On-Site Power Generation
Students develop the skills necessary to install, service and maintain diesel and natural gas powered generator sets. Students develop the practical skills needed to work with electrical machinery, electric and electronic machine control devices, and other electronic equipment.
This major emphasizes:
- continuous power
- peaking power
- prime power
- standby power generating units
Advanced instruction in:
- electronically controlled diesel engines
- gaseous fueled engines
- troubleshooting and repair of electric power generator
- engine governors
- electronic switching components necessary in the generation, transmission and distribution of electric power
The students are exposed to all facets of the career field with a particular focus on problem solving and transferability of technical knowledge and skills. An internship is required in this program.
Students can complete 2 associate's degree programs in 3 years by enrolling in the dual degree option.
Graduates have a diverse set of skills and abilities that could prepare them for "green" careers focused on energy, renewable energy, and the environment. Read more...
Graduates have a diverse set of skills and abilities that could prepare them for employment in the natural gas industry. Read more...
Program Specs
- Application/Major Code: PW – view in catalog
- School: Natural Resources Management
- Degree Type: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
About the curriculum
Classes
View the classes you will be attending in the College Catalog. An internship is required in this major.
Industry Connections
Caterpillar sponsorship is an option for this program.
The value of student internships to the On-Site Power Generation major was outlined in an article by Claude T. Witts, instructor of diesel equipment technology, that was featured in the November/December issue of Powerline magazine, the flagship publication of the Electrical Generating Systems Association.
Read article
Internship Requirement
Read more about the required internship.
After graduation
List of jobs via the College Catalog.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics median hourly wages of mobile heavy equipment mechanics were $20.50 in 2010, with an annual wage of $42, 630. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $27,140, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $62, 630. Those with formal training should have very good job opportunities.
Industries with the highest published employment and wages for this occupation are:
| Industry | Percent change in employment from 2010 to 2020 | Annual median wage |
|---|---|---|
| Rail Car Repairers | 17% |
$47,410 |
| Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines | 16% |
$44,830 |
| Heavy Vehicle and Mobile Equipment Service Technicians | 16% |
$42,630 |
| Farm Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians | 13% |
$33,640 |
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition, Heavy Vehicle and Mobile Equipment Service Technicians (visited December, 2012)
Transfer Procedures
View general transfer procedures via the College Catalog.
Tools, Uniforms & Supplies
Tools
Uniform (required for all labs)
- Coveralls
- Glasses, safety, clear lens/black frames
- Leather work shoes or boots
Uniforms and tools are available for purchase through The College Store.
Clubs & Activities
Diesel Performance Technicians Association
View the entire student organizations listing or Greek Life listing.
Diesel Technology Advisory Committee
Advisory committees, which act as recommending bodies to the faculty and administration, consist of in-field professionals who act as partners in the development of curriculum. Their curricular and equipment advice as well as their industry connections and internship opportunities are invaluable to our students and to the growth of our institution.
