor measures independently to verify; LOTO compliance observed throughout. |
| 10 | Drive System Troubleshooting and Failure Analysis | 15 | practice | Students will diagnose at least four different seeded faults across belt, chain, and gear drive trainers and document a corrective action plan on a maintenance work order within the allotted time. |
| Four drive trainers with seeded faults (belt, chain, gear, coupling), infrared thermometer, vibration pen, chain wear gauge, dial indicator, work order forms, PPE: safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection | Work orders from all four stations reviewed by instructor; student must correctly identify root cause and document a valid corrective action for at least 3 of 4 stations (75%) to pass; LOTO observed at every station. |
| 11 | Predictive Maintenance Indicators for Mechanical Drives | 13 | demo | Students will use an infrared thermometer and a vibration pen to collect baseline and fault-condition readings on operating drive trainers and interpret the data against published acceptable ranges. |
| Operating drive trainers (baseline and seeded conditions), infrared thermometers, vibration pens, PM data sheet forms, graph paper or laptop with spreadsheet, published acceptable vibration and temperature reference ranges, PPE: safety glasses, hearing protection | PM data sheets reviewed: all required measurement points must be recorded; condition assessment paragraph must cite actual readings and match the expected finding for each trainer; 80% accuracy across data points. |
| 12 | Comprehensive Drive System Build and Documentation | 19 | lab | Students will plan, build, align, and commission a complete multi-component drive system (motor, coupling, gearbox, belt or chain final drive) from a given specification, producing a complete maintenance package before sign-off. |
| Modular drive build bench with motor, coupling set, gearbox, belt and chain final drive options, full toolset (wrenches, dial indicators, laser aligner, tension gauge), PPE full set, drive system specification sheets, documentation forms, NCCER trainee guide | Instructor uses a 20-point skills and documentation rubric; alignment must meet specified TIR; tension within spec; all documentation complete and accurate; oral questions scored separately; 80% overall to pass; LOTO is a go/no-go gate. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Drives Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 75% or higher (38 of 50 questions correct) | A 50-question written exam covering drive types, speed and torque calculations, service factors, gear ratios, coupling selection, failure mode identification, and LOTO requirements for mechanical drives; questions are aligned to NCCER Industrial Maintenance module objectives and MSSC CPT maintenance awareness competency area. Students who score below 75% receive targeted remediation and one retake opportunity. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Shaft Alignment and Drive Installation Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | Achieve alignment ≤0.002-inch TIR in both planes; score 16 of 20 points on the skills checklist; zero LOTO violations | The student independently performs LOTO, installs an assigned drive component set on the alignment trainer, achieves specified alignment tolerance, tensions the belt or chain to manufacturer spec, reinstalls all guards, and re-energizes safely while an instructor scores each step on a 20-point checklist. Any LOTO violation is an automatic fail regardless of other scores, consistent with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Maintenance Lab Log | Log | 15% | 10 of 12 required lab entries present, complete, and accurate; no entries missing LOTO documentation | Students maintain a lab log throughout the course capturing LOTO procedures, alignment records, tensioning records, PM data sheets, and fault-diagnosis work orders from each lab session; entries are reviewed at mid-course (Lesson 6) and at course end for completeness, accuracy, and professional format. The log mirrors industry documentation practices evaluated in the NCCER Registry portfolio and MSSC CPT process documentation competency. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Drive System Safety Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100% compliance on all 8 LOTO and guarding checklist items; no unsafe acts observed | A go/no-go safety observation conducted by the instructor during the Lesson 12 comprehensive build; the instructor uses an 8-item checklist covering: written LOTO procedure present before work begins, all energy sources isolated and verified, personal lock applied, zero-energy verification performed, proper PPE worn throughout, no body parts in the line of motion during energized observation, drive guard reinstalled before re-energization, and safe shutdown of equipment at task completion. Any single item marked non-compliant requires the student to repeat the full build before course completion. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
This course develops the knowledge and hands-on skills to select, install, maintain, and troubleshoot rolling-element and plain bearings used in industrial and marine machinery. Students apply precision measurement, lubrication science, and systematic failure analysis to minimize unplanned downtime and extend equipment service life. Lesson content maps to NCCER Industrial Maintenance Core and Level 1 craft areas and MSSC CPT Quality Practices and Maintenance Awareness competency domains.
OutcomesThis course develops the knowledge and hands-on skills to select, install, maintain, and troubleshoot rolling-element and plain bearings used in industrial and marine machinery. Students apply precision measurement, lubrication science, and systematic failure analysis to minimize unplanned downtime and extend equipment service life. Lesson content maps to NCCER Industrial Maintenance Core and Level 1 craft areas and MSSC CPT Quality Practices and Maintenance Awareness competency domains.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: Bearing Fundamentals: Types, Nomenclature, and Standards; Safety for Bearing Work: LOTO, PPE, and Shop Hazards; Precision Measurement for Bearing Fits; Bearing Lubrication: Grease, Oil, and Relubrication Intervals; Lubrication Hands-On: Greasing, Oil Changes, and Contamination Control; Bearing Removal: Pullers, Presses, and Thermal Methods; Bearing Installation: Mechanical, Thermal, and Hydraulic Methods; Bearing Alignment: Shaft Alignment and Bearing Seating in Housings; Bearing Failure Analysis: Modes, Root Causes, and Reporting; Vibration and Temperature Monitoring for Bearing Condition; Marine and Heavy-Industry Bearing Applications; Integrated Bearing Maintenance Task: Removal, Inspection, Installation, and Documentation.
What competent looks like. Identify and classify rolling-element and plain bearing types by design, load rating, and application using manufacturer catalogs and engineering drawings. Select the correct bearing for a given shaft speed, load direction, temperature, and environmental condition using industry selection criteria. Install and remove bearings using thermally assisted and mechanical methods while applying lockout/tagout and proper PPE throughout the procedure. Apply the correct lubricant type, quantity, and relubrication interval for a bearing application using manufacturer specifications and lubrication charts. Measure shaft and housing fits using micrometers, dial indicators, and bore gauges and evaluate readings against tolerance tables. Diagnose bearing failure mode from physical evidence, vibration signature, and temperature data and recommend a corrective action.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bearing Fundamentals: Types, Nomenclature, and Standards | 11.5 | theory | Students will classify at least eight rolling-element and plain bearing types by design and operating function using ABMA/ISO naming conventions. |
| Assorted bearing samples (ball, roller, tapered, needle, thrust, sleeve/plain, spherical roller, angular contact); SKF or equivalent bearing catalog; ABMA/ISO standard reference handout; whiteboard; student notebooks. | Five-question oral identification quiz on bearing samples; student must correctly classify all five samples by type and load direction — 100% pass required before advancing. |
| 2 | Safety for Bearing Work: LOTO, PPE, and Shop Hazards | 9.5 | theory | Students will demonstrate the full six-step OSHA lockout/tagout procedure and select correct PPE for each stage of bearing removal, installation, and lubrication tasks. |
| De-energized training rig with lockout points; personal locks and tags; OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 reference card; PPE samples (heat-resistant gloves, safety glasses, face shield, steel-toe boots, nitrile gloves); voltage tester; LOTO procedure checklist. | Instructor-scored LOTO checklist; all nine procedural steps must be completed correctly and in sequence — any missed step requires an immediate repeat attempt; 100% procedural compliance required. |
| 3 | Precision Measurement for Bearing Fits | 15 | lab | Students will measure shaft and housing diameters to ±0.0001 in. using outside micrometers and bore gauges and classify the resulting fit (interference, transition, or clearance) against ISO tolerance tables. |
| 0–1 in. and 1–2 in. outside micrometers; dial bore gauge set; ring gauge masters; set of practice shafts and bored housings with known dimensions; ISO fits and tolerances reference table (ISO 286); torque wrench for gauge calibration verification; student lab worksheets. | Lab worksheet graded by instructor: shaft and housing measurements within ±0.0002 in. of instructor reference values and correct fit classification for at least five of six pairs — 83% accuracy minimum to pass. |
| 4 | Bearing Lubrication: Grease, Oil, and Relubrication Intervals | 13 | theory | Students will select the correct lubricant type and calculate a relubrication interval for a given bearing application using manufacturer specification data and an NLGI grease classification chart. |
| NLGI grease classification chart; bearing manufacturer lubrication guide (SKF or equivalent); lubricant samples (NLGI 2 grease, ISO VG 68 oil, food-grade grease); relubrication calculation worksheet; maintenance log scenario handout. | Worksheet graded: lubricant selection correct for all three scenarios and relubrication interval within ±10% of instructor answer key for at least three of four machines — 75% minimum pass. |
| 5 | Lubrication Hands-On: Greasing, Oil Changes, and Contamination Control | 13 | lab | Students will correctly grease a pillow-block bearing, perform an oil-bath level check and drain-and-refill on a gearbox training unit, and prevent contamination using proper handling and purge procedures. |
| Pillow-block bearing assemblies; manual grease gun; NLGI 2 grease; training gearbox with drain plug and sight glass; ISO VG 68 oil; used oil sample vials; 10× loupe; replacement seals (lip and labyrinth); maintenance log forms; condition report forms; nitrile gloves; spill absorbent pads. | Instructor observes each student's grease quantity accuracy (strokes within ±2 of calculated value), oil level at center of sight glass ±1 mm, and completed contamination report with correct seal selection — all three tasks must be satisfactory to pass. |
| 6 | Bearing Removal: Pullers, Presses, and Thermal Methods | 15 | demo | Students will safely remove a rolling-element bearing from a shaft using a mechanical puller and a hydraulic press, applying LOTO and selecting the correct tooling to avoid damage to adjacent components. |
| Assorted practice shafts with press-fit bearings; two-jaw and three-jaw mechanical bearing pullers; 10-ton hydraulic press; press plates and shaft supports; bearing failure mode wall chart; condition inspection worksheets; calipers; LOTO locks and tags; safety glasses; heat-resistant gloves. | Instructor checklist: student completes LOTO before beginning, selects correct puller jaw contact point (inner ring for inner-ring interference fit), removes bearing without scoring shaft, and correctly identifies one damage pattern on inspection — all four criteria required to pass. |
| 7 | Bearing Installation: Mechanical, Thermal, and Hydraulic Methods | 17 | lab | Students will install a rolling-element bearing to a shaft and housing using a bearing installation tool set, a bearing heater, and a hydraulic injection method, verifying correct seating with a feeler gauge. |
| Bearing fitting tool set (sleeve and adapter set); induction bearing heater or bearing oven; infrared thermometer; feeler gauge set; assorted practice shafts and housings; new bearings (deep-groove ball, cylindrical roller); heat-resistant gloves; bearing installation reference card; lab log forms. | Lab log reviewed by instructor: thermal installation temperature within manufacturer's recommended range (documented with thermometer reading), feeler gauge gap at or below allowable maximum for all three installations, and no visible brinelling or raceway scoring — all criteria must be met to pass. |
| 8 | Bearing Alignment: Shaft Alignment and Bearing Seating in Housings | 13 | lab | Students will align a motor-to-pump shaft assembly to within accepted parallel and angular tolerances using a dial indicator and a straight-edge check, and confirm pillow-block housing squareness before final bolt torque. |
