Bristol Community College to Offer Wind Power Certificate in New Bedford, USA

To ready SouthCoast residents for jobs in wind power, Bristol Community College will launch a new Wind Power certificate program starting this fall, with classes offered at the New Bedford Campus.

The 14-credit certificate of recognition teaches the fundamentals of wind energy. Students will prepare to support the system installation, operation, and maintenance needs of the wind energy industry, according to Anthony Ucci, acting associate vice president for academic affairs. “Wind energy has great potential for employment in the SouthCoast,” said Ucci. “This four-course program can be completed in two semesters, and it can be taken as part of a degree program if desired.” Courses are fully transferable into the Engineering Technology degree program.

Wind power is an emerging field in southeastern New England, with both New Bedford and Rhode Island gearing up to provide support for significant projects slated for the region, Ucci added. “There is already a market for skilled technicians to maintain and service the wind turbines in the region, and the field will only get larger,” Ucci said. “Those completing the certificate will be to play an essential part in the planning, organizing, and managing of renewable energy projects nationwide.”

The College’s program is based on national standards and focuses on the development of industry-defined competencies and skills in safety, electricity, hydraulics, pneumatics, mechanical systems, electrical power generation and wind power systems.

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Press release, August 5, 2013; Image: Siemens