Power Line Construction & Maintenance

This course provides an introduction to the essential principles of GPS, including GPS corrections, satellite constellations, navigation techniques, and their widespread applications in different sectors. Students will engage in practical, hands-on training, learning a variety of data collection methods using tablets, GPS devices, and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) devices. This hands-on approach ensures that participants not only understand the theoretical underpinnings of GPS technology but also gain proficiency in using these tools effectively for real-world applications.

Basic electricity as it applies to high voltage lines. The student learns to apply Ohm’s Law for DC circuits. The student learns basic generation and the effects of inductance and capacitance in the AC circuit.

Fundamental theory of high voltage power grid systems. The generating systems, transmission, subtransmission, distribution and service are studied.

Basic theory and design for the installation and construction of a high voltage overhead system. Installation and construction of an actual overhead system will be part of a lab project.

Basic theory and design for the installation and construction of a high voltage underground system. Installing and constructing an actual underground system will be part of a lab project.

This course trains participants to provide first aid, CPR, and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). Students must complete the hands-on skill session. This class is offered for credit as a Pass/No Pass course.

An overview of OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards focusing on hazard recognition and injury and illness prevention. The 10-hour construction program is intended to provide entry-level construction workers with awareness of hazards in and around the construction work site. Emphasis is placed on recognition and prevention and helps create a culture of safety. Upon successful completion the student will receive OSHA 10 certification.

Provides a foundation for gaining the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for college success. Students will learn to make a successful transition to higher education by setting up a pattern of success that will last the rest of their lives. Students will define goals and develop thinking skills, learning strategies and personal qualities essential to both academic and career success. Please note: Students who have served active military duty (excluding basic training and AIT) may be exempt from the Student Success course. Student must provide a copy of DD214 or other official military documentation to the registrar for verification.

Instruction in commercial transportation. Opportunities are provided for obtaining a Class A commercial drivers license. Arrangements are made for taking the test(s) required by the state. A Class A CDL is a requirement for graduation from several programs. A valid South Dakota driver’s license is required in order to complete the CDL training course. For students enrolling in a two-year program, this course must be completed by the end of their first year. This class is offered for credit as a Pass/No Pass course. Please note: Students are required to show proof of a valid Class A CDL by the end of the 10th day of the semester in which the student is enrolled in order to drop this class.

Application of electrical formulas to practical circuits. Problems such as series and parallel circuits, solving for inductive and capacitive reactance, impedance, apparent, real and reactive power and power factor are common. Transformer, regulator, capacitor and metering applications are covered in detail in this course.

Continuation of PL 141.

System protection, sectionalizing and grounding procedures and basic fault procedures on underground low and high voltage lines.

Fundamental operation and maintenance of overhead distribution and transmission lines. Hands-on application will be utilized by operating and maintaining the lines built as part of PL 150.