| Motor-pump training assembly on adjustable baseplate; shim stock assortment; dial indicator with magnetic base; straight-edge; feeler gauge set; torque wrench; pillow-block assemblies; alignment calculation worksheet; coupling hub. | Instructor measures final dial indicator readings: parallel misalignment ≤0.002 in. and angular misalignment ≤0.002 in./in. and housing squareness ≤0.001 in. TIR — all three criteria must be within tolerance to pass. |
| 9 | Bearing Failure Analysis: Modes, Root Causes, and Reporting | 15 | theory | Students will identify at least six bearing failure modes from physical samples and photographs and state a probable root cause and corrective action for each using a standard failure analysis framework. |
| Failed bearing sample collection (minimum eight distinct failure modes); bearing failure analysis wall chart (SKF or equivalent); condition report template; cause-and-effect diagram worksheet; camera or smartphone for photos; student notebooks. | Written failure analysis report graded against a rubric: correct failure mode identification, plausible root cause, and actionable corrective action — minimum score of 75% on rubric required; oral follow-up question by instructor to confirm student can defend findings. |
| 10 | Vibration and Temperature Monitoring for Bearing Condition | 13 | demo | Students will take a baseline vibration reading and a bearing surface temperature reading on a running training machine, compare both to acceptable limits, and determine whether a bearing should be replaced or monitored. |
| Running motor-pump training assembly with accessible bearing housings; handheld vibration pen or basic vibration analyzer; infrared thermometer; ISO 10816 zone reference card (or OEM limit sheet); vibration trending log forms; condition report forms; hearing protection (for running equipment area). | Instructor reviews trending log: vibration readings recorded at all three positions with correct units, correct ISO zone classification for each reading, and temperature data recorded for all accessible housings with abnormal ones correctly flagged — all fields complete and classifications correct to pass. |
| 11 | Marine and Heavy-Industry Bearing Applications | 13 | field | Students will identify bearing types, lubrication systems, and maintenance procedures specific to marine vessel propulsion systems and heavy manufacturing equipment during a guided facility or vessel inspection. |
| Student notebooks; camera or smartphone (if permitted by host); pre-visit equipment list; comparison report template; field safety PPE (hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toe boots, hearing protection); signed safety waiver for host site. | Comparison report reviewed by instructor: must include accurate identification of at least two bearing types observed, a correctly labeled lubrication path sketch, and two marine/heavy-industry maintenance challenges with one justified procedure difference — all four elements required to pass. |
| 12 | Integrated Bearing Maintenance Task: Removal, Inspection, Installation, and Documentation | 23 | lab | Students will independently complete a full bearing maintenance cycle — LOTO, removal, inspection, lubricant selection, installation, alignment verification, and failure report documentation — on a multi-bearing training assembly to a professional maintenance standard. |
| Multi-bearing training assembly; full bearing puller and installation tool set; induction heater; hydraulic press; micrometer and bore gauge set; dial indicator; infrared thermometer; vibration pen; torque wrench; shim stock; grease gun; lubricant supply; bearing supply crib with multiple bearing options; maintenance work order forms; LOTO equipment. | Instructor evaluates using a 20-point skills checklist covering LOTO compliance, measurement accuracy (shaft/housing within ±0.0002 in. of reference), installation method correctness, alignment within tolerance, lubrication quantity accuracy, and complete work order documentation — minimum 16 of 20 points (80%) required to pass; LOTO failure results in automatic repeat. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bearing Theory Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 75% correct (38 of 50 questions) | A 50-question written exam covering bearing type identification and nomenclature, lubrication principles (NLGI grades, viscosity, relubrication intervals), ISO fit system terminology, failure mode definitions, and vibration and temperature monitoring concepts. Questions are drawn from Lessons 1, 4, 9, and 10 and are mapped to NCCER Industrial Maintenance craft knowledge areas and MSSC CPT Maintenance Awareness domain. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Practical Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | 80% on instructor checklist (16 of 20 criteria) with zero LOTO failures | The instructor assigns each student a bearing removal, installation, and alignment task on the training assembly under timed conditions (90 minutes); the student must apply LOTO, select and use correct tooling, install the bearing using thermal or press method, verify seating with a feeler gauge, and achieve alignment within the specified tolerance. The checklist from Lesson 12 is the scoring instrument, and any LOTO omission is an automatic fail requiring a full reassessment. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Lab Log Portfolio | Log | 15% | All 12 lesson lab logs or worksheets submitted; minimum 75% average score across graded entries | Students maintain a running lab log throughout the course documenting measurements, lubricant calculations, inspection findings, vibration readings, and condition reports from each hands-on and lab lesson. The log is reviewed by the instructor at the midpoint (after Lesson 6) for completeness and once more at course end; entries must include actual measured values, units, tolerance comparisons, and student signature with date — the marine field visit comparison report counts as one graded entry. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Safety and LOTO Compliance Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100% procedural compliance on all nine LOTO steps; zero unsafe acts observed during any lab | The instructor conducts an unannounced LOTO verification during one of the lab sessions in the second half of the course: the student must isolate all energy sources, apply personal lock and tag, verify zero energy, and restore energy correctly without prompting. Additionally, the instructor maintains a cumulative safety observation log throughout all lab and demo sessions; any student who receives two documented unsafe-act observations must repeat the Lesson 2 LOTO hands-on activity before the skills demonstration can be attempted. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
Students develop comprehensive competency in centrifugal, positive-displacement, and specialty pumps used in manufacturing and marine environments, covering hydraulic principles, system components, alignment, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance. Instruction integrates OSHA lockout/tagout protocols, precision measurement, and pump curve analysis throughout every phase. Lessons map directly to NCCER Industrial Maintenance Core and Level 1–2 pump-related task areas and MSSC CPT Manufacturing Processes and Production domain.
OutcomesStudents develop comprehensive competency in centrifugal, positive-displacement, and specialty pumps used in manufacturing and marine environments, covering hydraulic principles, system components, alignment, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance. Instruction integrates OSHA lockout/tagout protocols, precision measurement, and pump curve analysis throughout every phase. Lessons map directly to NCCER Industrial Maintenance Core and Level 1–2 pump-related task areas and MSSC CPT Manufacturing Processes and Production domain.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: Pump Fundamentals and Fluid Mechanics Review; Pump Types, Construction, and Selection; Safety, LOTO, and Hazard Communication for Pump Systems; Reading Pump Performance Curves and System Curves; Centrifugal Pump Components and Disassembly; Mechanical Seals and Packing: Inspection and Replacement; Pump Alignment: Flexible Coupling and Shaft Alignment; Pump Installation: Piping, Supports, and System Commissioning; Positive-Displacement Pumps: Gear, Vane, and Diaphragm; Marine Pump Applications: Bilge, Ballast, Fire, and Cooling Systems; Pump Troubleshooting: Diagnosis and Corrective Action; Preventive Maintenance Programs and Documentation.
What competent looks like. Identify and describe the operating principles of centrifugal, reciprocating, gear, vane, and diaphragm pumps and select the appropriate pump type for a given service condition. Apply hydraulic principles including pressure, flow, head, and net positive suction head (NPSH) to calculate pump system requirements and read a pump performance curve. Install, align, and couple a centrifugal pump to its driver using precision measurement tools, meeting manufacturer tolerances for parallel and angular misalignment. Perform scheduled preventive maintenance on pumps and sealing systems, including mechanical seal and packing inspection, bearing lubrication, and impeller clearance adjustment, following written maintenance procedures. Diagnose common pump faults—cavitation, vibration, seal failure, loss of prime, and overheating—using systematic troubleshooting methods and document findings in a maintenance work order. Execute all pump work in compliance with OSHA lockout/tagout (LOTO) standards, hazard communication (HazCom/GHS), and confined-space awareness requirements, wearing correct PPE for each task.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pump Fundamentals and Fluid Mechanics Review | 13 | theory | Students will explain Pascal's Law, Bernoulli's principle, pressure, flow rate, velocity, and viscosity and apply these concepts to describe how energy is transferred in a pump system. |
| Whiteboard, pump cross-section poster, pipe friction loss reference tables, scientific calculators, graph paper, NCCER Industrial Maintenance Level 1 Core textbook, Hydraulics & Pneumatics by Harry Stewart (reference) | Completed worksheet scored by instructor; students must achieve 80% or higher on fluid-mechanics calculation problems to proceed. |
| 2 | Pump Types, Construction, and Selection | 15 | theory | Students will classify centrifugal, gear, vane, piston, diaphragm, and peristaltic pumps by operating principle, list major internal components of each, and match pump type to a specified fluid service condition. |
| Disassembled pump display set (minimum four pump types), manufacturer selection catalogs, fluid compatibility reference chart, lab notebooks, projector, NCCER Industrial Maintenance textbook chapters on pump types | Completed comparison matrix and component-identification diagram checked by instructor; 100% of components must be correctly identified and labeled before the student advances. |
| 3 | Safety, LOTO, and Hazard Communication for Pump Systems | 13 | theory | Students will correctly apply OSHA lockout/tagout procedures specific to pump systems, identify PPE requirements for each pump task, and interpret a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for a fluid handled by a pump. |
| Training pump station with electrical disconnect and manual isolation valves, LOTO hardware kit (locks, tags, hasps, lockout boxes), SDS documents for three sample fluids, PPE display (gloves, safety glasses, face shield, chemical-resistant apron, steel-toe boots), OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 reference handout | Each student must independently complete a written LOTO procedure form with zero critical errors (defined as any step that would leave an energy source uncontrolled) and score 80% or higher on the SDS worksheet. |
| 4 | Reading Pump Performance Curves and System Curves | 10.5 | theory | Students will read a manufacturer's pump performance curve to determine head, flow, efficiency, brake horsepower, and NPSH required at a given operating point, and overlay a system curve to identify the operating point. |
| Printed manufacturer pump curves (minimum two different pump models), graph paper, rulers, scientific calculators, colored pencils, NCCER Industrial Maintenance pump performance curve handout | Instructor reviews plotted system curves and operating-point identification; students must correctly identify the operating point within 5% of instructor-determined value and score 80% or higher on the worksheet. |
| 5 | Centrifugal Pump Components and Disassembly | 15 | demo | Students will disassemble a centrifugal pump following a written procedure, identify every major component by name and function, measure impeller clearance with a feeler gauge, and reassemble the pump to manufacturer specification. |
| End-suction centrifugal pumps (one per two students), manufacturer service manuals, feeler gauge sets, torque wrench, parts mats, snap-ring pliers, bearing pullers, soft-faced mallets, dial indicator, data sheets, lab notebooks | Instructor observes reassembly; pump must rotate freely with no binding, impeller clearance recorded within ±0.002 in of specification, and all fasteners torqued to specification—any miss is a fail requiring repeat. |
| 6 | Mechanical Seals and Packing: Inspection and Replacement | 15 | lab | Students will remove a worn mechanical seal and packing from pump shafts, identify failure mode from wear patterns, install replacement components to manufacturer specification, and adjust packing gland to the correct leak rate. |
