WISCONSIN RAPIDS - Many of Wisconsin's emerging professions with the most growth potential are energy-related. In order to help fill the demand for jobs in alternative energy and "green industry" fields, this fall, Mid-State Technical College (MSTC) launched three renewable energy programs to prepare students for work in this high-growth industry.

The new associate degree programs are Biorefinery Technology, Renewable Electricity Technician and Renewable Thermal Energy Technician. According to Dr. John Anderson, Chemistry and Life Sciences Instructor, these degree programs position the college to evolve as a regional training center for unique programming, particularly in the energy and environmental technology occupations, serving the MSTC District and meeting needs throughout the state. "MSTC's geographic location provides suitable access for learners statewide to engage in required hands-on training, while the use of distance learning technology ensures access to classroom training from beyond the district's boundaries."

The Biorefinery Technology program prepares future technicians to operate and maintain the equipment used in the biorefineries that produce ethanol, biodiesel and other transportation fuels from agricultural and forestry product industries. Related job titles might include Biorefinery Technician and Biofuel Plant Maintenance Technician.

The Renewable Electricity Technician program prepares students to design, install, operate and maintain solar and wind electricity-generating systems for use in commercial or residential applications. Some of the career outcomes of this program include: Electrical workers/laborers, Photovoltaic System Installer/Technician, Wind Farm Service Technician and Controls Technician.

The Renewable Thermal Energy Technician program prepares students to design, install, operate and maintain solar, geothermal and biomass heating systems for commercial and residential applications. Positions related to this career include: Geothermal Installation, Maintenance and Repair Technician, Heat Load Estimator and Solar Site Assessor

MSTC currently offers several programs within the energy and environmental technology occupations which are unique within the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS). These include associate degrees in Electrical Power Engineering Technician, Instrumentation, Laboratory Science Technician, Paper & Chemical Technology, Urban Forestry Technician and an apprenticeship in Electric Metering Technician.

To learn more about MSTC programs and services, please call 888.575.6782 or visit the college's website at mstc.edu.