WEED – If you like mechanical and electrical systems and are looking for the skills you need to work in the steam and electrical power generation industry then COS’ new program in Power Generation Technology could be for you.

Power Generation Technology is one of three new programs College of the Siskiyous is launching this fall. Fall classes start September 8, and include: Power Plant Primer, Operations and Maintenance Techniques, Operations and Maintenance Safety, and Work Experience. Courses will be offered online and taught by Ross Stevenson.

The Environmental Resources – Power Generation Technology (ERPG) program is geared towards students interested in mechanical and electrical systems, and will prepare students for entry-level positions in the steam and electrical power generation and distribution industry. A connection to bio-fuel sources and related issues will be emphasized. Students can choose to complete an Associate of Science degree or a Certificate.

In the program students will learn to control, monitor and maintain boilers, turbines, and generators in power-generating plants, monitor instruments to regulate electricity flows, and demonstrate proper operation of plant support functions.

Instructor Stevenson, who has a BS degree in mechanical engineering from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, has enjoyed a 40 year career in the Power Generation Industry including the design, construction and startup of 250 MW to 600 MW power plants, curriculum development and classroom instruction, and Plant Operator training consulting. He is also a fifteen-year member of the Western Regional Boiler Association, and served as Association President in 2003.

“I have been associated with power boilers, steam turbines and power generation for 40 years.  During that time, the technology has changed and the efficiencies have improved; however, what has not changed is the industry need for well-trained plant operators to operate the equipment and manage the systems.  The opportunities to advance in this industry have not diminished,” Stevenson said.

Regarding what prospective students can expect, Stevenson explained, “students entering this course of study will be exposed to a wide spectrum of equipment, systems and processes used for power generation.  With a reasonable amount of hard work in the classroom and in the work experience courses, student will be prepared for entry-level operator opportunities. Remember, the power industry is very much involved in the development of this program and expects to hire its graduates to fulfill its employment needs.”

To learn more about the new Environmental Resources programs and see a list of fall course offerings visit www.siskiyous.edu/cte/environmental/ or call Christy Cummings Dawson at (530) 938-5305 or send an email to cummingsc@siskiyous.edu.  To register online visit www.siskiyous.edu and click “Online Services” or call (530) 938-5272 or call toll-free (888) 397-4339.