A 3rd Class Power Engineer is certified to operate and maintain high-pressure steam and power systems. This level of certification allows for greater responsibility, including supervising plant operations and leading teams.
Power Engineering - 3rd Class Coop
The Power Engineering – 3rd Class Co-op Program at Keyano College is a four-month technical training course designed for certified 4th Class Power Engineers who are ready to take the next step in their careers.
Students will deepen their understanding of high-pressure steam systems, turbines, compressors, and plant operations while preparing to write the 3rd Class Power Engineering certification exams. Eligible students may also complete a six-month, paid co-op work placement, gaining valuable industry experience and ABSA-recognized steam time.
This program is ideal for working professionals or recent diploma graduates aiming for career advancement in Alberta’s power generation and heavy industry sectors.
| Term 1 – Classroom Training (4 months) | ||
| Course Code | Course Title | Credits |
| PECO 3100 |
Applied Science |
4 |
| PECO 3200 |
Plant Services |
4 |
| PECO 3300 |
Steam Generation |
4 |
| PECO 3400 |
Prime Movers and Auxiliaries |
4 |
| Term 2 – Co-op Work Experience (6 months, if eligible) | ||
| Course Code | Course Title | Credits |
| PECO 3500 | Work Experience* | 12 |
How the Co-op Works
The optional Co-operative Work Term allows eligible students to gain real-world experience in power engineering roles.
- Term 1 (4 months): Classroom-based technical training
- Term 2 (6 months): Paid co-op work experience (if secured)
Students must complete Term 1 to be eligible for Term 2 and will undergo an industry interview process to qualify for placement. Those who complete six months of ABSA-recognized steam time may be eligible for advanced credit.
4th vs. 3rd Class Power Engineering
4th Class Power Engineering – Entry-Level Certification
The 4th Class Power Engineering program is designed for individuals entering the power engineering field. It focuses on the safe operation and maintenance of low- to medium-pressure boiler systems, basic mechanical systems, and essential plant operations.
Graduates are trained to:
- Operate boilers, turbines, and refrigeration equipment
- Monitor and maintain plant systems under supervision
- Meet the requirements to write Alberta’s 4th Class ABSA exams
- This certification is the first step toward a career in power engineering and is a prerequisite for 3rd Class training.
3rd Class Power Engineering – Advanced Certification
The 3rd Class Power Engineering program builds on the foundational knowledge of 4th Class and prepares students to operate and manage larger, high-pressure systems in more complex industrial environments.
Graduates are prepared to:
- Supervise teams and oversee plant operations
- Operate high-pressure boilers, steam turbines, and auxiliary equipment
- Interpret advanced technical systems and regulatory standards
- Complete six months of steam time to qualify for ABSA 3rd Class certification exams
This program is ideal for professionals ready to advance their careers, take on leadership roles, or work in more technically demanding settings.
Program Details
Program Code: TBD
Credential: Non-diploma certificate program
Length: 4 months in-class + 6-month optional paid co-op
Delivery: In-person
Next Intake: Fall 2025 (subject to confirmation)
Location: Keyano College – Fort McMurray
Includes:
- Eligibility for 3rd Class Power Engineering certification exams
- Option to earn ABSA-recognized steam time through paid co-op
- Intensive classroom-based technical training
- Opportunities to network with industry employers
What You’ll Learn
Graduates of the Power Engineering – 3rd Class Co-op Program will:
- Operate and maintain high-pressure steam systems, turbines, and compressors
- Troubleshoot mechanical equipment in industrial environments
- Understand regulatory standards, safety practices, and inspection procedures
- Prepare for the 3rd Class Power Engineering exams as outlined by ABSA
Career Opportunities
As a certified or exam-qualified 3rd Class Power Engineer, you’ll be prepared for supervisory or advanced operator roles in:
- Power generating plants
- Oil & gas facilities
- Heavy oil and petrochemical plants
- Pulp and paper mills
- Food and beverage manufacturing
- Institutional facilities (hospitals, schools, large commercial buildings)
Learn more about the Occupational Profile of a Power Engineer
Hear From Our Students
The instructors are very helpful, and the education system is similar to back home, making it an easy transition.
– Benjamin Fonkou
I love the mix of diversity at the College and how the cultures come together as a family.
– Sapna Sharma
What I like most about studying here is how my instructors are always there to help.
– Chioma Igbokei
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 3rd Class Power Engineer?
What’s the difference between 4th and 3rd Class certification?
4th Class focuses on operating low- to medium-pressure systems. 3rd Class enables you to manage larger facilities and move into leadership roles.
Is this program available to international students?
No, the 3rd Class Power Engineering Co-op program is currently available to domestic students only. Due to the integrated co-op (work placement) component, this program is not eligible for international study permits.
If you are an international student interested in Power Engineering, please explore our other program options such as the 4th Class Comprehensive or Computer Managed Learning (CML) stream, which may be available to international applicants.
Will I receive a Power Engineering certificate?
Yes, you will be prepared to write the 3rd Class Power Engineering exam as part of your diploma.
What industries hire graduates of this program?
Graduates of the Power Engineering – 3rd Class Co-op Program are in demand across a wide range of industries that rely on high-pressure steam systems and mechanical plant operations. Industries that commonly hire 3rd Class Power Engineers include:
- Power generation (utilities and energy providers)
- Oil and gas processing facilities
- Heavy oil and SAGD operations
- Petrochemical and chemical manufacturing
- Pulp and paper mills
- Food and beverage production plants
- Hospitals and health care facilities
- Institutional buildings (universities, government buildings)
- Large commercial operations (hotels, office towers, malls)
- Renewable and emerging energy facilities
These industries depend on certified power engineers to ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of their energy and mechanical systems.
Is the 3rd Class Power Engineering Co-op paid?
Most co-op placements in the 3rd Class Power Engineering program are paid, as students gain hands-on industry experience with licensed employers.
However, compensation is determined by the employer and can vary depending on the placement. For the most accurate and up-to-date information about co-op opportunities and wages, we recommend speaking with a Student Advisor.
Do I need to complete a capstone project or work placement?
The capstone is optional. There is no formal work placement, but extensive lab-based and simulated industry training is included.
What are the benefits of the co-op work term?
The optional co-op offers:
- Paid, hands-on experience
- ABSA-recognized steam time
- Industry networking and employment pathways
Can I skip the co-op if I already have steam time?
Yes. If you’ve completed six months of ABSA-recognized steam time, you may be eligible for advanced credit in PECO 3500.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible, applicants must have successfully completed:
- ABSA 4th Class Power Engineering Certificate
- 4th Class Power Engineering Parts A & B from a recognized post secondary institution
- 200-hour Power Lab course from a recognized institution
English Language Proficiency (if applicable):
- TOEFL iBT: 80+ (no section below 20)
- IELTS: 6.0+
- CAEL: 60+
- MELAB: 80+
Tuition and Fees
Credential: 3rd Class Certificate
Delivery: On-campus with Co-op
Eligible for Domestic Students Only
| Item | Domestic Students |
| Full-Time Tuition | $7,432.00 |
| Students' Association Fee | $230.00 |
| Campus Recreation Fee | $70.00 |
| SA Building Fee | $31.00 |
| Technology Fee | $105.00 |
| Materials Fee | $446.00 |
| Total per Intake | $8,659.00 |
Refund Policy
- $250 admission deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable.
- If an apprentice withdraws 10 business days before the first day of class, a 50% refund of tuition (minus the $250 admission deposit) is available.
- If the college cancels a program, a full refund will be granted.
- See the Keyano College Credit Calendar for full details.
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