Energy Technology

20 Months
Credits Required for Graduation: 80
Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree

Global Energy
Creating and maintaining the means to produce economical energy has become a global business that will not close its doors because of lack of demand for the product.  In fact, that demand is so large that it has created opportunities for newly developed careers in the energy industry and adding additional numbers to the current industry employee base.  The Energy Technology program is designed to meet the ever-increasing need in the particular area of maintenance and repair technicians for energy producing industries. 

Earth, Wind and Fire…
Coal-fired and wind generation energy is rapidly expanding in this region.  The ethanol industry’s production capabilities are exploding across the Midwest.  The agricultural by-product industry holds much promise for future uses in creating energy. And, the current pipelines used to transport petroleum products are in need of maintenance.  All of these facilities are facing an acute need for technicians who can maintain and repair the production equipment for the energy industry.

Utilizing What We Have
The Energy Technology program will have two major components: technical theoretical training and practical experience gained in the labs and during the internship.  The Energy Technology program will utilize content from several of Lake Area Tech’s existing programs such as machine tool technology, aviation maintenance technology, welding and electronic systems technology.  In addition, courses specific to the energy industry will also be taught.  Students will learn mechanical maintenance, repair and overhaul.  They will also learn alignment techniques, metallurgy, pneumatics, hydraulics, thermodynamics, combustion, vibration analysis and dynamic balancing.  Environmental concerns will also be taught throughout the program.

The Future
The growth of the energy industry in this area of the country is substantial.  The need for Energy Technicians in this career field is solid both locally and nationally.  A skilled energy technician can earn high wages in ethanol plants, power plants, wind turbine farms, pipelines, dairy and cheese processing plants, and any industry that requires an employee to understand processes and perform industrial maintenance.  These individuals can also be employed as millwrights.

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