Because many individuals are simply looking to add to or expand on their occupational skills sets, or complete an organized curriculum in a relatively short period of time, Marion Technical College offers Certificate Programs to satisfy certain short-term training needs.

Certificate options are created by identifying core ‘‘needs’’ in the local workforce and offering concentrated curriculum blocks to accommodate the schedules of working adults.
Typically, a certificate program at MTC can be completed in one year (three quarters of full-time study), and the courses will apply toward later associate degree work to the extent that they are required in a specific program or as appropriate elective courses.

The Alternative Energy Power Technician certificate represents approximately one-half of the Alternative Energy degree program and contains all of the Alternative Energy specific courses plus additional electrical and general education courses.  This certificate is a good intermediary step in completing the associate degree and prepares students to install and maintain wind turbines and solar panels.

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• discuss the advantages and disadvantages associated with fossil fuel energy and alternative energy sources
• properly utilize terminology associated with wind and solar energy
• calculate the pay-back time of the wind and solar systems based on the measurement of the energy consumption and generation
• identify typical wind turbine components
• identify electrical, electronic, and mechanical device components and their functions used with solar and wind energy systems
• conduct site assessments for the optimal placement of wind turbines and solar panels
• install, operate, maintain, and troubleshoot wind and solar energy systems
• select appropriate methods of connecting the wind and solar systems to the power grid
• discuss the advantages of utilizing SCADA hardware and software in wind and solar systems
• utilize a programmable logic controller in wind turbine control
• follow required electrical, mechanical, and environmental safety procedures
• practice the 5S approach for visual order, organization, cleanliness and standardization
• work both independently and as an integral part of a technical team
• produce concise correspondence, reports, instructions, and proposals that will be effective in a technical work setting
• independently maintain and improve upon both technical skill level and knowledge of current technology
• communicate effectively with customers, suppliers, and co-workers

Program Admission:

To apply for acceptance into the Alternative Energy Power Technician Certificate program at MTC, applicants must have:

1. Completed and submitted the MTC Application for Admission and nonrefundable application fee.
2. Provided official final high school transcript (or GED results) and college transcripts (if applicable).with posted graduation date or passing GED results.
3. Successful completion of the Basic Skills Assessment (COMPASS) and Technology Skills Test is required. Any College foundation courses suggested by COMPASS results are also required.
4. COMPASS math score of 41 or above required to take the first algebra course in the engineering program

Transfer students to MTC must qualify in accordance with current admission criteria.
If required, Foundation Courses are available to help you meet any specialized program admission requirements.

To receive more detailed information please send an e-mail the Office of Admission at enroll@mtc.edu.