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Power engineers are responsible for the safe and efficient operation and maintenance of boilers, turbines, and refrigeration and air conditioning in commercial or industrial buildings.

Your knowledge of math and physics will be paired with the mechanical and technical knowledge needed to begin a career as a 4th Level power engineer. You will learn how to troubleshoot issues and make repairs on a variety of equipment. Courses include Mathematics, Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Plant Services, Prime Movers, Refrigeration/Air Conditioning, Electricity, and Plant Safety.

  • September 2026

    Marine Training Centre

    Program Length

    1 Year

    Credential

    Certificate, 4th Class Power Engineer

    Canadian Tuition

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    International Tuition

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    Canadian Applicants

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    International Applicants with a Valid Study Permit

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    Other International Applicants

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  • Admissions Requirements

    • Grade 12 academic
    • Résumé including work and volunteer experience with applicable dates, membership in groups, associations or athletics, awards and distinctions, and any other information about yourself relevant to the program.

     

    Notes: 

    • Emphasis is placed on abilities in math and physics.
    • Don’t have the courses you need to get into this program? Upgrade, earn high school credits, or get your high school equivalency credential through Adult Education. It’s free!
    • If your first language is not English, please review our English Language Requirements.
  • Program courses

    Course Code

    Course Name & Description

    Credit Values


    Course Code:SAFE-1005

    PEI Occupational Health and Safety

    An overview of the Occupational Health and Safety Act of Prince Edward Island. Students examine the legislation, how PEI employees are protected while on the job and the responsibilities of employees and employers.

    Credit Value:0


    Course Code:EENG-1000

    Applied Mechanics and Thermodynamics

    This course focuses on the fundamental principles of mechanics and thermodynamics, and their application to solve real-world problems faced by power engineers. Topics include, dynamics, work and energy, momentum, rotational motion, as well as the laws of thermodynamics and heat transfer mechanisms.

    Credit Value:3


    Course Code:EENG-1010

    Introduction to Boilers and Boiler Systems

    This course provides an introduction to boilers and boiler systems, covering the basic principles of design, operation, common types of boilers, and their applications. Topics include the functions of key components such as burners, feedwater systems, and safety devices, as well as the importance of proper maintenance. Students gain an understanding of the different types of fuels used in boilers, and their impact on efficiency and emissions.

    Credit Value:3


    Course Code:EENG-1020

    Electrotechnology & Instrumentation and Controls

    Students learn the fundamentals of electricity as well as the design and operation of electrical equipment used in its production and distribution. Emphasis is placed on the instrumentation and control devices and systems commonly encountered in plant operations.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:EENG-1030

    Material Science and the Environment

    Students learn the environmental considerations relating to the operation of a plant, as well as measures that are taken to reduce pollution and the impact on your surroundings. Materials used in engineering, and the welding processes and testing methods relevant to plant and Power Engineering are also explored.

    Credit Value:1


    Course Code:EENG-1040

    Jurisdiction Legislation, Plant Safety, And Industrial Communications

    2023 Mar 23 3:20 PM Colleen Myer Academic model applied 2023 catyr

    Credit Value:2


    Course Code:EENG-1050

    Power Engineering Lab A

    Students are introduced to general plant safety, safety programs, and personal protective equipment. Students gain practical experience using tools and equipment commonly found in industry.

    Credit Value:2


    Course Code:EENG-1100

    Lubrication, Pumps and Compressors, and Prime Movers

    Students learn the principles of lubrication, bearing care and maintenance, and the fundamentals of pumps and compressors as they pertain to plant operations. In addition, the construction, operation, maintenance of steam turbines, cooling towers, condensers, gas turbines, and internal combustion engines are also covered.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:EENG-1105

    Boiler Safety Devices, Operations Management, and Water Treatment

    Students learn about the design, operation, and code requirements for pressure relief valves, combustion safety controls, and boiler fittings, as well as procedures for boiler/plant startup, shutdown, monitoring, reporting, and cleaning. In addition, water treatment methods, tests, and equipment for various applications are also explored.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:EENG-1110

    Refrigeration Systems

    Students are introduced to the fundamentals of refrigeration and refrigerant handling, as well as the purpose and operating principles of compression and absorption refrigeration systems with an emphasis on operational and safety controls.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:EENG-1115

    Heating, Cooling, and Hvac Systems

    Students learn the methods and techniques for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) for human health and comfort, as well as the equipment and systems commonly encountered by Power Engineers. Operating principles and maintenance procedures for steam, hot water and infrared systems, and combined types of HVAC systems are also explored with attention given to heat gain and loss, heat recovery methods, and HVAC control strategies.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:EENG-1120

    Industrial Plants, Plant Maintenance, And Auxiliary Systems

    This course explores the processes and procedures used to service and maintain boiler systems in a safe and effective manner. Plant auxiliary systems, including lighting systems, water systems, and building lighting system design, water supply systems, and drainage systems are also covered.

