Engineering and applied science technicians and technologists play a critical role in the engineering continuum but do not have nearly as much profile as either the skilled trades or professional engineers. Technology Professionals Canada (TPC) is looking to change that. TPC is an alliance of nine provincial organizations that serve as both the regulator and the professional association in their respective provinces, providing certifications at the technician and technologist level that are recognized by employers in almost every sector of the economy.
Engineering and applied science technicians and technologists have typically pursued a two- or three-year diploma program offered by colleges and polytechnic institutes across Canada. They are able to join their professional association while still students; and are eligible for certification after completing both a professional practice exam focused on law and ethics, and a minimum of two years of relevant work experience.
For your students who may have an interest or aptitude in STEM – particularly the hands-on aspect – this is an excellent area of study and career path for them to explore, full of diverse and lucrative opportunities. Employment and Skills Development Canada helped to fund the development of the Engineering Technology Canada1 website, which allows students to explore the 22 different disciplines2 in the profession. Career opportunities exist in both the private and public sector, and range from technology design, to inspection, to project management, to owning and managing a business.
Here’s just one sample career path:
Rosanna Tyrer, C.E.T., rcji, CAPM, and past president of the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT), graduated with an advanced diploma in Civil Engineering Technology from St. Lawrence College while working for Defence Construction Canada. She then became a Junior Roads Designer with RGTS before accepting a position with the City of Ottawa, where she gained experience in multiple departments related to transit and transportation. Currently, she is a Senior Project Manager at Morrison Hershfield now Stantec, working on the expansion of Ottawa’s LRT system. Rosanna pursued her certification as a Certified Engineering Technologist, as well as her Road Construction Junior Inspector designation (required by the Ministry of Transportation) through OACETT. In her volunteer capacity, she was able to build her leadership skills, starting in her local Chapter, right up to becoming the President of the Association. Here’s what Rosanna has to say about her education, career and affiliation with her professional association: “My education laid the foundation for my career, equipping me with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel. In turn, my career provided practical experiences that enriched my understanding and application of that education. My affiliation with the professional association has been the bridge that connects and enhances both, offering continuous learning opportunities, networking, and support. Together, these elements have created a synergistic pathway to success, each one reinforcing and elevating the other.”
Lorne Atwood, P.Eng, M.Sc., Chair, Engineering Technologies at Lethbridge Polytechnic, has this to say about the students and graduates in their programs and the success they have found: “Lethbridge Polytechnic’s engineering technology programs provide students with hands-on experience and personalized support, setting the stage for successful careers where innovation meets real-world application. With instructors who bring valuable industry experience to the classroom and national accreditation that opens doors across Canada and beyond, our graduates are not only well-prepared to meet the growing demand for skilled engineering technologists but also enjoy competitive salaries in their fields.”
We also wanted to share with you the experience of one of your counsellor counterparts, once they became exposed to these opportunities. Kelly Seifert-Clarkson, Sub-Clerk of Kelvin High School in Winnipeg, said: “During my time as a High School Career Advisor, I would often tell students to weigh their abilities and interests against their learning styles to help them plan for life after high school. Programs such as the Engineering Technology Diploma are great options for students to gain valuable real-world experience while maintaining flexibility for future growth and education. What’s more, there is the opportunity that comes along with technology programming. Students are unaware that technology programming Diploma and Certificates can be transferable throughout the provinces, making it easy to move and grow within the workforce.”
There is a tangible opportunity coming up for you and your students to learn more about this exciting and diverse profession. TPC is hosting the inaugural National Engineering and Applied Science Technology (NEAT) week during the last week of November. One of the anchor events is going to be a National Capstone Competition. Students in their final year of study at colleges and polytechnics across the country typically complete a Capstone project as one of their culminating activities. The educational institutions have been invited to submit their best projects to compete at a provincial level, and then the provinces have submitted their winning project to compete in the National event. The National Competition will be held by webinar on Tuesday, November 26 from 1pm – 2pm ET. You and your students are most welcome to join us to gain exposure to the exciting work that college students are doing to push the envelope on emerging technology, often with industry partnership and support. Even more exciting, all webinar participants will be invited to join in voting for the National winning project! Registration information is available at technologyprofessionals.ca/neat-week
1www.engineeringtechnologycanada.ca
2https://www.engineeringtechnologycanada.ca/en/getting-started/what-is-certification/technology-disciplines
By: Technology Professionals Canada
