The power plant program at Bismarck State College has received a federal designation.

The Department of Energy recognized the program as the National Power Plant Operations Technology and Educational Center. It was made possible through legislation sponsored by Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D.

"It recognizes that we're the power plant training provider," said Gordon Binek, BSC vice president for college advancement and federal relations. "We're the nationally recognized training center."

BSC is the school the military and energy companies across the country would look toward for training. The program is available online and on campus. Dorgan chose the program at BSC because it fits the needs of the energy industry.

"There is no other energy program like this in the state," Dorgan said. "If the question were about other programs in the country, BSC has a unique program."

The program will be needed as more power plants are brought on line and as the industry sees a larger portion of its work force retire. The department of energy evaluated the program and its curriculum before awarding this designation, Dorgan said.

It also complements BSC's National Energy Center of Excellence and the energy corridor, he said. An office for the energy corridor could be at BSC. The office would be a resource for the energy industry and provide information about state's energy resources, according to a release from Dorgan's office.

(Reach reporter Sara Kincaid at 250-8251 or sara.kincaid@;bismarcktribune.com.)