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Education Center

Educational opportunities through IUOE

Upcoming registration & events

June 14
CFC Training at 8:30 am - 5:00 pm, Local 547 Education Center

Registration - Friday, May 30, 2008.

 


 

Stationary Engineers Education Center

Office Hours: Monday through Thursday - 9:00a.m. to 6:00p.m., Fridays - CLOSED

Message from the Director:

Welcome to the Stationary Engineers Education Center – Local 547, International Union of Operating Engineers (I.U.O.E.). For more than 30 years the Education Center has provided top quality training to prepare students for the Stationary Engineering and Commercial/Industrial Refrigeration & HVAC operational fields. Thousands of students have graduated from our training program and have gone on to experience rewarding careers. Others have come to the Education Center to update their skills as required.

The Stationary Engineers Education Center’s solid commitment to excellence in training continues into the 21st century as we enhance our programs on an ongoing basis to meet the needs of our students.

In addition to training initiatives, the Education Center offers workshops and seminars designed to further prepare our students for satisfying, successful careers. Other courses including CPR, IAQ, Energy Conservation, Basic Computers, Engineering Calculations and Homeland Security are offered to enhance individuals' careers.

We welcome inquiries from those who wish to enroll in any of our programs or to be placed on our mailing list for notices of future course offerings. Please do not hesitate to contact us regarding any interest you have in developing your career in Stationary Engineering.

Russell Bellant
Director of Education
and Apprenticeship Training

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About the Center

Our Mission of Educational Excellence

The mission of the Stationary Engineers Education Center-Local 547, I.U.O.E., is to provide the necessary technical-related classroom instruction to fully prepare personnel for the Stationary Engineering and Commercial / Industrial Refrigeration & HVAC operational fields. Education Center programs include initial training for persons desiring to enter the craft, and upgrading courses in all phases of stationary engineering and building operation. The Education Center also sponsors workshops and seminars covering various aspects of the Stationary Engineering and HVAC crafts.

 

The Stationary Engineers Organization

Established in 1970, the Stationary Engineer Education Center-Local 547, I.U.O.E., operates under a Joint Union-Management Trust Fund as a non-profit, private post-secondary vocational school, licensed by the Michigan State Board of Education. The Education Center is also approved by the Veterans Administration. Instructors are selected on the basis of licenses, experience in the craft and specialized training. Their qualifications are on file with the Michigan Department of Education. The Education Center consists of 7,000 square feet, containing three offices, six classrooms and one break room.

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What Is a Stationary Engineer?

A Stationary Engineer maintains and operates the equipment that provides power for industry, heating and air conditioning for factories, hospitals, office buildings, hotels, shopping malls, schools and electrical power generation. Types of equipment a Stationary Engineer might operate and maintain are low- and high-pressure steam boilers, diesel engines, turbines, generators, pumps, condensers and compressors. Stationary Engineers monitor the various meters, gauges and controls that are attached to the equipment to make sure they are running properly, and make adjustments whenever necessary for proper efficiency. Stationary Engineers also perform routine maintenance work such as repairing valves, pumps and other equipment.

Working conditions vary depending on the plant, engine room or boiler room. However, some Stationary Engineers are exposed to high or low temperatures, dust, dirt, oil, grease, and fumes or smoke from the equipment. They also may be required to crawl into boilers or tanks to clean, inspect and repair them. (The standard manhole opening is 15 inches by 11 inches.) In small, coal-fired plants that have only one engineer, shoveling coal and ashes may be one of the engineers duties. The equipment is usually running seven days a week, 24 hours a day and must be attended around the clock. The Stationary Engineer may be assigned to one of three shifts and may be required to work on weekends and holidays. Because Stationary Engineers have many responsibilities and are in charge of expensive equipment, they must perform their craft in a safe and efficient manner.

