Overview
Eligible Program
careers
Pipeline Welder
Plastic Fusion Technician
Gas Distribution Technician
Field Operations Technician
Equipment Operator
Cathodic Protection Technician
Utility Construction Technician
The Mitchell Technical College Utility Pipeline Technology program is a hands-on, lab-focused diploma designed to prepare students for high-demand careers in natural gas distribution and transmission pipeline work. Students gain practical skills in pipeline welding, plastic fusion, equipment operation, leak detection, regulators, cathodic protection, and system maintenance.
The program emphasizes real-world, lab-intensive training (approximately 80% lab time) using industry-standard equipment and procedures. Led by experienced instructors with strong backgrounds in pipe welding and pipeline operations, students learn to install, maintain, operate, and repair gas distribution and transmission systems for residential, commercial, and industrial customers.
With aging infrastructure and a large wave of upcoming retirements in the utility workforce, companies are actively seeking qualified technicians. Mitchell Tech’s industry-focused curriculum gives graduates a competitive edge.
Employers regularly recruit directly from the program, recognizing the quality and readiness of our graduates. Students may find employment with public utilities, municipal gas systems, pipeline contractors, and construction companies throughout the region. The Utility Pipeline Technology program delivers the practical skills and credentials needed for strong career opportunities in this essential and growing industry.
Curriculum
Award: Diploma
Requirements
Drug/Alcohol Testing Requirements
Students are expected to conform to Rules for Programs with Required Drug and Alcohol Testing while enrolled in this program. See the MTC Catalog and Student Handbook for details.
Admissions Requirements
Mitchell Tech recommends that applicants in the Utilities Pipeline Technology program obtain a physical examination for their safety and protection.
Any student who enrolls in Commercial Driver training must obtain a South Dakota driver’s license in order to complete the CDL training course. A Class A CDL is a graduation requirement for this program. See the Course Description for TRAN 100 for a full explanation.
Please Note: Students planning to obtain an AAS degree in Utilities Technology MUST complete the CDL requirement during their first year of enrollment.
Computer Requirements
This program allows you to bring your own laptop as long as it meets these minimum specifications:
Processor – Intel Core i Series (i3, i5, i7) or AMD Ryzen
Operating System – Windows 11
Webcam Recommended
Memory – 4 GB or more
Internal Storage – 64 GB or more
Microsoft Office is available at no charge as long as the student is enrolled at Mitchell Tech
NO APPLE/MAC COMPUTERS
Outcomes
At the completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
- Pipe weld to API 1104 Standards.
- Operate various plastic fusion equipment.
- Install and maintain regulator stations.
- Apply basic principles and safe practices of natural gas.
- Locate vapor distribution systems.
- Install vapor distribution systems.
- Describe an optimal corrosion management scheme.
- Distinguish between types of regulators and troubleshoot common issues.
- Operate excavation equipment safely.
- Demonstrate effective customer service skills.
Annual Program Review
Check out the 2024-25 Annual Program Review for information on how faculty ensure the quality and effectiveness of the program.
Cost
Other Required Costs
CDL $1,250
Books / Tools (estimated) $1,294
Scholarships
Mitchell Tech offers a variety of scholarships to qualified applicants. The application period runs from October 1 through November 1 for current students and January 1 through March 31 for incoming students.
Other Related Programs
If you’re interested in Utilities Pipeline Technology, you might also be interested in these other energy production/transmission, construction, and manufacturing programs at Mitchell Tech.
Architectural Design & Building Construction
Electrical Construction & Maintenance
Electrical Utilities & Substation Technology
Heating & Cooling Technology
Power Line Construction & Maintenance
Utilities Technology
Welding Engineering Technology
