Wind Turbine Technician

Technical Communications is a foundational course designed to equip students with the essential skills necessary for effective communication in technical and professional settings. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, students will learn various communication strategies, including written, oral, and visual communication techniques tailored specifically for technical contexts. Leveraging Office 365 software applications, students will integrate tools such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Teams to enhance their communication skills and streamline collaborative projects. By the end of the course, students will have developed the proficiency to communicate technical concepts clearly and concisely to diverse audiences using digital platforms.

This course covers the core principles and operations of algebra and trigonometry, including linear, quadratic, and trigonometric functions, graphs, and equations. Emphasis is placed on developing fluency and conceptual understanding through practice, preparing students for further studies in applied mathematics, fostering both fluency and conceptual depth through interactive learning experiences.

Electrical Fundamentals is designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles of electrical theory, providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze and design basic electrical circuits. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical applications, students will explore key topics including atomic structure, static electricity, sources of Electromotive Force (EMF), batteries, simple electrical circuits, conventional and electron flow, as well as the principles of voltage, current, resistance, work, power, and energy. Emphasis will be placed on developing a solid understanding of these concepts through hands-on experiments, problem-solving exercises, and real-world applications, laying the groundwork for Electrical Fundamentals 2. 

Code and Drawing is a foundational first-year college course that immerses students in the fundamental principles of electrical code and technical drawing techniques. Through an integrated curriculum, students will explore the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) and other relevant regulations, gaining an understanding of their application in system design and installation within Canada. Additionally, students will develop proficiency in technical drawing, focusing on creating precise schematics, diagrams, and plans that adhere to code requirements. Emphasis will be placed on interpreting the CEC, applying it to design solutions, and effectively communicating electrical system layouts through detailed drawings. 

This course focuses on applying safety rules outlined in the Occupational Health and Safety Act while performing installation procedures for electrical devices, cables, and conduits. Students gain hands-on experience wiring residential, signal, and relay circuits, and learn to produce single-line wiring diagrams and lab reports. By the end of the course, students will have acquired the knowledge and practical experience necessary to safely and effectively install electrical systems, preparing them for real-world applications in industry.

Renewable Energy is a foundational course designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of renewable energy technologies, their applications, and their role in addressing global energy challenges. Students learn energy and power fundamentals and the units of measurement required to work with energy and power data. The course provides an overview of Renewable Energy Systems including solar, wind, hydro, tidal, bimass, solar thermal and heat pumps. Learners develop the mathematical skills to work with energy data through laboratory exercises. Students explore the history electricity generation and the impacts of such systems used in societies throughout the world.

Data Literacy and Network Communications is an introductory course designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of data concepts and network communications in the context of modern information systems. This course aims to develop students' ability to interpret, analyze, and communicate data effectively, while also exploring the fundamentals of network communications and their role in data transmission and exchange. Through theoretical knowledge and hands-on exercises, students will gain practical skills essential for navigating the data-rich environments of today's interconnected world.

Expanding on the principles of Electrical Fundamentals 1, this course is designed to deepen students' understanding of electrical theory and expand their skills in analyzing and designing electrical systems. Building upon the foundational knowledge acquired in the previous course, students delve into topics including power generation (conventional and renewable), magnetic induction, capacitance, and voltage/current in relation to time, and semiconductor theory. Through a combination of theoretical learning and hands-on experiments, students explore the behavior of semiconductor devices, gain proficiency in circuit analysis methods, and learn to design and troubleshoot electrical generation, distribution, and storage systems. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills through challenging projects and real-world applications, preparing students for careers in the electrical field.

Code, Prints, and AutoCAD is a course focusing on electrical design, building upon foundational knowledge introduced in the previous course, code and drawing. Through a blend of theoretical learning and hands-on exercises, students deepen their understanding of electrical codes, particularly the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC), and learn technical drawing skills using AutoCAD software. Students also learn to interpret construction drawings and specifications, enhancing their ability to create precise schematics and plans. By the end of the course, students are proficient in using AutoCAD to produce designs that comply with industry standards, preparing them for roles in various sectors.