Some states and municipalities (including the City of Detroit) require that persons working in the Stationary Engineering craft be licensed. Detroit has six (6) levels in the field of steam operation from low-pressure Boiler Operator to first class Stationary Engineer and three (3) levels of refrigeration operation from a third class Refrigeration Operator to first class Refrigeration Operator. The normal procedure to achieve the highest level licenses (First Class Stationary Engineer and First Class Refrigeration Operator) is to progress through the lower license classifications first. This normally takes three months to two years of work experience to get started and six to eight years of experience, along with continued education for a First Class license. Persons who successfully complete an approved four-year apprenticeship are eligible to take the tests for First Class Stationary Engineer and First Class Refrigeration Operator licenses.

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What Is an HVAC Engineer?

An HVAC Engineer installs, maintains, troubleshoots and services Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning Systems for industry, hospitals, office buildings, residential homes, hotels/motels, shopping malls and schools just to name a few. Some of the equipment that you may work with include rooftop heating and cooling units, heat pumps, water coolers, window unit air conditioners, refrigeration compressors, motors and pumps.

Working conditions vary depending upon the equipment and its location. However, many HVAC Engineers are exposed to high and/or low temperatures, dust, dirt, fumes, oil, grease, and smoke from the equipment. They may also be required to climb ladders to rooftops, enter small spaces through manholes (the standard opening is 15 inches by 11 inches) and be exposed to refrigerants and/or other chemicals in the course of their daily routine. HVAC engineers are responsible for very expensive and environmentally sensitive equipment so they must perform their duties in a safe, efficient and responsible manner at all times.
Some states and municipalities (including the City of Detroit) require that persons working in the HVAC field be licensed. Persons who successfully complete an approved 4-year apprentice program will be eligible to test for an Unlimited Refrigeration Journeyman License and a First Class Refrigeration Operator License.

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Apprenticeships

The Stationary Engineer Education Center offers two apprenticeship programs. These are both 4-year programs that consist of a minimum 7,000 hours of on-the-job training as well as related classroom instruction. The combination of on-the-job training under the guidance of a First Class Stationary Engineer or Journeyman and classroom instruction allow the apprentice to develop their skills and knowledge and gives the apprentice a variety of experience. Apprentices are governed by the Apprenticeship standards set by the Joint Apprenticeship Committee. Both programs are approved by the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Apprenticeship & Training.

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Stationary Engineering Apprenticeship Program

1,144 Clock Hours = Four Years

Apprentices are competitively selected. A 4-year program sponsored by the Metro-Detroit Area Stationary Engineers Apprenticeship Committee covering all phases of Stationary Engineering. Apprentices attend 1,144 clock hours of classroom instruction and a minimum 7,000 hours of on-the-job training. Applications for this program are taken every two years. Positions are filled yearly from the standing list. Selection is on a competitive point basis; testing, work-related experience, education background, and interviews. Upon graduation from the program, graduates are eligible to apply for a City of Detroit First Class Stationary Engineer and First Class Refrigeration Operators Licenses.
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HVAC Engineer Apprenticeship Program

1,408 Clock Hours = Four Years

Apprentices are competitively selected. A 4- year program sponsored by the Metro-Detroit Area HVAC Engineers Apprenticeship Committee covering all phases of Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning Engineering. Apprentices attend 1,408 clock hours of classroom instruction and a minimum 7,000 hours of on-the-job training. Applications for this program are taken every two years. Positions are filled yearly from the standing list. Selection is on a competitive point basis; testing, work-related experience, education background, and interviews. Upon graduation from the program, graduates are eligible to apply for City of Detroit First Class Refrigeration Operators, Refrigeration Journeyman and a High Pressure Boiler Operator Licenses.

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Programs & Descriptions

The Stationary Engineer Education Center offers a variety of programs, enrichment and upgrade courses in all phases of Stationary Engineering and HVAC. Seminars and workshops are also sponsored covering various aspects of both the Stationary Engineering and HVAC craft.

