... A specialization of Electrical Power & Control

There has been a lot of concern in recent years about reducing environmental pollution by powering electrical systems more efficiently. Fuel cell technology seems to be a “major player” in addressing many of these concerns, since fuel cells produce high quality electrical power, usable heat, and pure water while producing only trace amounts of pollutants. This is because the fuel cell energy conversion is chemical, rather than "burning" traditional fuels like natural gas, LPG, diesel, gasoline and coal.

There are many uses for fuel cells — right now, all of the major automakers are working to commercialize a fuel cell car. Fuel cells are powering buses, boats, trains, planes, scooters and even bicycles.

There are fuel cell-powered vending machines, vacuum cleaners and highway road signs. Miniature fuel cells for cellular phones, laptop computers and portable electronics are on their way to market. Hospitals, credit card centers, police stations and banks are all using large fuel cells to provide power to their facilities. Wastewater treatment plants and landfills are beginning to use fuel cells to convert the methane gas they produce into electricity. The possibilities are endless.

The new Fuel Cell Technology curriculum at TSTC Waco is designed to train diversified technicians and concentrates on the most widely used fuel cell types, applications and renewable energy sources. The program prepares graduates with a strong background in electrical power systems, instrumentation processes, and mechanical skills, along with the necessary academic studies. As is the case with all TSTC technical programs, comprehensive lectures are reinforced by intense, practical “hands-on” laboratory training and experience.