Industry-led learning with the electrician who helped reimagine the historic landmark.
On Saturday, November 29, Niagara College professor Tibor Papp brought his lesson on three-phase electricity to life.
Papp led students in NC’s Electrician – Construction and Maintenance Apprenticeship program behind-the-scenes of the Niagara Falls Power Plant where he works as a Project Coordinator with the Niagara Parks Commission.
“The Niagara Parks Power Station is one of the first power plants to generate three-phase electricity at 25 hertz,” said Papp, an electrician and licensed mechanic. “I see a great benefit in showing students the practical applications of electrical theory.”
Papp calls himself “lucky” to have helped transform the historic site into a modern tourist destination.
“It is the last power plant preserved in this condition,” said Papp.
A marvel of its time, the Niagara Parks Power Station was built between 1901 and 1905 to harness the Niagara River, providing hydroelectricity to Ontario and Western New York until its decommissioning in 2006. With Papp’s help, the Niagara Parks Commission restored the site, reopening it in 2021 as a visitor attraction featuring preserved generators, interactive exhibits, and guided tours.
NC students got a first-hand look at live systems and real infrastructure; the circuits, transformers, generators, and motors used in three-phase power which delivers electricity steadily and efficiently through three separate currents.
“Each year I take the students to visit the power station where they can see the generators in real size and how power was produced, all relating to the theory we just learned,” said Papp.
Papp also supported mechanical work for the new Niagara Takes Flight experience at Table Rock centre, contributing to the industry and bringing real-world expertise into the classroom.
“Niagara College Faculty like Tibor play a vital role in connecting our students to the real world by integrating current industry practice, applied knowledge, and authentic professional context into their teaching,” said Duane Bender, Dean of Media, Trades and Technology. “We are truly grateful to have exceptional Faculty like Tibor who generously share their experiences to enrich our students’ learning.”
