Energy Systems Engineering Technology

Technical Communications is a foundational course designed to equip students with the essential skills necessary for effective communication in technical and professional settings. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, students will learn various communication strategies, including written, oral, and visual communication techniques tailored specifically for technical contexts. Leveraging Office 365 software applications, students will integrate tools such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Teams to enhance their communication skills and streamline collaborative projects. By the end of the course, students will have developed the proficiency to communicate technical concepts clearly and concisely to diverse audiences using digital platforms.

This course covers the core principles and operations of algebra and trigonometry, including linear, quadratic, and trigonometric functions, graphs, and equations. Emphasis is placed on developing fluency and conceptual understanding through practice, preparing students for further studies in applied mathematics, fostering both fluency and conceptual depth through interactive learning experiences.

Electrical Fundamentals is designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles of electrical theory, providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze and design basic electrical circuits. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical applications, students will explore key topics including atomic structure, static electricity, sources of Electromotive Force (EMF), batteries, simple electrical circuits, conventional and electron flow, as well as the principles of voltage, current, resistance, work, power, and energy. Emphasis will be placed on developing a solid understanding of these concepts through hands-on experiments, problem-solving exercises, and real-world applications, laying the groundwork for Electrical Fundamentals 2. 

Code and Drawing is a foundational first-year college course that immerses students in the fundamental principles of electrical code and technical drawing techniques. Through an integrated curriculum, students will explore the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) and other relevant regulations, gaining an understanding of their application in system design and installation within Canada. Additionally, students will develop proficiency in technical drawing, focusing on creating precise schematics, diagrams, and plans that adhere to code requirements. Emphasis will be placed on interpreting the CEC, applying it to design solutions, and effectively communicating electrical system layouts through detailed drawings. 

This course focuses on applying safety rules outlined in the Occupational Health and Safety Act while performing installation procedures for electrical devices, cables, and conduits. Students gain hands-on experience wiring residential, signal, and relay circuits, and learn to produce single-line wiring diagrams and lab reports. By the end of the course, students will have acquired the knowledge and practical experience necessary to safely and effectively install electrical systems, preparing them for real-world applications in industry.

Renewable Energy is a foundational course designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of renewable energy technologies, their applications, and their role in addressing global energy challenges. Students learn energy and power fundamentals and the units of measurement required to work with energy and power data. The course provides an overview of Renewable Energy Systems including solar, wind, hydro, tidal, bimass, solar thermal and heat pumps. Learners develop the mathematical skills to work with energy data through laboratory exercises. Students explore the history electricity generation and the impacts of such systems used in societies throughout the world.

Data Literacy and Network Communications is an introductory course designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of data concepts and network communications in the context of modern information systems. This course aims to develop students' ability to interpret, analyze, and communicate data effectively, while also exploring the fundamentals of network communications and their role in data transmission and exchange. Through theoretical knowledge and hands-on exercises, students will gain practical skills essential for navigating the data-rich environments of today's interconnected world.

Expanding on the principles of Electrical Fundamentals 1, this course is designed to deepen students' understanding of electrical theory and expand their skills in analyzing and designing electrical systems. Building upon the foundational knowledge acquired in the previous course, students delve into topics including power generation (conventional and renewable), magnetic induction, capacitance, and voltage/current in relation to time, and semiconductor theory. Through a combination of theoretical learning and hands-on experiments, students explore the behavior of semiconductor devices, gain proficiency in circuit analysis methods, and learn to design and troubleshoot electrical generation, distribution, and storage systems. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills through challenging projects and real-world applications, preparing students for careers in the electrical field.

Code, Prints, and AutoCAD is a course focusing on electrical design, building upon foundational knowledge introduced in the previous course, code and drawing. Through a blend of theoretical learning and hands-on exercises, students deepen their understanding of electrical codes, particularly the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC), and learn technical drawing skills using AutoCAD software. Students also learn to interpret construction drawings and specifications, enhancing their ability to create precise schematics and plans. By the end of the course, students are proficient in using AutoCAD to produce designs that comply with industry standards, preparing them for roles in various sectors.

Electromechanical Systems is an introductory course designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, components, and applications of electromechanical systems in various disciplines. This course integrates fundamental concepts from electrical engineering and mechanical engineering to analyze, design, and control systems that involve the interaction of electrical and mechanical components.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to instrumentation systems. Students will learn common terminology, measurement units for pressure and temperature, and conversion between temperature scales. Topics include Thermocouples, Thermistors, and Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTD), as well as deformation elements and accuracy assessment of pressure measuring equipment. Industrial pressure sensors, instrumentation symbols, and principles of measuring physical parameters such as pressure, temperature, flow, level, speed, and vibration will be covered. Additionally, students will explore concepts of measurement accuracy, error, data collection, presentation, and feedback control, with practical experience in computerized data collection labs.

