behind the grid.
RATE Students who are employed within 6 months of graduation
Energy Operations
Lake Area Tech’s Energy Operations program prepares you to monitor and control the systems that keep power and process plants running. From power generation to industrial processing, these environments depend on technicians who can manage production and respond when something isn’t right.
In this 20-month program, you’ll learn how to operate and maintain systems used in coal, hydro, wind, and nuclear power plants, as well as facilities like ethanol plants, oil refineries, and bio-diesel operations. Training focuses on system control, process monitoring, and troubleshooting, giving you the ability to identify issues and keep operations stable.
Developed in response to industry demand and unique to South Dakota, the program is built to prepare graduates for roles in a field where reliability and awareness matter every day.
If you plan to continue your education, tools like Transferology can help you understand how your coursework applies toward a four-year degree and explore your next steps.
Energy Operations Program Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate proficiency in operation of power or process plants.
- Demonstrate safety in the classroom/workplace.
- Develop troubleshooting and problem-solving skills through the use of logical sequencing of classroom
simulations. - Speak and write effectively.
- Demonstrate industry construction and maintenance of energy systems.
BUSINESS PARTNERS:
Energy Operations Careers
Below are several careers you could pursue with an Energy Operations degree. Visit our job board to see job opportunities in the Energy Operations sector.
Senior Plant Operator
Graduates of the Energy Operations program can pursue careers as Senior Plant Operators, overseeing the day-to-day operation of power generation, industrial processing, or energy production facilities. In this role, you'll monitor equipment performance, troubleshoot operational issues, and help ensure systems run safely, efficiently, and reliably. It's a career path that combines technical expertise with leadership and decision-making responsibilities.
Where you might work:
• Power generation facilities
• Electric utility companies
• Ethanol and biofuel plants
• Industrial processing facilities
• Renewable energy operations
Control Room Operator
As a Control Room Operator, you'll be responsible for monitoring and managing complex energy systems from a centralized control center. Graduates can expect to use advanced technology to track plant performance, adjust operating conditions, respond to system alerts, and help maintain safe, uninterrupted operations. Attention to detail and problem-solving skills are essential in this fast-paced environment.
Where you might work:
• Power plants
• Utility operations centers
• Wind energy facilities
• Ethanol plants
• Manufacturing operations
Shift Supervisor
Graduates who advance into Shift Supervisor roles help lead teams of operators and technicians during daily plant operations. Responsibilities often include coordinating work activities, overseeing safety procedures, responding to operational challenges, and ensuring production goals are met. This role is ideal for professionals who enjoy both technical work and team leadership.
Where you might work:
• Power generation facilities
• Utility companies
• Renewable energy facilities
• Ethanol and biofuel operations
• Industrial processing plants
Operations Supervisor
Operations Supervisor
An Operations Supervisor manages the people, processes, and systems that keep energy facilities running efficiently. Graduates can expect to oversee plant performance, coordinate maintenance activities, support regulatory compliance, and lead operational teams. Strong communication skills and a deep understanding of plant systems are key to success in this role.
Where you might work:
• Electric utilities
• Power generation facilities
• Renewable energy operations
• Manufacturing plants
• Industrial processing facilities
Maintenance or Reliability Technician
Graduates pursuing careers as Maintenance or Reliability Technicians focus on keeping critical equipment operating at peak performance. You'll inspect, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain mechanical and electrical systems while helping prevent unexpected downtime. This role is a great fit for individuals who enjoy hands-on problem solving and working with advanced industrial equipment.
Where you might work:
• Power plants
• Manufacturing facilities
• Wind energy operations
• Utility companies
• Industrial processing facilities
Energy Systems Specialist
As an Energy Systems Specialist, you'll work with the technologies and processes that generate, distribute, and manage energy. Graduates may support power plants, renewable energy facilities, manufacturing operations, or utility providers by optimizing system performance, improving efficiency, and helping organizations meet evolving energy demands. This career offers opportunities across traditional and emerging energy sectors.
Where you might work:
• Utility providers
• Renewable energy facilities
• Power generation operations
• Manufacturing plants
• Energy infrastructure companies
Degree Pairings
Explore relevant classes and certificates below to see how they can increase hirability post-graduation.
