CONTACT PERSON: Dennis Ziniel • Mandan Campus, Room 105 • 224-2454 • Dennis.Ziniel@bsc.nodak.edu

BSC's Mechanical Maintenance Technology program is the first of its kind regionally and within the North Dakota University System. Managers at energy plants requested that BSC develop this program to provide entry-level employees for anticipated openings in this field. Job opportunities should be available in the power industry, factories, institutions such as hospitals and schools, and other commercial or private enterprises that require complex, industrial machinery and equipment.

Mechanical maintenance technicians work in a high demand career installing, maintaining, and repairing turbines, compressors, pumps, valves, and other industrial production and processing equipment. Technicians must be able to read blueprints and manufacturers’ instructions and communicate effectively. As knowledgeable troubleshooters and repairers, they prevent problems and keep industrial machinery in optimal condition and readiness.

BSC's program provides a foundation in safety, fabrication, electricity, welding, mechanics, fluid power, hydraulics, and use of tools. Students apply technical knowledge and skills to install, repair, and maintain industrial equipment such as motors, pumps, pneumatic tools, conveyor and pipeline systems, production machinery, and automated equipment. An optional summer internship is available at area plants and businesses.

Top paying industries for these jobs are power generation, pipeline distribution, petroleum and coal products manufacturers, food manufacturers, large institutions, and other manufacturing companies. Applicants with broad skills in machine repair and maintenance should have favorable job prospects, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Job Service North Dakota reports that growth in mechanical maintenance occupations is projected at 10 to 13 percent statewide.

Mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity are important characteristics for workers in this trade. Good reading comprehension is also necessary to understand technical manuals.

Graduates can earn a Program Certificate or an Associate in Applied Science degree. The AAS can be completed in four semesters and consists of 51 credit hours of specialized courses and 15 credit hours of general education courses. Students seeking the certificate complete the specialized skills courses and four credit hours of general education.

Enrollment: Students are enrolled twice a year on a space available basis during August and January. View the application process and limited enrollment program information under Admission to BSC in the BSC Catalog.