Idaho State University, INL dedicate new Energy Technology Education Center

Friday, November 7, 2008 3:26 PM CST

POCATELLO - On Friday, Nov. 7, at 9 a.m., Idaho State University, Idaho National Laboratory and Partners for Prosperity dedicated the new Energy Systems Technology and Education Center (ESTEC) on the Pocatello campus. The program opening the Center’s will be in the Barbara J. Marshall Rotunda at the L.E. and Thelma E. Stephens Performing Arts Center. Immediately following, a ribbon cutting will be at the ESTEC in the renovated Industrial Crafts building.

Program speakers included ISU President Arthur Vailas, INL Laboratory Director John Grossenbacher, Partners for Prosperity Board Chair John Warner, Idaho Sen. Mike Crapo and Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson.

Construction for the Center began in the summer of 2007 after Department of Labor and National Science Foundation grants of more than $2.5 million were received to develop associates of applied science degree programs in instrumentation and controls technology, electrical engineering technology (both now offered) and mechanical engineering technology (which will begin in fall 2009).

The Center is a hands-on laboratory-based curriculum to prepare students to enter the energy generation sector workforce where shortages of energy systems technicians are expected in coming years. At the same time, it allows students to experience working in industrial type settings. The education program will also promote regional economic competitiveness and increase employment opportunities.

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