Modern Energy

Windmills on a mountain.

Learn how you can be a part of creating a clean, modern, and thriving California with this TUITION FREE certificate introducing you to carbon neutrality, capture and storage, data analysis, and renewable energy.

What is modern energy?

Modern energy refers to energy sources that are seen as more advanced or sustainable compared to traditional fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas. This includes renewable energy sources like solar, wind, geothermal, and hydropower. It also includes emerging technologies like hydrogen fuel cells

Is studying modern energy right for me?

This program is intended for anyone interested in creating a clean, modern, and thriving California. It offers a focused approach to investigating popular contemporary topics to understand how to apply them in your own region. Topics include data analysis, renewable energy, and carbon neutrality, capture, and storage.

The program is tuition free, and the courses are non-credit, which means it will not affect your GPA or Financial Aid.

Certificate

Solar panels and wind turbines against the sun.
A consolidation of non-credit courses that introduce students to emerging topics in energy.

Careers

Modern energy, with its focus on renewable energy sources and sustainability, offers a vast and growing range of career opportunities. Here are some examples to consider:

Installation and Maintenance

  • Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installer
  • Wind Turbine Service Technician
  • Geothermal Power Plant Operator

Engineering and Design

  • Renewable Energy Engineer
  • Smart Grid Engineer
  • Sustainability Engineer

Policy and Research

  • Energy Policy Analyst
  • Renewable Energy Researcher
  • Environmental Scientist

Business and Finance

  • Renewable Energy Project Manager
  • Sustainability Consultant
  • Clean Energy Investor

This is just a glimpse into the diverse career paths available in modern energy. The field is constantly evolving, and new opportunities are emerging all the time. If you're passionate about sustainability and interested in a challenging and rewarding career, then modern energy could be a great fit for you.


Academic Department: Physical Science

Career & Learning pathway: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Pathway

Courses: Energy (ENER)


Valley Strong Energy Institute

Bakersfield College and Kern Community College District have begun forging energy partnerships with research institutions, industry, and community organizations with the goal of synergistically paving the way for the coming transformation in energy.

Educational Goals

This includes informal information through virtual webinars and live seminars; adult and continuing education in terms of short courses that are free or low cost to the public; and academic routes that can lead to professions in the new energy economy. Currently, BC is hosting monthly seminars during the academic year. The Modern Energy Certificate of Completion is one of the sets of non-credit courses aimed at adult learners.

Learn more about the Valley Strong Energy Institute

For questions, email crel@kccd.edu or call (661) 395-4608.


Not sure where to start? Let us help.

Meet with a CTE Advisor

Take the right classes to meet your education and career goals. Create your Comprehensive Student Education Plan (CSEP) with your Career and Technical Education (CTE) Advisor.
Call (661) 395-4402 for an appointment.

Not sure about your career path?

Take the career quiz to discover the perfect career based on your personality type and interests.