vcc.ca
WTEC 1210: Control and Monitoring Systems
Effective date
September 2026
Department
Wind Turbine Technician
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
This course introduces students to the digital control architecture of modern wind turbines. Learners will analyze control systems, test monitoring components, and perform basic programming tasks. They will troubleshoot control issues, interpret system data, and optimize performance parameters while implementing safety protocols—skills that support remote monitoring and efficient energy production.
Credits
2.5
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
WTEC 1110.
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Analyze control system architecture in various wind turbine designs.
- Test monitoring components using appropriate equipment and procedures to assess operational status and calibration.
- Write basic control programs for wind turbine systems that successfully execute specified operational sequences.
- Analyze system performance data to identify trends, anomalies, and potential issues.
- Troubleshoot control system issues in fault scenarios, identifying root causes.
- Maintain comprehensive system documentation, including accurate records of configuration changes, calibration data, and maintenance activities.
- Optimize system performance by adjusting control parameters based on operational data, achieving performance improvements measurable against baseline metrics.
- Implement safety protocols in control systems, configuring and testing required safety functions according to industry standards.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Methods of assessment may include a challenge exam, submission of a product or portfolio for review, or a practical demonstration. Please contact the Department for details.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 30
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 20
Total Hours: 50
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 20
Total Hours: 50
Instructional Strategies
A combination of lecture, demonstration, simulations, problem solving, practical lab activities and reflective discussion will be used throughout this course.
Grading System
Percentages-STBC
Passing grade
70
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Assignments |
25 |
|
|
Quizzes/Tests |
25 |
|
|
Lab Work |
30 |
|
|
Final Exam |
20 |
|
Course topics
- Control theory
- System components
- Programming fundamentals
- Data analysis methods
- System integration
- Performance monitoring
- Troubleshooting strategies
- Documentation requirements
- Safety protocols
- Quality control
- System optimization
- Communication interfaces
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.