Introduction to Electronics is a foundational course designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles of electronics. Through a combination of theoretical learning and hands-on practical experiences, students will explore key concepts including basic logic gates, the standard resistor color code, semiconductor diodes, opto-couplers, and transistor switches and amplifiers. Emphasis will be placed on developing students' ability to identify, explain, and apply these basic electronic fundamentals in both theoretical and practical environments. By the end of the course, students will have a solid understanding of electronic components and their applications, laying the groundwork for further studies in electronics and related fields.

Workplace practices offers students foundational training for various technical professions, focusing on safety requirements and proper utilization of tools and equipment in a professional environment. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical applications, students gain comprehensive knowledge of industry-specific practices necessary for a safe and efficient workplace. Topics covered include identifying and implementing safety protocols, understanding hazard assessments, and correctly using personal protective equipment (PPE). Additionally, students will learn to identify, select, use, and maintain tools and equipment. This course equips students with skills essential for success in their field and fosters a culture of safety and professionalism in the workplace.

Wind Turbine Systems is a foundational course that introduces students to the principles, technologies, and applications of wind energy. Students will explore the design, operation, and maintenance of wind turbine systems, with a focus on understanding the conversion of wind energy into electricity. Through theoretical learning and practical exercises, students will examine topics such as wind turbine components, power generation, environmental impacts, and integration into electrical grids. Emphasis will be placed on developing a holistic understanding of wind energy systems and their role in sustainable energy production. Additionally, students will explore current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the wind energy industry. This course serves as a comprehensive introduction to the field of wind energy for students pursuing studies in renewable energy, engineering, environmental science, and related disciplines.

In this course, students learn about photovoltaic power generation. Learners design grid connected systems using string inverters and micro inverters as well as off-gridbattery-basedsystems for housing and other applications such as lighting and signs. Students explore issues of racking, electrical design, battery selection, and sizing. Learners select photovoltaic equipment based on customer requirements, electrical code, and site issues, and experience hands-on equipment use and installation in the laboratory environment.

In this course, students are introduced to the tools of energy auditing, including inspection, measurement, blower door testing, and software modeling. Learners explore the building science of heat, humidity, airflow, and lighting in buildings. Students focus on the creation of balanced energy models of single-family buildings using energy management software. Learners gain hands-on audit and computer modelling experience through field trips and a final project where the goal is to create a balanced RETScreen building energy model.

In this course, students learn about residential and commercial building energy systems, heat and coolings load, and the properties of air. Learners explore the fundamentals of HVAC systems and the principles underlying the operation of these systems. Topics include: psychrometrics, air movement, fans, heat transfer, duct design, hydronics, refrigeration and heat pumps, and space and domestic water heating.

This course introduces vectors and the complex number system, including conversions between polar and rectangular forms. Students manipulate and solve exponential and logarithmic functions in order to apply in technical lab and theory. 

In this course, students learn about the electronic components and circuits used to provide AC and DC power control. Students demonstrate the ability to design, assemble, and analyze power control circuits. Learners explore rectifiers, filters, regulators, linear and switch-mode single-phase and three-phase power supplies, SCRs, Phase Shifting SCRs, diacs, triacs, and phase shifting triacs.

In this course, students interpret and prepare information in a graphical format. Learners explore 3D Computer Aided Design software. Students develop drawing skills through hands-on application. Students recognize the best tools for completing required tasks.

In this course, students explore electrical supply from the generating station to the consumer. Learner's study working safely with high voltage and current, power generation, transmission, distribution, switching and protection, electric motor theory, and common three phase connection systems. Students examine power electronics, power factor correction, power quality, and the issues and opportunities presented by smart grid, smart metering, and grid storage.

In this course, students learn about the various control mechanisms used in heating, ventilating, cooling, lighting, water supply, and electrical production systems. Learners explore simplistic control switches to moderately complex electrical-electronic systems. Students select and configure appropriate control systems for specific applications (heating, cooling, or alternative energy production) for equipment found in residential and small commercial buildings. Learners are introduced to data logging devices and their applications.

In this course, students take an in-depth look at a variety of renewable methods of energy generation. Learners explore micro hydro, wind, solar thermal hot water, solar air, heat pumps, and biomass. Students learn to select equipment based on application requirements, building codes, and site issues. Learners experience hands-on equipment use, installation, and field trips.

In this course, students learn more advanced concepts in inspection, measurement, blower door testing, software modeling, and the building science of heat, humidity, airflow, and lighting. Learners create building energy models of single-family residential buildings. Students also create a balanced energy model and energy audit report from balanced building energy models. Building energy retrofit options are examined in detail. Lab opportunities involve field trips to buildings for hands-on audit experience and computer modeling. The final project is an extensive audit on a building and preparation of a client report.

In this course, students learn about government and regulatory agency involvement in the energy field and the influence these organizations have on the clean energy industry. Learners explore the theories and types of regulations and policies that apply to energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, from a Canadian and an International perspective. Students discuss the broad and evolving area of federal, provincial, and municipal government incentive programs for energy conservation, renewable energy use, and green-house gas emission reductions.

In this course, students develop practical skills in the operation and assessment of HVAC systems. Learners work with larger and more complex systems such as air conditioners, boilers, ducts, fans, and heat pumps in a series of laboratories. Students learn to calculate the operation and performance measurements of HVAC equipment manually and using energy systems software.

