Technology: Power Engineering Technician - Certificate

Program Overview

Location(s):
  • Delivery is subject to needs assessment.
Length: 36 weeks

Overview

Power Engineering Technician is a certificate program. It provides practical training in boiler operations, maintenance techniques and tool usage.

This program is offered at the following Saskatchewan regional colleges: Southeast Regional College, Great Plains College, and Parkland College.

Power Engineering is not an apprenticeship trade; however, like apprenticeship trades, it is divided into levels of skill and training. The levels are referred to as classes with First Class being the highest level. A combination of work experience and course completions followed by rigorous interprovincial examinations allows a power engineer to progress from one class to another.

You will study Fourth Class interprovincial standardized material as preparation to challenge the interprovincial Fourth Class examinations. You will also acquire boiler firing time in a power lab and by participating in industry work experiences.

Graduates are eligible to challenge the provincial exam to obtain the Refrigeration Engineers Certificate required to operate larger refrigeration plants in Saskatchewan.

Graduates may enrol in Year 2 of the Power Engineering Technology program (based on seat availability).

Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared to work as power engineers or process operators in a variety of industrial and heating plants. These include utility (power) plants, refineries, hospitals, pulp and paper mills, breweries, mines, gas processing plants, heavy oil upgraders, fertilizer plants or chemical plants.

Program Details

Start Date(s): Varies:

For more information, contact Southeast Regional College (1-866-999-7372), Great Plains College (1-866-296-2472), or Parkland College (1-866-783-6766).

Tuition and Fees

  • For complete details on tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the SIAST campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Admission Information

Admission Requirements

 

Note

  • Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics C30 are not admission requirements; however, they would be extremely helpful to your success in the program and may be required by some employers as a condition of employment.

 

*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted:

  • Math B30

Special Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores and Post Secondary Success Requirements for this program below, and review additional details concerning Special Admission.

ACCUPLACER©

  • 80 Arithmetic
  • 75 Elementary Algebra
  • 75 Reading
  • 75 Sentence

Post-Secondary Success

One year post-secondary studies plus the mathematics requirement

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of SIAST programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake. 

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year. 

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

SIAST recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.


Transfer Credit

Many SIAST students benefit from transferring credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. To learn more, visit our transfer credit web page.

 

Courses

PE Year 1, Semester 1 Required

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
CHEM 100

Chemistry

You will receive a general overview of the fundamental principles in the structure, formation and interaction of chemical compounds and the importance of chemistry in industrial operations.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 30

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

2
COMP 172

Introduction to Microsoft Word and Excel

Your studies will introduce you to the purpose and uses of a word processor and electronic spreadsheet. You will develop the basic skills of creating, editing and formatting documents and spreadsheets.


Credit Units: 1

Other Hours: 15

Equivalent Course(s): COAP 120, COAP 172, COAP 381, COMP 120

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab, Print Distance Group, Web CT/Blackboard

1
DRFT 103

Basic Mechanical Drafting

You will learn the basic fundamentals used in the interpreting and sketching of technical drawings.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 30

Equivalent Course(s): GRPH 181

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

2
ENGP 103

Legislation and Codes

You will review the various provincial, Canadian and ASME legislation and codes related to the construction and operation of boilers, pressure vessels and refrigeration plants.


Credit Units: 1

Lecture Hours: 15

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

1
ENGP 180

Power Lab 1

You will learn the major components of a steam plant and participate in the start-up of the equipment which is similar to that used in industry. You will also perform water testing and chemical treatment.


Credit Units: 4

Lab Hours: 54

Equivalent Course(s): PROP 182

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lab/Practical

4
ENGP 181

Plant Maintenance 1

You will learn about and practice the various types of maintenance required to keep plant equipment functioning in a safe workplace.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 54

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

4
ENGP 186

Pumps, Compressors, and Lubrication

You will receive an introduction to the characteristics and operation of pumps and compressors. Your studies will include a focus on lubrication, its properties, methods of application and importance to efficient equipment operation.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 30

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

2
MATH 299

Intermediate Algebra and Basic Trigonometry

You will review the fundamentals of algebra and trigonometry. The course content includes algebraic operations on equations, problem solving, quadratic equations, systems of linear equations, areas, volumes and basic trigonometry.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 32

Equivalent Course(s): MAT 120, TSYH 120

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

2
SEM 101

Technology Seminars

You will receive an orientation to your program and learn where and how the technician/technologist fits into the workplace and society. You will become familiar with the role of technicians/technologists in society, study and time management skills, increasing diversity in the workplace, principles of sustainability, the impact of technology on society and workplace safety requirements.


Credit Units: 1

Lecture Hours: 16

Equivalent Course(s): ENGM 181, ETHC 183, ORTN 120

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

1
SFTY 172

Safety

You will receive general safety information related to power engineering. You will study the basic principles dealing with personal safety equipment, fire safety and WHMIS. You will learn about environmental pollutants and their methods of control. An overview of the Transportation of Dangerous goods legislation will be discussed. Communication as it pertains to health and safety will be studied. A review of some of the occupational health hazards in industry and methods of prevention of incidents will be undertaken.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 45

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

3
STEA 184

Steam Generation 1

You will receive an introduction to boiler terminology, design, operation and government regulations and codes pertaining to boilers.