| Training pump shafts with seal chambers, mechanical seal display set (failed examples), new cartridge mechanical seals, compression packing material (braided), packing removal tools (hook picks), surface comparator, packing gland trainers, torque wrench, manufacturer installation instructions, safety glasses, nitrile gloves | Instructor inspects completed mechanical seal installation (spring compression within spec, no cocked seal faces) and observes packing gland adjustment; student must achieve proper drip rate within two adjustments and sign a completed inspection checklist. |
| 7 | Pump Alignment: Flexible Coupling and Shaft Alignment | 17 | lab | Students will align a pump and motor using a straightedge and feeler gauge method and then verify or improve the alignment using a dial indicator rim-and-face method, achieving parallel and angular misalignment within the manufacturer's acceptable tolerance. |
| Pump-motor training base plates (one set per two students), dial indicators and magnetic bases, feeler gauge sets, shim stock assortment, combination wrench set, precision straightedge, soft-foot detection procedure card, alignment data forms, lab notebooks, safety glasses, manufacturer coupling tolerance specification sheet | Instructor measures final alignment with a reference dial indicator setup; both parallel and angular misalignment must be within manufacturer-stated tolerance (typically ±0.002–0.005 in depending on coupling type) or student repeats the alignment exercise. |
| 8 | Pump Installation: Piping, Supports, and System Commissioning | 13 | lab | Students will install a pump into a piping system following installation best practices, including proper support, correct flange gasket installation, priming, and initial commissioning checks before startup. |
| Training pump installation loop (skid-mounted), pipe wrenches, torque wrench, flange gaskets, bolt assortment, suction strainer, pressure gauges, startup checklist form, lab notebooks, hearing protection, safety glasses, NCCER pump installation reference | Instructor observes startup sequence; pump must reach design discharge pressure within 10% of nameplate, show no visible seal leakage, and student must complete every item on the startup checklist with zero skipped steps. |
| 9 | Positive-Displacement Pumps: Gear, Vane, and Diaphragm | 13 | demo | Students will demonstrate understanding of positive-displacement pump operation by disassembling a gear pump and a diaphragm pump, measuring internal clearances, identifying wear, and describing how a relief valve protects a PD pump circuit. |
| External gear pump (training unit), double-diaphragm pump (training unit), replacement diaphragm kits, feeler gauge set, combination wrenches, manufacturer service manuals, schematic paper, inspection forms, lab notebooks, safety glasses, nitrile gloves | Instructor inspects reassembled diaphragm pump for correct diaphragm seating and proper valve ball orientation; student must score 80% or higher on a 10-question exit quiz on PD pump principles and relief valve function. |
| 10 | Marine Pump Applications: Bilge, Ballast, Fire, and Cooling Systems | 13 | field | Students will identify bilge, ballast, seawater cooling, and fire main pump installations on a marine vessel or marine facility, describe the regulatory and operational requirements for each system, and perform a functional inspection of one accessible pump. |
| Field notebooks, inspection checklist forms, PPE (life vests if aboard a vessel, hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toe boots), camera or smartphone for documentation, ABYC or vessel manufacturer pump system reference (as available), arranged site access and supervisor contact | Completed and countersigned field inspection checklist and a one-page written summary of the technician interview, submitted within 48 hours of the field visit; all safety protocols (signed waiver, required PPE) must be observed or student is removed from site. |
| 11 | Pump Troubleshooting: Diagnosis and Corrective Action | 17 | lab | Students will systematically diagnose at least five fault conditions—cavitation, loss of prime, excessive vibration, seal leakage, and overheating—on a live training pump station and document a corrective action plan on a maintenance work order. |
| Training pump stations with pre-staged faults (minimum five stations), pressure gauges, vibration pen or vibration meter, infrared thermometer, maintenance work order forms, troubleshooting fault-tree worksheet, lab notebooks, LOTO hardware kit, PPE | Each student must correctly identify all five faults (confirmed by instructor fault log) and submit completed work orders; a correctly diagnosed fault requires accurate symptom description, root cause, and a plausible corrective action—fewer than four correct diagnoses requires a repeat session. |
| 12 | Preventive Maintenance Programs and Documentation | 15.5 | practice | Students will develop a written preventive maintenance (PM) schedule for a pump system, perform a full PM on a training pump following that schedule, and complete all required maintenance documentation including work orders, lubrication records, and parts requisition forms. |
| Training centrifugal pumps (one per student or pair), manufacturer service manuals, grease guns with correct grease (per manufacturer spec), infrared thermometer, feeler gauges, PM schedule template, work order forms, lubrication record cards, parts requisition forms, lab notebooks, PPE | Instructor reviews PM schedule for completeness and correct intervals, observes execution of lubrication task for correct technique and quantity, and reviews completed paperwork set; all three documents must be fully complete with no blank required fields and bearing temperature must be recorded—incomplete paperwork or missed lubrication steps require revision and resubmission. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pump Systems Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 70% or higher (28 of 40 questions correct) | A 40-question written exam covering fluid mechanics, pump types and selection, performance curve interpretation, seal and packing types, PM intervals, and troubleshooting principles, mapped to NCCER Industrial Maintenance pump task areas and MSSC CPT Manufacturing Processes domain; questions include multiple choice, matching, and short-answer diagram labeling. Students who score below 70% receive one remediation session and one retest opportunity. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Pump Installation and Alignment Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | All critical steps completed correctly with no safety violations; alignment within manufacturer tolerance | Each student independently performs a timed practical demonstration: execute LOTO on a pump-motor set, install a mechanical seal, align the pump to the motor using a dial indicator rim-and-face method, prime the pump, and execute a supervised startup while verbalizing each safety check; the instructor scores the student against a 20-point rubric where any critical safety error (skipped LOTO step, removing lockout without restoring isolation) results in an immediate stop and automatic fail requiring full repeat. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Lab Notebook and Maintenance Documentation Log | Log | 15% | 90% of required entries present and legible; all data sheets fully completed with units and dates | Students submit their cumulative lab notebook containing measurement data sheets from Lessons 5, 6, 7, 8, and 12, the field inspection checklist from Lesson 10, and the complete PM documentation set from Lesson 12; the instructor evaluates each entry for completeness, legibility, correct units, and honest recording of out-of-specification measurements, consistent with NCCER craft documentation standards and good industrial record-keeping practice. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Pump Safety and LOTO Compliance Check | Safety audit | 15% | Zero critical errors; 100% of required PPE worn throughout; LOTO form completed without omission | Prior to every hands-on lab session, the instructor or a designated safety observer conducts a pre-task safety check using a standardized checklist: correct PPE selected and worn, LOTO hardware in hand or applied, SDS located for any chemical involved, and the student can verbally state the hazards of the task; any student who fails the safety check is not permitted to proceed with the lab until the deficiency is corrected, and two safety-check failures in the course trigger a mandatory safety conference with the program director. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
This course develops the electrical knowledge and hands-on skills required to safely install, troubleshoot, and maintain the industrial electrical systems found in manufacturing plants and marine facilities. Learners work from OSHA electrical safety standards, the National Electrical Code as it applies to industrial equipment, and NCCER Industrial Maintenance electrical modules. Topics span AC/DC theory, motor controls, three-phase distribution, conduit work, and systematic fault diagnosis using test instruments.
OutcomesThis course develops the electrical knowledge and hands-on skills required to safely install, troubleshoot, and maintain the industrial electrical systems found in manufacturing plants and marine facilities. Learners work from OSHA electrical safety standards, the National Electrical Code as it applies to industrial equipment, and NCCER Industrial Maintenance electrical modules. Topics span AC/DC theory, motor controls, three-phase distribution, conduit work, and systematic fault diagnosis using test instruments.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: Electrical Safety: OSHA, NFPA 70E, Arc-Flash, and Lockout/Tagout; Electrical Fundamentals: Voltage, Current, Resistance, and Ohm's Law; AC Theory: Sine Waves, Frequency, Phase, and Power Factor; Three-Phase Power Distribution and Industrial Wiring Systems; Electrical Test Instruments: DMM, Clamp Meter, and Megohmmeter; Reading Electrical Schematics: Ladder Diagrams and Wiring Diagrams; Motor Control Devices: Push Buttons, Contactors, Overload Relays, and Starters; Conduit Installation: Rigid Metal Conduit, EMT, and Flexible Conduit; Grounding, Bonding, and Overcurrent Protection; Single-Phase and Three-Phase Motor Connections and Nameplate Data; Systematic Electrical Troubleshooting: Diagnosis and Documentation; Credential Mapping, Code Review, and Electrical Systems Integration.
What competent looks like. Apply OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart S electrical safety rules and NFPA 70E arc-flash requirements, including selecting proper PPE and executing lockout/tagout on electrical energy sources before any work begins. Read and interpret single-line diagrams, ladder logic schematics, and motor-control wiring diagrams to determine correct circuit operation and identify fault locations. Use a digital multimeter, clamp-on ammeter, and megohmmeter correctly to take voltage, current, resistance, and insulation-resistance measurements within manufacturer-specified tolerances. Connect, test, and troubleshoot three-phase AC motor branch circuits including across-the-line starters, overload relays, and common control devices such as push buttons, limit switches, and selector switches. Install rigid metal conduit, electrical metallic tubing, and flexible conduit with proper fittings, supports, and wire fill according to NEC tables for the conductor sizes used. Perform a documented, step-by-step electrical fault diagnosis on an industrial motor-control circuit and restore the circuit to correct operation, demonstrating systematic troubleshooting methodology.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Electrical Safety: OSHA, NFPA 70E, Arc-Flash, and Lockout/Tagout | 14.5 | theory | Given a described electrical work scenario, the learner will correctly identify the applicable OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart S requirements, the arc-flash hazard category, and the required PPE and LOTO steps before any exposure to energized conductors. |
| OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart S printed excerpts, NFPA 70E current edition (classroom copies), NCCER Industrial Maintenance Core and Electrical modules, LOTO training panel, personal padlocks and tags, digital multimeter, arc-flash PPE demonstration kit (face shield, arc-rated gloves, arc-rated FR clothing, rubber insulating gloves with leather protectors) | Written safety quiz of 20 questions covering OSHA electrical safety rules, NFPA 70E PPE selection, and LOTO steps; learner must score 80% or higher AND correctly complete the practical LOTO sign-off with zero procedural errors to advance. |
| 2 | Electrical Fundamentals: Voltage, Current, Resistance, and Ohm's Law | 12.5 | theory | The learner will apply Ohm's Law and Kirchhoff's Voltage and Current Laws to calculate unknown values in series, parallel, and series-parallel DC circuits, showing all work and achieving correct answers within 5% tolerance. |
| Variable DC power supply (0–30 V), fixed resistors (assorted), digital multimeters, breadboards, connecting leads, NCCER Industrial Maintenance Electrical Level One module, scientific calculators, graph paper for circuit sketches | Ten-problem calculation quiz plus measurement accuracy check: learner's DMM readings must match calculated values within 5%; passing score 80% on quiz and all measurements within tolerance. |
