Engineering Technology: Clean Energy Specialization

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Overview

According to the US Energy Information Administration, global energy consumption has significantly increased and is expected to continue rising through 2035 (Energy Outlook, 2012). The energy industry is working to increase energy efficiency and looking toward innovative technologies to meet the growing demand. Prominent energy companies like BP and Phillips 66 are starting new departments focused on alternative energy and investing in technology development and production.

New energy technology career categories are emerging at an unprecedented pace, and skill sets associated with energy technology cut across both traditional and emerging industries. The number of green jobs in Washington rose 32% in the last few years, and these trends are expected to continue as the demand for energy increases and resources decrease. In Whatcom County alone, there are over 3,600 green jobs (Source: WA Employment Security Department, 2010). Many emerging green energy jobs will be technical jobs that require more than a high school diploma but less than a bachelor’s degree.

This two-year degree prepares graduates to enter into the industry for wide variety of job titles including, but not limited to, the following:

Engineering Technician *
Electronics Technician
Electronics Engineering Technician *
Solar Installer
Wind Energy Technician
Wind Turbine Service Technician

*Indicates careers that are currently considered “in demand” by the Washington State Employment Security Department.

Graduates of this program can also choose to transfer into the Western Washington University Institute for Energy Studies program.

Program Outcomes

• Describe and evaluate the impact of renewable energy within the context of sustainability, economics, policy, and society.
• Describe and apply a working knowledge of energy resources and their technological systems.
• Service/repair renewable energy systems and assist engineers with the design of renewable systems by applying basic knowledge of electrical, electronics, heat/power, and basic engineering concepts.
• Apply basic principles of math, science, and design theory to solve engineering problems.
• Utilize equipment, instruments, software and technical reference materials currently used in industry.
• Function effectively as a member of a technical team.
• Engage in, and recognize the need for, self-directed continuing professional development.
• Demonstrate critical thinking as well as technical and information literacy skills.
• Communicate effectively using writing, speaking, and graphics skills.
• Qualify for employment in the renewable energy field as an engineering technician or related job title.
• Apply ethical and professional practice within the field of renewable energy and engineering technology.

Placement Requirements

Admissions application and assessment in Reading, Math, and Writing is required. Your placement will determine where you begin your course sequence. Contact Admissions at 360.752.8345 or at admissions@btc.edu for assistance with academic planning.

Degree and Certificate Requirements

Engineering Technology: Clean Energy Specialization AAS-T Degree completion requires a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and minimum grade of C/2.0 for all General Education courses.

Programs

• Engineering Technology: Clean Energy Specialization, AAS-T

• Engineering Technology: Clean Energy Certificate

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