RATE Students who are employed within 6 months of graduation
Energy Technology
Lake Area Tech’s Energy Technology program prepares you to maintain and repair the equipment used across today’s energy and production industries. From wind and coal to ethanol and petroleum systems, these operations depend on technicians who can keep machinery running safely and efficiently.
In this 20-month program, you’ll build skills in mechanical maintenance, repair, and system diagnostics. Training includes alignment techniques, metallurgy, pneumatics, hydraulics, thermodynamics, combustion, vibration analysis, and dynamic balancing, along with hands-on lab work and internship experience.
The program is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled maintenance technicians, preparing graduates for roles where reliability, precision, and problem-solving are essential. It is also eligible for the Build Dakota Scholarship, providing an opportunity for a reduced-cost pathway into a high-demand field.
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 Technology 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 Technology Careers
Below are several careers you could pursue with an Energy Technology degree. Visit our job board to see job opportunities in the Energy Technology sector.
Energy Technician
Graduates of the Energy Technology program can pursue careers as Energy Technicians, working with the systems and equipment that generate, distribute, and support energy production. In this role, you'll install, inspect, maintain, and troubleshoot equipment while helping ensure safe and reliable operation of critical energy infrastructure. It's a versatile career path that combines hands-on technical skills with problem-solving and emerging energy technologies.
Where you might work:
• Electric utility companies
• Power generation facilities
• Renewable energy operations
• Energy infrastructure providers
• Industrial energy facilities
Utility Technician
As a Utility Technician, you'll help maintain and support the infrastructure that delivers essential services to homes, businesses, and communities. Graduates can expect to work with electrical distribution systems, utility equipment, and field operations while helping ensure reliable service and system performance. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on work, outdoor environments, and serving the public.
Where you might work:
• Electric utility companies
• Municipal utility departments
• Rural electric cooperatives
• Power distribution operations
• Energy service providers
Substation Technician
Substation Technicians play a critical role in the electrical grid by maintaining and troubleshooting the equipment that helps move electricity safely and efficiently from generation facilities to consumers. In this position, you'll inspect, test, repair, and maintain transformers, breakers, relays, and other high-voltage equipment. This career is well suited for graduates who enjoy technical challenges and working with advanced electrical systems.
Where you might work:
• Electric utility companies
• Power transmission organizations
• Electrical substations
• Energy infrastructure providers
• Rural electric cooperatives
Renewable Energy Technician
As a Renewable Energy Technician, you'll work with the technologies that are shaping the future of energy production. Graduates can expect to install, maintain, inspect, and troubleshoot systems used in wind, solar, and other renewable energy operations. This career offers the opportunity to combine technical expertise with a growing industry focused on sustainable energy solutions.
Where you might work:
• Wind energy facilities
• Solar energy installations
• Renewable energy developers
• Utility-scale energy projects
• Energy service companies
Degree Pairings
Explore relevant classes and certificates below to see how they can increase hirability post-graduation.
Energy Technology+ Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate
August start only.
There is a fast-growing demand for workers who can operate and maintain uncrewed aircraft systems in our region. The Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate coursework will equip students with the necessary skills to be employed as uncrewed aerial system operators/pilots and technicians. Graduates will learn the laws and ethical procedures for operating Uncrewed Aerial Systems and will have the knowledge and skills to become a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Certificated Remote Pilot (Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate). Beginning fall 2025, Uncrewed Aerial Systems is an 18-credit, two-semester certificate delivered in a hybrid format with both online and on-campus components.
Energy Technology+ 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.
"Lake Area Tech has such a vast range of options to choose from that everyone should be able to receive an education in a career field that they are passionate about."
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 |
| Tools | $1,550 |
| Books | $850 |
| Laptop (What laptop should I get?) | $1,515 |
| Total Estimated Program Cost: | $22,728 |
We know that college is a large financial undertaking, and our main priority is that there are no surprises as you navigate this journey. 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.