| 3 | AC Theory: Sine Waves, Frequency, Phase, and Power Factor | 12.5 | theory | The learner will describe the characteristics of a sinusoidal AC waveform, calculate RMS voltage and current from peak values, and explain the effect of power factor on apparent versus true power in an industrial load. |
| Digital oscilloscope (or PC-based oscilloscope), step-down isolation transformer, DMM, resistors and inductors for bench demonstration, circuit simulation software on classroom computers, NCCER Industrial Maintenance Electrical module, calculators | Worksheet of eight AC theory problems; learner must achieve 80% correct calculations AND correctly read at least two oscilloscope waveform parameters (peak voltage and frequency) within 5% of the true value. |
| 4 | Three-Phase Power Distribution and Industrial Wiring Systems | 14.5 | theory | The learner will calculate line and phase voltages and currents for both wye and delta three-phase systems and identify conductor color coding, grounding requirements, and overcurrent protection sizing for a given industrial feeder. |
| Whiteboard and markers, de-energized three-phase training panel with LOTO applied, NEC codebook (current edition), NCCER Industrial Maintenance Electrical module, conductor ampacity tables, calculators | Problem set of ten three-phase and NEC sizing questions; learner must score 80% and correctly identify all circuit components on the training panel sketch during instructor review. |
| 5 | Electrical Test Instruments: DMM, Clamp Meter, and Megohmmeter | 14.5 | demo | The learner will select the correct instrument and range, take AC/DC voltage, current, resistance, and insulation-resistance measurements on industrial circuits and motors, and record readings with correct units and within manufacturer-stated accuracy. |
| Digital multimeters (CAT III rated minimum), clamp-on ammeters (true RMS), megohmmeter (500 V and 1000 V ranges), live low-voltage training panel, three-phase motor training bench, arc-flash PPE set, LOTO equipment, instrument user manuals, NCCER Electrical module | Practical skills checklist: learner must demonstrate correct instrument selection, safe lead connection, and accurate reading (within instrument tolerance) for six specified measurements; all six must be completed correctly with zero safety violations to pass. |
| 6 | Reading Electrical Schematics: Ladder Diagrams and Wiring Diagrams | 12.5 | theory | Given a full motor-control ladder diagram and its corresponding wiring diagram, the learner will trace the control circuit logic, identify all devices by their schematic symbol, and predict circuit behavior under three specified operating conditions. |
| NCCER Industrial Maintenance Electrical module schematic sets, printed full-size ladder and wiring diagrams for a three-phase across-the-line starter, colored pencils, symbol reference cards | Learner must correctly label all components and trace both circuits on a new unseen diagram with 90% accuracy, and predict correct symptom for at least two of three fault scenarios; overall 80% score required. |
| 7 | Motor Control Devices: Push Buttons, Contactors, Overload Relays, and Starters | 16.5 | lab | The learner will correctly wire and functionally test an across-the-line three-phase motor starter from a ladder diagram, including a momentary start/stop circuit with holding contact and thermal overload relay, with zero wiring errors on inspection. |
| NEMA-rated magnetic contactors and thermal overload relays (assorted sizes), push-button stations (NO and NC), 120 V AC control transformer, wiring training boards, 18 AWG and 14 AWG THHN wire, wire strippers, screwdrivers, DMM, NCCER Electrical module, ladder diagrams | Instructor wiring inspection checklist (zero wiring errors required) plus functional test: circuit must start, run, stop, and trip/reset on simulated overload correctly; learner must locate all three injected faults using correct voltage-test method within the lab period to pass. |
| 8 | Conduit Installation: Rigid Metal Conduit, EMT, and Flexible Conduit | 16.5 | lab | The learner will cut, ream, bend, and install a three-piece conduit run consisting of EMT with at least two 90-degree bends and one offset, secured with proper supports, and pulled with conductors sized per NEC fill tables, meeting a plumb and level standard of within 1/4 inch over 4 feet. |
| EMT conduit (1/2 in. and 3/4 in.), rigid metal conduit sample pieces, flexible conduit, hand benders (1/2 in. and 3/4 in.), tubing cutters, reamer, hacksaw, conduit straps and connectors, wire-pulling lubricant, THHN conductors (assorted gauges), torpedo level, tape measure, NEC codebook, NCCER Electrical module | Instructor evaluates finished conduit run against a checklist: all bends within ±2 degrees of specified angle, run plumb and level within 1/4 inch per 4 feet, supports at correct intervals, correct conduit fill calculation with no more than 40% fill; all items on checklist must be satisfactory to pass. |
| 9 | Grounding, Bonding, and Overcurrent Protection | 12.5 | theory | The learner will distinguish between equipment grounding, system grounding, and bonding, explain the purpose of each in an industrial setting, and correctly select an overcurrent protective device for a given motor branch circuit using NEC Article 430. |
| NEC codebook (current edition), color-coded industrial panel diagram sets, NCCER Electrical module, motor nameplate data sheets, calculators | NEC sizing worksheet scored by instructor: learner must correctly select conductor, breaker, and overload for at least three of four motors AND correctly label the grounding diagram with zero errors to achieve 80% overall pass. |
| 10 | Single-Phase and Three-Phase Motor Connections and Nameplate Data | 16.5 | lab | Given a dual-voltage three-phase induction motor and its nameplate, the learner will correctly connect the motor leads for both voltage configurations, perform a pre-start insulation-resistance test, run the motor, and verify rotation and full-load current against nameplate values. |
| Dual-voltage three-phase induction motors (9-lead), motor-starter test bench with proper overcurrent protection, megohmmeter, clamp-on ammeter, phase sequence / rotation indicator, LOTO equipment, arc-flash PPE, motor connection diagrams, NCCER Electrical module, motor nameplate data cards | Instructor checklist: correct nameplate interpretation (all eight values correctly explained), zero wiring errors on each connection configuration confirmed before power-up, measured phase currents within 10% of nameplate FLA and current imbalance within 5% between phases; all items must be satisfactory to pass. |
| 11 | Systematic Electrical Troubleshooting: Diagnosis and Documentation | 18.5 | practice | Using a systematic voltage-testing and resistance-testing approach, the learner will diagnose and correct four seeded faults of increasing complexity in a three-phase motor-control circuit within a specified time and document each fault, test method, finding, and repair in a written troubleshooting report. |
| Three-phase motor-control training bench with seeded-fault capability, DMM, clamp-on ammeter, LOTO equipment, arc-flash PPE, ladder diagrams for the bench circuit, troubleshooting flowchart reference card, NCCER Electrical module, lined paper or laptop for report writing | Learner must correctly diagnose and repair all four faults with zero unsafe acts; the written report must identify the correct fault, test method, and measured values for each fault, scored by instructor rubric; passing standard is correct diagnosis and proper documentation of at least three of four faults with no safety violations. |
| 12 | Credential Mapping, Code Review, and Electrical Systems Integration | 8.5 | practice | The learner will successfully complete a timed integrated scenario that requires reading a schematic, selecting and sizing conductors and overcurrent protection, wiring a starter circuit, and troubleshooting a seeded fault, demonstrating readiness for the NCCER Industrial Maintenance Electrical module assessment and the MSSC CPT Manufacturing Processes and Production domain. |
| NCCER Industrial Maintenance Electrical module performance profile, MSSC CPT exam blueprint (publicly available outline), NEC codebook, motor training bench, wiring training board, DMM, megohmmeter, clamp-on ammeter, LOTO equipment, arc-flash PPE, printed scenario packets, stopwatch | Instructor evaluates the integration scenario using a rubric covering NEC sizing accuracy (80% of calculations correct), wiring correctness (zero errors before power-up), safe work practices (zero violations), fault diagnosis (correct identification), and documentation completeness; learner must achieve satisfactory on all five rubric sections to pass. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical Theory and Code Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 80% correct (40 of 50 questions) | A 50-question written examination covering Ohm's Law and Kirchhoff's Laws, AC theory including power factor, three-phase wye and delta relationships, NEC conductor and overcurrent protection sizing for motor branch circuits (Article 430), schematic symbol identification, grounding and bonding principles, and OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart S and NFPA 70E arc-flash PPE requirements. Questions are aligned to the NCCER Industrial Maintenance Electrical module performance profile and the MSSC CPT Manufacturing Processes and Production domain. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Motor-Control Wiring and Troubleshooting Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | Satisfactory rating on all five rubric sections with zero safety violations | The learner works individually on a live three-phase motor-control training bench: they execute a complete LOTO procedure, wire an across-the-line starter circuit from a provided ladder diagram, perform a megohmmeter insulation-resistance check, restore power and verify motor rotation and current, then diagnose and correct two seeded faults using correct voltage-test methodology, and document all findings; the instructor scores against a five-section rubric covering safety, wiring accuracy, instrument use, fault diagnosis, and documentation. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Electrical Lab Notebook and Documentation Log | Log | 15% | Average score of 80% across all lab entries, with no entry scoring below 70% | The learner submits a complete lab notebook containing entries for all seven lab and practice lessons, each including the circuit diagram or sketch, all measured values with units, calculated versus measured comparisons, NEC sizing calculations where applicable, fault diagnosis records, and a brief reflection on what was learned; entries are scored on completeness, accuracy of recorded data, correct units, and professional clarity. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Electrical Safety Compliance Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100% satisfactory on all critical safety behaviors; any critical failure requires immediate remediation and re-check before course credit is awarded | A trained evaluator observes each learner during two unannounced points in the lab portion of the course and scores a safety checklist that includes: correct arc-flash PPE selection and donning for the task, complete and correct LOTO execution (including written procedure, lock application, and voltage verification), instrument lead insertion and CAT rating check, and prohibition of bypassing safety interlocks; all items marked critical must be performed correctly on the unannounced observation to pass. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
Students learn to identify, wire, program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC-based control systems as used in manufacturing and marine industrial environments. Instruction covers hardware architecture, ladder logic programming, analog and digital I/O, Human-Machine Interface basics, and systematic fault-finding using a live PLC trainer. Lessons map to NCCER Industrial Maintenance core competencies in electrical controls and to MSSC CPT process control and maintenance-awareness domains.
OutcomesStudents learn to identify, wire, program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC-based control systems as used in manufacturing and marine industrial environments. Instruction covers hardware architecture, ladder logic programming, analog and digital I/O, Human-Machine Interface basics, and systematic fault-finding using a live PLC trainer. Lessons map to NCCER Industrial Maintenance core competencies in electrical controls and to MSSC CPT process control and maintenance-awareness domains.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: PLC Systems Overview and Shop Safety; PLC Hardware: Power Supplies, CPUs, and Rack Wiring; Discrete Input and Output Wiring; Analog I/O Wiring and Signal Scaling; Ladder Logic Fundamentals: Contacts, Coils, and Program Structure; Timers and Counters in Ladder Logic; Comparison, Data Move, and Math Instructions; Human-Machine Interface Basics; PLC Communications and Networking Fundamentals; PLC Troubleshooting: Hardware and Wiring Faults; PLC Troubleshooting: Program Logic Faults; Preventive and Predictive Maintenance of PLC Systems.