High Pressure Boiler Operator Program

352 Clock Hours = Four Terms

Waives two years of work experience required by the City of Detroit Licensing Department. An initial training program. Individuals interested in learning the different areas of high pressure boilers. Subjects include boiler types and construction, accessories, pumps, calculations, theory, operation and safety along with scheduled plant tours.
The program consists of four, 11-week terms, (one year) two courses per term, two days per week, four hours each day.

  • Term One: Boilers I and Math I
  • Term Two: Boiler Accessories and Practical Heat
  • Term Three: Electricity & Pumps and Burners, Furnaces & Fuels
  • Term Four: Boilers II & Combustion and Directed Study Project

Successful completion of the eight courses will waive the two years work experience requirement for a City of Detroit High Pressure Boiler Operator License Examination. A Certificate of Completion will be issued upon successful completion of the program. There is a basic math & mechanical comprehension skills pretest that must be passed before registering for this program. Testing fee is $20 paid at time of testing (cash or money order only). New students enter the program in the Fall Term only.

Third Class Stationary Engineer Program

176 Clock Hours = Four Terms

DOES NOT waive any work experience. An advanced training program. Individuals possessing a High Pressure Boiler Operator License and are in need of the information & knowledge to become a Third Class Stationary Engineer. Completion of the program does not waive any work experience requirements for any licensing body. The program consists of four, 11-week terms, (one year) one course per term, one day per week, four hours per day. A Certificate of Completion will be issued upon successful completion of the program. Students must possess a High Pressure Boiler License or be a graduate of the Education Center's High Pressure Operator Program to enter this program.

First Class Stationary Engineer Program

264 Clock Hours = Three Terms

DOES NOT waive any work experience requirements. An advanced training program. Individuals in need of the information and knowledge in advanced stationary engineering. Subjects include fuel systems, math calculations, power boilers, turbines, electrical distribution, directed study project, along with scheduled plant tours. The program consists of three, 11-week terms, two courses per term, two days per week, four hours each day. Completion of this program does not waive work experience requirement for any licensing bodies. A Certificate of Completion will be issued upon successful completion of this program. Students must possess at least a Third Class Stationary Engineer License or be a graduate of the Education Center's High Pressure Operator Program to enter this program.

Basic (Third Class) Refrigeration Operation Program

132 Clock Hours = Three Terms

Waives the three months work experience requirement for a City of Detroit Third Class Refrigeration Operator License Examination. An initial training program, for persons interested in the trade of Basic Refrigeration & Air Conditioning. The program consists of three 11-week courses, one per term taken in three consecutive terms. BREO I-1, BREO I-2 & BREO I-3. Courses cover theory, refrigerants, terminology, controls, system design & operation along with plant tours. Successful completion of this program will waive the three months work experience requirement for a City of Detroit Third Class Refrigeration Operators License Examination. New students enter the program in the Fall Term only.

Advanced (First Class) Refrigeration Operation Program

132 Clock Hours = Three Terms

Waives one of the two years work experience requirement for a City of Detroit First Class Refrigeration Operator License Examination. An advanced training program, for individuals currently operating as Third Class Refrigeration Operators or have completed the Education Center's Basic Refrigeration Program and are in need of information to become a First Class Refrigeration Operator. Program covers major industrial / commercial refrigeration systems, HVAC systems, ammonia systems, ice making, psychometrics, low pressure chillers, controls, refrigerants new and old, code & operator requirements along with plant tours and video presentations. The program consists of three 11-week courses, one per term taken in three consecutive terms. ADV-REO II-1, ADV-REO II-2 & ADV-REO II-3. Completion of this program will waive one of the two years of work experience required for a City of Detroit First Class Refrigeration Operator License Examination. Basic refrigeration knowledge written examination required at time of registration.

Refrigeration Servicing Program

132 Clock Hours = Three Terms

Refrigeration Servicing I

An initial training course. Designed for the operating engineer, service technician or individual in need of basic electrical information, from residential to commercial wiring. Knowledge & information in the area of electricity, schematic and ladder diagrams, single & three phase wiring, terminology and theory.

