A TSSA-registered, on-campus 2nd Class power plant. Curriculum that is endorsed by the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA). A unique program located in northern Ontario. Just a few of the reasons why Cambrian's Power Engineering Technician program is in high demand.

Over four semesters, you'll gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills in all aspects of power plant operation and maintenance. 4th Class level in first year and at the 3rd Class level in second year. Theoretical concepts discussed in class are further explained and reinforced during practical experience in the College's Power Plant Training Facility. This facility is where you will operate and maintain working equipment in a safe and efficient manner.

Course subjects closely follow the Standardized Power Engineers Examination Committee (SOPEEC) syllabus and help prepare you to challenge the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) examinations required for 4th Class and 3rd Class certifications as an Operating Engineer.

The program has been officially recognized and approved by the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA). This approval will grant a qualifying time reduction to you upon successful completion of the program. After successful completion of the first year of the program, you will complete an approved three month placement, which will enable you to obtain the necessary qualifying time for 4th Class certification. Students are responsible for completing the TSSA 4A and 4B testing requirements of the Operating Engineer certification.

With 4th Class Operating Engineering certification received, students can begin obtaining the 3rd Class qualifying time reduction offered in the second year in the Power Plant Training Facility. Their academic studies continues with curriculum tailored to prepare for the 3rd Class examinations.

Program Highlights
Program length is 2 years (4 semesters); or 1 year (2 semesters) if TSSA certification as a 4th Class Operating Engineer is already possessed
Program endorsed by the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA)
One of a few colleges in Ontario to offer this program and the only college in northern Ontario
Hands-on training in Cambrian's 2nd Class power plant
Grads are eligible to challenge the TSSA examinations for 3rd Class certification as an Operating Engineer
Fieldwork/Placement
After the first year, you will undertake an approved 3 month placement with an approved company or agency. This placement, when coupled with the qualifying time reduction granted to you upon successful completion of the program, will grant you the 12 month qualifying time required for 4th Class certification.

Furthering Your Studies
Students successfully completing the Power Engineering Technician program and obtaining a valid 3rd Class Operating Engineering certificate may enter directly into the Power Engineering Technology program. This will be of great assistance to those students considering certification at the second class level.

Employment Opportunities
Graduates may find employment in industrial and non-industrial settings having pressure plants registered by the TSSA and requiring services of a certified operating engineer. These settings may be located in:

Manufacturing plants
Cogeneration facilities
Refrigeration plants
Mining operations
Pulp and paper mills
Hospitals
District heating plants
In addition to these traditional employers; non-registered plants located in high rise and commercial buildings provide yet another employment opportunity to power engineers. Third class operating engineers are also able to find employment in the pressure vessel inspection industry.