Electrical Technology

Gear up for a challenging career in electrical wiring or construction, planning and estimating, or as an electrical technician.

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Are you a student who is interested in the Electrical Technology program at NDSCS? Find out how to visit NDSCS at NDSCS.edu/Visit or register to attend a SEE NDSCS Day
Are you a school counselor or instructor interested in bringing a group of students to NDSCS to learn more about Electrical Technology? Find out more about our Program Visit Days

Academic Options

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Electrical Construction

Electrical Construction

The Electrical Construction option adds skills in the area of commercial and industrial wiring systems, advanced code study and planning and estimating. Graduates of this option are well prepared to meet the challenges of today’s modern equipment and wiring systems.

  • Type: A.A.S. degree
  • Locations: Wahpeton
  • Cluster: Architecture and Construction
  • Green Technology Available


» View Program Information & Admission Requirements

Electrical Master Technician

Electrical Master Technician

The Electrical Master Technician curriculum builds on the strengths of a two-year degree in Electrical Construction or Industrial Electrical. It adds cutting-edge technology in medium and high voltage, instrumentation, fiber optics, structured wiring, HVAC/R and other building controls.

  • Type: A.A.S. degree, third-year option
  • Locations: Wahpeton
  • Cluster: Architecture and Construction
  • Green Technology Available


» View Program Information & Admission Requirements

 

Industrial Electrical

Industrial Electrical

The Industrial Electrical option adds skills in the area of automated industrial controls (robotics, pneumatics and digital electronics) as well as large motors and the electronic drives that control those motors.

  • Type: A.A.S. degree
  • Locations: Wahpeton
  • Cluster: Architecture and Construction, Manufacturing


» View Program Information & Admission Requirements

 

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The Electrical Technology program at NDSCS is designed to give students the skills necessary for successful employment in the electrical industry. Electrical Technology includes in-depth study of electrical theory, applied math, code study and residential wiring. A substantial amount of hands-on experience is provided. Our six laboratories contain AutoCAD, test equipment, electric motors, magnetic motor starters, programmable controllers, electronic devices and residential wiring for both options listed later in this section.

In addition, the Electrical Construction option gives students the background necessary to enter the field of electrical wiring on residential, commercial and industrial construction sites. Graduates of this option are prepared to meet the challenges of today’s modern equipment and wiring systems. This option includes planning and estimating, commercial wiring and advanced code study.

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Electrical Technology LabSnap Content

 

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Electrical Technology Graduates from 2022-23 Academic Year - Includes Construction, Industrial and Master Technician
Graduates Registered Avg. Beginning Annual Salary Reported High Annual Salary Placement Rate
47 $48820 $90276 91%

Three NDSCS students among Rowe honorees

Hannah Myers and Jacob Berndt
01-15-2024

Three North Dakota State College of Science students are among the 124 recipients of $675,000 in 2024 Work Ethic Scholarships from the Mike Rowe Works Foundation.

Jacob Berndt, Hannah Myers and Brayden Schmeichel follow in the footsteps of five NDSCS students who received scholarships in fall 2023. The previous honorees were Stockton Buck, Walter Guse, Trever Severinsen, Koby Valentin and Mark Weimer.

The Mike Rowe Works Foundation, which is launching its next scholarship cycle in 2024, expects much from applicants. This includes enrolling in an approved program, signing the “S.W.E.A.T. Pledge,” answering four questions about the pledge, making a video, having two solid references from a teacher or boss, verifying school costs, providing high school or college transcripts and sending the most 1040 tax form.

“We’re on a mission to help close the skills gap by challenging the stigmas and stereotypes that discourage people from pursuing the millions of available jobs,” the foundation stated. “We’re redefining the definition of a good education and a good job, because we don’t think a four-year degree is the best path for the most people. We want people to understand the impact of skilled labor on their lives, and we’re convinced that the solution has to start with a new appreciation for hard work.”


These are Berndt, Myers and Schmeichel’s stories.

Jacob Berndt

• “My dad has his own machine shop out in Mooreton,” said Berndt, 19, a first year precision machining major from Wahpeton. “I like precision machining. I think it’s pretty cool. My dad went here and went through the same program as I am going through now.”

• Berndt hopes to one day succeed his dad Chris in the family business. “It’s pretty cool to do what he did,” Jacob Berndt said.

• “I heard about the scholarship from my dad,” Berndt said. “He pushed me to complete that application. It did take forever to do the work — I didn’t want to do the video, but I did.” This made Berndt learning that he received the scholarship much more exciting.

• Freshman year has been fun for Berndt. “I feel like I’m always learning something that I’m going to use later in my life,” he said. When he’s not in class, Berndt enjoys hunting and fishing.

• Berndt is looking back with some respect for the long hours needed to get his $3,500 scholarship. “It’s definitely worth it,” he said.

Hannah Myers

• “I graduated early from high school,” said Myers, 17, a first year electrical technology major from Garrison, North Dakota. “I mentioned electrical technology to my grandma, because my coworkers were talking about it, and she had me tour here.”

