Transmission

Thanks to the sleepless dedication of inventors, entrepreneurs, and scientist (and their teams of researchers), such as Alessandro Volta, Thomas Edison, and Nikola Tesla (who ironically proved wires are not needed to transfer electricity 1) we have the knowledge, technology, and ability to transmit energy from its source to our homes and businesses. (For a very basic explanation of an Electricity Transmission System, visit this site from the California Energy Commission.)

(photo courtesy of itsray)

However, as our nation's 50-year old infrastructure ages while we continue to increase our energy consumption, our transmission system struggles under increased loads. Additionally, as renewable sources of electricity become more commonplace, and require increasing numbers of connections to the transmission backbone, our system will require newer and increased capacity.

RenewableEnergyWorld.com says, "The U.S. utility industry will have to invest between US $1.5 and US $2 trillion between 2010 and 2030 to maintain current levels of reliable energy service for customers throughout the country...", again, that's $2,000,000,000,000.00.

Having recognized that "Colorado’s current transmission infrastructure is not adequate to meet the increasing electricity demands and the projected growth of wind and solar energy" and "The lack of adequate transmission represents a lost opportunity for early action to connect our vast renewable resources to the electric market while keeping Colorado’s transmission system reliable,"2 a state committee was convened last year to analyze and address these issues and opportunities.

This Clean Energy Development Authority (CEDA) states "Colorado has renewable resources in such abundance that the state can meet the current minimum utility Renewable Energy Standard by tapping a small portion of our total renewable resources." The Task Force assessed these opportunities, and the transmission requirements to bring these resources to market. (this source also has great resource maps and graphs)

Given the attention to this matter, and the fact that nearly half of the workers in the energy industry will be retiring within the decade, one can presume that this opens the door of opportunity for those considering a career in transmission, and not just as an electrical line technician/worker aka, lineman (whose journey level makes about $35/hour + benefits. For more info about being a lineman, click here. BTW, Trinidad State Junior College' Lineman School will have a Job Fair on Friday, December 12, 2008, 9AM - Noon in Colorado Springs, Colorado - click here for more details)

It takes teams of people in a number of different types of jobs to ensure overhead or underground transmission lines and the structures that support them are properly mapped, designed, engineered, licensed, permitted, manufactured, transported, built, connected, inspected, monitored, maintained and repaired.

Colorado employers of transmission-related jobs include:

- Xcel Energy
- Western Area Power Authority
- Tri-State Generation & Transmission
- Platte River Power Authority
- Black Hills Corporations
- Colorado Rural Electric Association, and
- Colorado Springs Utilities

among other power authorities and many, many subcontractors such as Utility Sales and Service in Longmont, CO. Contractors to transmission companies also include firms from the legal, land use, construction, financial, and other industries that support this cluster.

Training providers can vary based on which role on the team inspires you most. There are many opportunities in various occupation groups. For instance, if you prefer IT or mapping then consider training in GIS. However, if you prefer to work with your hands outdoors at great heights, consider training to become a lineman. If you prefer an office environment, public relations, governmental affairs, or business communications, consider telecommunications or public affairs (as a matter of fact, Tri-State G&T is looking for both of these positions as I write this post)

Refer to my schools post for training providers and use your web browser (not the Blogger search box) to Find keywords such as 'GIS' or 'lineman' (sorry, there's no search term for Public Affairs, since almost all colleges/universities teach communications and/or business).

In addition, some of the employers listed above have apprenticeship programs within their own companies, which means they will train you while they pay you. To find those apprenticeship programs that are registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, click on any of the industries listed in the orange or blue area of this website, scroll to the bottom and enter your zip code or state, and click the "Go" sign. (You can also check out my apprenticeships post for general info)

Speaking of great heights (I digress), check out one of my favorite YouTube videos about a lineman at this link, and embedded below:

E3 Job Fair 9/25/08 in Denver

The 7th Annual E3 Job Fair will be held at the Colorado Convention Center in downtown Denver on Thursday, September 25, 2008 from 11am to 5pm. This year, Energy will be highlighted as one of the high-growth industries.

The energy industry employs: engineers (electrical, petroleum, reservoir, mechanical, civil, etc.), scientists (all disciplines), technicians, environmental health and safety staff, accountants, administrative assistants, managers, marketing & PR representatives, HR staff, graphic designers, salespeople, real estate professionals/landmen, IT & GIS staff , security guards, roustabouts, roughnecks, gang pushers, solar installers, drillers, energy auditors, linemen, wind technicians, welders, pipefitters, mechanics, equipment operators and more! See a video from 9News of last year's E3 job fair here.

