Power the Future of Energy Efficiency

Commercial buildings account for nearly half of New Jersey’s electricity consumption, creating growing demand for professionals who can improve building performance, reduce energy use, and manage increasingly sophisticated building systems.

RVCC’s Commercial Energy Management Technology (CEM-Tech) program prepares students for careers in energy management, building automation, facilities operations, commissioning, and energy auditing through hands-on instruction and real-world learning experiences.

Developed in partnership with industry professionals, the program combines classroom instruction with practical experience using advanced instrumentation, testing equipment, and RVCC’s campus facilities as a living laboratory.

Certificate Program

1-Year Certificate

Designed for working professionals, career changers, and entry-level students seeking specialized skills in building automation, energy auditing, commissioning, and energy management.

Degree Program

2-Year Associate of Applied Science (AAS)

Provides comprehensive preparation for careers in energy management, facilities operations, building automation, commissioning, project management, and related technical fields.

Associate Degree Program

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Commercial Energy Management Technology provides broader preparation for leadership and technical roles within the energy management and facilities industries.

Students gain experience with:

  • Building automation technologies
  • Energy auditing and reporting
  • System performance analysis
  • Networking and integration
  • Commissioning processes
  • Commercial HVAC systems
  • Facility operations
  • Energy conservation opportunities
  • Testing and diagnostic instrumentation
  • Project planning and implementation

Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared for positions such as:

  • Energy Technician
  • Energy Auditor
  • Facilities Manager
  • Operations Manager
  • Building Automation Technician
  • Controls Programmer
  • Maintenance Supervisor
  • Building Systems Specialist
  • Commissioning Technician
  • Project Engineer
  • Project Manager
  • Building & Grounds Superintendent
  • HVAC Controls Specialist

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the CEM-Tech program are able to:

  • Assemble, program, troubleshoot, and network Direct Digital Controllers
  • Analyze building and equipment performance
  • Use industry-standard testing instruments and tools
  • Conduct building walk-through assessments
  • Develop energy audit reports
  • Identify commercial HVAC systems
  • Evaluate energy conservation opportunities
  • Participate in building commissioning activities
  • Verify and validate building system performance
  • Apply industry best practices in energy management

Certificate Program

The Certificate in Commercial Energy Management Technology is ideal for building operators, maintenance professionals, energy specialists, automation technicians, and students interested in gaining practical experience with commercial building systems.

Students develop skills in:

  • Building automation systems
  • Direct Digital Controls (DDC)
  • Controller programming and networking
  • Building system troubleshooting
  • Energy conservation strategies
  • Energy auditing fundamentals
  • Building commissioning
  • HVAC system identification and analysis
  • Performance testing and verification
  • Energy management software applications

Certificate Career Benefits

The certificate provides specialized technical training that can help currently employed professionals advance their careers while providing newcomers with the practical skills needed for entry-level positions.