Credit Units: 5

Lecture Hours: 70

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

5
TCOM 100

Technical Communications 1

You will practice job-related interpersonal, oral and written communication skills as well as teamwork skills. You will apply job search techniques, develop a targeted resume and study job interview techniques.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 25

Equivalent Course(s): BCOM 120, TCOM 120, TCOM 140

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

2
THER 182

Thermodynamics 1

You will receive an introduction to the field of thermodynamics. You will learn the quantities, units and principles involved in elementary thermodynamics.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 30

Equivalent Course(s): PHYS 224

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

2
THER 183

Applied Mechanics 1

You will receive an introduction to the field of mechanics. You will learn the quantities, units and principles involved in statics and dynamics.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 32

Equivalent Course(s): MECA 121

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

2
WTER 100

Water Treatment 1

The course will introduce you to some of the basic methods utilized in power plants to prepare and maintain the water used in steam generation.


Credit Units: 1

Other Hours: 15

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

1

PE Year 1, Semester 2 Required

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
ELEC 188

Basic Electricity 1

You will be introduced to the basics of DC and AC circuits and machines. You will use electrical metering devices, perform electrical calculations and describe the operation of transformers and electrical distribution systems.


Credit Units: 3

Other Hours: 45

Corequisites(s):

Equivalent Course(s): ELEC 288, PHYS 224

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

3
ENGP 100

Heating Systems 1

You will receive an introduction to heating boiler terminology, design, operation and government regulations. You will also learn about the controls for steam and hot water heating boilers.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 25

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

2
ENGP 101

Heating Systems 2

Building on the knowledge gained in ENGP 100 (Heating Systems 1), you will study the various types of heating systems. You will learn the importance of building ventilation. You will also study auxiliary building systems.


Credit Units: 1

Other Hours: 20

Prerequisites(s): ENGP 100

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

1
ENGP 183

Prime Movers

Your studies will focus on the basics of steam and gas turbine construction and operation, internal combustion engines and steam engines used in industry.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 45

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
ENGP 187

Power Lab 2

The course is a continuation of ENGP 180 (Power Lab 1). You will manipulate steam production with the purpose of operating turbines, heat exchangers, pumps and auxiliary fuel systems in a functioning high pressure steam lab. The lab will allow you to bring all of your previously learned theory and skills together in order to validate your knowledge and operating skills.


Credit Units: 4

Lab Hours: 54

Prerequisites(s): ENGP 180

Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

4
ENGP 188

Plant Maintenance 2

The course is a continuation of ENGP 181 (Plant Maintenance 1). You will receive hands-on training on plant maintenance tasks (including the construction of piping systems, shaft alignment and boiler cleaning, maintenance and repair).


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 67

Prerequisites(s): ENGP 181

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

4
INST 182

Instrumentation

You will be introduced to the operation and application of control loops, control signals, actuators and control valves. You will study programmable logic control and the operation of boiler controls.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 40

Corequisites(s): ELEC 188

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
PROP 141

Process Simulations 1

You will be introduced to the operation of computer controlled systems used to operate plant equipment. You will have the opportunity to run a piping system using simulation.


Credit Units: 1

Other Hours: 12

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

1
PROP 198

Plant and Process Operations

You will learn about industrial processes used to manufacture a variety of different products. You will study the equipment used in these industrial processes.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 52

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
RFRG 183

Air Conditioning

You will receive the information needed to operate and maintain a building's air conditioning system.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 40

Equivalent Course(s): AIR 288

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

3
RFRG 195

Refrigeration Systems

The course provides an introduction to the principles of refrigeration used in power plants.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 55

Prerequisites(s): THER 182

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

4
TCOM 101

Technical Communications 2

You will write workplace documents. You will practice meeting skills and deliver short presentations.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 25

Prerequisites(s): TCOM 100

Equivalent Course(s): BCOM 121, COMM 127, COMM 187, COMM 191, TCOM 103, TCOM 123

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

2
WORK 185

Work Experience 1

You will have an opportunity to observe and participate in the operation of a boiler in the workplace. You will study the impact of shift work on personal health and wellness. You will learn how to effectively manage the negative effects commonly associated with rotating shift work. This experience will help you relate theory you learned to an operational plant. It will also help you develop contacts for possible future employment.


Credit Units: 0

Lab Hours: 60

Prerequisites(s): SEM 101, SFTY 172

Learning Method(s): Work Experience - Group

0

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SIAST is Saskatchewan's primary public institution for post-secondary technical education and skills training, recognized nationally and internationally for its expertise and innovation. Through program and course registrations, SIAST serves 26,000 distinct students with programs that touch every sector of the economy. SIAST operates campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon, and provides a number of courses and programs through distance education.

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