Jobseekers must be registered in Colorado Department of Labor & Employment's free job bank ConnectingColorado in order to attend. They should also prepare well in advance to meet energy employers by:

- researching the companies in advance to learn of their goals, priorities, etc. and reviewing their job listings
- asking a trusted friend, family member, mentor or career advisor to critique their resume -- jobseekers can ask workforce advisors at their local workforce center to critique their resume
- triple checking resumes for grammatical and spelling errors
- tailoring resumes to reflect what they can do for that specific company (versus what the company can do for them) - also have properly formatted electronic versions available to post or cut & paste on companies' employment/HRIS websites
- make sure email address on resumes are professional (not something like "ISleepInEveryDay@...", and check to make sure phone voice mail greetings are professional as well (i.e., don't record any long songs that will make a busy recruiter hang up instead of leaving a message)
- dressing appropriately
- watching the videos in the "Job links" post, and this one-minute "Job Fair Video"
- following up with the employer after the fair

More information about the E3 Job Fair, including a list of over 100 participating employers, will soon be available on CDLE's E3 website.

Participating Energy employers, training providers, and related organizations include:

- Aerotek
- Ascent Solar Technologies Inc.
- AVA Solar
- Baker Hughes
- Center for Transportation Safety
- CoorsTek
- DCP Midstream
- Ensign United States Drilling
- Environmental Protection Agency
- GE Wind Energy
- Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc
- Key Energy
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory
- Petroleum Field Services
- Pioneer Natural Resources
- Pipefitters Local 208
- PrimeStar Solar
- Red Rocks Community College-Industrial Science & Operations
- SolSource
- SOS Staffing
- Tri-State Generation & Transmission
- Ulteig Engineers
- Western Area Power Administration
- Xcel Energy

Additional Energy career fairs and expos are scheduled throughout the state of Colorado this summer and fall. Refer to this poster, or my Job Fairs post for a list of dates and locations.

Xcel Energy Jobs

Jobseekers looking for entry-level positions in the electrical generation industry could consider a couple of positions at Xcel Energy: Plant Specialist C (in the Energy Supply Department) and Utilityworker C (in the Utility Service Department).

These two entry level positions offer excellent opportunities for those with the right skills & competencies, positive work attitudes, and excellent work ethics, to learn new skills while receiving good pay (starting pay is about $17 per hour, plus benefits). To see a list of specific skills/competencies, work attitudes, and work ethics, refer to this pdf poster.

Here is some information about the Plant Specialist C, to give you a general idea of what this job entails:

Position Summary:
- Performs general housekeeping and custodial functions as assigned.
- Performs outdoor yard and grounds maintenance, including lawn care, weed control, general cleanup and trash removal, snow and ice removal etc.
- Stocks various cabinets, dispensers, etc with materials and supplies as required. Performs painting of plant facilities and equipment as assigned.
- Assists with general facility maintenance and operations as assigned.
- Actively participates in hands-on training, required classroom training, and computerbased training programs, as directed by plant management.

Environmental Exposure:
- Works in and around: energized and /or rotating equipment, confined spaces, heights, ladders and scaffolding, noise levels requiring hearing protection, presence of fumes and dust requiring use of respiratory protection.
- Floors are concrete.
- Outdoor work is often on natural mountain terrain, gravel, and wet uneven surfaces, with temperatures ranging from -20 to above 100 degrees F, and altitudes from 6000 to 11,200 feet above sea level.
- Work will include rotating shifts, weekends and holidays and requires overtime.

Minimum Requirements:
1) High school diploma or GED.
2) Must have successfully passed the Edison Electric Institute Power Plant Maintenance and Plant Operator selection exams or be a grandfathered employee.
3) Able to lift up to 50 pounds safely.
4) Must have valid driver’s license.
5) Actively participate in hands-on training, required classroom training and computer interactive training programs, as directed by plant management.
6) Work in inclement weather.
7) Respirator qualification.
8) Will be required to perform duties when necessary from scaffolds and catwalks in high and confined spaces.
9) Must be able to work overtime as required.
10) Applicant is required to successfully pass the Xcel Energy screening requirements, which include a drug test, security clearance and other exams that are required by federal regulations, such as OSHA and DOT, will be performed.
11) Selection criteria may include testing and/or assessment.

