Electrical Construction and Maintenance, A.O.S.

Associate in Occupational Studies
HEGIS #5317
Interim Chairperson: Christopher McNally, Ph.D.
Williams Hall, Room 126, (518) 629-7275

The mission of the Electrical Construction and Maintenance Department is to provide a program of study that enables students to develop the academic skills and practical techniques required for them to seek entry into any area of the electrical industry.

This program prepares students to enter the construction and/or industrial and manufacturing workplace with knowledge and skill levels in four principle areas: residential, commercial and industrial installations; transformers; motors and motor control; and programmable controllers, variable frequency drives and industrial electronics. The course of study is offered during four terms and covers core studies in electrical circuits, theory and the mathematics necessary to plan, install, troubleshoot, test and maintain electrical systems. The National Electrical Code and safe working practices serve as the foundation for each course in the program.

The first two terms provide foundation studies in DC and AC electrical theory, and construction wiring installation practices. These studies involve both “hands-on” workshop/laboratory activities, as well as classroom presentations. The “hands-on” coursework includes an in-depth study of residential and commercial wiring systems coupled with instruction in the use of diagnostic test equipment and troubleshooting techniques.

The third and fourth terms build upon these core courses and continue with “hands-on” training and a theoretical background in three phase transformer connections, AC motors, industrial motor control, industrial electronics, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and variable frequency drives (VFDs), while gaining valuable troubleshooting techniques.

The Electrical Construction and Maintenance A.O.S. degree fulfills the related instruction component of the state certified apprenticeship program for construction and plant maintenance electrician.

Program Entrance Requirements

The estimated cost of books for the student enrolled in the first full-time term as outlined would be approximately $535.