Program Index Trades & Apprenticeship Power Engineering Technician (Fourth Class)

Trades & Apprenticeship

Program Index Trades & Apprenticeship Power Engineering Technician (Fourth Class)

Trades & Apprenticeship

Certificates

Power Engineering Technician (Fourth Class)

Fall 2026
Yorkton (TTC)

Gain industry experience

Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Power Engineering Technician program will give you the tools and knowledge you need to start out in this complex and exciting field. Power Engineers keep the heat on in winter and the lights on at night. They operate hospital fridges, industrial coolers, all types of boilers, compressors, generators, motors and more.

You’ll learn the basics of power generation with practical training in boiler operations, electrical controls and instrumentation, maintenance and tool use. You’ll develop troubleshooting skills in practical labs, get boiler firing time in the power lab and industry work experience in your second term.

Although power engineering isn't classified as a trade, it is government regulated and certified by the province where you live and work. It is divided into four levels of skills and training (First Class is the highest). A combination of work experience and course completions followed by rigorous interprovincial examinations allows an engineer to progress from one class to another.

You will study Fourth Class interprovincial standardized material as preparation to challenge the interprovincial Fourth Class Examinations. Graduates are eligible to challenge the provincial exam to obtain the Refrigeration Engineering Certificate required to operate large refrigeration plants in Saskatchewan. Graduates may go straight into the workforce or enroll in Third Class Power Engineering.

Admission Requirements

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for most of Suncrest college's programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission the more likely it is you will secure a seat in the program of your choice.  Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year. 

If you have an admissions questions email [email protected]

Admission Requirements

  • Grade 12 with a minimum overall score of 65% in the following four subjects:
    • 30 level English
    • Foundations of Math 30 or Pre-Calculus 30*
    • one of Biology 30, Chemistry 30 or Physics 30*
    • and one of Social Studies 30, History 30 or Native Studies 30*
  • English language requirement for this program follows Saskatchewan Polytechnic language requirements.

NOTES: 

  • *up to two 20-level courses can be used to calculate the average if applicant is still attending high school
  • Chemistry and Physics are recommended.

Alternative Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through an alternative admission assessment. Applicants are automatically considered for alternative admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met.

Grade Average of 60% or higher is required for each term. An overall 60% average is required to graduate with a certificate from Saskatchewan Polytechnic.

PPE required for work placement includes: CSA-approved steel toe work boots, safety glasses and coveralls. 

Recommended laptop computer (Windows 10, Internet, Microsoft Office 365, and speakers/webcam)


1 Intake Option Available

Fall 2026 Full-Time
Yorkton (TTC)

Yorkton (TTC)

Full-Time
Fall 2026
Start Date September 8, 2026
End Date August 2026
Length 32 Weeks
Program Capacity 24
Domestic Tuition $5,800.00
International Tuition $20,200.00

Additional Fees

Domestic Tuition and Fees
 

*Tuition$5,900.00
*Materials & Books
 
$3,500.00 (includes GST)
*Student Fee$100.00
*Health & Dental Fee$252.00
*Lab/Shop Fee$250.00
*Tech Fee$100.00
*Printing Fee$500.00

*Note: Tuition, Books and Supplies, Health and Dental, etc amounts are approximate, based on last year's program and may change at anytime.

Courses



Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3

You will learn the purpose and uses of a word processor and electronic spreadsheet. You will develop the basic skills of creating, editing and formatting documents and spreadsheets.