In this course, students learn how to design complete renewable energy systems to meet client needs. Learners focus on the design process and elements of mechanical design including forces, stresses and the sizing of pumps, piping, and heat exchangers. Students work collaboratively to achieve all aspects of the project design including the customer needs assessment, the selection of technology, detail component specification, and the cost-benefit analysis. Business processes associated with design activities such as understanding a customer's Request for Proposal and legal liability are explored.

In this course, students learn all major activities associated with the operation and maintenance of a commercial scale photovoltaic facility. Learners explore a balance of visual, mechanical, and electrical inspection techniques as well as methods for routine maintenance and correction of any defects that are discovered. Students focus on the proper selection and use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), safety procedures, and associated electrical hazards such as arc flash, and practice the proper use of instrumentation such as I-V curve tracers, IR cameras, and insulation resistance (ground fault) testers.

In this course, students manipulate climate data for energy modeling and develop an hour-by-hour simple building energy model using spreadsheets. Learners enter model data into typical commercial software to explore building construction and HVAC system details as well as sustainable energy features such as passive solar, and solar photovoltaic technology. Students practice parametric analysis to determine optimal configurations for minimum energy use in buildings and maximum energy output in renewable energy systems. Learners combine efficiency and renewable energy measures to design buildings that have net-zero energy consumption.

In this course, students are introduced to industry specific software for building information modelling (BIM). Learners strengthen their technical drawing skills in the use of drawing tools. Students modify and use software components to create complete buildings and use completed models to run energy simulations.

In this course, students examine data communication and computer interfacing for building automation. Learners explore binary code, various number systems, and networking using common communication protocols. Students use commercially available HVAC controllers to gain knowledge of the BACnet communication protocol.

In this course, students undertake a substantial energy auditing project for an external organization. Learners provide practitioner-level, professional service to the external organization (client). The project is substantial in the sense that it requires significant work to assess client requirements, to gather background data, and to report findings in a professional manner. Students collaborate as part of a team and interact with faculty, outside professionals, and the client organization to gather data and create a preliminary building assessment.

In this course, students explore ways of communicating technical information to specialists and to laypersons using common professional formats. Students also create a resume and deliver an oral presentation. Students work individually and in teams. Assignments and discussions emphasize effective collaboration, audience analysis, appropriate formats and tone, clarity of communication, and the mechanics of correct syntax, grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Attention is also given to general reading, editing, and collaboration strategies.

In this course, students examine programmable, microprocessor-based HVAC control systems and large-scale distributed control systems for energy management in buildings. Learners gain the detailed knowledge required to recommend control strategies and control system upgrades to save energy in commercial buildings. Students gain hands-on practice connecting and assembling common electrical components of control systems including programming HVAC field controllers.

In this course, students complete an energy audit of an institutional, commercial, or industrial (ICI) facility. Learners engage in an in-depth analysis of energy usage and the development of suggestions for saving energy and/or costs. Students make recommendations for the project client may involve the preliminary specification of energy systems equipment. The final project report also includes an analysis of the financial costs and benefits of the proposed changes. The course is organized to mimic the team-based structure that students are likely to find in the commercial energy auditing or engineering services business. Students are required to develop project schedules and to report their progress. Report results are communicated to the client in a professional presentation.

This course develops awareness of the standards used to define energy efficient building in the residential, commercial, institutional and industrial sector. Standards currently in use in provincial and federal will be explored. Typical standards and design approaches that will be presented include LEED™, ASHRAE90.1, Passive House, BOMA Best, Net Zero Energy and the National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (NECB).

In this course, students practice the development and execution of a project plan using software tools. Learners complete a project plan that is reasonable, cost effective, flexible, and adaptable should obstacles be encountered. Students explore aspects of project management such as stakeholder engagement, scope of work, contracts, team leadership, and compliance with relevant legislation, and an introduction to the OACETT and PMI codes of ethics.

In this course, students prepare for their role as a professional in the field of energy systems. Learners examine their personal strengths and preferences using self-assessment tools in relation to current job opportunities. Students research current organizations in the energy sector and jobs currently available, prepare a job-ready resume, and practice interview skills.

In this work placement course, students are involved in learning and work activities that relate to careers in Energy Systems. Learners focus on their professional growth and development as an Energy Systems Technologist. Students are able to apply their learning to a real work environment.

Technical Writing 2 builds on the skills students develop in Technical Writing 1. In this course, students delve deeper into the intricacies of communicating technical information effectively to both specialists and laypersons using professional formats commonly used in the industry. Through a combination of individual and team-based activities, students hone their skills on effective collaboration, audience analysis, appropriate formats and tone, clarity of communication, and the mechanics of correct syntax, grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Furthermore, attention is dedicated to enhancing general reading, editing, and collaboration strategies essential for success in technical communication roles. This course equips students with advanced communication skills crucial for thriving in diverse technical environments and prepares them for professional success in their chosen fields.