Starting this fall, students can earn while they learn in Lakeland College's updated 2nd class power engineering program.

The Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA) approved the program's move from a face-to-face format to a new blended learning format last month. Lakeland is the only post-secondary in Alberta to offer the program in this format.

“We are thrilled about this change to our 2nd Class power engineering program. In this format, students can take advantage of this opportunity to stay in their current employment, while taking the next step in their career,” says Brad Onofrychuk, Lakeland's dean of the School of Energy.

The blended learning format stretches the existing program over two years. Students complete the majority of the program's courses online, as well as complete a face-to-face component at Lakeland's Lloydminster campus one day per week. During the program's online portion, students can receive help and support from their instructors via email, phone or Skype.

“We hope this move bolsters the number of employed 3rd Class engineers who are looking for a flexible program to obtain their 2nd Class certificate. The goal is to upgrade job-ready skills that may appeal to industry,” says Rob Collins, Lakeland's chair of the School of Energy.

The new agreement between Lakeland and ABSA states upon completion of the entire two-year program, students can reduce their firing time by nine months of the 24 months needed.