Natural Gas Compression Technology, A.A.S.

The Gas Compression Technology program offers core courses related to Gas Compression Operations and Maintenance. The program is designed to develop technical knowledge regarding gas compression operations and prepare students to enter careers as Gas Compression Technicians in the natural gas industry. The curriculum was developed in partnership with the natural gas industry; therefore, it provides training that meets this industry’s expectations. Students will gain an understanding of operations, maintenance, troubleshooting, repair of compression equipment as a result of lecture and hands-on training in compression theory, pneumatics, compressor mechanics, gas engine mechanics, electric motors, precision measuring, alignment, rigging and safety. They will develop skills needed to operate and maintain gas compression packages which include the internal combustion engine, reciprocating compressor and auxiliary equipment. Students are able to take courses to obtain a Gas Compression Certificate in 2 semesters or complete an additional 2 semesters to obtain a Gas Compression Technology A.A.S. degree. Upon completion of this program, a student will qualify to become an entry-level Gas Compression Technician. These individuals generally work 40-hour weeks plus overtime, perform tasks requiring good mental and physical aptitude, and work with a variety of materials and equipment. Monitoring and maintaining compression-sites is one of their primary responsibilities. Most technicians in the local area can expect an annual starting wage of $50,000. Technicians with experience can move into advanced positions such as emission technicians, field supervisors, as well as areas such as instrumentation and automation.