Overview
Eligible Program
careers
Apprentice Electrician
Residential Electrician
Industrial Electrician
Estimator
The Electrical Construction and Maintenance program at Mitchell Technical College is designed to provide basic training in maintenance and new construction wiring in both residential and commercial buildings. The program emphasizes a combination of theory and practical application necessary for successful employment. Additional coursework includes fiber optic and data cabling as well as programmable logic controls.
The program begins with a review of basic math as it relates to the electrical trade and an introduction to hand tools, materials, basic electrical resistive theory, wire sizing, circuit construction, and troubleshooting. The program continues with basic through advanced motor controls, motor theory and maintenance, installation and maintenance of equipment, blueprint reading, estimating, electrical codes, and instruction in job-seeking skills.
The successful student in this program will demonstrate various skills and abilities, including manual dexterity, arm-hand steadiness, and multi-limb coordination; visual color discrimination and near vision; reasoning, information ordering, and problem-solving; and communication with supervisors, peers, and subordinates. In addition, students must be able to perform general physical activities like climbing, lifting, walking, stooping, and handling materials, and must be able to climb a 6-foot ladder.
Apprentice electrical jobs in residential, commercial, and industrial areas are open to Mitchell Tech graduates. Positions are available with electrical contractors and maintenance companies, and with regional substations and utility companies. Incoming students are licensed as apprentice electricians in South Dakota. Upon completion of the Electrical Construction and Maintenance program, a Mitchell Tech graduate receives 2,000 hours towards certification as a journeyman with a South Dakota electrician’s license.
Graduates will receive one year’s experience credit allowance for a Class A journeyman electrician, power limited technician, or maintenance electrician license in the state of Minnesota, or apprentice credit by the state of Iowa. Talk with a Mitchell Tech ECM instructor for more information.
Curriculum
Award: AAS Degree
First Semester
AC/DC electricity and its characteristics. A study of the basic components used in various electrical systems.
4 creditsElectrical blueprints. Current flow through circuits are studied using wiring diagrams and cable overlays. Work is conducted on wiring projects in student labs and project houses.
4 creditsHands-on study of AC/DC electricity behavior. Study of the NEC pertaining to general and residential wiring. Perform residential wiring tasks, including wiring of lab projects and complete wiring of project homes.
5 creditsAn overview of OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards focusing on hazard recognition and injury and illness prevention. The 10-hour construction program is intended to provide entry-level construction workers with awareness of hazards in and around the construction work site. Emphasis is placed on recognition and prevention and helps create a culture of safety. Upon successful completion the student will receive OSHA 10 certification.
1 creditProvides a foundation for gaining the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for college success. Students will learn to make a successful transition to higher education by setting up a pattern of success that will last the rest of their lives. Students will define goals and develop thinking skills, learning strategies and personal qualities essential to both academic and career success. Please note: Students who have served active military duty (excluding basic training and AIT) may be exempt from the Student Success course. Student must provide a copy of DD214 or other official military documentation to the registrar for verification.
1 creditSecond Semester
Basic wiring systems used in commercial and industrial fields as well as related code construction regulations. Calculation of motor branch circuits, feeder circuits and protective devices required by the NEC. Motor overload protection and wiring methods are discussed. Equipment design and the use of electrical equipment are explored. Prerequisites: ECM 101, ECM 151.
3 creditsHome electrical systems using state and national wiring codes and regulations. Circuit-by-circuit review of unique electrical items and wiring methods installed in a home. Prerequisite: ECM 121.
3 creditsFormulas used in conduit bending. Application of the formulas is used with electrical metallic tubing (EMT) hand benders. Then the different types of conduit bends are installed on practice surfaces.
2 creditsContinuation of ECM 151. Basic wiring practices and methods used in residential settings are introduced. Install 100 and 200 amp breaker panels. Students work with a variety of cable wiring methods. Also studied are different electrical heating and basic control systems for motors. Safe electrical practices in the electrical industry are taught. Prerequisites: ECM 101, ECM 121, ECM 151.
