Graphic showing a Turbo Lab short course instructor teaching a class on a computer/zoom call.

Even through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Turbomachinery Laboratory remains committed to making a vital impact on the turbomachinery, pump and related industries by hosting extended short courses led by industry experts.

For the first time in Turbo Lab history, short courses were held online via GoToMeeting in order to comply with government regulation and avoid the spread of COVID-19. Three courses- CCOPS, Rotordynamics, and Reciprocating Machinery Dynamics (NEW)- were taught by by nine industry experts over the week of October 12-15.

“I came into the sessions this year fearing that the distance or online learning would not be as effective. Thankfully, I was wrong,” said CCOPS instructor Jim Sorokes of Dresser-Rand, A Siemens Business. “I thought my session went very well. The students were attentive and asked good questions. I hope they found the session to be worthwhile.”

The tenured short course instructor’s hopes came true for attendees, especially for former Viper Vibration & Analysis Vibration Analyst Allan Paziuk.

“I took the new Reciprocating Machinery Dynamics course in order to stay up to date on new technologies and reinforce my understanding of vibration problems,” said Paziuk. “I found the case studies and formulas in this course extremely valuable. Plus, the instructors were great and have a lot of experience and knowledge.”

Looking toward the future, short course instructors are optimistic about hosting short courses online again if necessary.

“I absolutely believe the courses could be successfully held online again in the future,” said Sorokes. “I still believe there is value in getting folks together in a room, but the online sessions are a workable and effective alternative.”

The Turbo Lab will host many other short courses on December 7 at TPS 2020 Online. For more information on TPS 2020 Online visit https://tps.tamu.edu/. To view previously offered short courses or to fill out a Continuing Education Unit form, visit https://ecturbolabst.wpengine.com/short-courses/.

The Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station (TEES) Turbomachinery Laboratory makes a vital impact on turbomachinery and related industries through research, education and professional workforce development.

Turbo Lab Wraps Up First Virtual Extended Short Courses