Controls Technician - US Veteran Trainee Program

Rockwell Automation is a global technology leader focused on helping the world’s manufacturers be more productive, sustainable, and agile. With more than 28,000 employees who make the world better every day, we know we have something special. Behind our customers - amazing companies that help feed the world, provide life-saving medicine on a global scale, and focus on clean water and green mobility - our people are energized problem solvers that take pride in how the work we do changes the world for the better.

We welcome all makers, forward thinkers, and problem solvers who are looking for a place to do their best work. And if that’s you we would love to have you join us!

Job Description

The Academy of Advanced Manufacturing (AAM) is an in-residence technical training program that prepares transitioning service members and veterans with the automation, instrumentation, and controls skills required in today’s manufacturing environments. The program blends structured classroom instruction with extensive hands‑on lab experiences to build confidence, system understanding, and practical problem‑solving capabilities. Upon graduation, trainees are equipped to help fill critical technical workforce gaps across the manufacturing industry.

AAM Trainees participate in an immersive, full-time training program designed to build system awareness, diagnostic thinking, and proficiency in modern industrial controls and automation technologies. The curriculum combines structured lessons, hands-on labs, software-based exercises, and scenario-driven troubleshooting aligned with real-world manufacturing needs. In addition to technical training, trainees engage in an integrated hiring process, connecting with program-affiliated manufacturing partners for full-time employment opportunities in roles closely related to the program’s curriculum.

• Program Cost: 100% free to US Military Veterans and transitioning Service Members
• Housing Location: Cambria Hotel (Downtown Milwaukee)
• Transportation: Shuttle service provided to and from training Monday–Friday
• Training Location: Rockwell Automation Global Headquarters, Milwaukee, WI
• Program Duration: 11 weeks
• Training Wage: $12/hour
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Includes a one‑hour lunch break
• Training Mix:
  • 70% hands‑on learning in advanced lab using training stations and scenario‑based exercises
  • 30% classroom instruction focused on foundational concepts

Trainees complete coursework aligned to the following modules:

• Industrial Automation Principles
• Logix Foundation
• Logix Troubleshooting
• EOI Maintenance
• Industrial Controls Network
• Instrumentation
• Motor Control
• Variable Frequency Drives

Trainees work with modern industrial technology and training equipment, including:

• Basic hand tools and electrical tools (e.g., wiring tools, multimeters)
• Industrial controllers

• Human‑machine interfaces (HMIs)
• Low‑voltage motors
• Variable frequency drives (VFDs)
• Instrumentation devices
• Industrial network equipment
• Company-Issued computer preloaded with training software

Trainees are expected to:

• Arrive prepared and on time each day.
• Attend all instructional sessions, labs, coaching, and evaluations.
• Complete assigned exercises, labs, projects, and written and practical assessments.
• Follow all safety guidelines related to Housing and Training environments.
• Participate in individual and team‑based learning and problem solving.
• Demonstrate consistent effort and growth in technical competency.

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods during classroom and lab activities.
• Ability to work with small components, tools, and test instruments.
• You must be able to lift 50 lbs throughout the day.

• U.S. military veteran or transitioning service member with favorable standing or discharge (e.g., Honorable or General under Honorable Conditions)
• Must provide a DD-214 to verify military service and discharge status
• Willingness and ability to relocate anywhere in the U.S. for job placement with program-affiliated manufacturing partners
• Must possess technical experience from either time in service or civilian career

• Experience working with 3-phase power systems
• Industrial electrical experience with medium to high voltage systems (typically 208v, 240v, 277v, 480v, and above)
• Industrial systems/equipment troubleshooting and maintenance experience
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to learn new technical concepts
• Strong computer skills

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer including disability and veterans. 

If you are an individual with a disability and you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact our services team at +1 (844) 404-7247.