Electric Power Generation Technology
School of Natural Resources Management
Schneebeli Earth Science Center, Rm. 105 · (570) 320-8038
Frequently Asked Questions
- What type of job could I get with a degree in Electric Power Generation?
- What kinds of courses should I take in high school to prepare me for your College and this degree?
- What if I don’t have the appropriate high school courses? Can I still be admitted to Penn College?
- I'm just interested in the technical courses in my major. Why do I have to take math, English, fitness and other courses? Why can't I just concentrate on the courses I'll be using after I graduate?
- Do I need to purchase my own tools or are they provided by the College?
- What is the placement rate of your Electric Power Generation Technology graduates?
- What kind of salary can I expect with a two-year degree in Diesel Technology?
- What if I can't afford to go to college?
- How do I get to the Earth Science Center from Main Campus?
- I still have other questions. Who can I talk to?
- How do I apply?
Q:What type of job could I get with a degree in Electric Power Generation?
A: Students learn the skills necessary to install, service and maintain diesel and natural gas powered generator sets. Our graduates are prepared to work as power generation technicians, power generation specialists, technical sales consultants, industrial maintenance or field service technicians, sales representatives and service managers. View the Skills & Careers Web page for more information.
Q: What kinds of courses should I take in high school to prepare me for your College and this degree?
A: We recommend that you have at least two years of algebra, two years of science (physics is particularly helpful) and four years of English. Although we are a technical college, we have the same general education requirements as other colleges so a strong foundation is essential to your success here.
Q: What if I don’t have the appropriate high school courses? Can I still be admitted to Penn College?
A: Yes! Penn College offers developmental coursework in math, English and reading. Once you’ve applied to Penn College, you will be scheduled for a placement test. This test provides us with information in regard to your skill level in those three areas. You will automatically be scheduled for developmental courses if your test scores indicate a need. Developmental coursework does not “count” toward coursework within your program so you must recognize that it may take you an additional semester or so to complete your degree. Developmental courses offer you the opportunity to strengthen your skills so that you can go on to be successful in your program.
Q: I'm just interested in the technical courses in my major. Why do I have to take math, English, fitness and other courses? Why can't I just concentrate on the courses I'll be using after I graduate?
A: Unfortunately, this is a common misperception among some students. English, math, computer science, etc., WILL BE a part of your future career. Advisory board members, who are representatives from businesses and industries hiring our graduates, have specifically requested that our students receive instruction in these areas. We continually hear that our graduates need to be able to communicate effectively on the job. Also, students who graduate with a degree are likely to have more career advancement opportunities than those who have not earned degrees. English, math and electives are all part of that degree! Those courses help develop critical thinking skills and expose students to other view points and diversity - all important in the world of work.
Q: Do I need to purchase my own tools or are they provided by the College?
A: You are expected to purchase your own tools. For a detailed listing of tools and estimated price, please view our Tool List page. Tools can be purchased at the College Store or through a dealer such as Sears or Snap-on. The advantage to purchasing your own tools is that the tools are yours to use during your time as a student and later as an employee. Larger specialty tools such as those used in diagnostics and testing are purchased by the College or donated by industry for use by all students enrolled in the program.
Q: What is the placement rate of your Diesel Technology graduates?
A: The program currently boasts a 100% placement rate. The demand is great for skilled technicians in this area.
Q: What kind of salary can I expect with a two-year degree in Diesel Technology/Mack Emphasis?
A: The on-going deregulation of the electric power generation industry has created a great demand for skilled technicians. Our most recent graduates report a starting salary range of $36,000 to $50,000, but advancement in this field is rapid and salaries increase significantly based upon the level of responsibility and the skill-level of the technician.
Q: What if I can't afford to go to college?
A: Penn College's Financial Aid Office can give you good advice about paying for college. Many of our students use loans and grants to help pay for their education. In addition, there are many scholarship opportunities available based on economic need, previous academic achievement or award-specific criteria.
Q: How do I get to the Earth Science Center from Main Campus?
A: The Earth Science Center is located approximately 12 miles south of Williamsport, just off of Route 15. View Earth Science Map
Free City Bus transportation to the Earth Science Center is available for Penn College students. The schedule is based on Earth Science Center student schedules and fits the majority of student needs. (Main Campus classes may conflict with the bus schedule.) Note: The bus schedule is subject to change based on student use and City Bus determinations. View City Bus Schedule
Q: I still have other questions. Who can I talk to?
A: Feel free to give us a call at (570) 320-8038, and we can answer your questions or put you in touch with faculty who can tell you more. You may also e-mail us at naturalresources@pct.edu.
If you'd like to come to our campus for a tour, please contact the Admissions Office at 1-800-367-9222 or schedule a tour on-line.
A: To obtain an application for admission to Penn College, you may phone our Admissions Office at 1-800-367-9222, or e-mail them at admissions@pct.edu. You may also apply for admission on-line.