What competent looks like. Identify and describe the major hardware components of a PLC system—power supply, CPU, input/output modules, and communications interfaces—and explain the role of each in the scan cycle. Wire discrete and analog input and output field devices to a PLC trainer following NEC wiring practices and lockout/tagout procedures without error. Write, enter, and test ladder logic programs containing contacts, coils, timers, counters, and comparison instructions to control a simulated industrial process. Use manufacturer programming software and a laptop to upload, download, monitor, and force I/O points on a live PLC for troubleshooting purposes. Apply a structured five-step fault-finding procedure to diagnose and correct PLC system faults—hardware, wiring, and program logic—documented in a written maintenance log. Interpret PLC status indicators, I/O force tables, and data-table values to verify system operation and communicate findings in a maintenance work order.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PLC Systems Overview and Shop Safety | 13 | theory | Students describe the history and industrial role of PLCs, identify the four major hardware sections, and demonstrate LOTO and electrical PPE procedures required before working on any PLC panel. |
| Live PLC trainer panel, LOTO station with hasp and tags, Class E electrical gloves, face shield, NFPA 70E quick-reference card, manufacturer spec sheets, NCCER Industrial Maintenance Module on Control Systems (current edition) | Five-question oral quiz on scan-cycle sequence and LOTO steps; student must name all four LOTO steps correctly and score 4/5 on quiz to proceed. |
| 2 | PLC Hardware: Power Supplies, CPUs, and Rack Wiring | 15 | demo | Students install a CPU and I/O modules into a PLC rack and connect AC power and chassis ground following NEC wire-sizing and termination practices. |
| PLC trainer rack (instructor disassembled before class), 24 VDC power supply, DIN rail, wire markers, torque screwdriver, multimeter, NEC codebook reference (Article 409 / 670 overview), hardware installation manual | Instructor inspects completed rack: all modules seated, screws torqued, ground wire present, power LED lit, and wiring diagram matches physical panel — all four criteria must be met for pass. |
| 3 | Discrete Input and Output Wiring | 15 | lab | Students wire sinking and sourcing discrete input devices (pushbuttons, limit switches, proximity sensors) and output devices (pilot lights, solenoids, relay coils) to PLC I/O modules within allowable current ratings. |
| PLC trainer, NPN and PNP proximity sensors, pushbuttons, limit switches, pilot lights, relay module, solenoid valve coil, multimeter, wire strippers, ferrule crimper, terminal-block screwdrivers, I/O wiring diagram worksheet | Instructor observes live test: each input illuminates the correct I/O indicator on the CPU and each forced output activates the correct field device — 100% of wired points must pass; any miswire is corrected and retested before sign-off. |
| 4 | Analog I/O Wiring and Signal Scaling | 13 | lab | Students wire a 4–20 mA analog current-loop transmitter and a 0–10 VDC analog output to an analog I/O module and scale the raw integer values to engineering units using the manufacturer's scaling function or a linear calculation. |
| Analog I/O module, 4–20 mA pressure transmitter with test pump, calibrated reference gauge, 24 VDC loop power supply, clamp-on ammeter, multimeter, programming laptop, scaling calculation worksheet | Scaled engineering-unit value displayed in program monitor must be within ±2% of the reference gauge reading at all three test points; student documents results in lab log. |
| 5 | Ladder Logic Fundamentals: Contacts, Coils, and Program Structure | 17 | theory | Students write and enter ladder logic rungs using normally-open contacts, normally-closed contacts, output coils, and branch (parallel) logic that correctly implement combinational Boolean control requirements. |
| Programming laptop with manufacturer software installed, PLC trainer, exercise sheet (10 Boolean-to-ladder problems), programming software quick-start guide, NCCER Industrial Maintenance controls reference | Written pre-lab quiz: student converts five verbal logic statements to correct ladder rungs on paper — must score 4/5; live program must produce correct output states for all five input combinations during instructor walk-through. |
| 6 | Timers and Counters in Ladder Logic | 15 | lab | Students configure and test TON (timer-on delay), TOF (timer-off delay), and CTU (count-up) instructions to control a simulated conveyor start-delay, motor run-time limit, and part-count reject sequence. |
| PLC trainer, programming laptop, stopwatch, proximity sensor, pilot lights representing conveyor and reject gate, lab log sheet with data table | Conveyor start delay must be 5 s ±0.5 s, run-time shutoff at 30 s ±0.5 s, and counter increment correctly on each sensor pulse — all three criteria checked by instructor in online monitor; all must pass. |
| 7 | Comparison, Data Move, and Math Instructions | 13 | lab | Students write ladder logic using GRT, LES, EQU, MOV, and ADD/SUB/MUL instructions to implement a temperature setpoint comparison and a totalizer that displays accumulated flow on a simulated HMI tag. |
| PLC trainer, programming laptop, temperature transmitter simulator (potentiometer scaled to 4–20 mA), lab log, NCCER controls reference, manufacturer instruction set reference manual (PDF) | Fan output must switch ON within one scan of temperature crossing setpoint in online monitor; student lab log must show correct data values for all three setpoint test scenarios — instructor initials log. |
| 8 | Human-Machine Interface Basics | 13 | demo | Students create a basic HMI screen containing a start/stop pushbutton, a numeric display linked to an analog tag, and an alarm indicator, and demonstrate the screen communicating live with the PLC trainer. |
| HMI terminal or HMI simulation software on laptop, Ethernet or USB connection cable, PLC trainer, HMI configuration software, short HMI exercise specification sheet | All four HMI objects (start button, stop button, run indicator, numeric display) must function correctly during a 3-minute live demonstration to the instructor — all four must pass; alarm must trigger when simulated temperature exceeds setpoint. |
| 9 | PLC Communications and Networking Fundamentals | 10.5 | theory | Students identify common industrial network protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, DeviceNet, Profibus) and configure an Ethernet IP address on a PLC to communicate with a programming laptop and an HMI on a local subnet. |
| Managed Ethernet switch, patch cables, programming laptop, PLC trainer with Ethernet port, command-prompt job aid, network topology worksheet, NCCER Industrial Maintenance controls reference | Instructor verifies successful ping response from laptop to PLC at the configured IP address and checks completed topology diagram for correct IP labeling — both must be correct for pass. |
| 10 | PLC Troubleshooting: Hardware and Wiring Faults | 17 | practice | Students apply a five-step structured troubleshooting process to identify and correct instructor-inserted hardware and wiring faults on a PLC trainer panel within a specified time limit. |
| PLC trainer with instructor-prepared fault list (minimum 8 distinct faults), multimeter, fault-finding worksheet, pocket troubleshooting card, replacement fuse assortment, spare I/O module | Student must correctly identify the fault type, its location, and the corrective action for at least 3 of 4 assigned fault scenarios within the time limit, with all steps documented on the worksheet — 3/4 to pass. |
| 11 | PLC Troubleshooting: Program Logic Faults | 17 | practice | Students use online monitoring, cross-reference tools, and forced I/O to locate and correct seeded logic errors in a provided ladder program controlling a multi-step process. |
| Programming laptop, PLC trainer, pre-loaded fault program file (instructor-prepared), control narrative description sheet, fault-report form, programming software cross-reference and force-table functions | Student must identify, correct, and document all three seeded logic errors with accurate fault reports — all three errors must be resolved and verified in online monitor for pass; reports reviewed by instructor. |
| 12 | Preventive and Predictive Maintenance of PLC Systems | 11.5 | field | Students perform a documented PM inspection of a PLC control panel including firmware version check, battery test, terminal-torque check, enclosure cleaning, and environment measurement, then write a maintenance work order. |
| PLC trainer panel, PM checklist, multimeter, torque screwdriver, canned air (electrical-safe), thermometer or IR temperature gun, work-order form, programming laptop, NCCER Industrial Maintenance controls PM reference | PM checklist must be fully completed with real measured values, and work order must include all required fields (date, equipment ID, tasks, measurements, findings, recommendations) — instructor grades work order using a 10-point rubric; 8/10 to pass. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 75% or higher (38 of 50 questions correct) | A 50-question multiple-choice and short-answer exam covering PLC hardware architecture, scan-cycle operation, I/O types, ladder logic instructions (contacts, coils, timers, counters, comparison, data move, math), network protocols, and PM procedures, mapped to NCCER Industrial Maintenance electrical controls knowledge indicators and MSSC CPT process control awareness areas. Students have 90 minutes; no open notes. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Hands-On Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | All seven checkpoints passed; any single safety violation results in immediate fail and a mandatory retake | The instructor presents a written control narrative; the student must wire one discrete input device and one discrete output device to the trainer, write a ladder program meeting the narrative requirements, download and run the program, demonstrate correct operation, then use the force table to simulate and diagnose one instructor-inserted I/O fault — all within 60 minutes. Checkpoints cover safe work practices (LOTO applied before wiring), correct wiring, correct program logic, successful download and RUN, correct output behavior, fault correctly identified, and fault correctly corrected. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Lab Log Portfolio | Log | 15% | 80% average score across all lab-log entries (minimum 10 of 12 lessons must have entries); any missing safety documentation entry fails the portfolio | Students maintain a bound lab log throughout the course recording wiring diagrams, data tables, scaling calculations, fault-finding worksheets, and work orders from each lab and practice lesson. The instructor reviews the complete portfolio at course end using a rubric assessing completeness, accuracy of recorded data, clarity of troubleshooting documentation, and quality of written work orders — mirroring the maintenance-documentation standard required by NCCER credentialing and industrial employers. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Safety and LOTO Compliance Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100% on all five safety behaviors; any failed behavior is an automatic overall course safety fail requiring remediation before the student advances | At three unannounced points during lab and practice lessons, the instructor completes a five-item safety observation checklist: (1) correct PPE worn before panel work, (2) LOTO applied and personal lock present before touching wiring, (3) voltage verified at zero before wiring, (4) no unapproved bypassing of safety interlocks in the program, and (5) proper housekeeping and cable management. All five behaviors must be observed correctly on all three checks. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
Students learn to collect, interpret, and act on condition-monitoring data using vibration analysis, ultrasonic testing, infrared thermography, oil analysis, and motor-circuit analysis to detect faults before equipment fails. Emphasis is placed on integrating findings into computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), writing corrective work orders, and applying lockout/tagout and personal protective equipment requirements at every step. Lessons map to NCCER Industrial Maintenance Core and upper-level modules on preventive/predictive maintenance and to the MSSC CPT domain of Maintenance Awareness.
OutcomesStudents learn to collect, interpret, and act on condition-monitoring data using vibration analysis, ultrasonic testing, infrared thermography, oil analysis, and motor-circuit analysis to detect faults before equipment fails. Emphasis is placed on integrating findings into computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), writing corrective work orders, and applying lockout/tagout and personal protective equipment requirements at every step. Lessons map to NCCER Industrial Maintenance Core and upper-level modules on preventive/predictive maintenance and to the MSSC CPT domain of Maintenance Awareness.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: Introduction to Predictive Maintenance: Concepts, Program Structure, and the P-F Curve; Safety for Condition Monitoring: PPE, NFPA 70E Awareness, and Lockout/Tagout in PdM Work; Vibration Analysis Fundamentals: Units, Waveform, and Spectrum; Vibration Data Collection: Routes, Measurement Points, and Trend Analysis; Infrared Thermography: Principles, Equipment, and Electrical Applications; Infrared Thermography: Mechanical and Fluid-System Scanning; Ultrasonic Testing: Airborne and Structure-Borne Techniques; Oil and Lubrication Analysis: Sampling, Laboratory Reports, and Corrective Action; Motor-Circuit Analysis and Electrical Signature Analysis Basics; CMMS Integration: Entering PdM Findings, Work Orders, and Trending Reports; Developing a PdM Program: Technology Selection, Route Design, and Reporting to Management; Integrated PdM Field Simulation: Full Equipment Survey, Diagnosis, and Work-Order Package.
