Siemens Energy, Inc.
 
  Siemens PTI eNewsletter Issue 105
 

What are the Keys to Successful Grid Operation?

Samantha J. Cooper
Senior Business Development Specialist
samantha.cooper@siemens.com

The successful operation of the grid relies on the knowledge and experience of its workforce.

Today’s power system and utility workforce is on the verge of a significant demographic shift. Combined with the impact of new technologies for Smart Grid applications, increased pressure for green power, and new, more stringent regulatory policies, this shift adds up to a serious challenge for utility organizations.

Siemens Power Academy TD – North America (NA) is ready to help implement training solutions to meet these challenges! We have been a trusted educational resource for 40 years. Our education program has grown and changed over the years, to best support our customers. To that end, we have developed new certification programs for a lifetime education path.

With the pace of change in today’s energy landscape, continued skill development and knowledge acquisition provides the footing for the continuous journey of becoming a trusted resource. To guide you in this journey, Siemens Power Academy TD – NA has developed Associate, Advanced and Expert Certifications, which may be earned in three highly structured curricular programs: Power System Engineering, Power Transmission Engineering and Power System Dynamics.

The Associate Certification course series engages students, in their first few years of employment, in coursework that is essential for new engineers – in the practical application of theory, in software training for productivity and in coursework that assists engineers transferring from mechanical or civil engineering. Upon completion of the required coursework and assessments, the participant should be able to perform technical tasks under direction, and translate, interpret and extrapolate key concepts, methodologies, principles, theories and industry practices. The Associate level certification will position candidates for advancement and ready them for more challenging work assignments as they develop in the industry. It is anticipated that completion of this coursework will take one to three years.

The Advanced Certification requires the completion of Associate level certification and demonstrated industry experience. Candidates for the Advanced certification level will be able to demonstrate four to eight years of experience in their area of study. Students may be pre-tested or provide examples of their knowledge/experience to verify their readiness for these advanced level courses. Upon completion of the required coursework and assessments, the participant should be able to independently solve problems by applying principles and acquired knowledge. It is anticipated that completion of this coursework will span several years.

The Expert Certification requires the completion of Advanced level certification and demonstrated industry experience. Candidates for the Expert certification level will be able to demonstrate nine to twelve years of experience in their area of study. Students may be pre-tested or provide examples of their knowledge/experience to verify their readiness for these expert level courses. Upon completion of the required coursework and assessments, the participant should be able to perform complex technical tasks independently and advise others on the performance of these tasks, as well as be able to evaluate, synthesize and communicate abstract concepts and make judgments about information and validity of ideas. It is anticipated that completion of this coursework will span several years.

Siemens Power Academy Certifications are a great way for engineering professionals to validate skills and demonstrate knowledge and proficiencies in a competitive landscape. Our certifications also provide a means of common measurement for evaluating that knowledge. The mission of Siemens Power Academy Certification is to:

  • Provide a reliable, valid and valued model of training power system engineers
  • Provide a fair, repeatable and consistent method of assessing skills and knowledge
  • Develop a community of professionals who understand the need for certification in the power system industry.

If you are interested in seeking certification, please speak with one of our education staff coordinators at +1 (518) 395-5005 or e-mail pti-edpro.ptd@siemens.com. Together, we will identify which certification program is right for you.

Download document as .pdf


Siemens Energy, Inc., Power Distribution, T&D Service Solutions
Siemens Power Technologies International

400 State Street | P.O. Box 1058 | Schenectady, NY 12301-1058

Privacy & Legal