04/26/12 ema

HAYS, Kan. -- Three Kansas colleges -- Manhattan Area Technical College, North Central Kansas Technical College and Pratt Community College -- were awarded a total of $123,355 from EnergyNET for 42 credit hours in 13 courses.

EnergyNET, short for Energy Network of Education and Training, is a $1.6 million investment by the Kansas Department of Commerce and the Kansas Board of Regents to coordinate a network of public higher education institutions across the state in providing enhanced hybrid and online workforce training. Fort Hays State University coordinates and directs EnergyNET.

Manhattan Area Technical College (MATC), Manhattan, will use its grant for an electric power and distribution program. Pratt Community College will develop its electrical power technology programs.

North Central Kansas Technical College (NCKTC), Hays and Beloit, will develop its heavy equipment operations and commercial drivers license programs.

"I am impressed by the collaboration between two fabulous line-worker programs and their diligent efforts to combine the respective knowledge of each program into one focused, comprehensive, outcomes-based curriculum while still keeping each program independent of the other," said Mike Michaelis, director of EnergyNET, of the MATC and Pratt Community College's line work programs. "This allowed EnergyNET to stretch our grant dollars and not duplicate the development of courses or programs."

The electric power and distribution program at MATC enhances students' knowledge and technical skills required to succeed in the electrical distribution industry. Graduates of the electric power and distribution program will be able to successfully install, maintain and operate electrical systems to supply electrical energy to residential, commercial and industrial customers and to join gas and electrical underground generation facilities.

Pratt Community College offers one of the most comprehensive electrical power technology programs in the nation. One of only two in the state of Kansas, it offers students a variety of convenient ways to attend classes through on-campus courses, distance education and on-the-job training.

North Central Kansas Technical Collegehas a year-round commercial drivers license program. NCKTC is committed to helping students with accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive hands-on training.

NCKTC offers heavy equipment operations training, which familiarizes students with the hazards of operating heavy equipment. Introduction in occupational safety with an emphasis on performing routine maintenance and safety measures is provided.

"Funds from the grant allow curricular offers and provide stronger career opportunities," said Clark Coco, NCKTC President. "Without funds, we would not be able to reach as many students and workers as we can with the grant."

For more information, contact Michaelis at 785-628-4620 or email mwmichaelis@fhsu.edu.