Energy Generation Operations
Power the Future
Launch your career in Energy Generation Operations and become a vital part of one of the world's fastest-growing industries. Our program trains you to operate and maintain power generation facilities using state-of-the-art simulator technology. You'll learn energy facility operations skills in various settings鈥攆rom nuclear, coal, and natural gas plants to biofuels, water/wastewater treatment, to industrial production operations. As a qualified energy or industrial operator, you'll find opportunities in nuclear power plants, fossil fuel plants, renewable plants, water/wastewater operations, and more. This program prepares you for an essential role in critical infrastructure operations where you directly impact communities and keep our nation running.
HIGHLIGHTS
Energy Systems Understanding
Gain comprehensive knowledge of various energy types and how they convert to usable electrical power. You'll select elective courses based on your interests in areas like nuclear energy, green technologies, gas turbines, biofuels, and wastewater treatment systems, preparing you for diverse career paths in energy generation.
Safety and Industry Procedures
Master critical industry safety procedures and protocols essential for energy facility operations. This knowledge ensures you can maintain safe working environments while managing complex power generation systems, a fundamental skill for all energy operators.
Alternative Energy Foundation
Develop the knowledge and understanding of carbon free energy systems including nuclear, wind, solar, and hydro. Learn the strength and limitations of each and how they work together. This knowledge positions you for growing opportunities in alternative energy sectors while understanding traditional power generation methods.
Energy Generation Operations
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Locations: Milford
The Energy Generation Operations program prepares students to operate and maintain various energy generation facilities. You will gain practical experience through state-of-the-art control room simulators that replicate real-time operations at real-world facilities.
ESTIMATED TUITION
$7,620 (A.A.S.) / $3,810 (Diploma) / $2,032 (Certificate)
CREDIT HOURS
60 (A.A.S.) / 30 (Diploma) / 16 (Certificate)
PROGRAM LENGTH
4 Terms (A.A.S.) / 2 Terms (Diploma) / 1 Term (Certificate)
SCHEDULE
Full-Time / Part-Time
STARTING TERM
Fall / Spring
Water Quality & Wastewater Treatment Operator
Locations: Milford
The Water Quality & Wastewater Treatment Operator Certificate is for students wanting to work in the drinking water and wastewater industry. You will learn about water treatment processes, environment regulations, distribution, and collections systems. The program will also prepare you to take the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy exam for certification in water and wastewater treatment.
ESTIMATED TUITION
$2,032
CREDIT HOURS
16
PROGRAM LENGTH
1 Term
SCHEDULE
Full-Time / Part-Time
STARTING TERM
Fall / Spring
WHY 51吃瓜?
What skills will I learn in Energy Generation Operations?
Our program teaches you solid foundation skills in systems operations that can be applied to many industries beyond energy generation including water treatment plants, ethanol production, refinery operations, brewing, and distillery operations, and more. You'll learn problem-solving skills, big-picture thinking and how to plan ahead.
What technology is used in 51吃瓜's Energy Generation Operations training?
You'll get hands-on training with industry simulators鈥攖he same equipment used in today's workforce. Our state-of-the-art virtual-reality software simulates real power plant experiences, preparing you for any situation you might face as an energy facility operator.
How is the Energy Generation Operations program structured?
Students spend 60% of their time in lecture courses and 40% in the lab. Many lecture courses include hands-on activities, giving you practical experience as a potential energy operator alongside theoretical knowledge.
Why is 51吃瓜's Energy Generation Operations program unique?
Our program is one of only a few of its kind nationwide, and one of even fewer that offer the Nuclear Uniform Curriculum Program Certification. It was developed in response to industry needs and continues to work closely with industry experts to ensure you learn the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in operative energy careers.
CAREER OUTCOMES
Nuclear Power Plant Operator
Control and manage the safe operation of a nuclear power plant. These operators monitor nuclear power reactors to maintain safe, reliable, continuous operations. You will support equipment and monitor instrumentation used to run the plant including pumps, valves, motors, and radiation sensors, turbines, and generators. Ensure the reactor is performing safely to provide stable, continuous power to our electrical system.
Water/Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator
Manage systems that treat and distribute water for communities and process wastewater. Operators control equipment to purify and clarify water, dispose of wastes, and monitor operating conditions. They perform tests to ensure water quality meets regulations.
Industrial Plant Operator
Manage and operate large scale industrial production facilities such as fertilizer plants, chemical plants, refineries, and similar facilities. You will monitor instruments and adjust equipment such as heat exchangers, flow valves, pressure systems and others, ensuring chemical reactions are performing safely and efficiently.
Additional Resources
- Students entering this program may qualify for the following:
- Accreditation