Sustainable Energy Technician

This program prepares individuals for work in the sustainable energy trade with an emphasis on the growing fields of energy conservation and renewable energy production. Students gain the necessary knowledge, skills, and work habits regarding basic power generation principles, instrumentation, care and maintenance, and process controls.

The first year of the program prepares individuals for work in the sustainable energy field with a foundation in electrical fundamentals, hydraulics and mechanical power, alternative energy applications and power generation concepts, and basic industrial safety and control systems. Students successfully completing the first year will receive a Certificate as a Sustainable Energy Technician.

The second year of the program emphasizes advanced circuitry, digital electronics, hybrid electrical systems, advanced instrumentation and controls, and predictive and preventative maintenance. Students successfully completing the second year will receive an Associate of Applied Science Degree for a Sustainable Energy Technician.

To give individuals more career choices there is Career Pathway Specialization Certificate maintenance and repair skills.

Graduates can enter the workforce as small commercial and residential energy technicians, ocean and river wave and wind technicians, instrumentation, environmental control, energy management, or industrial maintenance electricians. Individuals receiving this certificate can also choose to continue their education to prepare as sustainable energy entrepreneurs, energy technician supervisors, or specialize in a focused area within sustainable energy.

Employment Opportunities:
The job outlook for Sustainable Energy Technicians is good locally, regionally and nationally. Job opportunities are available with alternative energy producers, city and county governments, as well as self-employed entrepreneurs. Demand is greatest for employees who have a well-grounded knowledge of electrical systems, instrumentation, process control, customer service, and emerging activities of the business.
Potential Earnings:
Potential stating wage for sustainable energy technicians in Oregon is $19.03 per hour and the average wage is $29.04 per hour as the individual’s skill level increases. Expertise in one or more of the specialized areas contained in the Career Pathway certificates often commands premium remuneration.

For more information about the program please contact Christopher Paddon at 503-338-2669.