
Energy and Power: Generation, Transmission, and Distribution
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The United States is a leader in the production and supply of energy and is one of the world’s largest energy consumers. The energy industry is the third-largest industry in the United States. U.S. energy companies produce oil, natural gas, coal, nuclear power, renewable energy, and electricity services, as well as supply energy and electricity technologies worldwide. Energy and electricity equipment made in the U.S. dominates the domestic market and commands a strong market share abroad. Growing consumer demand and world-class innovation – combined with a competitive workforce and supply chain capable of building, installing, and servicing all energy technologies – makes the United States the world’s most attractive market.
There are many people who help conserve, generate energy, transport it and connect it to the things we use every day. There are also those creating new methods of energy generation. Working in energy can mean working for utilities, for gas and oil companies, for government and research groups, for energy education or environmental regulation agencies, for nonprofit energy awareness and conservation organizations or for many other energy related agencies.
Most of the electricity produced in the United States comes from nonrenewable sources such as coal, petroleum, and natural gas. Renewable power generation, from sources such as wind, water, solar and biomass, are becoming more common. Research and development in this area is ongoing. Therefore, the job opportunities in renewable energy will continue to increase. Overall employment of line installers and repairers is expected to grow 13 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Job opportunities should be best for those who have excellent technical and mechanical skills. Jobs in the energy field require varying levels of education, from work experience to college and advanced degrees.
This Pathway is separated into three courses to be taken in succession:
- Foundations of Energy Technology
- Energy & Power: Generation, Transmission, and Distribution
- Energy Systems Application