Students gain experience with the grid
Wrenford Polytechnic has signed a partnership agreement with a regional utility provider to create co-op placements for students in the Power Engineering Technician program. The arrangement gives students hands-on experience with the infrastructure that powers the City of Wrenford.
Students in the program will work alongside licensed engineers and technicians during their summer work terms. Duties include monitoring power distribution systems, assisting with maintenance schedules, and learning safety protocols for high-voltage equipment. The roles are paid and run for the standard three work terms built into the curriculum.
"This partnership gives our students a direct line into the industry," said Ingrid Solberg, chair of the Power & Process Engineering department. "They get to apply what they learn in the Escarpment Building labs to real-world grid operations before they graduate."
The program already includes classroom training in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and electrical systems. The new placements add the practical side of the job, showing students how those concepts work in a power plant or substation.
Students interested in the placement can learn more about the co-op process through Co-op & Career Services. They will work with their co-op advisor to prepare their resumes and practice interview skills before applying for the utility roles.
The Power Engineering Technician program starts in September and January each term. Domestic tuition is $4,260 per year. The program is delivered full-time at the Benchlands Campus.
For more information about the Power Engineering Technician program, visit the Power Engineering Technician page.