What competent looks like. Given a rotating machine, students will collect vibration readings with a handheld data collector, compare results against ISO vibration severity guidelines, and correctly classify machine condition as acceptable, alarm, or danger. Students will perform an infrared thermographic scan of an energized electrical panel using a calibrated thermal imager, identify anomalies exceeding accepted temperature-rise thresholds, and produce a written report with corrective recommendations. Students will conduct an airborne and structure-borne ultrasonic survey of compressed-air lines, steam traps, and bearings, document decibel readings and trend data, and identify at least one confirmed fault during a lab exercise. Students will collect an in-service oil sample using correct sampling technique, submit it for analysis, interpret a sample report for viscosity, particle count, and wear-metal results, and recommend a corrective action. Students will enter route-based condition-monitoring data into a CMMS, generate a predictive maintenance work order from an identified fault, and link the finding to asset history and parts inventory. Students will apply lockout/tagout, appropriate PPE selection, and NFPA 70E arc-flash awareness procedures correctly during every hands-on activity, achieving zero safety violations on the final safety check assessment.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Predictive Maintenance: Concepts, Program Structure, and the P-F Curve | 10.5 | theory | Students will explain the difference between reactive, preventive, and predictive maintenance strategies and describe how the P-F curve guides technology selection and inspection intervals. |
| NCCER Industrial Maintenance Level 3 or 4 module on preventive/predictive maintenance; whiteboard and markers; printed P-F curve worksheet; case-study handout | Five-question exit quiz covering P-F curve definitions, the three maintenance strategy types, and technology selection rationale; pass mark 80%. |
| 2 | Safety for Condition Monitoring: PPE, NFPA 70E Awareness, and Lockout/Tagout in PdM Work | 13 | theory | Students will select correct PPE for each condition-monitoring technology and correctly identify when LOTO is required versus when inspection is conducted on energized or running equipment within established safe-work boundaries. |
| NFPA 70E standard (current edition) awareness handout; OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 LOTO procedure summary; arc-flash PPE kit (face shield, arc-rated gloves, arc-rated FR clothing, safety glasses); training lockout station with hasp, padlocks, and tags; task-hazard analysis form | Instructor observes LOTO procedure on training board; student must execute all six steps without prompting and without safety error; 100% completion required to proceed to subsequent labs. |
| 3 | Vibration Analysis Fundamentals: Units, Waveform, and Spectrum | 15 | theory | Students will define displacement, velocity, and acceleration in vibration measurement, convert between units using provided formulas, and describe what a time-waveform and an FFT frequency spectrum each reveal about a fault. |
| Portable vibration data collector and analyzer (route-based type); motorized bearing-defect trainer; graph paper; fault-frequency calculation worksheet; vibration-simulation software or printed spectrum sets; ISO 10816 / ISO 20816 vibration severity chart | Students correctly identify all three fault signatures on a set of five printed spectra (including two distractors); pass mark 80% (4 of 5 correct diagnoses). |
| 4 | Vibration Data Collection: Routes, Measurement Points, and Trend Analysis | 17 | lab | Students will set up a vibration measurement route on a multi-machine training rig, collect triaxial readings at all defined points, download data to software, and identify any machine trending toward an alarm condition. |
| Route-based vibration data collector with magnetic mount transducer; multi-machine training rig (motor, pump, gearbox); vibration-analysis software on lab PC; ISO 10816 / ISO 20816 severity chart; route sheets; paint pens; safety glasses; hearing protection | Instructor reviews completed route sheet and software trend report; all measurement points must be collected with correct sensor placement (verified by instructor observation), and any alarm-threshold crossing must be correctly flagged; pass mark 80% of points collected and diagnosed correctly. |
| 5 | Infrared Thermography: Principles, Equipment, and Electrical Applications | 15 | demo | Students will operate a thermal imaging camera, adjust emissivity settings for common industrial surfaces, and identify at least three types of electrical anomalies (loose connection, load imbalance, failing component) from thermal images. |
| Thermal imaging camera (radiometric, with adjustable emissivity); demonstration electrical training panel with induced faults; arc-flash PPE (arc-rated face shield, gloves, FR clothing, safety glasses) sized for the panel's available fault current; NETA MTS temperature-rise guideline handout; printed thermal image sets; CMMS work-order form | Students correctly classify all three faults on the training panel using the thermal camera and justify their classification in writing using the temperature-rise guideline; pass mark: all three faults correctly identified and documented. |
| 6 | Infrared Thermography: Mechanical and Fluid-System Scanning | 13 | lab | Students will conduct a thermal scan of rotating mechanical equipment and fluid lines, distinguish normal thermal gradients from fault-related hotspots, and produce a written inspection report with photographs and corrective recommendations. |
| Thermal imaging camera; running motor-pump-piping training rig with at least one induced thermal fault; thermal-camera PC software; inspection report template; arc-flash and rotating-equipment PPE (safety glasses, hearing protection, close-fitting clothing, no loose items near rotating parts) | Instructor grades written inspection report using a rubric: fault correctly identified (required), delta-T documented, annotated image included, corrective action is technically sound; pass mark 80% on rubric. |
| 7 | Ultrasonic Testing: Airborne and Structure-Borne Techniques | 15 | lab | Students will use an ultrasonic detector in both airborne and contact modes to locate compressed-air leaks, evaluate bearing lubrication condition, and assess steam-trap operation, recording decibel baseline and fault readings. |
| Ultrasonic detector with airborne scanning cone and contact probe; compressed-air training manifold with seeded leaks; bearing-defect trainer with three bearing conditions; steam-trap demonstration unit; grease gun; dB data sheet; steam-trap survey form; safety glasses; hearing protection | Students must locate both seeded air leaks (required), correctly classify all three bearing conditions (pass 2 of 3 minimum), and produce a correct steam-trap pass/fail determination with supporting dB data; overall pass requires 80% of scored items correct. |
| 8 | Oil and Lubrication Analysis: Sampling, Laboratory Reports, and Corrective Action | 13 | lab | Students will take an in-service oil sample from an operating gearbox or hydraulic reservoir using vacuum extraction and minimize contamination, then interpret a provided laboratory analysis report to recommend fluid change, continued monitoring, or equipment inspection. |
| Vacuum oil sampling pump; sample bottles and caps; chain-of-custody forms; sample port fitting on training gearbox or hydraulic unit; three printed oil analysis laboratory reports; oil analysis interpretation reference card; hot plate and clean metal plate for crackle test demonstration; nitrile gloves; safety glasses | Instructor evaluates sample bottle: correct label (machine ID, date, sample port, oil type, meter reading), uncontaminated seal, and correct chain-of-custody form — all required. Written interpretation of three reports graded; pass mark 2 of 3 correct with written justification. |
| 9 | Motor-Circuit Analysis and Electrical Signature Analysis Basics | 13 | theory | Students will explain how motor-circuit analysis (MCA) and current signature analysis detect developing faults in motor windings, rotor bars, and driven-load conditions, and correctly interpret a basic MCA test report. |
| Portable motor-circuit analysis instrument (static MCA type); two single-phase or three-phase training motors (one healthy, one with instructor-induced winding fault); MCA interpretation guide; printed current-signature-analysis spectrum handout; NEMA MG-1 insulation resistance general reference; safety glasses; insulating gloves rated for test voltage | Student MCA data sheet for both motors reviewed by instructor; correct identification of the faulted motor required; written memo on current-signature spectrum graded for correct sideband identification; pass mark 80%. |
| 10 | CMMS Integration: Entering PdM Findings, Work Orders, and Trending Reports | 13 | practice | Students will navigate a computerized maintenance management system to enter condition-monitoring readings, generate corrective work orders from flagged findings, and produce an asset trend report that can be presented to a maintenance supervisor. |
| CMMS software (training/demo instance — e.g., MP2, eMaint, or equivalent training version available at institution); lab PCs; vibration route data from Lesson 4; corrective work-order form; parts inventory reference list; risk matrix handout | Instructor reviews CMMS entries for accuracy: all route points entered, work order fields complete, priority correct for fault severity, and trend report PDF submitted with an adequate executive summary; pass mark 80% on instructor checklist. |
| 11 | Developing a PdM Program: Technology Selection, Route Design, and Reporting to Management | 15 | practice | Students will design a basic predictive maintenance program for a given set of plant assets by selecting appropriate technologies, setting inspection intervals, defining alarm thresholds, and writing a one-page program justification for a plant manager. |
| Fictitious plant asset list handout; technology-selection matrix template; route map template; ISO 10816/ISO 20816 severity chart; sample PdM program proposal document; NCCER Industrial Maintenance reference materials | Technology-selection matrix and route-design document graded on completeness and technical accuracy (all assets addressed, thresholds plausible); proposal graded on clarity and inclusion of all required sections; pass mark 80% combined score. |
| 12 | Integrated PdM Field Simulation: Full Equipment Survey, Diagnosis, and Work-Order Package | 17.5 | field | Students will independently conduct a multi-technology condition-monitoring survey of a fully assembled training rig, diagnose any faults found, and deliver a complete work-order package and oral summary to the instructor acting as maintenance supervisor. |
| Fully assembled training rig with at least three seeded faults (selected by instructor from prior lessons' technologies); vibration data collector; thermal imaging camera; ultrasonic detector; all PPE required by the survey; field data sheets; work-order forms; CMMS access on lab PC; historical trend data printout | Instructor uses a scored rubric: all measurement points collected with correct technique (required), all three seeded faults identified (required), written diagnostic summaries technically accurate, work-order package complete, oral summary clear and correct under questioning; pass mark 80% on rubric; any safety violation results in automatic retest. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Predictive Maintenance Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 80% (40 of 50 questions correct) | A 50-question written exam covering PdM concepts (P-F curve, failure modes, technology selection), vibration theory (units, fault frequencies, ISO severity levels), infrared thermography principles, ultrasonic testing applications, oil analysis interpretation, MCA theory, and CMMS workflow; questions are multiple-choice and short-answer, mapped to NCCER Industrial Maintenance preventive/predictive maintenance module competencies and MSSC CPT Maintenance Awareness domain. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Multi-Technology Condition-Monitoring Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | All required steps performed correctly (per rubric); overall rubric score 80%; zero safety violations | Each student individually conducts a timed condition-monitoring survey of the training rig using vibration, infrared, and ultrasonic instruments; the instructor scores sensor placement technique, instrument operation, PPE and LOTO compliance, data recording accuracy, and verbal fault diagnosis using a weighted rubric; any unsafe act or missed LOTO step requires an immediate retake. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| PdM Lab Log and Report Portfolio | Log | 15% | 80% average score across all submitted entries; all seven labs represented | Students maintain a cumulative lab log that includes completed data sheets, annotated thermal images, oil analysis interpretations, CMMS route downloads, and the formal inspection report from Lesson 6; the portfolio is submitted at the end of the course and graded on completeness, technical accuracy, correct use of units and standards, and clarity of corrective recommendations. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| PdM Safety Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100% — all critical safety items must be correct; any critical failure requires immediate retest before student may continue | A direct-observation safety checklist administered during Lesson 12's integrated field simulation; the instructor checks PPE selection for each technology, correct LOTO execution before any contact with de-energized equipment, arc-flash boundary awareness during IR scanning, and proper handling and disposal of oil sampling materials; the checklist items are binary (correct/incorrect) and all must be marked correct to pass. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
Students design, assemble, troubleshoot, and document a multi-system maintenance scenario that integrates mechanical drives, bearings, pumps, electrical circuits, and PLC control into a single functional industrial unit representative of manufacturing or marine environments. Each student produces a full maintenance package—drawings, LOTO procedures, predictive maintenance schedule, and work orders—and defends their design and troubleshooting decisions before a panel of instructors and at least one industry evaluator. This course is the primary demonstration that the student is ready to perform entry-level industrial maintenance work without direct supervision.
OutcomesStudents design, assemble, troubleshoot, and document a multi-system maintenance scenario that integrates mechanical drives, bearings, pumps, electrical circuits, and PLC control into a single functional industrial unit representative of manufacturing or marine environments. Each student produces a full maintenance package—drawings, LOTO procedures, predictive maintenance schedule, and work orders—and defends their design and troubleshooting decisions before a panel of instructors and at least one industry evaluator. This course is the primary demonstration that the student is ready to perform entry-level industrial maintenance work without direct supervision.
How the course runs. 4 blocks: System Planning, Safety Documentation, and Design Review; System Assembly and Alignment; Commissioning, Predictive Maintenance Data Collection, and Fault Diagnosis; Documentation Package Completion and Project Defense.
