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BSC Instrumentation & Control students training with state-of-the-art equipment thanks to TC Energy donation

Published: May 03 2021
BSC Instrumentation & Control students training with state-of-the-art equipment thanks to TC Energy donation - Photo
The Bismarck State College Foundation has received $20k from the TC Energy Foundation to purchase industry-specific equipment for BSC’s Instrumentation & Control Technology program. TC Energy Corporation is a global energy company headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
 
As companies increase automation in their facilities, instrumentation and control technicians are in high demand across North Dakota to install, test, calibrate and maintain instruments used to measure and control variables such as pressure, flow, density, temperature, chemical composition, etc. This donation has afforded BSC the ability to purchase several programmable, industrial controllers that students use to prepare for work in a fast-paced and quickly advancing industry. 
 
“These controllers are cutting-edge technology, and students have enjoyed getting to use them in labs this semester,” said BSC Dean of the National Energy Center of Excellence Bruce Emmil. “In technical programs especially, it’s vital that our students get experience with equipment like this so that they’re work-ready from day one of employment.”
 
BSC Instrumentation & Control students are using the controllers during labs in units consisting of a chassis, power supply, processor, and input/output modules. BSC Assistant Professor of Instrumentation & Control Technology Scott Harris developed exercises for students using the controllers, which strengthened their familiarity with traditional forms of coding.
 
TC Energy Corporation donated more than $31 million across North America in 2020, and through its Build Strong giving program makes regular investments in communities where it does business. 
 
“Helping students train for great jobs here in North Dakota is important to TC Energy,” said TC Energy Corporation Senior Advisor for Community and Workforce Giving Trevence Mitchell. “With both natural gas and liquids assets in North Dakota, it’s important that we support the success of students and the development of our future workforce.”
 
The donation was made to the BSC Foundation in late 2020 with equipment purchased and implemented into the curriculum during the Spring 2021 semester.

“We are grateful for TC Energy’s support of our education and training programs,” said BSC Foundation Executive Director Kari Knudson. “With technological advances, it’s challenging to keep up with equipment needs without these vital donations from our industry partners.”