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Power Equipment Technology

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Course Description: 

Power Equipment Technology combines the challenge of solving a mechanical problem and making a piece of power equipment perform. In this two-year program, students learn about the basic internal combustion engine theory (both gas and diesel) as well as gain practical experience with heavy equipment operation, preventative maintenance, reconditioning, and troubleshooting. Farm machinery and small engine repair are also covered. PET is designed to provide students with a basic set of mechanical skills. This skill set will allow students to branch out into many different mechanical career fields including: Power Sports, Small Engine / Consumer Products Service, Agricultural/Construction/Truck Repair, Welding/Metal Fabrication and Heavy Equipment Operation.

Topics Covered:

Safety – shop and osha
Tools & measuring procedures
Engine principles of operation/construction
Two & four cycle engines
Measuring engine performance
Fuel systems: gasoline & diesel
Ignition systems
Lubrication systems
Cooling systems: air & liquid Air intake & exhaust systems
Engine overhaul
Electrical theory & systems
Hydraulic theory & systems
Powertrain theory & systems
Preventive maintenance & troubleshooting
Welding & metal fabrication
Heavy equipment operation: excavator, skidsteer, bulldozer, tractor/loader backhoe, dump truck certification
Career & college opportunities

Offered At: 

Belmont Career and Technical Education Center

Ellicottville Career and Technical Education Center

Program Goal: 

To prepare students for careers and further study in the challenging industry of Power Equipment. Emphasis will be on basic entry level mechanical skills, which will allow students to pursue interests in a wide variety of mechanical fields.

Projects and Experiences: 

This program provides an attractive variety of hands-on, practical experiences. The Power Equipment shop allows for lab time of approximately 1.5 hours per day. During lab time, students are engaged in hands-on learning activities completing all types of mechanical work projects to complement the curriculum. Internships are also available, providing additional field experience. Students are required to create a professional portfolio showcasing their knowledge and experiences.

Assessments: 

Students will be assessed based on work performance task sheets, participation, workplace skills, interaction in the classroom as well as written assessments.

National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Exam in Heavy Equipment Maintenance and Repair, or Diesel Technology

Portfolio

Certifications: 

OSHA Safety Certification

May earn New York State Technical Endorsement on high school diploma Local Employment

Local Employment Opportunities: 

Agricultural equipment dealerships

Construction equipment dealerships

Outdoor power equipment shops

Powersport dealerships

Heavy equipment construction companies

Career Paths and Potential Salaries: 

Agricultural Equipment Technician $20,000-$35,000

Construction Equipment Technician $20,000-$35,000

Outdoor Power Equipment Technician $25,000

Powersport Technician $20,000-$35,000

Heavy Equipment Operator $25,000-$50,000

Heavy Truck Repair Technician $25,000-$50,000

Source: Monster.com salary wizard

Suggested Courses for Success: 

Computer Technology, Math, Science, ELA, Communication Skills

High School Credits: 

Earn 7 credits including:

1 Integrated Science

1 Integrated ELA

1 Specialized Math

Earn College Credits: 
Alfred State College
(Auto Trades Department)
Course requirements waived based on NATEF checklist
Alfred State College
(Ag Tech Department)
3 credits Technical Elective in Agriculture Technology program
SUNY Cobleskill 1 - 3 credits for AGEN 101 (Introduction to Agricultural Engineering), based on portfolio review
Student Work: 

Check back for samples of student work.