Alaska's Institute of Technology

Welcome to the Power Plant Operation program. Electrical power in Alaska is commonly generated by diesel generator sets. To keep these sets properly maintained and operating, skilled operators are essential, especially in rural settings where these sets can be the only source of a community's power. Power Plant students train in a working power plant. Using a combination of hands-on and classroom instruction, students learn to perform routine maintenance and make common repairs on diesel-electric sets and related equipment.
Program Content To achieve a Power Plant Operator certificate, students must complete the following requirements. For a detailed description of each requirement, click on the link below.
Hours Related Studies 43 Safety 20 Routines 20 Tools of the Trade 14 Diesel Engines 30 Lubrication 10 Cooling 10 Diesel Fuel System 20 Electrical Theory and Generators 113

Occupational Levels

Occupational levels of Diesel Plant Operator and Assistant Diesel Plant Operator will be assigned upon successful completion of the training program, based on the student’s proficiency of the program’s competencies.

Students spend 60% of the course operating and maintaining diesel generator sets representative of installations in rural Alaska. The remainder of the course is spent in classroom instruction.

Program Content

Related Studies
Participate in school safety orientation, complete achievement tests, obtain First Aid & CPR card, participate in resume writing.
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Safety
Follow safety procedures in normal and emergency power-plant operation situations.
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Routines
Perform daily power-plant routines.
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Tools of the Trade
Use required hand and measuring tools, meters, and fasteners to perform power-plant maintenance.
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Diesel Engines
Explain operating theory of diesel engines; perform basic maintenance and troubleshooting procedures.
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Lubrication
Describe the operation of engine lubrication systems; perform normal lubrication system service.
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Cooling
Describe the operation of engine cooling systems; perform normal cooling system service.
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Diesel Fuel System
Describe the operation of diesel fuel systems; perform normal fuel system service; troubleshoot and replace defective fuel system components.
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Electrical Theory and Generators
Explain electrical theory fundamentals; apply to servicing and troubleshooting generator set DC electrical systems; describe the operating principles of AC generator sets; diagnose and repair common AC generator set component failures; operate single and parallel generator sets under load conditions.
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Mission:
To graduate individuals demonstrating skills which would make them desirable employees in the field of power plant operation.

Length of Course: 280 clock hours, 40 training days
Enrollment: January & March
Training Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday
Certificate Level: Power Plant Operator

Students train in a working power plant. The 60-260 kw electric sets represent sets used in Alaska. Students learn basic generator set operational skills up to troubleshooting the alternator section. Engine and auxiliary system maintenance and troubleshooting are covered. Waste management skills are also presented. Skills that lead to proficiency in operating the power plant, to optimize its efficiency and decrease operational costs, are stressed.

TABE tests scores for this program must be:
   Reading - 552
   Combined Math - 552

Physical requirements of the occupation are the ability to lift 100 lbs., carry 50 lbs., and stoop, kneel, crawl, walk, and stand continuously. The work also requires good finger dexterity and the ability to distinguish colors accurately.

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