    Credit Value:3


    Course Code:EENG-1125

    Power Engineering Lab B

    In Power Engineering Lab B, students continue to apply general plant safety practices and techniques that were introduced in Lab A as well as safe handling and storage of dangerous materials found in the workplace.

    Credit Value:2


    Course Code:NCPR-1001

    Standard First Aid and CPR/AED Level C

    A comprehensive two-day course offering standard first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills from a certified trainer. As required by regulation, this course covers CPR and the management of other breathing, airway and circulation emergencies, as well as, the control of bleeding, treating shock, stabilizing fractures and dislocations, head and spine injuries, and more. Also, includes automated external defibrilators (AED). This certification expires in 3 years.

    Credit Value:0


    Course Code:NCPR-1002

    Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems

    Students complete Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) training and certification.

    Credit Value:0


    Course Code:NCPR-1075

    Lock Out Tag Out Awareness

    Lock-out Tag Out introduces the learner to the hazards related to energized systems and procedures to ensure worker safety. Related legislation and risk management are discussed, and students are exposed to the various types of lock-out devices.

    Credit Value:0


    Course Code:NCPR-1090

    Confined Space Awareness

    This course introduces the basic requirements and procedures necessary for entering confined spaces. This information is vitally important to all those who work in or have responsibility for those who work in confined spaces. Please note: Close attention must be paid to the specific legal requirements for your jurisdiction.

    Credit Value:0


    Course Code:NCPR-1550

    Preparatory Math Topics

    This refresher course provides a review of the fundamental math skills that are required of students in the Power Engineering program.

    Credit Value:0


    Course Code:PRAC-1200

    Power Engineering, 4th Class On-The-Job Training I

    On-the-job training provides students with an opportunity to apply skills and knowledge acquired in the Power Engineering, 4th Class program to a relevant work environment. OJT participants are expected to assume, with appropriate supervision, the duties and responsibilities normally expected of an entry-level employee in a similar position. Using their own observations and initiative, students are expected to acquire and apply new skills as may be expected of a new employee in their respective workplace setting.

    Credit Value:2


    Course Code:PRAC-1210

    Power Engineering, 4th Class On-the-Job Training II

    In this second On-the-job training experiece, students further apply their skills and knowledge to a relevant work environment. OJT participants are expected to assume, with appropriate supervision, the duties and responsibilities normally expected of an entry-level employee in a similar position. Using their own observations and initiative, students are expected to acquire and apply new skills as may be expected of a new employee in their respective workplace setting.

    Credit Value:2


Students enrolled in the 4th Class Power Engineering program will have access to a functioning power lab and a thermal generating plant simulator, both of which are provided on-site, offering you the opportunity to troubleshoot and resolve issues with the types of equipment that you’ll encounter when you start your career. 

This full-time program is designed for students without any previous experience in the field. Students attend face-to-face classes to obtain their Holland College Power Engineer certificate and then must successfully pass the PEI Provincial Exam to become a licensed power engineer.

As you acquire more qualifying experience and training, you will be able to upgrade your classification through the provincial certification process. 

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

  • Work safely and in accordance with relevant regulations, codes, and standards governing plant operations ensuring compliance in all aspects of work.
  • Select and use a variety of tools, measurement devices, and equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify, analyze, and resolve technical issues related to power generation and distribution, and various plant processes and operations.
  • Apply principles of mathematics to areas including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer to analyze and troubleshoot power, heating, and refrigeration plant operations.
  • Apply knowledge of instrumentation and control systems to monitor, diagnose, and adjust plant operations.
  • Apply principles of operation and maintenance for process equipment and electrical systems including boilers, prime movers, refrigeration systems, and associated auxiliaries to ensure safety and efficiency, and to mitigate the effects of power generation and plant processes on the environment.
  • Describe accepted standards and practices of metallurgy, welding and testing of metals for quality control inspections in plant operations.
  • Read and interpret manufacturer specifications, basic blueprints and drawings, including electrical, mechanical, and piping drawings.
  • Utilize effective communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with colleagues and respond to emergencies or unexpected situations in a power plant environment.
  • Identify strategies for ongoing professional development and continuous learning in the field of power engineering to stay abreast of advancements in technology and industry best practices.

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