Program overview
Admission Requirements
Intakes

Last updated on 2025-04-21

Program overview

Program Overview

The Power Engineering Technician program at Cambrian College is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in the power engineering field. This program is endorsed by the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) and features a unique on-campus power plant that serves as a practical training facility. Students will engage in a curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, ensuring they are well-equipped to operate and maintain power systems safely and efficiently. Graduates will be prepared to challenge the TSSA examinations for the Fourth and Third Class levels of certification as Operating Engineers, making them highly competitive in the job market.

Program Structure

The Power Engineering Technician program is structured to provide comprehensive training over a period of 4 semesters (2 years). The program is delivered on-campus and is full-time, allowing students to immerse themselves in both theoretical and practical learning experiences. Key features of the program structure include:

  • Hands-on training in a TSSA-registered power plant located on campus.
  • Opportunities for industrial work placements to gain real-world experience.
  • Eligibility to challenge TSSA exams for Fourth and Third Class Operating Engineer certification levels.
  • Capped enrolment to ensure personalized attention and support for each student.

Students will also complete an online Lab Safety course at the beginning of their studies, which is mandatory before entering the labs. This structured approach ensures that students are well-prepared for both their academic and professional journeys in power engineering.

Featured Experiences

The Power Engineering Technician program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and prepare students for the workforce:

  • Hands-on training in a TSSA-registered power plant, providing practical experience with real equipment.
  • Industrial work placements that allow students to gain qualifying experience time (QET) while working alongside professionals in the field.
  • Optional co-op opportunities, such as placements at Bruyère Continuing Care and the National Research Council, where students can earn practical work experience and work towards their certification.
  • Fieldwork and placement opportunities traditionally obtained over the summer between the first and second years.

Career Options

Graduates of the Power Engineering Technician program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

  • Power Plant Operator: Responsible for monitoring and controlling power generation equipment to ensure efficient operation.
  • Energy Systems Technician: Works on the maintenance and management of energy systems in various settings, including industrial plants.
  • Refrigeration Technician: Specializes in the operation and maintenance of refrigeration systems in commercial and industrial environments.
  • Gas Compression Technician: Focuses on the operation and maintenance of gas compression systems, ensuring safety and efficiency.
  • Maintenance Engineer: Involved in the upkeep and repair of power generation and distribution systems, ensuring reliability and compliance with safety standards.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to contribute to various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and energy production.

 

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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