This is a practical lab course. While ABSA Parts A & B cover theory, this course provides the required six months of hands-on experience (steam time) to qualify for certification.
PECOM 4500: 200 Hour Power Lab
Power Engineering 6 Month, 200-Hour Lab (Non-Credit) (CEPLAB200)
Hands-on training toward 4th Class Power Engineering certification
The Power Engineering 6-month, 200-Hour Lab is a non-credit, continuing education program designed for individuals who have completed ABSA-certified 4th Class Power Engineering theory (Parts A and B) but still require the six-month steam-time experience necessary for certification.
This hands-on course builds practical competency in operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting power plant systems, bridging the gap between classroom theory and industry expectations.
Upon completion, students are prepared to challenge the ABSA 4A and 4B certification exams and pursue careers in Alberta’s growing industrial and energy sectors.
Program Details
Program Code: CEPLAB200
Credential: Non-Credit – Continuing Education
Delivery: In-person, hands-on
Length: 6 months (200 hours total)
Location: Power Lab, Keyano College
Contact: upgrading@keyano.ca | 780-791-4801
Prerequisites: Completion of ABSA 4th Class Part A & B Theory
What You’ll Learn
By the end of the 6 month, 200-hour Power Engineering Lab, you will:
- Gain practical, supervised experience with high-pressure boilers, turbines, compressors, and more
- Learn safe, effective operation and maintenance of core plant systems
- Understand the fundamentals of troubleshooting and emergency procedures
- Meet the steam-time experience requirements for ABSA 4th Class certification
Where It Can Take You
Graduates are prepared to:
- Write the ABSA 4A and 4B certification exams
- Work in a range of industrial and utility facilities
- Launch or advance careers as a:
- Power Plant Operator
- Boiler Operator
- Industrial Maintenance Technician
- Process Operator or 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’s the difference between this and ABSA theory courses?
Do I need to complete both theory parts before taking this course?
Yes. Completion of ABSA 4th Class Power Engineering Part A and B is required before registering.
When can I write the ABSA certification exams?
- You may write the 4A exam after completing Part A theory
- You may write the 4B exam after completing Part B theory
- This lab course may be taken before, during, or after the exams, but must be completed to fulfill ABSA’s steam-time requirement
Can I take this course without prior work experience in Power Engineering?
Yes. No work experience is required, only successful completion of the theory component.
There is no dedicated financial aid available for this course at this time. You may contact the Office of the Registrar to discuss funding options or explore third-party funding (e.g., employment agencies or training subsidies).
Admission Requirements
To be eligible, applicants must have successfully completed:
- Completion of ABSA 4th Class Part A and B Theory Courses or equivalent
- Applicants must fill out the Power Lab Registration Form
Upcoming Intakes
Class Schedule
Dates: Monday - Friday
Times: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Upcoming Intakes
September 02, 2025 – October 03, 2025
October 06, 2025 – November 07, 2025
November 10, 2025 – December 12, 2025
March 02, 2026 – April 03, 2026
April 06, 2026 – May 08, 2026
May 11, 2026 – June 12, 2026
Please Note:
A minimum requirement of students is required to be registered to run the power lab course.
There will be no registration for the months of July and August and the cut-off to apply for the month of December will be on the 16 to start January 1.
Tuition and Fees
Course Code: PECOM 4500
Duration: 6 months (2 terms)
Eligible for Domestic Students Only
| Item | Term 1 | Term 2 |
| Full-Time Tuition | $6,397.00 | $6,397.00 |
| Health & Dental Fee* | $163.00 | $163.00 |
| Campus Recreation Fee | $79.00 | $79.00 |
| Students' Association Fee | $115.00 | $115.00 |
| SA Building Fee | $18.00 | $18.00 |
| Technology Fee | $105.00 | $105.00 |
| Materials Fee | $480.00 | $480.00 |
| Total per Intake | $7,100.00 | $6,877.00 |
Health & Dental may be waived with proof of alternate coverage. ABSA exam administration fee not included at this time.
This cost structure applies to each intake unless otherwise noted.
Tuition is subject to change.
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Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Becoming a Certified 4th Class Power Engineer?
Register online through Self-Service or Contact a Student Advisor for assistance:
780-791-4801
Email: powereng@keyano.ca