Career advancement opportunities are limitless for employees who prove themselves worthy. To see the career progression ladder for each of these positions, open this report from CAEL and go to pages 45 and 46.

You cannot apply for these position until you have successfully passed Xcel Energy's pre-employment tests. The tests are only open when there is a need. You need to monitor Xcel's employment website to determine if/when testing is open, then apply online to take the test. The tests are listed along with all of the other job notices and are called "PSCo Entry Level Power Plant Exam" and "Entry Level Field Ops Exam ".

After applying to take the test, be sure to check your e-mail inbox often (even your "junk" email folder) for a schedule confirmation and testing information.

These tests may be harder than you think! Very few people who take them pass them. Therefore it is HIGHLY recommended that you study in advance.

These tests assess your math ability, reading comprehension, critical thinking, and mechanical aptitude. Sample tests and study guide recommendations are available on Xcel Energy's website. Other methods of test preparation include free CRC-Applied Technology assessments that are similar to these pre-employment tests--and offer training software to help you with any questions you may have missed. Several workforce centers, including Denver's Training & Assessment Center at Speer, administer this free CRC-Applied Technology assessment.

Several weeks after taking the test, you will be notified (likely by e-mail again) of your scores. If you successfully pass the test, then you will need to monitor Xcel Energy's employment website to find out if/when the positions are available and apply online. Be sure to spell check your application, polish your resume, research Xcel Energy, and learn as much as you can about powerplants, to make the best impression possible!

If you don't pass these tests and have difficulty with the CRC-Applied Technology assessment, you may want to consider enrolling in courses to gain a better understanding of the knowledge and skills required to work in this industry. Red Rocks Community College is one of many educational institutions that offer training in Industrial Technology. Watch their 7-minute YouTube video below, or at this link:

Wind Energy

As you can see from this photo, wind energy has been around longer than you and I. As the price of oil continues to soar, more financial investment and research continues to be made in renewable sources, wind being only a fraction of the mix, which ultimately leads to more wind energy jobs. I ran across Lee Devlin's webblog which contains some interesting technical aspects of wind energy generation, for those of you with inquiring minds.

Colorado employers of wind energy include Xcel Energy, the nation's No. 1 wind power provider, having built Colorado's first commercial wind farm, the 30-megawatt Ponnequin Wind Farm in northern Colorado. In addition, Colorado recently welcomed Denmark-based Vestas Wind Systems to the city of Windsor in Weld County, Colorado. Businesses that also support these wind companies include Hexcel Hexcel (developer and manufacturer of carbon fiber and composite structures for wind blades).

The wind industry employs a plethora of different types of jobs. A long list of these jobs appear on the SOS staffing website (see post: Vestas is Hiring), and include positions in: finance, safety, HR, accounting, production, warehouse, welders, crane operators...)

(photo courtesy of Nick Hess)

One of the core jobs is a Wind Technician. For jobseekers who are mechanically inclined, prefer heights (up to 300 feet), can withstand inclement weather, and love to work outdoors, this may be their dream job.

Following are sections of job descriptions I extracted from GE and Vestas websites for wind technician positions (note: these descriptions for informational purposes only and do not imply a job offer or guarantee job availability at the time you read this blog):
(photo courtesy of Nick Hess)

Vestas
Power your life: Vestas offers you challenging, global career opportunities in cleantech. Our 23% market share makes us the world leader in modern energy. We have installed more than 35,000 wind turbines worldwide and we reduce CO2 emissions by more than 40 million tons per year. In 2008, our 16,178 employees will welcome 2,500 new colleagues. Care to join us?

Department: Customer Service

Responsibilities and Tasks: Vestas – American Wind Technology, Inc Position Profile

Job Title: Service Technician 1 Hourly/Salary: Hourly

Direct Supervisor Title: Site Supervisor Date: March 2007

Department: Service

GENERAL PURPOSE: Perform operational and maintenance work on wind turbine generators that includes preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, repairs and modifications.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
1. Troubleshoot and repair integrated systems.
2. Perform maintenance on turbine equipment.
3. Collect turbine data for research or analysis.
4. Report turbine conditions.
5. Complete reports and paperwork as required.
6. Travel as required to meet business needs.
7. Perform overtime as needed to meet business needs.