4 creditsOverview of computer applications with emphasis on e-mail, word processing, spreadsheets, database, presentation tools and Internet-based technology. This course will cover the Microsoft Office Suite, Microsoft Teams and cloud-based technologies such as GoogleDrive and OneDrive.
3 creditsThird Semester
High voltage systems, transformers and their connections. The relationship between the primary and secondary sides of transformers are studied along with equipment selection and utilization. Generation, transportation and grounding of singlephase and three-phase power.
1.5 creditsElectronic circuits and the operation of electronic components. Diodes, SCRs, triacs, JFETs, MOSFETs, UJTs and industrial electronic devices are studied. Electronic controls are introduced.
2 creditsContinuation of ECM 149. Practical wiring applications of commercial and industrial are presented. All types of conduit bending are taught including hydraulic bending. An advanced level of industrial conduit bending is demonstrated.
4 creditsStudy of mechanical and electromagnetic starters, timers, switches and other control devices. Start/stop controls for motors and other industrial equipment. Learn control logic systems with ladder and wiring diagrams. Study connections and troubleshoot various circuits. Corequisite: ECM 255.
3 creditsHands-on use of apparatus studied in ECM 252 and ECM 202. Projects range from basic circuitry to advanced circuits utilizing motor starters, pilot devices and timing devices. Corequisite: ECM 252.
1.5 creditsProgrammable logic control systems for the control of electrical components and equipment. Projects using solid state devices in commercial and industrial applications are completed.
3 creditsFourth Semester
A practical hands-on course using ammeters, voltmeters, wattmeters and multimeters in testing and troubleshooting electric motors, components and wiring systems. A study of single and three-phase AC motors, their construction features and operating characteristics. This lecture/lab class emphasizes electric motor terminology, identification of motor types, enclosures, mounts, motor selection, connections, maintenance, testing and troubleshooting.
2 creditsContinuation of ECM 122. Commercial and industrial installations are presented along with code-related regulations. Commercial service and feeder calculations. Commercial print reading and estimating.
2.5 creditsIdentification of transmission mediums (UTP, STP, COAX, FIBER, etc.). Voice, data and video systems are reviewed. ANSI/EIA/TIA standards; proper terminating, splicing and testing of Category 5e and 6 copper cables; as well as terminating and splicing of fiber optic cables are covered.
4 creditsOperation of the solid state components found in electric motor drives. Students will learn the different types of electric motor drives, drive operating principles, and advantages to different types of motor drives to make the best selection. The course covers procedures for installation, basic and advanced programming, and start-up procedures for electric drives and motors. Students will learn to establish troubleshooting procedures to ensure minimal downtime.
1 creditContinuation of ECM 252. Applications of control devices are reviewed. Photoelectric controls, PLC logic modules, sequential motor starting, troubleshooting, reduced-voltage startup, acceleration and deceleration methods are studied. Prerequisites: ECM 252, ECM 255. Corequisite: ECM 257.
2.5 creditsContinuation of ECM 255. Higher level experiments and practical applications of advanced industrial control circuitry are presented utilizing lab experiments and control equipment studied in ECM 253. Student tasks include designing, constructing, wiring and troubleshooting of the mechanical and/or PLC operated projects. Corequisite: ECM 253.
2 creditsContinuation of ECM 259. More capabilities and applications of solid state control systems are integrated with text and lab projects. Logic networks solving typical industrial control problems are developed and programmed into a variety of controllers. Prerequisite: ECM 259.
3.5 creditsThis course trains participants to provide first aid, CPR, and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). Students must complete the hands-on skill session. This class is offered for credit as a Pass/No Pass course.
0.5 creditsOptional Third-Year — Automation Controls/SCADA
Fifth Semester
Along with the advanced control systems that are appearing throughout the country, the revolution of graphical software to make it possible to control a very complex system has evolved. This course will cover the basics of using a graphical software package to create a user friendly control screen. The basics of using this type of software to interface with PLC’s either directly or using an OPC server will be covered. The graphical software packages used in the SCADA lab are FactoryTalk, Ignition and WonderWare. Prerequisite: successful completion of all SCADA courses previously required up to this point.