Refrigeration Servicing II

Advanced training course for an operating engineer or service technician. Course covers proper tools, materials and basic troubleshooting of compressors, condensers, and evaporators.

Refrigeration Servicing III

A continuation of advanced servicing for an operator or service technician. Course covers refrigerant controls, electric motors and circuits, multiple systems, and accessories.

EMS Certification

The Education Center provides for BLS, ACLS, AED, and CPR certifications. Contact our office at (313) 532-5345 or the Local 547 EMS Office at (313) 532-2022, extension 13, for scheduling of certification or recertification testing.

CPR

A course that will train and certify you in CPR. An American Heart Association Certified Instructor, artificial respiration, chest compressions and the Heimlich maneuver will be covered during this 4-hour course. Students who successfully complete the course will receive their American Heart Association CPR certification cards.

Upgrading Individual Courses

Certificate of Completion will be issued upon successful completion of each course.

CFC - Refrigerant Recovery Certification Seminar

EPA APPROVED

This EPA Approved one-day seminar was developed by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America and Ferris State University Technology Center. The seminar covers EPA Regulations, ozone depletion theory, the Clean Air Act, safe handling of refrigerants, Recovery-Recycling-Reclamation and alternate refrigerants. Refer to a seminar schedule for registration information dates, times and fees.

Basic Computers

Our classes help the beginner become more comfortable and familiar with the computer and progress from there (even teach the pro some new tricks). Computer components, networking, installing & removing software, virus checking, basic “How To’s”, some programming, and some customizing ideas and tips for your own computer. Become familiar with Windows, PowerPoint, Excel, Access, Word and Office — to name a few.

CPR

A course that will train and certify you in CPR. An American Heart Association Certified Instructor, artificial respiration, chest compressions and the Heimlich maneuver will be covered during this 4-hour course. Students who successfully complete the course will receive their American Heart Association CPR certification cards.

Engineering Calculations

A practical study of calculations required in the Stationary Engineering craft. Designed to prepare individuals for the math portion of the First Class Stationary Engineer Exam.

Energy Conservation

This course covers: energy audits, energy bill analysis, energy cost calculations, HVAC system analysis, flue gas analysis, energy conservation opportunities, primary energy conservation measures, applied energy conservation measures, automation energy savings, facility portfolio steam and condensate systems, building envelope analysis, lighting system opportunities.

IAQ (Indoor Air Quality)

This comprehensive, specialized training course equips Stationary Engineers with the means to prevent most air quality problems before they happen and to mitigate those problems that do occur. Students who complete the course will be fully prepared to: operate a preventive maintenance program, conduct regular visual inspections, test and balance a system, utilize advanced techniques for environmental analysis, use a preventive maintenance log, prepare streamlined checklists and an IAQ log, implement a step-by-step system to resolve occupants’ complaints, adopt a practical and realistic approach to air monitoring.

General Building Maintenance Course

A course designed to increase maintenance knowledge and skills. This course will cover such areas as: electrical wiring, proper use of electrical testers and meters (volt, amp, ohm & watt), lighting systems, basic plumbing and piping, drywall, motors, starter circuits and other areas of student interest.

Water Treatment

Practical application of cooling tower and feedwater testing and treatment. Internal and external treatments for boilers, cooling towers, corrosion, scale, microbiological treatment systems and closed refrigeration systems. Analysis of water for boilers, HVAC systems and cooling towers.

Entrance Requirements

EDUCATION: High School completion or G.E.D. desirable but not required.

PHYSICAL HEALTH: Applicants should have good hearing and vision and be of good
moral character.

PREFERENCE: The Education Center is an equal opportunity educational facility. In cases where the number of applicants exceeds the maximum class size, preference will be given in the following order: Group I, Group II and Group III as described under "Schedule of Fees."