Electromechanical Systems is an introductory course designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, components, and applications of electromechanical systems in various disciplines. This course integrates fundamental concepts from electrical engineering and mechanical engineering to analyze, design, and control systems that involve the interaction of electrical and mechanical components.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to instrumentation systems. Students will learn common terminology, measurement units for pressure and temperature, and conversion between temperature scales. Topics include Thermocouples, Thermistors, and Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTD), as well as deformation elements and accuracy assessment of pressure measuring equipment. Industrial pressure sensors, instrumentation symbols, and principles of measuring physical parameters such as pressure, temperature, flow, level, speed, and vibration will be covered. Additionally, students will explore concepts of measurement accuracy, error, data collection, presentation, and feedback control, with practical experience in computerized data collection labs.

Introduction to Electronics is a foundational course designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles of electronics. Through a combination of theoretical learning and hands-on practical experiences, students will explore key concepts including basic logic gates, the standard resistor color code, semiconductor diodes, opto-couplers, and transistor switches and amplifiers. Emphasis will be placed on developing students' ability to identify, explain, and apply these basic electronic fundamentals in both theoretical and practical environments. By the end of the course, students will have a solid understanding of electronic components and their applications, laying the groundwork for further studies in electronics and related fields.

Workplace practices offers students foundational training for various technical professions, focusing on safety requirements and proper utilization of tools and equipment in a professional environment. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical applications, students gain comprehensive knowledge of industry-specific practices necessary for a safe and efficient workplace. Topics covered include identifying and implementing safety protocols, understanding hazard assessments, and correctly using personal protective equipment (PPE). Additionally, students will learn to identify, select, use, and maintain tools and equipment. This course equips students with skills essential for success in their field and fosters a culture of safety and professionalism in the workplace.

Wind Turbine Systems is a foundational course that introduces students to the principles, technologies, and applications of wind energy. Students will explore the design, operation, and maintenance of wind turbine systems, with a focus on understanding the conversion of wind energy into electricity. Through theoretical learning and practical exercises, students will examine topics such as wind turbine components, power generation, environmental impacts, and integration into electrical grids. Emphasis will be placed on developing a holistic understanding of wind energy systems and their role in sustainable energy production. Additionally, students will explore current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the wind energy industry. This course serves as a comprehensive introduction to the field of wind energy for students pursuing studies in renewable energy, engineering, environmental science, and related disciplines.

In this course, students learn the fundamentals of programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and their uses in industrial automation. Learners explore the functions and applications of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). Students learn to determine the language and addressing requirements of a PLC and demonstrate the programming of common relay instructions, timers, counters, mathematic functions, and word comparisons within a PLC. Learners develop proper methods of safe, acceptable programming practices including clear documentation and identifying methods of installing a PLC system and performing hard wiring of PLCs to equipment. Students demonstrate methods of testing PLC inputs and outputs and design programs to operate machines in a desired manner using many of the internal functions of a PLC.

In this course, students demonstrate a basic understanding of hydraulic systems. Students describe components and basic control principles used to build common industrial systems, and then assemble, operate, and troubleshoot them.

Upon completion of this course, students are able to determine Feeder and branch utility location and site features using site, prebuild and as build drawings, methods of construction using architectural and structural drawings, and the electrical characteristics for commercial and industrial facilities. Topics covered include the layout of single and three phase systems for feeder and branch circuits from utility supply to utilization points. Students learn to prepare as-built drawings and interpret basic single lines, schematic, speicifcations and wiring diagrams.

Course topics include working safely with high voltage; power generation and motors; transformation and distribution; switching and protection; electrical code and wiring conventions; and circuit documentation and interpretation. The course will be presented from the perspective of providing the necessary background for effective machine and process control design, troubleshooting and maintenance. Learners connect three-phase transformers in wye and delta configurations and connect three-phase Resistive Inductive Capacitive (RLC) loads to transformers in balanced and unbalanced configurations.

In this course, students develop the knowledge base and hands on experience to perform maintenance on mechanical systems in a thorough and professional manner. Learners use professional tools and procedures, Amatrol workstations, and modules to assemble, inspect, repair, align and test gears, bearings, shafts, and associated hardware. Tool safety, identification, and proper use is key to repairing any machine. Students learn about current Fasteners and how to apply them to maintain a machine. In this course, students gain the groundwork for maintaining mechanical equipment in an industrial environment.