We strive to offer a variety of financial aid options, as well as helpful resources regarding outside financial aid options.
Energy Technology FAQs
Get the details you need to decide if this program is the right fit for you.
What is the difference between the Energy Operations and the Energy Technology degrees?
The primary difference between the two programs is focus.
At Lake Area Technical College:
- Energy Operations emphasizes operating power plants and energy production facilities.
- Energy Technology focuses on electrical energy systems, power distribution, controls, and infrastructure.
- Energy Technology students work extensively with:
- Electrical power systems and distribution networks
- Substations, transformers, and protective equipment
- Grid reliability, protection, and system monitoring
- SCADA and control systems
- Renewable energy integration into the electrical grid
- Both programs are hands-on, but Energy Technology emphasizes systems and infrastructure, while Energy Operations emphasizes plant operations.
What skills will I learn in LATC’s Energy Technology program?
Students develop in-demand technical skills such as:
- Understanding electrical power generation, transmission, and distribution
- Reading and interpreting one-line diagrams, schematics, and system drawings
- Working with transformers, switchgear, breakers, and protection devices
- Monitoring and troubleshooting systems using SCADA platforms
- Integrating renewable energy sources into the power grid
- Diagnosing electrical and energy system issues
- Applying safety standards, regulations, and industry best practices
Is Energy Technology a sustainable career path for the future?
Yes. Energy Technology is a long-term, high-demand career field.
The energy industry is:
- Modernizing infrastructure
- Integrating renewable energy
- Expanding grid reliability and resilience
- Replacing a retiring workforce
These trends create strong demand for skilled energy technicians for decades to come.
Does the program teach both renewable and electrical energy systems?
Yes. The curriculum covers both renewable and traditional electrical energy systems.
Students learn:
- Electrical power fundamentals
- Renewable energy concepts and integration
- Hybrid energy systems
- How modern grids manage multiple energy sources
This broad foundation prepares graduates for today’s grid and future energy transitions.
How long does the Energy Technology degree take to complete?
The Energy Technology program is a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree when taken full time.
Graduates are prepared for energy and utility technician roles upon completion.
What types of companies will hire Energy Tech. graduates?
Energy Technology graduates are employed by a wide range of organizations, including:
- Electric utilities and cooperatives
- Power transmission and distribution companies
- Renewable energy companies
- Municipal utilities
- Energy infrastructure and engineering firms
- Industrial facilities with in-house power systems
Any organization that relies on electrical energy infrastructure needs Energy Technology technicians.
Are internships or hands-on labs included in the Energy Technology program?
Yes. Hands-on labs are a core part of the program and students are required to have an internship in the summer between their first and second years.
Students gain experience through:
- Electrical power and distribution labs
- SCADA and monitoring systems
- Equipment-based troubleshooting labs
- Industry-aligned projects and scenarios
This ensures graduates are prepared for real-world energy systems, not just classroom concepts
What are the career advancement opportunities with this degree?
Graduates often advance into roles such as:
- Senior Energy Technician
- Substation or Protection Technician
- SCADA or Systems Technician
- Reliability or Operations Support Technician
- Energy Systems Specialist
- Supervisory or technical leadership roles
The degree provides a strong technical foundation for advancement.
What is the average salary for energy technology careers?
Typical starting salaries range from:
- $55,000–$70,000 per year for entry-level positions.
Earnings often increase with experience, certifications, and specialization.
Who is a good fit for studying Energy Technology?
Energy Technology is a great fit for students who:
- Like problem-solving and systems thinking
- Are interested in electricity, energy, and infrastructure
- Want hands-on, technical work
- Enjoy working with technology that impacts everyday life
- Want a stable, in-demand career
No prior energy experience is required, as the program builds skills from the ground up.
Energy Technology Staff
Field-tested. Student-ready. Our esteemed staff is prepared to walk with you through every step of your collegiate career.
