Becoming an Electronics Engineering Technician in Canada
Electronics engineering technicians are responsible for designing, developing, testing, installing, repairing and troubleshooting electronic devices, circuits and equipment. They may also be expected to:
- Inspect existing machines or electronic devices
- Test electronic devices to determine any problems
- Repair electronic devices, circuits or equipment
- Recommend changes to the basic design of electronic devices to improve their performance
- Assist engineers in designing electronic devices
- Observe electronic manufacturing on production floors
They may also need to travel to the customers’ sites, in order to offer them repair and maintenance services. However, the exact job responsibilities may vary depending upon the employment, type of industry they work in, job title, and individual qualifications and experience.
Career Prospects
The electronics technicians may work with practically every industry that relies on electronic devices, circuits and equipment. However, majority of technicians are employed in the areas of telecommunications, computer applications, control systems, radio and television equipment and audio-visual equipment. They can build careers in equipment manufacturing and installation, research and testing, equipment maintenance, repair and sales.
The overall employment of electronics engineering professionals is expected to increase with increased reliance on electronic devices in residential, commercial and industrial settings. Moreover, technological advancements and introduction of sophisticated devices and equipment further increase the demand for professionals who can troubleshoot and repair them.
Employers are keen on hiring technicians who have an expertise and experience in wireless communications, industrial systems, microcontrollers, data communications and electronic testing and measurement. An electronics engineering program can help individuals gain knowledge and skills required to build a career in this field.
Electronics Engineering Technician Program in Canada
Centennial College’s post-secondary electronics engineering diploma runs for two years, preparing students for a career in electronics field. The program helps students develop solid foundation in modern electronics, covering a wide range of subjects including:
- Digital electronics
- Electric circuits
- Technical report writing tools in MS Office
- Computer hardware and networks
- Technology mathematics
- C/C++ Programming
- Electronics
- Ethics in Technology and Environment
- Microcontrollers
- Measurement and instrumentation
- Electronic communication systems
- RF transmission and measurements
- Control systems
- Data communication and networks
- Quality control
The program combines in-class learning, hands-on laboratory and a technician project. Centennial College’s program in electronics engineering meets the national technology requirements established by the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists and has received national accreditation status by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB). In addition to this, the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT) recognizes this program.
Admission Requirements
In order to apply for this program, students will need:
- Secondary school certification or equivalent
- English Grade 12 C or University or equivalent
- Mathematics Grade 11 M or 12 C or University or equivalent
Qualified college or university graduates with a background in electronics can gain direct admission into semester three of this program and receive their diploma in two semesters. Students currently in high school can also apply for this program. Their midterm and final term grades will be automatically transferred to the college.