Field Trip: Chariho Electrical Technology students explore careers in industrial automation

May 7, 2026 - 03:13

WESTERLY - Students from the Chariho Career and Technical Center's Electrical Technology program got a firsthand look at the world of industrial automation during a recent visit to ProSystems Integration, a local automation company in Westerly. The field trip, held on Wednesday, was designed to connect classroom learning with real-world career paths.

During the visit, students observed how electrical systems are designed and implemented in automated manufacturing environments. They toured the facility and spoke with engineers and technicians about the skills needed to succeed in the field. Topics included programmable logic controllers, robotics, and system integration.

Instructor Mark Johnson said the trip helps students see the direct application of their coursework. "It is one thing to wire a circuit in a lab, but seeing how that work scales up in a factory setting is eye-opening for them," he said.

ProSystems Integration staff highlighted the growing demand for skilled workers in automation and encouraged students to consider apprenticeships or further technical training after high school. The visit also gave students a chance to ask questions about daily job responsibilities and career advancement.

For many students, the trip reinforced their interest in pursuing electrical or automation careers. "I did not realize how much technology goes into making things run automatically," one student said. "It makes me want to learn more."