Credit Units: 1.00

Course Hours: 15.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Prior Learning Lecture/Lab Print Distance Group

You will be introduced to the basics of alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) circuits and machines. You will use electrical metering devices, perform electrical calculations as well as describe the operation of transformers and electrical distribution systems.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Prior Learning Lecture/Lab

You will solve many types of introductory problems related to the study of motion. You will learn about forces and applications of force such as work and pressure.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory Prior Learning

You will learn the major components of a steam plant and participate in the operation of the equipment which is similar to that used in industry.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lab/Practical

You will study piping, valves, materials and welding. You will use safe practices to perform maintenance tasks using common hand tools.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will be introduced to boiler terminology, design, and operation. You will study the theory of combustion and feedwater control.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will study plant instrumentation and control systems. You will be introduced to various measuring devices as well as transmitters, recorders, controllers and actuators. You will describe the operation and maintenance of programmable controls and control systems. Your studies will also include interpreting various industrial drawings. You will be introduced to the operation of Distributed Control System (DCS) used to operate plant equipment using simulation software.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will use the principles of algebra, geometry, and trigonometry to solve basic problems in the power engineering field. You will apply these principles to practical problems involving percentages, ratio and proportion, mixtures, speeds, rates, practical problems involving simultaneous equations, and vectors.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory Prior Learning

You will study general safety information related to power engineering. You will study the basic principles of personal protective equipment (PPE), fire safety and WHMIS. You will study environmental pollutants and their methods of control. You will review the various provincial, Canadian and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) legislation and codes related to the construction and operation of boilers, pressure vessels and refrigeration plants.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will learn and practice written, oral and interpersonal communication for the workplace. You will apply these skills as team members and in short presentations. You will also develop effective job search strategies.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Prior Learning Lecture/Lab

You will solve introductory problems related to the study of matter, thermodynamics, and chemistry. You will study heat and the modes, methods, and effects of heat transfer.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will be introduced to heating boiler terminology, design, operation and government regulations. You will study various heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and the importance of building ventilation. You will study lighting, water supply and sanitary drainage systems.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will study basics of steam and gas turbine construction and operation. You will study internal combustion engines and steam engines used in industry.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will be introduced to the characteristics and operation of pumps and compressors. You will study lubrication properties, methods of application and importance to efficient equipment operation.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will produce steam and operate turbines, heat exchangers, pumps and auxiliary fuel systems in a functioning high pressure steam lab.

Credit Units: 4.00

Course Hours: 60.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lab/Practical

You will study the safe and efficient operational procedures for boilers and boiler systems. You will perform plant maintenance tasks including shaft alignment and rigging procedures.

Credit Units: 4.00

Course Hours: 60.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will study boiler and fittings code requirements. You will study the design and operation of boiler controls and safety devices.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

Your studies will focus on the many dimensions of culture and approaches to promoting inclusion and innovation. You will explore culture in Canadian society as it pertains to Indigenous and immigrant populations. You will also examine the correlation between culture and diversity.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory Prior Learning

You will learn about industrial processes used to produce a variety of products. You will study the equipment used in these industrial processes.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will be introduced to theory and equipment used in air conditioning systems. You will study humidification, ventilation, air filters as well as duct design and various types of air conditioning coils.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory Prior Learning

You will be introduced to the principles of refrigeration used in power plants including operation and maintenance procedures. Common refrigerants and their environmental effects will be reviewed. You will practice refrigeration calculations and become familiar with CSA B52, Mechanical Refrigeration Code.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will study the basic methods utilized to prepare and maintain the water used in steam generation and its auxiliary equipment.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will have an opportunity to observe and participate in the operation at the plant site. You will investigate the impact of shift work on personal health and wellness. Your studies will be enhanced by real world experience. Your work experience will assist you in building networking opportunities within industry.

Course Hours: 60.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Work Experience - Group

Your studies will focus on the many dimensions of culture and approaches to promoting inclusion and innovation. You will explore culture in Canadian society as it pertains to Indigenous and immigrant populations. You will also examine the correlation between culture and diversity.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory Prior Learning

You will have an opportunity to observe and participate in the operation at the plant site. You will investigate the impact of shift work on personal health and wellness. Your studies will be enhanced by real world experience. Your work experience will assist you in building networking opportunities within industry.

Course Hours: 60.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Work Experience - Group

Specialised Knowledge that is Always in Demand

Trades & Apprenticeship

Trade jobs are in high demand. Choosing a trade means having a stable career and options of where to work.