4 creditsKnowing how to install, configure, and troubleshoot a computer network is a highly marketable and exciting skill. This course first introduces the fundamental building blocks that form a modern network, such as protocols, media, topologies, and hardware. It then provides in-depth coverage of the most important concepts in contemporary networking, such as TCP/IP, Ethernet, wireless transmission, virtual networks, security, and troubleshooting. After completing this course and completing the exercises, students will be prepared to select the best network design, hardware, and software for an environment. Students will also master the skills to build a network from scratch and maintain, upgrade, troubleshoot, and manage an existing network. This course culminates in the opportunity to test for CompTIA’s Network+ N10-006 certification. Prerequisite: successful completion of all SCADA courses previously required up to this point.
3 creditsContinuation of SD 159 and an introduction to programmable automation controllers (PACs) primarily using the Allen-Bradley Logix controllers and Studio 5000 programming software. Study the use of Siemens and other industrial controllers. Advanced ladder logic and discrete I/O instructions, counters, timers, network control of remote IO and motor drives, motion control, program development techniques and troubleshooting are covered. Skills will be reinforced by using a variety of software simulation and mock process models. Prerequisite: successful completion of all SCADA courses previously required up to this point.
4 creditsSixth Semester
The objective of this class is to prepare the student for work in the exciting and challenging field of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition involving process control. Process control involves applying technology to an operation that alters raw materials into a desired product. In this course, students will be introduced to the concepts and characteristics of various sensors and control processes. PID control, hydraulics, pneumatics, robotics, sensor applications, safety circuit design, frequency drive applications and advanced system troubleshooting will be some of the major topics covered. This broad study of basic system concepts will be linked to applications being used in SD 270 SCADA Testing and Control Lab. There may be times when this class will involve practical application for the concepts studied by going directly into the lab setting. This will allow for the understanding of the design, activation, and operation of actual data acquisition and control system circuits. Course concepts and techniques will be studied primarily through classroom lecture, computer training software, and discussions. Prerequisite: successful completion of all SCADA courses previously required up to this point.
3 creditsA complete overview of the rapidly evolving field of wireless networks. Device level bus structures, industrial network protocols, data cabling and local area networks found in today’s industrial communication networks will be examined. Students will design and construct a telemetry system using a variety of communications media such as 900Mhz, 2.4 Ghz, and 5 Ghz wireless technologies; serial communications including RS232, RS485, DH+, DH 485, Ethernet/IP, Modbus, and Data Highway. Students will learn to select the appropriate technologies and standards for a given application and ensure that the best practice is followed in designing, installing and commissioning the data links for fault-free operation. Messaging between PLCs and other industrial devices will also be covered. Students will also become proficient in the use of the Windows operating system in a virtual environment and learn proper network segmentation with using VLAN and firewall applications as they pertain to the the Purdue model of networking. Prerequisite: successful completion of all SCADA courses previously required up to this point.
3 creditsThis course, part of the Automation Controls and SCADA program at Mitchell Technical College, provides students with a comprehensive understanding of industrial robotics and the application of IEC 61131-3 programming standards. Students will learn to design, program, and operate robotic systems integrated with automated control environments, focusing on standardized programming languages such as Ladder Diagram (LD), Function Block Diagram (FBD), Structured Text (ST), and others defined by IEC 61131-3. The course covers robot kinematics, end-effector selection, and task-specific programming for applications like material handling, assembly, welding and processing. Emphasis is placed on developing modular, reusable code compliant with IEC 61131-3 standards to ensure interoperability and maintainability in industrial settings. Through hands-on labs and simulations, students will gain skills in configuring robotic systems, troubleshooting issues, and implementing standardized programming practices to enhance system reliability and efficiency.
3 creditsWith the breakthrough in communications and microprocessor technologies, it has become possible for industry to automate control systems and permit the collection of data through the use of very complex electronic equipment. The objective of this class is to prepare the student for work in the exciting and challenging field of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. Using personal computers , Remote Terminal Units, and Programmable Logic Controllers, students will learn how to design, program, and construct many of the systems used in industry today.
