The NECE
The energy industry plays an important role in North Dakota’s economy, providing thousands of direct and indirect jobs. Many areas of the industry expect strong growth over the coming decade, while also experiencing high levels of retirements, leading to strong demand for qualified, skilled employees.
The National Energy Center of Excellence (NECE) located at Bismarck State College in Bismarck, North Dakota meets this need by providing the education and training prospective workers need to fill many of these high-paying career opportunities. Bismarck State College (BSC) offers 12 energy-related degree and certificate programs, online and on campus. Learn about the history of these programs.
Benefits to students
On campus students use our world-class, one-of-a-kind lab equipment designed to prepare the next generation of energy industry employees. Students also have the opportunity to tour numerous nearby power plants and other facilities, and hear from guest speakers in the classroom.
Online students enjoy the flexibility of completing courses or a degree program built for those who cannot attend on-campus courses. Online coursework complements full-fidelity simulations and animations with discussions and real-time lab sessions operating equipment to recreate the hands-on experiences enjoyed by campus-based students. Some online courses do require brief in-person labs or job shadowing experiences on the BSC campus or at an approved facility.
Students also have the opportunity to join the Energy Club, a service organization that provides members with extra opportunities to develop relationships with professionals in the energy industry.
Students in energy programs at BSC enjoy exposure to hiring managers, opportunities to participate in mock interview and resume review sessions, and access to the BSC Job Seekers Network. Many internship opportunities are also available. Graduates from energy programs at BSC report job placement rates upwards of 90% and high starting salaries.
Partnerships with industry
All programs at the NECE have advisory committees which consist of industry personnel who meet twice a year to provide insight into industry trends and updates on equipment and processes used. Faculty work with industry partners to update curriculum and create new materials to ensure students receive quality instruction. Companies also provide extensive financial support through grants and scholarships, as well as donations of equipment to enhance the learning opportunities provided to students.
The NECE also offers training and development opportunities for individuals employed in the industry. Companies may purchase access to NECE materials for internal training, and may enroll employees in individual courses for non-degree seeking purposes. Customized training options are also available. Information about industry training opportunities is available here.
Learn more about the history of the NECE building.
Do you have questions on our programs or training opportunities? Email BSC.Energy@bismarckstate.edu or call 701.224.5651 or 800.852.5685.