Energy Operations+ Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate
Energy Operations+ Manufacturing Maintenance Certificate
Students also have the option to pursue a Manufacturing Maintenance certificate, focused on troubleshooting and repairing manufacturing systems. The coursework builds a foundation in safety, mechanical systems, and operational processes, preparing students for maintenance roles in production environments. This 18-credit, two-semester certificate is offered on campus and is not currently eligible for financial aid.
Every class, every semester. Find the right pathway to achieve your degree on your timing.
Getting all of this straight can be tough – but you're not alone. Our representatives are here to help.
"I am a very "hands-on" learner and my classes at Lake Area Tech taught me in that manner."
Estimated Cost
At Lake Area Tech, there are no surprises. View expected expenses below, so you can plan ahead for a successful year.
| Tuition | $9,648 |
| State Fees | $3,240 |
| Departmental Fee | $3,693 |
| Campus Support Fee | $2,232 |
| Books | $900 |
| Tools | $1,550 |
| Laptop (What laptop should I get?) | $1,190 |
| Total Estimated Program Cost: | $22,453 |
We know that college is a significant investment in your future. Our goal is to offer you the most transparent look at potential costs associated with your degree.
Note that other indirect costs, such as housing, food, transportation, personal and other miscellaneous costs will vary for each student’s situation, and are not included in this estimate. You can find these estimates and a semester breakdown in the PDF cost breakdown worksheet.
We strive to offer a variety of financial aid options, as well as helpful resources regarding outside financial aid options.
Energy Operations FAQs
Get the details you need to decide if this program is the right fit for you.
What skills do you learn in an Energy Operations degree?
Lake Area Technical College’s Energy Operations program prepares students for careers operating and maintaining power generation and industrial energy systems. This hands-on Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree focuses on real-world power plant operations, safety, and system reliability across both traditional and renewable energy environments.
Students gain experience in:
- Power plant and utility operations
- Energy production and generation systems
- Industrial and mechanical energy systems
- Renewable and clean energy technologies
- Control room operations and safety compliance
What jobs can I get with an energy plant operations diploma?
The Energy Operations program at Lake Area Technical College builds the technical, mechanical, and operational skills needed to safely operate and maintain energy systems.
Students learn how to:
- Operate power plant and industrial energy systems
- Read and interpret P&IDs, one-line diagrams, and electrical schematics
- Monitor systems using SCADA and control room interfaces
- Operate boilers, turbines, pumps, compressors, and auxiliary equipment
- Understand power generation, heat transfer, and system efficiency
- Perform start-ups, shutdowns, inspections, and routine maintenance
- Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and control system issues
- Follow industry safety, environmental, and regulatory standards
Can I specialize in different types of energy plants with this degree?
Yes. The Energy Operations program teaches transferable operator skills that apply across multiple energy systems, including:
- Coal-fired power plants
- Natural gas and combined-cycle plants
- Renewable energy systems such as wind, solar, and hybrid facilities
- Industrial and municipal energy plants
- This flexibility allows graduates to adapt as energy technologies evolve.
How long does it take to complete the Energy Operations program?
The Energy Operations program is a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree when completed full time.
Students graduate with both the technical knowledge and hands-on training needed to enter the workforce immediately.
Does the program cover both renewable and traditional energy systems?
Yes. The curriculum includes both traditional and renewable energy systems to reflect how modern power grids operate.
Students learn core concepts that apply to:
- Fossil fuel–based power generation
- Renewable and clean energy technologies
- Hybrid and transitioning energy systems
This broad foundation prepares graduates for today’s energy workforce and future industry changes.
Are internships or hands-on training included in the degree?
Yes. Hands-on training is a core component of the program, and all students complete a required internship during the summer between the first and second year.
Training includes:
- Lab-based instruction using plant and utility equipment
- SCADA and control system simulations
- Field-style operational labs
- Industry-aligned projects and real-world scenarios
- On-the-job training through internships
These experiences closely mirror real energy plant operations.
How much do energy plant operators typically make after graduation?
Typical starting wages for energy and power plant operators range from:
- $55,000–$70,000 per year at entry level
With experience, overtime, shift differentials, and advancement, earnings often increase significantly.
Can I enroll in this degree even if I have no experience in this field?
Yes. No prior experience is required.
The program begins with foundational concepts and builds step-by-step into advanced operational skills. It is well suited for:
- Recent high school graduates
- Career changers
- Veterans and adult learners
- All technical and safety training is included as part of the degree.
Energy Operations Staff
Field-tested. Student-ready. Our esteemed staff is prepared to walk with you through every step of your collegiate career.
