Utilities Technology

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.

OSHA, APPA and NESC rules, procedures and codes applied to the design and construction of overhead and underground lines.

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.

Continuation of PL 171. Specific OSHA, APPA and NESC rules that apply to operating and maintaining overhead and underground lines. Includes hands-on procedures and pole top rescue.

This course provides an introduction to the tools and techniques involved in data creation, data integration, mapping, and spatial analysis within Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Participants will learn how to construct geodatabases to support field GPS data collection activities. Emphasizing practical experience, the course includes extensive hands-on training with ESRI’s suite of products, ensuring students gain valuable skills in applying GIS technology.

This course provides an introduction to computer-aided drafting (CAD) software tailored for specific technological applications. It focuses on mastering the software’s command structure and adhering to drafting standards relevant to particular technical domains. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to produce and plot basic drawings.

An introduction to programing structured text languages using languages such as Blocky, C and Python. The use of a Microcontroller, on the VEX Robotics Platform, will give the student the basic concepts to understand code structure, Boolean logic, variables, strings, lists, and other data structures. The goal is for the student to learn the methods and thought processes behind planning a good set of instructions and steps before the programming process begins.

This course advances from CAD I, exploring more sophisticated techniques. It encompasses advanced AutoCAD concepts such as assigning data to blocks and the import and export of AutoCAD files to and from other software applications. While primarily focused on 2D drawing, the course also introduces 3D isometric views. Additionally, students will utilize Revit for 3D modeling, enhancing their skills in creating detailed architectural and structural designs for indoor mapping.

In this course, students will engage with a variety of cloud-based geospatial tools, including but not limited to products from ESRI, Trimble, DJI, DroneDeploy, PIX4D, NIRA, and Adobe. The curriculum is designed to concentrate on the entire workflow of geospatial data handling in the cloud, covering data collection, editing, analysis, integration, management, and final product production. Emphasis will be placed on leveraging cloud technology to efficiently and effectively manage geospatial projects.

Building on the Introduction to GIS, this course further explores the practical applications of GIS technology. It emphasizes hands-on experience in GIS modeling, analysis, and problem-solving, tailored towards real-world scenarios, including both indoor and outdoor mapping, planning, and geo-referencing. The curriculum aims to develop students’ proficiency in utilizing GIS to address and solve intricate geographical challenges, equipping them with advanced skills for creating effective solutions in a variety of contexts.

This course concentrates on the acquisition, application, interpretation, and development of data collected remotely. Students will gain hands-on experience using a range of high-end industrial and consumer drones for flight operations and data collection. Access to leading software and tools such as ESRI, DroneDeploy, Pix4D, and Adobe will enable students to generate data, video products, and mapping solutions that align with current industry needs. Additionally, the course prepares students to take the Remote Pilot Certified Small UAS exam, aiming to qualify them as commercially certified Part 107 drone pilots.

Detailed instruction on the use of Microsoft Excel covering beginning, intermediate, and advanced concepts. Concepts covered include working with formulas and functions; creating and formatting charts graphs and pivot tables/pivot charts; sorting and filtering lists; data consolidation between multiple worksheets and workbooks; and importing and exporting of data.

Basics of electricity. Direct current (DC), alternating current (AC), electrical laws and symbols, circuit fundamentals, and the use of test equipment is taught. Electrical fundamentals related to heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems is emphasized. Projects are assigned using computer simulation programs and laboratory trainers.

Basic theories of heating. Typical heating equipment and appliances are reviewed. Maintenance procedures of gas, fuel oil and electric furnaces and boilers are studied. Projects include using computer simulation programs and lab trainers.

Introduces the basic theories of air conditioning and refrigeration. The proper operation and function of components in a cooling system are identified. Projects use computer simulation programs and lab trainers.

Introduction to lab trainers and equipment including heating and cooling equipment used in residential buildings. Projects use computer simulation programs.

Basic sheet metal and fittings. Use of sheet metal hand tools and equipment is taught. Procedures for duct layout and sheet metal terminology is reviewed. Use, maintenance and operating adjustments of sheet metal shop equipment. Pattern layout, fabrication, use of hand tools and assembly procedures are covered.

Continuation of HV 121. More detailed information about heating and refrigeration cycles is taught. Also covered are controls, new refrigerants, refrigerant recovery and recycling. A refrigerant certification test is administered.

 HVAC/R controls covered include low voltage, temperature, low/high, and oil pressure controls. Heat pump troubleshooting application and theory are also taught.

Maintenance, troubleshooting and installation of gas, fuel oil and electric furnaces, air conditioning and refrigeration equipment. Projects use computer simulation programs and lab trainers.

Preparation to work in and perform routine safety precautions with natural gas. Students will gain knowledge and skills required to assist an injured or suddenly ill person before professional emergency care can be provided.

An introduction to the fundamentals of transportation, storage and the regulations pertaining to propane, butane and natural gas.

An introduction to various aspects of the gas industry including development, economics, equipment, systems, instrumentation, operations, and various associated scientific principles and processes. The course gives students a basic introduction to the Natural Gas Technology program. Addressed will be a variety of topics with emphasis on predrilling and drilling including; pre-drilling planning, drilling, circulation systems, construction basics, simple completions, overview of production processes and equipment.

Applies curriculum studied in concurrent courses. Equipment operation including backhoe and loader operation, trencher and plow operations, directional boring and line locating.

OSHA Excavation Standard and safety and health aspects of excavation and trenching. Course topics include practical soil mechanics and their relationship to the stability of shored and unshored slopes and walls of excavations, introduction of various types of shoring (wood timbers and hydraulic), soil classification, and use of protective systems.

Customer service is a critical element in the success and future of all businesses that compete in today’s economy. It is more challenging than ever to attract and retain customers because more companies are competing for the same customer. This course is a study of issues in the workplace relating to effective customer service and emphasizes three different aspects of customer service: the profession, skills for success, and building and maintaining relationships. Through role play scenarios, collaborative learning activities, and application of concepts to real-world situations, students are introduced to the issues of ethics, problem solving, strategy implementation, empowerment, communications, motivation and leadership necessary for the delivery of exceptional customer service and customer retention.

Enables the student to apply common technical concepts used in the gas measurement industry. Computer based and instructor led training are blended with hands-on exercises to build a set of basic skills necessary to implement industry applied mathematics and physical laws necessary for advanced gas measurement training.

The gas industry has an enormous impact on all aspects of daily life. Individuals, corporations, and national governments make financial and policy decisions based on the cost, use, and availability of natural resources. This course reviews gas operations and markets including an overview of basic drilling operations, production, basic economics, processing and final transport. Students will be introduced to the cost of wells, seasonal impacts on prices, and the role of natural gas reserves.

The mechanisms of corrosion and the benefits of corrosion prevention and control planning. Students will identify good practices for setting up an optimal corrosion management scheme. An overview of top corrosion threats and their mitigation methods is taught and includes weld corrosion, external corrosion and stress corrosion cracking.

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of GPS and their application in precision agriculture and Geographic Information System (GIS) applications. It will cover various aspects of GPS technology, including corrections, constellations, and their primary uses in the industry, alongside essential GPS terminology and its relevance to professional practice. After building a solid foundation in GPS technology, the focus will transition to the utilization of GIS operations within the agricultural sector, equipping students with the skills and knowledge to leverage these technologies in enhancing farming efficiency and productivity.

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.

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.

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.