Qualifications and Work Experience:
- High school education or equivalent required, technical Associates degree preferred.
- Minimum of one year of hydraulic, electrical, or mechanical experience.
- Computer and software skills for data collection and reporting preferred.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Strong written and verbal English communication skills.
- Strong attention to detail and solid problem solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and unsupervised as well as in a team environment.
- Ability to climb ladders to heights of 60 to 100 meters several times a day and work in confined spaces with diverse environmental conditions.
- Ability to work in a safe manner and follow applicable safety standards and procedures.
- Ability to stand and walk for prolonged periods of time, climb stairs, lift/push/carry up to 75 pounds, pull up to 200 pounds, hearing ability to use close range radios, visual acuity including depth perception, field of vision and the ability to distinguish between colors, ability to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl as needed, as well as hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity

What we offer: Vestas offers a competitive salary and one of the most comprehensive benefits plans in the industry, including fully paid healthcare premiums for the employee and all eligible dependents, four weeks accrued vacation year, five sick days per year and a generous 401(k) plan.

Closing Date: 30.06.2008


General Electric
GE is one of the world's leading wind turbine suppliers. With over 8,400 worldwide wind turbine installations comprising more than 11,300 MW of capacity, our knowledge and expertise spans more than two decades.With wind manufacturing and assembly facilities in Germany, Spain, China, Canada and the United States, our current product portfolio includes wind turbines with rated capacities ranging from 1.5 to 3.6 megawatts and support services ranging from development assistance to operation and maintenance.

Position: Wind Tech
Business Unit: GE Infrastructure, Energy
Function: Services
Location: Peetz, CO
Job #: 815493
Posted: Apr 15, 2008

Wind Tech Essential Functions (Responsibilities):
* Responsible for the operations, maintenance, and repair of wind turbine generators.
* Troubleshoots complicated mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical problems on variable pitch, variable speed turbines.
* Helps in all areas of site operations as directed by manager with minimal supervision.
* Performs all mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical component maintenance, repair or replacement of parts to correct malfunctions. Will perform some diagnostic electrical analysis.
* Must be able to document all work performed using computer based service reporting procedures.

Qualifications/Requirements:
* A.S. technical electrical/electronic degree or min 3+ years work experience in electrical/electronic repair industry.

Requirements:
* You must submit your application for employment through gecareers.com to be considered.
* You must be 18 years or older.
* You must be willing to take a drug test as part of the selection process.
* You must be willing to submit to a background investigation as part of the selection process.
* Valid drivers license and clean driving record history.
* You must have unrestricted authorization to work in the United States.
* Ability and willingness to handle repetitive weight - 50 lbs.
* Ability to climb towers up to 300 feet.
* Ability and willingness to work in all weather conditions.
* Ability and willingness to: read, and interpret technical manuals, procedures, and regulations; to write reports; to subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure.
* Ability and willingness to work in range of environments to include but not limited to industrial facilities, manufacturing facilities, and power industry facilities.
* Willingness and ability to take initiative, and work without direct supervision.
*Employee will be dispatch from service center.
*Employee shall be available for rotation shift schedules 24 hours seven days a week.
* No relocation will be provided.

Desired: Wind turbine experience.

Process Technology

What do beer and gas have in common? In addition to what you might think, the correct answer is: they both use Process Technology (PTEK).

Process Technology is the process of converting raw materials (such as water & hops, or crude oil & chemicals) into end products (such as beer or gasoline). Process Technicians work on (and troubleshoot) the industrial equipment used in factories, refineries, and water treatment plants, monitoring the numerous pressure, volume and temperature controls and gauges on the equipment.

To gain a better understanding of PTEK, watch the videos about this occupation located along the left margin of this website: Pathways To Technology (note: the videos require a free QuickTime plugin)

Generally, an Associates degree is required to enter into these jobs which start at $40,000/year (+ benefits). Colorado schools that offer AA degrees in PTEK include:

- Colorado Mountain College, Rifle, CO
- Colorado Northwestern Community College, Rangely, CO
- Red Rocks Community College, Lakewood, CO

BTW: Red Rocks has access to PTEK scholarships for qualified candidates from their participating sponsors: Suncor Energy, Molson-Coors, Xcel Energy, Jacobs Engineering, BP America, Shell Exploration and Production, Metro Waste Water Reclamation District and Platte River Power Authority . In addition, Red Rocks has an artriculation agreement with Colorado School of Mines – eligible PTEK graduates are automatically accepted Mines to if they want to pursue advanced degrees.

Click on the video below to check out Red Rocks' YouTube video for an inside perspective of jobs and benefits in PTEK (make sure your speakers are on):


As with most industries, excellent PTEK candidates have the qualities listed in this .pdf poster from CapTech.

Now you know what else beer and gas have in common.