NWTC To Offer Construction Trades Program Beginning in August
Have you had trouble finding a plumber or an electrician because there are simply not enough professionals in these areas to handle all of the work? Then you will be glad to know that a new daytime program is coming to the Alva campus of Northwest Technology Center in the Fall of 2012. According to Daren Slater, Assistant Superintendent, “The program will be called Construction Trades and will teach students about the plumbing or electrical skills.” Enrollment in the program is now open for the 2012-2013 school year which begins in August.
Dennis Bushman was hired earlier this year as the instructor for the program. Bushman has more than 25 years of experience as an licensed electrician and taught construction trades in the CareerTech system prior to taking the instructor’s position at Northwest Technology Center.
The Construction Trades program will have four career majors including Plumber’s Assistant (1005 clock hours), Electricians Assistant (1050 clock hours), Entry Level Plumber’s Assistant (375 clock hours) and Entry Level Electrical Assistant (360 clock hours). At some point in the future a career major for Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) will be added, but this program will be added in a different academic year.
“The decision to implement this program came at the request of many in our community. All three of these occupations, plumbing, electrical and heating and air conditioning are much needed throughout Northwest Oklahoma.” stated Slater. “ Last year, a focus group of local contractors, area business people and private citizens met and developed a case for why these occupations would be the best fit for our area”.
Students enrolled in the Electrical Assistant program will cover electrical installation, operation, and maintenance for electrical systems in residential dwellings and commercial buildings. Students will also cover print reading, electrical principles and measurements, function of components, equipment and motors, wiring, process control, troubleshooting and the electrical code. After completion, students can continue toward their journeyman licensure.
Plumbing students will learn, measurement and drawings, fixtures, faucets and fittings, water supply, fuel gas systems, installing and maintaining both commercial and residential plumbing and water supplies. Students in both programs will cover a construction core, tool handling and safety.
After completing one of the career majors, students will be prepared to either enter the career field working toward their journeyman licensure or go on to college in the area of engineering, architecture or a related field. Professionals with these skills may also pursue careers in the Oil and Gas Industry or Industrial Maintenance.