Grading System

Academic records are recorded using a numerical grading system. Each instructor will provide students with his/her own specific grading policy for each course taught. Grade evaluation is as follows:

Student

100 - 90% (A)
89 - 80% (B)
79 - 70 % (C)
69 - 65% (D)
Below 65% (E)
Withdraw (W) (class dropped)
INC/ABS (incomplete/failure due to absence)

Any grade below 65% is considered unsatisfactory. A failing grade (below 65%) received in any course requires the student to re-take the class prior to receiving a completion certificate for the specified program. Student progress and records will be monitored and kept in the Education Center Office.

Attendance

Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes and are responsible for work missed due to an absence. Three absences in any one (11 week) course is considered unsatisfactory attendance and will result in an automatic administrative grade of "Incomplete/Absence" (INC/ABS = failure). You must pass all courses of a program to receive a certificate of completion.

Graduation Requirements

To be eligible for graduation from a program, each student must meet certain requirements. All financial obligations must be paid in full. Students must maintain satisfactory attendance. Students must have received a satisfactory/passing grade in each course attended.

Placement

The Education Center does not guarantee job placement for its graduates. However, we will assist students with their search to obtain employment. Current job openings are posted at the Education Center. Students may submit copies of current resumes and licenses to be kept in the job file at the Education Center Office.

Re-Entrance

Courses may be re-taken at any time. Students may re-enter any previously started or completed program at the beginning of any term as long as there are seats available. Students are required to register during the scheduled registration period and pay the current rates of tuition for re-entrance.

Application Procedure

In keeping with the Education Center's admission policy, the following enrollment procedure will be followed:

  • Registration hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • High Pressure Boiler Operator Program pre-testing will be prior to the Fall Term registration period. Testing fee is $20 paid at time of testing (cash or money order only). The testing date is set up and is conducted at the Education Center. Refer to the Fall Term Schedule for exact dates and times.
  • Late registrations will be accepted if classroom seats are available. There is a $25.00 late registration fee.
  • Applications must be completed at the Education Center Office.
  • Course fees must be paid during the announced registration period. Classroom seats will be held and assigned as you register.
  • Bring copies of current licenses held in the Craft of Stationary Engineering.
  • The Education Center has a NO CASH policy. Check, Money Order, Visa or MasterCard are the only acceptable forms of payment. There will be a $40.00 fee for all returned checks.

Schedule of Fees

Student fees vary depending on membership of Local 547, International Union of Operating Engineers and whether the student's employer participates in the Educational Trust Fund.

GROUP I - Member of Local 547* & a Participant of the Educational Trust Fund
$175.00 per 11-week course

GROUP II - Member of Local 547 * OR an Employee of a Participating Employer**
$275.00 per 11-week course

GROUP III - Non-member of Local 547 and an Employee of a Non-Participating Employer
$325.00 per 11-week course

There is an additional $30.00 technology fee for computer courses, and a $20.00 technology fee for all other courses.

* Membership must be paid up to date.

** Must show current check stub and photo ID for employment verification.

Course fees must be paid during the scheduled registration period. Classroom seats are assigned when you register.

$25.00 Late Registration Fee

$40.00 Returned Check Fee

Refund Policy

Students may cancel their enrollment by written notification at any time. All tuition and fees will be refunded, if the applicant is rejected by the school before the beginning of class or requested by the student within three (3) business days after signing a contract with the Education Center. After three (3) business days have lapsed, the following refund policy shall apply:

There will be a $50.00 cancellation fee for each course.

Refunds of remaining course fees will be as follows:

  • After the beginning of the First week of the term: 90% of remaining course fees
  • After the beginning of the Second week of the term: 80% of remaining course fees
  • After the beginning of the Third week of the term: 70% of remaining course fees
  • After the beginning of the Fourth week of the term: 60% of remaining course fees
  • After the fourth week of the term: NO REFUND

Refunds will only be issued on tuition paid in full:

Please allow 2 weeks for refund checks.
All tuition and fees paid by the applicant shall be refunded if the applicant is rejected by the school before enrollment. An application fee of $25.00 may be retained by the school if the application is denied.

