Cascadia College

What you'll study

This programme combines electrical and mechanical principles with applied training in renewable energy, building systems, energy management and controls. You will study the technical foundations needed to design, install and maintain energy systems used in commercial, industrial and institutional settings.

• Core engineering fundamentals — circuits, power fundamentals, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics that underpin energy systems.
• Renewable energy technologies — photovoltaic systems, wind fundamentals, small‑scale hydro basics and integration of distributed generation.
• Energy conversion and power systems — motor drives, generators, power electronics, and grid interconnection considerations.
• Building systems and HVAC — heating, ventilation and air conditioning principles, controls and efficient system design for buildings.
• Controls, instrumentation and automation — programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, data acquisition and building management systems.
• Energy management and sustainability — energy auditing, monitoring and verification, lifecycle thinking and strategies for reducing operational energy use.
• Project work and capstone — applied team projects that often include system design, installation and commissioning, culminating in a capstone demonstrating technical competence.
• Workplace practicum / industry placements — supervised placements or co‑op opportunities with utilities, contractors or renewable energy firms to develop practical skills and professional experience.

Entry requirements

Typical applicants hold either a relevant associate degree, a technical diploma in electrical, mechanical or energy‑related trades, or equivalent industry experience. Applicants are usually expected to provide:

• Transcripts from previous post‑secondary study showing satisfactory performance in technical and maths subjects.
• A demonstrated background in electrical or mechanical fundamentals (through prior study or work experience).
• A personal statement outlining relevant experience and career goals; some programmes may request a CV and references.
• Practical experience may be weighed alongside academic qualifications for mature applicants; additional remedial coursework in mathematics or physics may be required if fundamentals are missing.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for technician and technologist roles across the energy sector. Career paths commonly include:

• Energy systems technician or technologist in commercial and industrial facilities.
• Renewable energy installer, commissioning technician or operations support for solar and wind projects.
• HVAC and building automation technician focusing on energy efficiency and controls.
• Energy auditor or analyst working on energy‑saving projects and building performance.
• Field service engineer, maintenance supervisor, or commissioning specialist for utilities and contractors.
• Further study or progression into supervisory, project management or engineering technician roles with additional training or certification.

Why study at Cascadia College

Cascadia College emphasises applied learning and smaller class sizes that allow close instructor support and practical lab time. The college’s community‑focused approach creates strong links with regional employers, providing opportunities for placements and local project collaborations. Students benefit from a curriculum designed to align with industry practices, enabling a direct pathway from classroom learning to workplace roles in a sector undergoing rapid change.