What competent looks like. Integrate mechanical, electrical, fluid power, and PLC subsystems into a single functional industrial maintenance build that meets instructor-defined operational specifications. Execute and document a complete lockout/tagout procedure and job hazard analysis for the capstone system before any physical work begins, meeting OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 requirements. Apply predictive maintenance techniques—vibration checks, infrared thermography screening, and oil analysis sampling procedure—to the capstone system and produce a written condition-monitoring report with corrective recommendations. Produce a professional maintenance package including as-built sketches, a PLC I/O list, lubrication and PM schedule, and a completed work-order set that meets industry documentation standards. Diagnose and correct at least three seeded faults across different subsystems within a timed troubleshooting scenario, recording root cause and corrective action for each fault. Defend design decisions, troubleshooting logic, and safety practices verbally before a mixed instructor-industry panel, demonstrating communication competence required for NCCER credentialing and MSSC CPT.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | System Planning, Safety Documentation, and Design Review | 48 | theory | Given the capstone system specifications, the student will produce a complete job hazard analysis, a written LOTO procedure, an as-built sketch with labeled subsystems, and a PLC I/O list that are verified accurate by the instructor before any build work begins. |
| Project brief packet, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 reference card, facility LOTO tags and locks, blank equipment-specific LOTO procedure forms, steel rule, calipers, graph paper, pencils, laptop or desktop with spreadsheet software, PLC ladder logic printout, NCCER Industrial Maintenance Core and Level 1–4 curricula (as reference), MSSC CPT Safety module reference guide | Instructor reviews LOTO procedure against a checklist derived from OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147; sketch is checked for all labeled subsystems and at least 80% dimensional accuracy; I/O list matches all physical devices with no omissions. Student must pass all three checks (no critical safety errors allowed, zero tolerance) before advancing to Lesson 2. |
| 2 | System Assembly and Alignment | 72 | lab | The student will assemble the complete capstone system—mounting bearings, coupling or drive components, pump, motor, and PLC panel wiring—achieving shaft alignment within the equipment manufacturer's tolerance and confirming correct electrical connections before any energization. |
| Anti-friction bearing sets, bearing installation tool kit, calibrated torque wrench set, V-belt or roller chain and matched sprockets/sheaves, belt tension gauge, straightedge, wire ferrule crimper, ring terminal crimper, wire marker sleeves, multimeter (CAT III rated), PLC trainer panel with 24 VDC I/O modules, motor starter, three-phase motor, centrifugal pump, coupling or drive guard, drive installation record form, safety glasses, leather work gloves, electrical insulating gloves (when checking energized circuits), NCCER Mechanical Drives and Bearings module references | Instructor uses a performance checklist: bearing installation technique (no direct race impact, correct lubrication), drive alignment within manufacturer tolerance (measured and recorded), belt/chain tension within specification, wiring matches I/O list with no reversed polarity or grounding errors, and continuity check documented. All safety steps (LOTO verified before any mechanical work; energization only after instructor authorization) are a hard pass/fail gate. Student must score 80% or higher on the checklist with zero critical safety violations. |
| 3 | Commissioning, Predictive Maintenance Data Collection, and Fault Diagnosis | 60 | practice | With the system running under supervised energization, the student will collect baseline vibration, temperature, and amperage data, then diagnose and correct three seeded faults—one mechanical, one electrical, and one PLC/control—recording root cause and corrective action for each within a 3-hour timed scenario. |
| Handheld vibration meter, non-contact IR thermometer, clamp-on ammeter (CAT III rated), condition-monitoring baseline form, fault diagnosis form, standard work-order templates, PLC programming laptop with monitoring software, multimeter, fuse puller and spare control-circuit fuses, coupling alignment tools, personal protective equipment (safety glasses, hearing protection, electrical insulating gloves for any energized-circuit measurements), NCCER Predictive Maintenance and Electrical module references, MSSC CPT Quality Practices and Maintenance Awareness reference | All three faults must be correctly identified, root-caused, and corrected within the 3-hour window; each fault diagnosis form must include symptom, test performed, measurement or observation, root cause, and corrective action. Condition-monitoring forms must show pre- and post-repair data with a written interpretation. Work orders must be complete and legible. Pass standard: all three faults resolved with documented reasoning; any unsafe act (working on energized equipment without authorization, bypassing LOTO) results in immediate failure of the scenario and requires a full repeat. |
| 4 | Documentation Package Completion and Project Defense | 36 | demo | The student will compile a complete maintenance documentation package and present and defend their capstone project—design decisions, troubleshooting process, and predictive maintenance findings—before an instructor-industry panel, demonstrating both technical accuracy and professional communication. |
| Completed project binder with all forms and records, tabbed dividers, pens, whiteboard or projector and laptop, defense presentation rubric (provided to students one week in advance), panel scoring sheets, industry evaluator invitation letter, NCCER Industrial Maintenance Core and Levels reference set, MSSC CPT study guide (for cross-referencing quality and safety competency language) | Documentation binder is scored against the index—all required documents present and complete (pass threshold: no missing critical documents; minor formatting issues noted but not failing). Defense is scored on the panel rubric: technical accuracy (40%), safety knowledge (25%), documentation quality (20%), communication clarity (15%); student must achieve 75% overall with no score below 60% in the safety knowledge category. Panel scores are averaged if multiple panelists score independently. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capstone System Build and Fault Diagnosis | Project | 60% | 80% on assembly checklist with zero critical safety violations; all three seeded faults correctly diagnosed, root-caused, and corrected within the 3-hour timed scenario; any LOTO or energization safety violation results in automatic failure requiring full repeat. | The student assembles, commissions, and troubleshoots the complete multi-subsystem industrial unit under observed conditions, demonstrating hands-on integration of mechanical, electrical, fluid power, and PLC skills across the full program. Instructor evaluates technique, safety compliance, and diagnostic logic using a standardized performance checklist and the completed fault diagnosis forms. Meets specification · Within estimate · Workmanship · Safety · Documentation |
| Maintenance Documentation Portfolio | Portfolio | 20% | All required documents present (LOTO procedure, as-built sketch, I/O list, drive installation record, lubrication/PM schedule, condition-monitoring baseline, fault diagnosis forms, completed work orders); each document scored on accuracy and completeness with an overall portfolio score of 75% or higher; any LOTO procedure with a critical safety omission must be corrected and resubmitted before the defense. | The student submits a tabbed, indexed maintenance documentation package covering every phase of the capstone project, from pre-work safety planning through post-repair condition monitoring. This portfolio mirrors the documentation an employer would expect from an entry-level industrial maintenance technician and maps directly to NCCER craft documentation standards and MSSC CPT quality and maintenance awareness competency areas. Completeness · Organization · Evidence quality |
| Capstone Project Defense | Oral / panel | 20% | 75% overall on the panel rubric with no individual category score below 60%; the safety knowledge category (25% of score) requires a minimum 60% to pass; students scoring below threshold in any category may petition for a single re-defense within two weeks, addressing only the deficient areas. | The student presents and defends their completed capstone project before a mixed instructor-industry panel, covering system design, safety decisions, troubleshooting logic, and predictive maintenance findings in a 15-minute presentation followed by at least five panel questions. This oral defense assesses the communication and reasoning skills assessed by NCCER performance verification and required for entry-level employment in industrial maintenance. Explains decisions · Answers technical questions · Professional communication |
Students complete 324 supervised hours at an approved manufacturing or marine-industrial employer, applying mechanical, electrical, PLC, pump, bearing, and predictive-maintenance skills learned in prior coursework under the direct oversight of a journeyman or lead maintenance technician. Performance is measured against NCCER Industrial Maintenance craft competencies and MSSC CPT production-environment standards, with formal employer evaluations at the midpoint and end of the placement. The externship bridges classroom learning and full-time employment by requiring students to document real work orders, follow site safety protocols including LOTO and PPE programs, and demonstrate professional conduct in an industrial setting.
OutcomesStudents complete 324 supervised hours at an approved manufacturing or marine-industrial employer, applying mechanical, electrical, PLC, pump, bearing, and predictive-maintenance skills learned in prior coursework under the direct oversight of a journeyman or lead maintenance technician. Performance is measured against NCCER Industrial Maintenance craft competencies and MSSC CPT production-environment standards, with formal employer evaluations at the midpoint and end of the placement. The externship bridges classroom learning and full-time employment by requiring students to document real work orders, follow site safety protocols including LOTO and PPE programs, and demonstrate professional conduct in an industrial setting.
How the course runs. 4 blocks: Externship Orientation: Site Safety Integration and Work-Order Systems; Supervised Trade Practice: Mechanical, Electrical, Pump, and PLC Tasks; Predictive and Condition-Based Monitoring Field Application; Final Employer Evaluation, Field Log Completion, and Placement Reflection.
