Where we foster excellence in education that challenges students of every background to develop their intellect, character, and abilities; to assist students in achieving their educational and career goals; and to be responsive to the greater community.
IVC has been working with the local Lithium companies to develop new programs to prepare Imperial Valley residents with the skills and abilities to obtain the anticipated Lithium jobs. Based on projected workforce needs, IVC is rolling out the first Lithium related program in Fall 2023 by starting a new Plant Operator certificate Program.
The Plant Operator Technology Certificate is designed to prepare students with comprehensive and manipulative skills and technical knowledge to become proficient in plant operations and work in industrial settings/operations, such as geothermal plants, mineral extraction plants, and other industrial operations. As part of the instructional program, students will also qualify to obtain Industry Certifications through the Smart automation certification alliance (SACA), examinations and hands-on testing.
The Plant Operator program includes the following courses:
| BLDC 015 | HAZMAT Cal/OSHA 10-Hour Card | 1 | 18 Hours Lecture |
| CIS 120 | Microsoft Word I | 1 | 18 Hours Lecture |
| CIS 124 | Excel I | 1 | 18 Hours Lecture |
| MATH 105 | Integrated Math for Technical Fields | 3 | 54 Hours Lecture |
| Or | |||
| WT 105 |
Computational Procedures Operator I |
3 | 54 Hours Lecture |
| PLNT 080 | Plant Operator I | 3 | 36 Hours Lecture/54 Hours Lab |
| PLNT 085 | Plant Operator II | 3 | 36 Hours Lecture/54 Hours Lab |
| PLNT 090 | Plant Operator III | 3 | 36 Hours Lecture/54 Hours Lab |
| WE 220 | Internship | 1 | 63 Hours Lab |
The Plant Operator Program is designed as a one-year short-term certificate program taking the following courses:
| Fall | Winter | Spring |
|
BLDC 015
CIS 120 or CIS 124
PLNT 080
WT 105
|
PLNT 085 |
CIS 120 or CIS 124
PLNT 90
WE 220
|
Graduates of the Plant Operator Program can pursue various career opportunities in industries such as power generation, water treatment, oil and gas, chemical processing, mineral extraction, and manufacturing. They may work as plant operators, maintenance technicians, control room operators, or shift supervisors, among other positions.
Yes, the Plant Operator Program at Imperial Valley College emphasizes hands-on training to ensure students develop practical skills. The program includes laboratory sessions, simulations, and opportunities to work with industry-standard equipment.
Yes, Imperial Valley College collaborates with local industries to offer internships and cooperative education opportunities for students in the Plant Operator Program. These experiences allow students to gain real-world experience and make valuable industry connections. For more information, contact the Imperial Valley College Career Services Center.
There will be two tracks to accommodate students. One program will be offered during the day, and an evening program in the afternoons. Each track will admit up to 30 students.