Laboratory work will provide the student with the experiences in the identification, selection and programming of equipment needed to make a fully operational SCADA system. Prerequisite: successful completion of all SCADA courses previously required up to this point.
7 creditsRequirements
Computer Requirements
This program requires a laptop computer so that you can effectively integrate computing skills with your technical education. Many resources that instructors assign are online or require specialty software. To address these needs, Mitchell Tech requires that students entering this program purchase their laptops from Mitchell Tech. The cost for a Mitchell Tech laptop averages about $1,150 for this program. Please be aware that our machines come fully loaded with the software required for this program.
Whether it’s Microsoft Office, or a specialty software for a technical program, your needs will be met by your Mitchell Tech laptop. And our laptops are serviced for free by our Technology office. You will not be able to bring a laptop from home into a Mitchell Tech laptop program as we cannot provide support services for every make and model of laptop. Please consider this carefully before making any laptop purchase and check with the Admissions office for more details.
Licensure Disclosure
Most states require electricians to be licensed through a combination of hours of experience, exams, and training. Incoming Mitchell Tech students are licensed as apprentice electricians in South Dakota. Upon completion of the Electrical Construction and Maintenance program, a Mitchell Tech graduate receives 2,000 hours towards their journeyman license in South Dakota. Mitchell Tech strongly encourages prospective students to verify that Mitchell Tech’s coursework will meet the educational or training requirements, if any, for licensure in the state they plan to work.
Mitchell Technical College has determined that our program’s curriculum meets the educational requirements for licensure in South Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Mitchell Technical College has determined that our program’s curriculum does not meet the educational requirements for licensure in Alaska, California.
Mitchell Technical College has made no determination that our program’s curriculum meets the educational requirements for licensure in the following states: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands.
You may contact the Vice President for Enrollment Services, Clayton Deuter, at 605.995.7132 for questions regarding licensure.
Outcomes
At the completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate competence in practicing safety and recognizing and correcting potential hazards.
- Demonstrate competence in work attitude and attendance.
- Understand the behavior and principles that govern AC and DC electrical circuits.
- Demonstrate entry-level skills for accuracy in residential, commercial, and industrial electrical installations and maintenance services.
- Use the National Electrical Code to legally and safely install electrical installations with supervision.
- Install and troubleshoot basic motors and control systems.
- Install controls and set parameters for remote operation of an Allen-Bradley variable frequency drive (VFD).
Annual Program Review
Check out the 2024-25 Annual Program Review for information on how faculty ensure the quality and effectiveness of the program.
Faculty
Instructor
Instructor
Program Coordinator / Instructor
Instructor
Cost
Other Required Costs
Laptop/Software $1,300
Books / Tools (estimated) $1,980
Scholarships
$500
Graves Family Scholarship
- 1 Available
- Dr. Joe Graves
- About
- Eligibility
- Criteria
$500
Women for Success @ Tech Scholarship
- 4 Available
- Women for Success at Tech Group
- About
- Eligibility
- Criteria
$1000
Learn Your Trade Scholarship
- 1 Available
- Asmus Family
- About
- Eligibility
- Criteria
Must maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher
Must complete the MTC online scholarship application
$500
Rod Bowar Memorial Scholarship
- 1 Available
- Kennebec Telephone Company
- About
- Eligibility
- Criteria
$750
SD Municipal Electric Association Energy Production & Transmission Scholarship
- 1 Available
- SD Municipal Electric Association
- About
- Eligibility
- Criteria
Electrical Utilities & Substation Technology
Electrical Construction & Maintenance
Utilities Technology
$500
Central Electric Cooperative Scholarship
- 2 Available
- Central Electric Cooperative
- About
- Eligibility
- Criteria
Power Line Construction & Maintenance
Electrical Construction & Maintenance
Heating & Cooling
Agricultural Business
Agronomy