Power Plant Technology Certificate

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Certificate Degree in Power Plant Technology

This one-year credit-bearing certificate program has been developed in partnership with Allegheny Energy, to help assure the availability of a qualified workforce. Due in part to an aging employee population, Allegheny power generation stations in the region have a need for entry-level operators.

This program is designed to prepare students for employment as power plant operators. Excellent employment opportunities exist in West Virginia and throughout the United States for students who complete this program. Students are not obligated to work for Allegheny Energy upon completion of this certificate program, and are free to obtain employment with any company.

Typical starting wages at area power generation stations are about $15 - $18 per hour, and a power station operator can earn approximately $35,000 to $40,000 per year after six months of initial employment. This job offers stable employment and significant opportunities for advancement.

Classes are held in a cohort format, with students progressing together through the program. Class sizes are limited to match the predicted employment needs of regional power stations, thus assuring a high probability of employment. A 10-week paid internship is offered on a competitive basis at an Allegheny Energy power station which can provide students with field experience. Internship opportunities are contingent upon successful completion of a comprehensive background investigation, post-offer physical examination and drug screening.

Students will enroll at Pierpont Community & Technical College. Students who do not meet the minimum academic requirements for Math and English may be required to enroll in developmental coursework.

Program Learning Outcomes

Students completing the program will:

• Be prepared to successfully complete the Edison Electric Institute POSS and MASS battery of tests
• Have theoretical knowledge of power plant operations gained through the completion of courses
• Have practical knowledge of power plant operations gained through a power plant internship and/or laboratory experience

Curriculum / Sequence of Coursework

Pierpont Community & Technical College
Attn: James Doak
1201 Locust Avenue
Fairmont, WV 26554