Power Engineering @ Suncrest College

Certification Opportunities

Power engineering is divided into levels of skill and training called classes (First Class is the highest level). You progress from one class to another through a combination of work experience, course completions and rigorous interprovincial exams.

After completing Year 1, you will earn one year of Fourth Class qualifying time credit from the Technical Safety Authority of Saskatchewan (TSASK), and be prepared to challenge:

  • TSASK Fourth Class exams, and
  • TSASK Refrigeration Engineers exams

The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) of Ontario website includes a video that provides information about the power engineering industry and training that may be helpful in determining whether this career is right for you. (The program and students shown are not from Saskatchewan Polytechnic).

Provincial certification (TSASK) is required to work in the industry. TSASK test writing fees are not included in tuition.

Sask Polytech Logo

Brokered Through

Saskatchewan Polytechnic

College partners with credit granting institutions like Saskatchewan Polytechnic. These partnerships allow us to offer a greater number of recognized courses closer to where you are.

About

Saskatchewan Polytechnic serves students through applied learning opportunities on Treaty 4 and Treaty 6 Territories and the homeland of the Métis. Learning takes place at campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon and through extensive distance education opportunities. Programs serve every economic and public service sector. As a polytechnic, the organization provides the depth of learning appropriate to employer and student need, including certificate, diploma and degree programs, and apprenticeship training. Saskatchewan Polytechnic engages in applied research, drawing on faculty expertise to support innovation by employers, and providing students the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills.

Suncrest College

Why Study Here?

Do you have prior education, work experience and/or job training that relates to your program area? If so, you could be eligible for credit that reduces your study time and cost. Credit can also be applied from your Sask Polytech program to another institution.

10

Percent

Higher Averages When Compared to Larger Class Sizes

#

More

You are more than just a number, we know you by name

$

Spend Less

Live where you learn, spend less on the extras

Career Options

Graduates are prepared to work as power engineers or process operators in a variety of industrial and heating plants. These include utility (power) plants, refineries, hospitals, pulp and paper mills, breweries, mines, gas processing plants, heavy oil upgraders, fertilizer plants or chemical plants.

NOC ClassificationEarning Potential

Power Engineers and Power Systems Operators (9241)

$56,200 - $121,700


The benefits of having a power engineering program run locally through College can be measured in money and time but what cannot be quantified is the opportunity to go home after class.

The advantage for a company like Louis Dreyfus Commodities, who participates in the work placement program, is to have first look at the students as potential employees. The last power engineer we hired learned his trade at College, and he is now training to obtain his Second Class license.

Henry Bouchard

Former Chief Engineer, Louis Dreyfus Commodities, Yorkton

Get credit for what you know

Do you have prior education, work experience and/or job training that relates to your program area? If so, you could be eligible for credit that reduces your study time and cost. Credit can also be applied from your Sask Polytech program to another institution.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

See link(s) below to get more information about PLAR.


Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit to Sask Polytech or to another college or university.


Frequently Asked

When you complete the Business, Office Administration, or Continuing Care Certificate at College your certificate will be issued by Saskatchewan Polytechnic.


You can apply anytime for SaskPolytech certificate programs at "College". However, please note that applicants are accepted on a first come/first qualified basis. Original transcripts are required for acceptance into a program. Applications can be sent without the original but will not be officially considered until all entrance requirements are met (original transcript included).


Yes, most of the programs are available on a class by class basis (for domestic students only). If you are interested in taking a program but can only do a few classes per semester we can create a schedule that will suit your needs. Some classes do have a prerequisite requirement and need to be taken in a certain order. We can help guide you through the process!


Students can complete the online application form and pay the $140.00 processing fee. Applications must include secondary and post-secondary transcripts and documents. English proficiency results must also be attached.


All programs require an IELTS minimum 6.5 with no bands less than 5.5.


Students will cover several courses in each semester and are responsible for assignments and studying. This will definitely require homework outside of class time.


Need more Information?

Contact the Trades & Apprenticeship Department