Rules and Guidelines

As in any organization, the Education Center has rules and guidelines which must be followed to facilitate an orderly and effective operation. In an effort to remain as flexible as possible, we have limited the number of restrictive rules as follows:

  1. Please keep the Education Center Office informed of any changes to information listed on your enrollment form (e.g.: Change of address, employment or license received).
  2. Tuition fees must be paid prior to the close of the registration period. Assigned classroom seats will not be held beyond this date. After the due date LATE fees will be applied, you may be expelled from class for non-payment. Financial transactions may be made at the Education Center Office during Normal Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, or by mail. Payments made by mail must be check or money order and include program/course information. Payments mailed must arrive at the Education Center on or before the due date.
  3. Each course is scheduled for one meeting each week, four hours per meeting. Students are expected to attend all classes. Three class periods represent one-third of the instructional time in most courses. Therefore, three absences will result in an automatic administrative drop from the course and a resulting grade of incomplete. Students may submit a letter of explanation to the Director for a possible waiver. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the Education Center during normal office hours, prior to an absence and also after an absence to receive homework assignments. Make-up of assignments, quizzes or exams missed due to a class absence is at the discretion of the Instructor and the Education Center Director. Make-up exams must be taken within one week of the original scheduled date. Penalty points may be assessed on make-up exams.
  4. Students arrive prior to class starting time. The northwest door is the only door to be used by students for entrance or exit.
  5. All examinations are "closed book" unless other wise directed by the Instructor. Students not complying with examination instructions given by the Instructor will receive a grade of zero (0) for the examination. The decision of the Instructor is final, so do not put yourself in a questionable situation.
  6. Alcoholic beverages, weapons and "prohibited substances" are not allowed on Education Center property. Students arriving at the Education Center "under the influence" will not be allowed into class.
  7. Various ordinances and standards prohibit smoking in the building. Smoking must be done outside of the building only.
  8. Due to limited custodial service, we ask students to insure that their classroom is left in a clean and orderly state. Wastepaper baskets are in each classroom and trash cans are in the break room. Empty pop cans should be placed in the pop can return containers.
  9. Instructors, as representatives of the Director of Education and the Board of Trustees are responsible for enforcement of all Education Center policies.
  10. A suggestion box is located next to the Education Center office for any and all ideas or comments you may have. Please use this tool so that we may provide you with the best experience possible. The reasons behind the above Education Center policies are logical, and in the most part, obvious. If you have any question or complaints about any of these, please feel free to contact the Education Center Office.

Conduct

As members or future members of a highly responsible and respected craft, students are expected to conduct themselves accordingly. Student conduct at the Education Center and on plant tours must reflect favorably on themselves, their craft, and the Education Center.

The Education Center is a smoke-free building.

Alcoholic beverages, weapons and prohibited substances are not allowed on Education Center property. Insubordination or violation of the law can result in dismissal from class and or expulsion from school. Education Center administration maintains the right to dismiss students for violation of "School Rules" or for conduct that reflects unfavorably upon the reputation of their craft or the Education Center.

The Calendar Year

The school year is divided into four terms, each term consisting of 11 weeks. Day classes meet from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and evening classes meet from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, unless otherwise noted. A one-week break is scheduled between each term and a two-week break is scheduled during the Christmas Holidays. These additional holidays are observed: New Years Eve Day, New Years Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and the Friday after Thanksgiving.

 

Special Office Closings

March 21 Good Friday
May 26 Memorial Day
July 4 Independence Day
September 1 Labor Day
November 24 Thanksgiving
November 25 Friday after Thanksgiving
December 24 Christmas Eve
December 25 Christmas Day
December 31 New Year's Eve
January 1 New Year's Day

 

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