In this course, students learn about the operation of AC and DC variable speed drives, as well as their installation and programming. Students demonstrate how to select the correct sized motor, drive, wiring, and protection for an application; and how to install a variable speed drive system, program, and tune it. Learners explore the examination of the electronic circuits used to construct AC and DC variable speed drives, feedback circuits, and the examination of programmable drive parameters and how they affect drive operation.

In this course, students explore trade-specific sections of the Canadian Electrical Code. Learners explore motor overcurrent and overload protection, conductor sizing, and protection for transformers, welders, capacitors, and high voltage installations.

In this course you will practice to disassemble and assemble all components that are installed in a Wind Turbine nacelle. You will document the procedures using appropriate terminology and graphics to write accurate and complete reports. You will learn the safe use of the hydraulic torque tool and bolt stretching tool as well as you will be introduced to the vibration analysis tool. You will learn to take oil samples effectively and to follow manufacturers' directions. You will demonstrate respect to your team members and work in a safe manner at all times. You will learn the importance to maintain a clean work area, follow safe hoisting and rigging procedures and adhere to WHMIS and OHSA rules.

Prerequisite(s): WTEC400

In this course, students learn the various construction and repair methodologies utilized in today's Rotor Blade Industry. Learners practice assessments of rotor blade damages. In order to substantiate findings, students efficiently and safely take digital photographs, and produce accurate detailed reports and pictures for maintenance records. Learners demonstrate chemical, physical, and technical understanding of the various substances found in the construction and repair of rotor blades. Students are introduced to vacuum infusion techniques as used in the industry. Student practice personal safety and proper handling and disposal procedures. Student produce a fiber glass mold in order to perform rotor blade repair work.

In this course, students learn Wind Turbine specific applications as they relate to hydraulics. Learners analyze brake systems, pitch systems, and other actuators found in Wind Turbines. Students acquire appropriate maintenance and troubleshooting techniques for active and passive types of hydraulic systems. Learners practice safety regulations as prescribed by the OHSA (Occupational Health and Safety Act) and follow best practice techniques from industry.

This course will prepare you regarding wind turbine safety training and meet BZEE and Canadian industry safety pre-certification. You will learn about Fall arrest, fall restraint, and emergency ladder rescue safety devices by identifying the correct inspection procedures, handling and application for many commonly used devices. You will supplement your rigging and hoisting knowledge by demonstrating your ability to lift heavy components in a controlled fashion while maintaining a safe work environment. You will recognize and prevent any unsafe conditions in a team orientated fashion. As the highlight of this course, you will perform ladder rescue.

In this course, students identify and explain Wind Turbine components and operational characteristics in respect to power production in Wind Turbines. Learners identify and analyze all electrical components and their respective functionality as found in modern Wind Turbines. Students immerse themselves in hands on experience with the complex electrical systems that are a part of all modern Wind Turbines. Learners design, construct, and troubleshoot simulated Wind Turbine control systems. Students install wiring and troubleshoot motor and transformer connections in laboratory exercises as they relate to wind power and grid connections. Learners demonstrate their knowledge of schematics, wiring diagrams, ladder diagrams, PLC programming, sensors, switches, process control, relays and contactors, electrical and electronic components, circuitry, and troubleshooting, and apply their knowledge to the electrical systems in Wind Turbines.

In this course, students learn important aspects encompassing wind turbine maintenance. Predictive identification of maintenance requirements before catastrophic failure, loss of generation and damage to components is becoming increasing important. Topics covered include, predictive testing, diagnostics and inspections, preventative maintenance on high value and critical components to keep uptime a priority and lastly reactive maintenance, when major components fail, provide proper technical repairs that will provide minimal downtime on generation. Learners will also have opportunity to learn different technologies used to determine predictive, preventative and reactive repairs. Using data collected to provide analysis on tests completed in the field to determine conditions of components.

In this course, students learn the importance of SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems as they relate specifically to a Wind Turbine Park site. In addition, students learn how to read wind forecasts, power production and integration into the grid, and the impact on Wind Turbines. Learners gain insight into the day-to-day tasks of the O&M (Operations and Maintenance) team and the expectation of a Wind Turbine technician. Students practice technical documentation skills and environmental safety as well as the importance of daily safety awareness in each class.