Energy Industry Fundamentals provides a broad understanding of the electric and natural gas utility industry and the energy generation, transmission, and distribution infrastructure, commonly called the “largest machine in the world,” which forms the backbone for the industry. The course includes business models, regulations, types of energy and their conversion to useable energy such as electric power, how generated power is transmitted and distributed to the point of use, emerging technologies, and the connection to careers in the energy industry.

Course Framework

There are seven course modules which may be offered separately or as a certificate program totaling approximately 130 hours of instruction. Five of the modules are designed to be taught in person in a classroom setting (either high school or community college) and include Instructor Guides, Student Guides, and PowerPoint presentations. Modules on Career Exploration are online modules that can be used in a classroom setting, but are also effective for students to explore on their own.

About the EIF Certificate Program

​In order to qualify as an EIF Approved Course Provider, educational institutions must have a partnership in place with a local utility who is a member of CEWD in good standing.

While educational institutions are free to choose their own instructors to teach the modules, it is recommended that they meet the guidelines of the Instructor Profiles provided by CEWD.

The detailed Instructor Guides provide a wealth of hands-on activities, including Labs. It is not expected that instructors will facilitate all of these activities, but instead that they will select the ones that best address the students they are working with, since the course has been developed for a variety of audiences.

Learn more about the Energy Industry Fundamentals Certificate and why your school should apply to become an Approved Course Provider.