Power Engineering - 4th Class Comprehensive

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Credential

Certificate

Length

21 weeks

Delivery

In-person

Work Integrated Learning

Yes

International Student

Not Accepted

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.

High School Diploma:

You must have a high school diploma (or equivalent) with:

  • English 20-1 or 20-2
  • Math 20-1 or 20-2
  • Physics 20 or Science 20 (Alberta curriculum only)

OR

A pass mark in all five Canadian General Educational Development (GED) testss

English Language Proficiency (if applicable):

  • TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 80 with no score below 20
  • IELTS: minimum overall band score of 6.0
  • CAEL: minimum score of 60
  • MELAB: minimum score of 80
  • Duolingo English Test: minimum score of 95
  • PTE Academic: minimum score of 50
Term 1
Course Code Course Title Credits
PECO 4100

Applied Science 

 4
PECO 4200

Plant Services 

 4
PECO 4300

Steam Generation 

 4
PECO 4400

Prime Movers and Auxiliaries 

 4
Term 2
Course Code Course Title Credits
PECOM4500 200-Hour Power Lab  12
Tuition & Fees (2025–26)
Term Domestic Students
Fall  $6,877.00
Winter  $6,877.00
 Total $13,754.00

Please note

  • These estimates are based on 100% enrolment for all semesters and do not include mandatory laboratory fees. Laboratory fees can range from $35-$135 for 2025-2026.
  • *Students will be charged a medical/dental benefit fee unless they opt out by demonstrating alternative coverage - deadlines can be found at StudentCare website.
    ** Tuition is due 10 business days before the start of each semester.

For more information view the Keyano College Credit Calendar.

Refunds, Withdrawals, and Deposits

For information about withdrawals, tuition refunds, program cancellations, and deposit policies, please refer to the Refund Policy page.

This program includes a 200-hour hands-on Power Lab designed to provide practical experience operating and maintaining industry-standard equipment. Students will apply classroom theory in a controlled lab environment while gaining the steam time required toward ABSA 4th Class certification.

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.

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 at student.advisors@keyano.ca for assistance.

Important Notes:

  • The Power Lab is billed separately from the 4th Class coursework.
  • 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.

Learn more about the PECOM 4500 course here.

What You'll Learn As A Power Engineer

Throughout the program, you will develop essential skills and gain knowledge in:

2 gear icons

Power Plant Operations

Operate and monitor boilers, turbines, pumps, and other industrial systems safely and efficiently.

An icon of a magnifying glass

Process Systems & Troubleshooting

Analyze and troubleshoot mechanical and process systems used in industrial facilities.

 

Industry Codes & Safety Standards

Apply industry regulations, operating procedures, and safety practices in power engineering environments.

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.)
Two individuals wearing safety gear and hard hats working together in a power engineering lab with industrial testing equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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