• After graduation, Myers hopes to work until she becomes journeyman. “That’s all I have for now,” she said.

• Myers heard about the Rowe Scholarship through her grandmother, Elaine Myers. Hannah Myers admitted that she almost gave up on her application because of how much was required. “But, I pushed through,” she said.

• School has been going well for Myers, she said. She enjoys hanging out with friends and participating in campus activities, whether it’s playing games together or going to all-school events.

• The recipient of a $5,000 scholarship, Myers advises curious students to “just push through and submit your application.”

Brayden Schmeichel

• “Reviews of NDSCS that I had read said how teachers and students treated one another like family,” said Schmeichel, 20, a second year construction management major from Jamestown, North Dakota. “I wanted to go to school where I could make some new friends.”

• Schmeichel plans to spend the winter semester lining up work for after graduation. “I want to work my way up the ladder,” he said.

• The 2024 Work Ethic Scholarship appealed to Schmeichel because of the importance it places on one’s work ethic, which he likes.

• Schmeichel is enjoying his major and learning more about the construction industry. Construction is something he has enjoyed since boyhood and also a good fit for his interest in leadership.

• The recipient of a $1,500 scholarship, Schmeichel said he applied early and worked in portions. “I was excited to win this,” he said.

• “If you are a person who will wake up early in the morning, go to your job, have a goal for the day and are willing to put in some extra hours for that goal, I think this scholarship is perfect for you. Take your time when applying for it,” Schmeichel said.

• When he’s not in class, Schmeichel enjoys hanging out with “some really great lifetime friends that I’ve met here.”


Daily News shares Jacob Berndt, Hannah Myers and Brayden Schmeichel’s thanks for receiving the Mike Rowe Works Foundation’s 2024 Work Ethic Scholarship. We also congratulate the three youth and the quintet of 2023 Work Ethic Scholarship winners, wishing all much continued success, especially in the Southern Red River Valley.

 

Article published by Frank Stanko at Wahpeton Daily News on January 15, 2024. 

Embracing Renewable Energy: Solar Panels and Wind Tower Enhance Learning Experience at NDSCS Campus

solar panels
06-20-2023

In an era where renewable resources are gaining increasing prominence and support from government authorities, educational institutions are stepping up to incorporate these sustainable technologies into their campuses. North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) has taken a proactive approach by installing solar panels and a wind tower, not only to generate clean energy but also to offer valuable learning opportunities to its students. These installations serve as practical tools for students to gain hands-on experience in installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of renewable energy systems. Let's delve deeper into the significance and impact of these initiatives at NDSCS.

Enhancing Learning Through Renewable Energy

Ivan Maas, Chairman of the Building Systems Department at NDSCS, shares that the integration of solar panels and a wind tower has greatly enhanced the learning experience for NDSCS students. “By providing exposure to renewable energy from an installation and troubleshooting perspective, students become proficient in assisting with the setup of such equipment. This practical experience equips them with valuable skills that align with the growing demand for renewable energy professionals.”

Installation and Gifting of Solar Panels

NDSCS boasts multiple solar arrays on its campus. The first array, a 3.5KW installation, was placed on a dual-axis tracker in 2011-12. It was purchased using a Career and Technical Education (CTE) grant and installed by Enterprise Sales from Valley City, ND. Recently, this array was upgraded to IQ-7+ micro inverters from Enphase, improving its efficiency and allowing direct integration with the NDSCS power grid.

Arrays #2 and #3, each with a capacity of 1.3KW, were also purchased in 2011-12 through the CTE grant. These arrays were installed on a ground-mounted framework built for student accessibility. The DC power generated by these arrays is fed into Barnard Hall, where it is converted into AC power using a Fronius IG inverter before being integrated into the power grid. In 2020-21, NDSCS added another solar array, known as Array #4, with a capacity of 4.4KW. This installation was funded by the NDSCS Electrical Department and installed by Scott's Electric in Wahpeton, ND, under guidance from Lightspring in Bismarck, ND.

The Future Impact of Solar and Wind Technology

Maas believes that wind energy might see limited growth in the residential and light commercial sectors due to initial high costs, maintenance challenges, and grid interconnectivity issues. However, large-scale wind turbine utilization is expected to continue growing steadily. On the other hand, solar energy is predicted to experience high demand and substantial growth. Solar power's predictability and dependability, coupled with the simplicity of maintenance and absence of moving parts, make it an attractive renewable energy option. Maas mentions that solar "farms" will be installed near existing distribution resources, power plants, and wind turbine installations. Some states, like California since 2020, have even enacted laws mandating solar installations on every new home.

Both private individuals and corporations are increasingly opting for solar installations to reduce their reliance on the electrical grid and minimize their carbon footprint.

Understanding Solar Panel Output

Solar panels come in various sizes and power outputs. Small panels with outputs ranging from 15 to 50 watts are suitable for charging small devices in outdoor settings. Residential and commercial panels typically range from 250 to 500 watts each. Multiple panels can be electrically wired together to form a solar array, while large installations with multiple arrays are often referred to as solar "farms." The output of a panel depends on its voltage and current ratings, which must be matched to the specific application for proper and safe operation.