What competent looks like. Perform assigned preventive and corrective maintenance tasks—including mechanical drive service, bearing replacement, pump inspection, and basic electrical troubleshooting—safely and to employer quality standards on a live production or marine site. Apply OSHA General Industry or Maritime hazard-control measures, including site-specific LOTO procedures, confined-space awareness, and required PPE selection, with zero safety violations throughout the placement. Complete accurate work orders, equipment inspection logs, and maintenance records using the employer's CMMS or paper documentation system, meeting the site's documentation standards on every assigned task. Demonstrate professional workplace behaviors—punctuality, communication, teamwork, and response to supervision—rated Satisfactory or above on all categories of the employer midpoint and final evaluation forms. Identify at least two predictive or condition-monitoring data points (vibration, temperature, oil analysis, or visual inspection) on assigned equipment and communicate findings to the supervising technician in a written field note. Relate externship tasks to NCCER Industrial Maintenance performance profiles and MSSC CPT production-system competency areas in a structured reflection submitted at placement end.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Externship Orientation: Site Safety Integration and Work-Order Systems | 40 | field | The student will successfully complete the employer's site-specific safety orientation, demonstrate compliance with all required PPE and LOTO procedures, and submit a correctly completed sample work order before beginning independent task assignments. |
| Employer site-specific safety orientation packet; program Externship Field Log forms; site LOTO procedure binders; required PPE (hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toed boots, hearing protection, gloves as required by site); employer CMMS terminal or paper work-order forms; NCCER Industrial Maintenance Core curriculum reference (for LOTO cross-reference). | Supervisor signs off on the site safety orientation acknowledgment form; student's sample work order is reviewed by supervisor and rated Complete/Acceptable on all required fields; Field Log entries for the shadow shifts are reviewed by the program externship coordinator and scored Satisfactory (all required fields present and legible). All three items must be completed before the student proceeds to unsupervised task assignments. |
| 2 | Supervised Trade Practice: Mechanical, Electrical, Pump, and PLC Tasks | 180 | field | The student will independently perform or meaningfully assist on a variety of assigned maintenance tasks—spanning mechanical drives, bearings, pumps, basic electrical circuits, and PLC I/O observation—documenting each task in the Externship Field Log and earning a Satisfactory or above rating on the employer midpoint evaluation. |
| Program Externship Field Log (running document); employer work-order system; hand tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, torque wrench, bearing puller as needed by site); multimeter; bearing temperature gun or infrared thermometer; pump inspection checklist; PLC terminal or HMI at worksite; program Midpoint Employer Evaluation form; NCCER Industrial Maintenance Level references (student copy). | Minimum 12 Field Log task entries verified and initialed by supervisor by the midpoint; Midpoint Employer Evaluation average score of Satisfactory (3 out of 5) or higher across all 10 categories — any category scored Unsatisfactory (1) triggers an automatic corrective-action plan co-signed by supervisor and coordinator; student midpoint self-assessment submitted to coordinator within 3 days of the evaluation conference. |
| 3 | Predictive and Condition-Based Monitoring Field Application | 64 | field | The student will collect, record, and interpret at least two types of condition-monitoring data (vibration, temperature, ultrasound, or oil/fluid condition) on assigned equipment and submit a written field report communicating findings and recommended actions to the supervising technician. |
| Site vibration meter, infrared thermometer, or ultrasonic detector (as available); oil-analysis sample kit or visual oil-condition chart; manufacturer equipment manuals or site baseline data sheets; Field Log; program Condition Monitoring Field Report template; word-processing tool for report writing. | Field Log entries show data collected from at least four equipment items with supervisor initials; Condition Monitoring Field Report scored by the program coordinator using a four-criterion rubric (data accuracy and completeness, correct comparison to limits, clarity of conclusions, professional writing/formatting) — student must score at least 3 out of 4 on every criterion to pass; report must bear the supervising technician's countersignature. |
| 4 | Final Employer Evaluation, Field Log Completion, and Placement Reflection | 40 | field | The student will complete all required externship hours, submit a complete and accurate Externship Field Log, receive a passing Final Employer Evaluation, and deliver a structured written reflection connecting externship experience to NCCER Industrial Maintenance competency areas and MSSC CPT production-system standards. |
| Complete Externship Field Log (all prior entries); program Final Employer Evaluation form; NCCER Industrial Maintenance performance profile reference list (provided by program); MSSC CPT competency framework summary (provided by program); program Externship Reflection template; word-processing tool. | Field Log accepted only if all 324 hours are documented with supervisor initials and the log is submitted on time — missing hours or unsigned entries result in an Incomplete until resolved; Final Employer Evaluation average of Satisfactory (3 out of 5) or higher across all 10 categories with no category at Unsatisfactory is required to pass the externship; Reflection scored by the program coordinator on a three-level scale (Meets Standard / Approaching / Does Not Meet) — student must reach Meets Standard on all four required sections (NCCER connection, MSSC connection, safety example, professional goals) to earn a passing grade for this lesson. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Employer Skills Demonstration Evaluation (Midpoint + Final) | Skills demonstration | 70% | Average score of Satisfactory (3 out of 5) or higher on all 10 categories of the standardized employer rubric at both the midpoint and final evaluations, with no single category rated Unsatisfactory (1) on the final evaluation; a midpoint Unsatisfactory in any category requires a documented corrective-action plan and a re-rating within two weeks. | The supervising technician at the externship site completes the program's standardized 10-category rubric twice — at the midpoint (approximately 162 hours in) and at the end of the placement — evaluating safety compliance, technical skill, work quality, tool and instrument use, documentation accuracy, attendance and punctuality, verbal communication, teamwork, initiative, and adherence to site procedures. This skills demonstration assessment is the primary evidence that the student can perform Industrial Maintenance trade tasks to employer standards in a real production or marine environment, directly reflecting NCCER Industrial Maintenance craft performance expectations and MSSC CPT workplace-readiness competencies. Competency · Safety · Attendance · Conduct · Initiative |
| Externship Field Log and Condition Monitoring Field Report | Log | 30% | Field Log must document all 324 placement hours with supervisor initials on every entry and be submitted within five business days of the last placement day; Condition Monitoring Field Report must score at least 3 out of 4 on every rubric criterion and bear the supervising technician's countersignature; Externship Reflection must reach Meets Standard on all four required sections. | The Externship Field Log is a running daily record maintained by the student throughout all 324 hours, capturing task descriptions, equipment IDs or work-order numbers, trade area, safety controls used, hours worked, and supervisor initials — serving as the official verification of hours and breadth of experience for both the program's completion requirements and as supporting documentation aligned to NCCER Registry record-keeping standards. The Condition Monitoring Field Report and Externship Reflection, submitted at the close of the placement, together demonstrate the student's ability to interpret real equipment data, communicate technical findings in writing, and articulate how field experience maps to NCCER Industrial Maintenance and MSSC CPT credential competency areas. Complete · Verified |
This 90-hour capstone review course maps every major content domain of the NCCER Industrial Maintenance credential and the MSSC Certified Production Technician exam to targeted instruction, timed practice, and full-length mock exams. Learners diagnose personal knowledge gaps across safety, mechanical systems, electrical, PLC, and manufacturing quality domains, then close those gaps through focused drill and coached test-taking strategy. The course ends with two full simulated credential exams delivered under authentic testing conditions.
OutcomesThis 90-hour capstone review course maps every major content domain of the NCCER Industrial Maintenance credential and the MSSC Certified Production Technician exam to targeted instruction, timed practice, and full-length mock exams. Learners diagnose personal knowledge gaps across safety, mechanical systems, electrical, PLC, and manufacturing quality domains, then close those gaps through focused drill and coached test-taking strategy. The course ends with two full simulated credential exams delivered under authentic testing conditions.
How the course runs. 4 blocks: Diagnostic Assessment & Exam Landscape: Know What You Will Be Tested On; Targeted Domain Review: Safety, Mechanical Systems & Pumps; Targeted Domain Review: Electrical, PLC, Predictive Maintenance & MSSC Quality/Production Modules; Full Mock Examinations & Score-Based Final Review.
What competent looks like. Demonstrate mastery of NCCER Industrial Maintenance core knowledge areas—including mechanical drives, bearings, pumps, electrical systems, and PLC fundamentals—at a score sufficient to pass the credentialing assessment. Demonstrate mastery of all four MSSC CPT module domains—Safety, Quality Practices & Measurement, Manufacturing Processes & Production, and Maintenance Awareness—at a score sufficient to pass each module assessment. Apply lockout/tagout, hazard recognition, and PPE-selection knowledge correctly on safety-domain exam items and in scenario-based practice questions. Use a systematic test-taking strategy—reading stems carefully, eliminating distractors, managing time per item, and flagging for review—to maximize performance on timed credential exams. Interpret diagnostic mock-exam results to identify weak domains, create a personal study plan, and show measurable score improvement between the first and final mock exams. Complete a full-length simulated NCCER Industrial Maintenance written assessment and a full-length simulated MSSC CPT four-module assessment within the allotted time under proctored conditions.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Diagnostic Assessment & Exam Landscape: Know What You Will Be Tested On | 12 | theory | Given a full-length diagnostic practice test covering all NCCER Industrial Maintenance and MSSC CPT domain areas, the learner will score each domain, identify the three weakest areas, and explain the format, content weighting, and registration process for both credentials. |
| Printed or LMS-delivered 100-item NCCER practice diagnostic and 120-item MSSC CPT practice diagnostic; NCCER Industrial Maintenance Core and Modules content outline (nccer.org); MSSC CPT Exam Study Guide (official MSSC publication); two-column comparison chart (instructor-prepared); Personal Gap Analysis Worksheet; No. 2 pencils and Scantron sheets or LMS quiz engine; timer. | Learner submits a completed Personal Gap Analysis Worksheet with correct domain scores verified against the answer key and a written study schedule that addresses all domains scoring below 70%; instructor reviews for accuracy and specificity before approving. Pass mark: all domain scores recorded correctly and study schedule covers every sub-70% domain. |
| 2 | Targeted Domain Review: Safety, Mechanical Systems & Pumps | 28 | practice | After rotating through instructor-led review sessions and coached practice-question drills for OSHA general industry safety (including LOTO and hazard communication), mechanical drives, bearings, and pumps, the learner will answer domain practice sets at 75% or higher on each domain. |
| NCCER Contren Industrial Maintenance module texts (Core, Mechanical Drives, Bearings, Pumps); MSSC CPT Safety and Manufacturing Processes module study materials; worn bearing specimen set; pump cross-section diagrams (poster or projected); belt-drive ratio calculation reference card; 40-item safety practice set; four station quiz sets (15 items each); 60-item pump practice set; scientific calculators; Gap Analysis Worksheets (ongoing). | Each learner's station quiz scores and practice-set scores are recorded on a running Domain Tracker sheet; learners scoring below 75% on any domain practice set must complete an instructor-assigned targeted re-drill of 20 additional items in that domain during the same class day before advancing. Pass mark: 75% on each domain practice set or successful re-drill completion documented by instructor. |
| 3 | Targeted Domain Review: Electrical, PLC, Predictive Maintenance & MSSC Quality/Production Modules | 28 | practice | After instructor-led review and timed drill covering electrical fundamentals, PLC ladder logic interpretation, predictive maintenance technologies, MSSC CPT Quality Practices & Measurement, and MSSC CPT Manufacturing Processes & Production, the learner will score 75% or higher on each domain practice set. |
| NCCER Contren Electrical, PLC, and Predictive Maintenance module texts; MSSC CPT Quality Practices & Measurement and Manufacturing Processes & Production study materials; projected thermal images and vibration trend charts (instructor reference set); PdM scenario cards (instructor-prepared set of 30); 50-item electrical drill, 40-item PLC drill, 30-item PdM drill, 50-item MSSC quality/production drill; scientific calculators; Gap Analysis Worksheets; Domain Tracker sheets. | Domain Tracker updated after each drill; learners below 75% on any drill complete a targeted 20-item re-drill in the same session before the next topic begins; instructor initials each completed re-drill. Pass mark: 75% on each domain practice set or documented successful re-drill, recorded on Domain Tracker. |
| 4 | Full Mock Examinations & Score-Based Final Review | 22 | lab | Under proctored, timed, authentic-testing conditions, the learner will complete a full-length simulated NCCER Industrial Maintenance written exam and a full-length simulated MSSC CPT four-module exam, score at or above the established passing threshold on each, and articulate two specific test-taking strategies that improved their performance. |
| Full-length NCCER Industrial Maintenance simulated written exam booklet (instructor-prepared from released-item banks and NCCER practice assessments); full-length MSSC CPT four-module simulated exam (instructor-prepared from MSSC CPT Exam Study Guide practice items); answer keys; domain-breakdown scoring forms; Domain Tracker sheets (ongoing); Final Exam Readiness Checklist (instructor-prepared); No. 2 pencils; proctoring timer; phones silenced and stored. | Learner must score at or above 70% on the simulated NCCER written exam overall and at or above 70% on each of the four MSSC CPT module simulations to be recorded as mock-exam ready; learners below threshold on any section complete a documented targeted drill and re-attempt a parallel 20-item module quiz before end of course; instructor records final mock scores and drill completions on the Domain Tracker. Pass mark: 70% overall on NCCER simulation and 70% per module on MSSC CPT simulation, or documented completion of remediation drill. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dual Credential Mock Certification Examination | Mock certification exam | 100% | 70% or higher on the full NCCER Industrial Maintenance simulated written exam AND 70% or higher on each of the four MSSC CPT module simulations; learners below threshold on any component must complete instructor-directed domain remediation and a parallel 20-item re-quiz, documented on the Domain Tracker, before the course is recorded as complete. | Learners sit a full-length proctored simulation of the NCCER Industrial Maintenance written credential exam and a full-length proctored simulation of the MSSC CPT four-module exam on separate days under authentic testing conditions with no notes or references. Scores are broken out by domain, compared to the Day 1 diagnostic baseline to measure growth, and used alongside the Final Exam Readiness Checklist to certify the learner's readiness to sit the live credentialing exams. Score · Time management |
Students sit the NCCER Industrial Maintenance credential exams administered through an NCCER-accredited Assessment Center, and the MSSC Certified Production Technician (CPT) exams administered at authorized Pearson VUE testing centers. Pass standard: Credential issued by the body.
Back to Industrial Maintenance · How the school gets authority to award these credentials
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