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Power Technology

  • J Juneau
  • K Ketchikan

Are you looking for a great career instead of just another job? Power Technology is a practical and direct program designed for students who are interested in solving problems and repairing machinery the correct way.

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Upcoming Class Information

View Upcoming Spring Class Schedule

Spring class schedules are available on our website for:

Program Contacts

Classes are specific to certain campuses. Please see an advisor for additional information to see what’s available in your area.

In Juneau:

Ashley JoAnn Morehouse

Ashley J. Morehouse, M.Ed.

Academic Advisor

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Program Information

Power Technology is a practical and direct program designed for students who are interested in solving problems and repairing machinery the correct way. Courses cover a variety of machine systems as well as diesel engines.

Classes are at least 50% hands-on, which allows students to practice their new skills. The program provides many training aids, including wheel loaders, axle, and off-highway tractors, backhoe loaders, marine gears, engines, transmissions, power generators, refrigeration, and hydraulic units, as well as scanning tools and software to assess onboard electronics.

Students gain valuable skills and can enter fields of employment with good wages, high demand, and advancement potential in as little as two semesters.

A student receives instruction in DESL 110

AAS Power Technology

This two-year degree is a vocational training program for men and women interested in securing employment working with various diesel engine applications such as (but not limited to):

  • Underground & Open-pit mines
  • Gravel pits & Quarries
  • Tour buses & School buses
  • Fishing vessels & Charter boats
  • Marine auxiliary systems
  • Hydraulic systems
  • Transportation vehicles 
  • Cold storage systems
  • Sawmills
  • Fish plants 

The Power Technology program is broadly split into Heavy Duty and Mine Mechanic emphasis areas.

Students learn preventative maintenance and inspections, diesel engines, electrical systems, hydraulics, refrigeration and air conditioning, power generation, brake systems, suspension and alignment, drive systems and power trains, piping systems, industrial rigging, and welding. Upon completion, students are ready to enter rewarding careers in fixed plant mechanics, mining, maritime industry, and more. This program qualifies for financial aid and scholarship support. 

Interested in learning more? View the AAS in Power Technology program sheet or the UAS catalog.

OEC Power Technology

Occupational endorsements are designed to help build an Alaskan workforce by enabling students to develop industry-specific knowledge and skillsets in a relatively short amount of time. Options in Power Technology include emphasis areas in Diesel/Heavy Duty, Diesel/Marine, and Mine Mechanics, see more in the UAS catalog. Each provides technical courses in the appropriate specialty. Students must earn a 2.00 GPA in the overall program. These occupational endorsements articulate with the A.A.S. in Power Technology. There is no cost to apply for an Occupational Endorsement Certificate. 

The Mine Mechanic Occupational Endorsement Certificate prepares the student to enter the mining industry as an entry-level diesel machinery mechanic. The program includes classroom and hands-on training on diesel engines and related mechanical systems including engines, transmissions, brakes, hydraulics, DC electrical, suspension, and air conditioning. Diesel-powered pickups, welding, preventive maintenance, and inspections are also included.

Introduction to Mining Occupations and Operations is recommended. A minimum grade of C or 2.00 is required in all (each) of the classes to obtain the Mine Mechanic O.E.C. Interested in learning more? View more information in the UAS catalog

APPLY NOW

Donate Equipment to UAS Power Tech

Your generous donation to our diesel department will help our students tremendously over the course of their programming at UAS. Without the support of our local southeast industries we could not offer the quality courses and the hands on approach our students need to prepare for their future. Help us build our program!

Our current needs are:

  • Complete running diesel engines 1996 and newer
  • Cummins "C" model, Volvo, Ford (International), John Deere, Caterpillar
  • Marine gears (transmissions) especially Twin Disc and Velvet Drive
  • Fuel systems — any type as long as it's diesel
  • Transmissions/final drives/differentials
  • AC 3 phase generator sets

For more information or to donate please call Tom Dolan at 907-796-6123 or email at tbdolan@alaska.edu.

There could be tax advantages for you by donating items to a non-profit educational institution.

Opportunities

HECLA Greens Creek Mine Mechanic Scholarship

Selected scholarship recipients receive the cost of tuition up to 16 credits in their first semester for approved classes, and if pursuing an A.A.S., tuition, and fees for approved classes in their second year if the student maintains a 3.0 GPA. If selected to receive the scholarship, the funds will automatically be applied to your student account.  Scholarships recipients will be notified by phone and email if selected. Apply online using the link below. 

Registration is open until August 1st for the Fall semester and December 1st for the Spring semester

 Visit the Center for Mine Training

302 Operating Engineers Apprenticeship

This is a career opportunity to become a member of the Local 302 International Union of Operating Engineers as an apprentice.  If there is an unfilled apprentice opening in the union it could be your entry opportunity into the union. 

Must meet all the below qualifications:

  • At least 18 years old
  • Pass DOL Work Keys test with at least a 4
  • Have High School diploma or GED
  • Have valid Alaska CDL driver's license w/HAZMAT
  • Have no DUIs during last 3 years
  • Have apprentice mechanic's hand tools
  • Be (and stay) drug free
  • Be physically fit
  • Be willing to travel
For more information contact Tom Dolan at tbdolan@alaska.edu

Faculty & Staff

Tom DolanTom Dolan

Assistant Professor and Program Head, Power Technology

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Neil VoelckersNeil Voelckers

Assistant Professor, Power Technology

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Larry O'LoaneLarry O'Loane

Assistant Professor of Power Technology

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Dan KistnerDan Kistner

Assistant Professor of Welding

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Steffen FrazierSteffen Frazier

Assistant Professor, Welding Technology

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Ashley J. Morehouse, M.Ed. (she/her)Ashley J. Morehouse, M.Ed.

Academic Advisor

Ashley is excited to be advising at the Technical Education Center and looks forward to working more with the programs.

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