Impact on Higher Education

Maas shares his thoughts on the future collaborations between renewable energy and higher education:

“I don’t know how many campuses have solar generation capability. It will vary greatly by state and region. My guess is that a very small percentage today have renewable sources/assets and it would be very rare to have their entire electrical power needs coming from renewables (solar/wind/etc.).”

“I believe there are not many colleges teaching solar classes. Some may include discussions in renewable energy but very few (like NDSCS) feature full-fledged installation practices. The most widely known training center (nationally) for solar installations is North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). NABCEP Certifications are very highly respected and recognized nation-wide. Regionally, several colleges in Minnesota have some instruction in solar installation since Minnesota has aspired to be more proactive on renewable energy production/consumption than other states.”

Article written by NDSCS. 

The 100th Anniversary of the Electrical Technology Department and programs of Barnard Hall will be celebrated on May 12-13, 2023!

Electrical 100 year reunion
03-10-2023

North Dakota State College of Science will celebrate its 100th Anniversary of Electrical Technology education in 2023! To recognize this milestone, a celebration will be held May 12-13, 2023, on the NDSCS campus in Wahpeton, N.D. All electrical alumni and those from programs housed in Barnard Hall are invited to participate in this event. A special section will be reserved for those returning for the reunion during the graduation ceremony at 3:00 p.m. on May 12. In addition, the weekend will include a Friday evening social, a Saturday night banquet with entertainment, Saturday campus tours, and family-friendly events.

For more information, to register, or volunteer for the weekend, please contact the NDSCS Alumni Foundation at 701-671-2247, email NDSCS.alumni@lineaire-b.com. Reserve your hotel room by April 12, 2023, and be sure to mention NDSCS Electrical Reunion. Hotel accommodations are also listed on the website.

We would like to thank the following business sponsors: North American Coal, Coyote Creek Mine, Falkirk Mine and Freedom Mine, Expanse Electrical Co., JDP Electric Inc., Otter Tail Power Company, Encore Electric, Xcel Energy, A&K Development Company, Cass County Electric Cooperative, Electric Utility Workshop, Parsons Electric, Scott’s Electric, Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Bergstrom Electric, H&H Electric, Lake Region Electric Co-op and Operation Round-Up, Lesco, Inc., Montana Dakota Utilities, North Central Electrical League, Inc., Summerville Electric, Border States Electric, Central Power Electric Cooperatives Inc., Dakota Valley Rural Electric Co-op, Eagle Lake Electric, Gary & Son Electric Service, Inc., International Association of Electrical Inspectors, North Central Electrical Engineering Society, North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Co-op (NDAREC), and Northern Plains Electric Cooperative.

Return to NDSCS, join your fellow alumni, and celebrate this great program, facility, and milestone!

Fun facts: Other things that are 100 years old – the automatic watch, the bulldozer, instant cameras, cotton swabs, and the 3-light traffic signals.

Article written by NDSCS and submitted to external news outlets.

Old Main

NDSCS Students Excel at North Dakota SkillsUSA Contest

05-09-2019
Students from NDSCS received a number of awards at the North Dakota SkillsUSA State Leadership and Skills Conference.

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NDSCS Electrical Technology Department to Celebrate 95 Years

Electrical student
09-26-2018

The NDSCS Electrical Technology Department will celebrate its 95-year history during the College’s Homecoming week. All-class reunion events will take place Friday and Saturday, September 28 and 29, 2018.

Information and registration for the events is available online at ndscsalumni.com, along with historical information about the NDSCS Electrical Technology program. The reunion events will include:
• 95-Year Electrical Technology Celebration Open House:
  Friday, September 28 from 3-5 p.m. in Barnard Hall
• Electrical Reunion Continental Breakfast with Instructors:
  Saturday, September 29 at 8 a.m. in the Hughes Shelter at Chahinkapa Park
• Electrical Reunion Alumni Social:
  Saturday, September 29 from 3-5 p.m. in the Hughes Shelter at Chahinkapa Park

NDSCS Electrical Technology classes began in 1923, and the program continues to be designed to give students the skills necessary for successful employment in the electrical industry. Additional information about the NDSCS Electrical Technology program can be found online at lineaire-b.com/electrical.

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NDSCS Students Excel at North Dakota SkillsUSA Contest

04-17-2018
Students from the North Dakota State College of Science received a number of awards at the North Dakota SkillsUSA State Leadership and Skills Conference.

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Old Main

NDSCS Students Excel at North Dakota SkillsUSA Contest

06-01-2017
Students from the North Dakota State College of Science received a number of awards at the North Dakota SkillsUSA State Leadership and Skills Conference.

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Electrical Technology student

NDSCS Electrical Technology Department to Recognize Careers in Energy

10-13-2016
The North Dakota State College of Science Electrical Technology Department will commemorate Careers in Energy Week October 17-21, 2016.

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