A 4th Class Power Engineer is trained to safely operate and maintain pressure systems and mechanical equipment, including boilers, turbines, and heating/cooling systems. These professionals play a key role in the daily operation of industrial plants and buildings.
Power Engineering - 4th Class Comprehensive
The Power Engineering – 4th Class Comprehensive Program at Keyano College prepares students for entry into Alberta’s energy and industrial sectors. This 21-week, full-time program blends foundational theory with practical experience, training students to operate and maintain boilers, turbines, and refrigeration systems in a wide range of facilities.
Whether you're starting your power engineering journey or seeking to enter the workforce quickly, this program provides a clear pathway into high-demand roles across multiple 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 |
From Classroom to Certification
Students will complete ABSA-certified 4th Class Power Engineering theory (Parts A & B), and are required to complete a separate application for the 200-hour hands-on Power Lab course. The lab provides practical training essential for certification and reinforces classroom learning.
Program Details
Program Code: TBD
Credential: Certificate
Length: 21 weeks (1 term theory + lab)
Delivery: In-person
Next Intake: Winter 2025 – Starts August 27, 2025
Location: Syncrude Technology Centre, Keyano College – Fort McMurray
Includes:
- 200-hour Power Lab for hands-on experience
- Preparation for 4th Class Power Engineering certification (ABSA Part A & B)
- Access to modern simulation and lab technology
Power Lab Enrollment
If you're enrolled in the 4th Class Comprehensive Program at Keyano College, you do not need to apply separately for admission into the Power Lab. However, you must register for the Power Lab course (PECOM 4500) through Self-Service once you meet the eligibility requirements.
For all other eligible students in the 3rd Class Co-op Program, and Power & Process Diploma programs, the Power Lab is built into the curriculum, you simply register when ready.
To register:
- You must successfully complete both Part A and Part B of the 4th Class theory component.
- Once eligible, you can add the next available PECOM 4500 course in Self-Service.
- If you’re unable to register on your own, contact a Student Advisor for assistance.
Important Notes:
- The Power Lab is billed separately from the 4th Class coursework.
- Initial theory tuition: $7,020.80
- PECOM 4500 Power Lab: ~$6,803.00
- If you are not successful in a PECO course, you may continue your studies through the CML (Computer Managed Learning) online program or rejoin a future intake.
Application is only required for:
- The CML Power Engineering program
- The non-credit Power Lab offering
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.
What You’ll Learn
Graduates of the Power Engineering – 4th Class Comprehensive Program will be able to:
- Safely operate and maintain boilers, prime movers, turbines, and refrigeration systems
- Interpret pressure systems, control diagrams, and operating procedures
- Apply safety protocols and regulatory compliance standards
- Troubleshoot basic mechanical and power system issues
- Gain hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment during lab sessions
Career Opportunities
Power Engineers are vital to industries that rely on steam, heat, or power generation systems. Graduates will be prepared for entry-level roles in sectors such as:
- Oil and gas processing facilities
- Power generation plants
- Petrochemical and chemical manufacturing
- Food and beverage processing plants
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Pulp and paper mills
- Large commercial and institutional buildings (hotels, malls, schools, etc.)
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 does a 4th Class Power Engineer do?
Is this program the same as a 4th Class "co-op"?
No. This program is a comprehensive, full-time learning track with a built-in 200-hour Power Lab. It does not include a co-op or paid work term, but the lab experience fulfills key ABSA certification requirements.
What makes this program different from the two-year diploma?
The Power Engineering – 4th Class Comprehensive program is a focused, short-term certificate ideal for students seeking rapid entry into the workforce. The Power & Process Technologies Diploma is a broader, two-year program that incorporates clean energy, automation, and career laddering options including future entry into 3rd Class.
Can I continue to the 3rd Class Power Engineering Program?
Yes. Completing this certificate provides the foundational knowledge and lab experience required to ladder into the 3rd Class Power Engineering Co-op Program or continue with the Power & Process Technologies Diploma.
What industries hire graduates of this program?
Graduates of the Power Engineering – 4rd Class Comprehensive are in demand across a wide range of industries that rely on high-pressure steam systems and mechanical plant operations. Industries that commonly hire 4rd 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.
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
High School Diploma with:
- English 20-1 or 20-2
- Math 20-1 or 20-2
- Physics 20 or Science 20 (Alberta curriculum only)
OR - General Equivalency Diploma (GED) with a pass on all five tests
English Language Proficiency (if applicable):
English Language Proficiency:
If applicable, students must meet one of the following:
- TOEFL iBT: 80 (no section below 20)
- ELTS: 6.0
- CAEL: 60
- MELAB: 80
- Duolingo: 95
- PTE Academic: 50
Tuition and Fees
Delivery Options: Comprehensive (on campus) or CML (Computer Managed Learning)
Eligible for Domestic and International Students
Note: International students can only register in the CML (Computer Managed Learning) format. The Comprehensive (on-campus) option is not available to international learners due to study permit restrictions.
| Item | Domestic Students |
International Students (CML) |
| Full-Time Tuition | $6,397.00 | $4,170.00 |
| Students' Association Fee | $115.00 | $182.00 |
| Campus Recreation Fee | $79.00 | $65.00 |
| SA Building Fee | $18.00 | $29.12 |
| Technology Fee | $105.00 | $190.00 |
| Materials Fee / ABSA Fee | $223.00 | - |
| Total per Intake | $7,100.00 | $4,729.12 |
Refund Policy
- $250 admission deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable.
- 50% refund of tuition (minus deposit) if withdrawn 10 business days before classes start.
- Full refund if the program is canceled by Keyano College.
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Be Ready for Alberta’s Energy Industry
Apply today for the Winter 2025 intake.