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Overview
From steam turbines and gas compressors to refrigeration systems and wastewater treatment, this course will give you the technical knowledge to advance your skills and prepare for the Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA) Third Class B2 certification exam. This course is ideal if you’re working toward certification or seeking specialized knowledge in industrial power systems.
Through instructor-supported online learning, you’ll gain a thorough understanding of turbine operation, cogeneration, compressor systems, and fired heaters. You’ll also explore maintenance programs, industrial refrigeration, and process safety, ensuring you have the knowledge to operate and maintain complex systems confidently.
If you plan to complete SAIT’s Third Class Power Engineering Certificate of Achievement, you may qualify for partial credit toward ABSA’s work experience requirement for certification. This course provides practical, industry-aligned training to help you succeed in power engineering.
This course is ideal if you:
- want to strengthen your knowledge in turbines, compressors, and refrigeration systems to expand your technical expertise
- are preparing for the Third Class Power Engineering B2 exam
- hold a valid Fourth Class Power Engineering Certificate of Competency and want advanced training in industrial power systems.
To be eligible to register for this course, you must:
- be a holder of a valid Provincial Power Engineering Second Class Certificate.
- complete all fourth-class power engineering courses - proof of completion is required.
To be successful in this program, it is recommended you have a minimum of Grade 12 Math, Physics and English. If you have not completed these courses, consider taking an Academic Upgrading course.
Upon successful completion of this course, you'll be able to:
- describe the design, components, and operating principles of steam turbines
- describe steam turbine auxiliary equipment, controls, and operation
- explain design, components, and operation of steam condensers and gas turbines
- describe gas turbine auxiliary equipment, controls, operation, and maintenance
- explain design, components, and operation of internal combustion engines
- explain cogeneration and describe common configurations and applications
- explain the classification, design, and operation of compressors explain the controls, auxiliaries, and operation of air compressors
- explain the classification and properties of refrigeration systems
- explain controls, safety devices, equipment, and procedures for refrigeration systems
- describe the design, application, and operation of heat exchangers and cooling towers
- describe the application, design, components, and operation of fired heaters
- explain the purpose, designs, and processes used for wastewater treatment
- explain industrial maintenance and administration programs.
To request a course outline, contact ConEdAdvising@sait.ca.
Upon successful completion of this course, SAIT will issue you an official result letter which you can submit with your ABSA Third Class B2 exam application. SAIT's passing grade is 50%, while the ABSA Certificate of Competency exams require 65%.
To receive the ABSA Third Class Certificate of Competency, proof of work experience is also required.
If you complete all four third class power engineering courses and work in an eligible role at a qualifying power plant as defined by ABSA, you may receive six months' credit toward the 12-month operating/steam time experience requirement. Contact ABSA for more information to determine your needs based on your unique situation.
Power engineering certification requirements and transfer provisions vary by province and territory across Canada. Check with the regulatory authority in your desired work location for details.
Upcoming dates
Select an available section and add it to your cart. When you're ready, proceed to check out to sign into your student account and complete your registration.
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Registration for this course closes seven days prior to the start date.
After you've completed this course
Upon successful completion of this non-credit course, you can self-print your unofficial completion document from your Continuing Education student account.
Costs
Textbook and reading list
You are required to purchase reading materials for this course. Visit SAIT’s Bookstore's website to purchase materials found in the following.
Purchasing a used textbook will not grant you access to the one-time-use resources included with new copies.
Technology
To be successful in this course, you’ll need:
- Access to your own computer or laptop with standard hardware/software requirements.
- Internet access
Additional information
Proctering fees for the final exam will apply.
Financial support
Financial opportunities are available to help pay for your course fees. Learn more about how to reduce your education or training costs with available awards, bursaries, loans and grants including the Canada Alberta Job Grant.
Applicable certificates
This course applies to the following certificate programs:
- Certification type
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Certificate of Achievement
Train your team
Interested in group training opportunities for this course? Tell us about your organization's needs, and one of our training consultants will contact you within one business day.
Oki, Âba wathtech, Danit'ada, Tawnshi, Hello.
SAIT is located on the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of Treaty 7 which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina and the Îyârhe Nakoda of Bearspaw, Chiniki and Goodstoney.
We are situated in an area the Blackfoot tribes traditionally called Moh’kinsstis, where the Bow River meets the Elbow River. We now call it the city of Calgary, which is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta.