Truck and Coach Technician Program Covers Range of Topics

Brake Systems, Electrical Systems, Truck and Coach Logistics, Engine Systems, Fuel Systems, and Preventative Maintenance: These are just some of the courses covered within Centennial College’s Truck and Coach Technician (Co-op Apprenticeship), with each topic seeing at least two levels of continuously advancing study. But that’s not all that this Truck and Coach Technician program covers. Centennial College’s students also learn applied mechanics, vehicle dynamics, and component design and repair as it applies to the apprenticeship curriculum as well as topics such as organizational behaviour, trade practices and fixed operations management. Lastly, supplementary courses exclusive to Centennial prepare graduates with advanced knowledge in the areas of applied electrical/electronics and vehicular tracking/communication systems.

This wide range of topics is just one of the advantages of studying to be a truck technician at Centennial College. Also advantageous is the fact that the Truck and Coach Technician program only takes two years to complete and sees students graduate with Ontario College Diploma as well as all of the qualifications needed to enter the field. Upon completing training at Centennial College and in addition to becoming a Truck and Coach Technician, students can also enter positions such as service writer/ advisor, service manager, college teacher/ industry teacher and truck or coach company representative.

And, the advantages don’t end there. The Truck and Coach Technician program is presented in a unique three eight-month-segment format. During the first eight months, students study on campus in the courses mentioned above. Centennial College’s Ashtonbee Campus is home to the Truck and Coach Technician training program. It houses the province’s largest transportation training centre at which students get to train on truck and coach assemblies in fully-equipped labs. They also get to try the latest tools that they will encounter in the field. The second segment is the co-op feature during which students work as registered apprentices at industry locations. This allows them the opportunity to apply to real-life what they learned on campus, gain new knowledge from professionals and network. The final eight-month segment has students return to campus to complete the in-school requirements.

Truck and Coach Technician applicants must have completed an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or General Educational Development (GED) or equivalent. In addition, they must have the English 12 C or U or equivalent or skills assessment. Lastly, they may also be required to present a resume and questionnaire that describes you experience and aptitude. Successful applicants must be eligible to work in Ontario and have an Ontario driver’s license.

Avionics Program Connects Students with Industry

When applying to a college program, not only should you take into account the curriculum, but also the offering’s relationships with the industry that may help you to get ahead upon graduation. At Centennial College, the avionics program (officially known as Aviation Technician – Avionics Maintenance) results in an Ontario College Diploma, and holds the following accreditations: Transport Canada accreditation for 18 months experience credit and technical examination credit towards the issue of a Canadian Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) Licence; and Canadian Council for Aviation and Aerospace accreditation for recognition towards meeting the basic training requirements for CCAA occupational trade certification as an Avionics Maintenance Technician.

In addition to industry partnerships, consider the level of commitment a college program wants from its students. The higher the standards, the better it will reflect on your resume once you graduate. At this aviation technician school program, students must achieve a minimum C grade in all courses. Transport Canada accreditation requires both a minimum B grade in every course, and an absentee rate of less than five per cent of the total program hours. Graduates who meet attendance requirements, project completion requirements, and attain 70 per cent in each course, are granted up to 18 months credit towards their Aircraft Maintenance Engineer’s licence (E rating).

These accreditations and requirements demonstrate how well established this avionics program is in the aviation industry; but exactly what type of training is offered to students? First and foremost, time in the avionics program is a balance of theory and lab training with shop work on various aircraft, learning basic electronics and sophisticated avionic systems used in modern aircraft and becoming comfortable with the aircraft’s various electronic systems. Specific topics include: theory of flight, aircraft publications, aircraft applied mathematics, turbine engines, airframe systems, avionics installation practices and much more. Secondly, training within the avionics program is based at Ashtonbee Campus, the province’s largest transportation training centre. As such, students have the advantage of accessing an airport hangar, airplanes and modern equipment reflecting the current trends in the industry. Thirdly, guiding avionics program students are faculty members who are highly skilled, with years of experience and extensive technical expertise. Aside from faculty, partners and supporters of the avionics program are members of Centennial College’s advisory committees and participate as guest speakers and panelists, sharing their knowledge and expertise for the benefit and enhancement of the program.

Applicants to this aviation technician school program must have completed at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or General Education Development or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. In addition, they must possess the English 12C or U or skills assessment or equivalent and Math 11M or U or 12C or U or skills assessment or equivalent.

The avionics technician industry, in which aviation technician school grads are employed, oversees the maintenance of engine operations, flight patterns, navigation systems, radio communications and weather radar systems; inspects, tests and double-checks electrical power distribution, and controls flight instrumentation.

English Communication Training Opens Educational and Career Doors

One of the ways to ensure success in both higher education as well as in the Canadian workplace is to have a grasp on the English language that encompasses reading, writing, speaking and listening. At Centennial College’s Arts and Science – English for Academic Purposes, which is essentially an English communication training program, students come to master these highly effective academic communication skills that will open the door to a wide range of Canadian industries.

Those interested in the type of English second language training that is intensive, full-time and geared for students who speak English as a second or additional language will have to complete the application process. Applicants are required to have completed at least an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. Second, there is a language skills assessment. It should be noted that this is not a program for absolute beginners. Students must have completed a beginner’s level language program prior to applying to the English for Academic Purposes program.

Guided by faculty members who encourage a mature, support and inclusive environment, English communication training students build their language skills by way of communicative activities, practical exercises, group work, presentations, and assignments. In addition, the campus that houses this offering has a variety of resources to support students in English second language training including. Among these tools are computer labs, a library, conversation practice groups and tutoring.

Attending classes five times a week, English communication training in Toronto students are exposed to courses such as: Speaking Up (emphasizes the development of pronunciation skills and interactive speaking and listening strategies for students to participate effectively in the classroom); ESL Reading Techniques (prepares students to read with greater speed and fluency focusing on practical processing techniques such as following written instructions, scanning for information, identifying topics, main ideas and details, and using vocabulary comprehension strategies); Guided Writing in English (introduces students to the writing process. Students are given practice in a variety of grammatical and structural forms); and more.

In order to empower students of this English communication training as they work towards their Ontario College certificate, this program is presented in three levels. Placement in level one, two or three is based on the results of a diagnostic placement test. Whether students come in at level one, two or three, completion of the third level allows them access to Centennial College academic programs. Many students go on to take advantage of Centennial College’s specialized programs.

It is worth noting that this English communication training is fully accredited by Languages Canada, Canada’s premier language organization. As such, it has met rigorous standards in terms of curriculum, teacher qualifications, student services and administration.

Biotechnology Technician Program Requires Dedication

Centennial College’s two-year Biotechnology Technician - Industrial Microbiology program is both challenging and rewarding. As such, it requires not only dedication but also proof of that dedication. This begins with the application process. Applicants to the Biotechnology college program are required to present at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. Also required is completion of compulsory English 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent and Math 11M or U or 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent. Students are placed in appropriate English level based on skills assessment results. Lastly, students who test at an advanced level may be accelerated directly into MATH-176 in semester 1 and MATH-186 in semester 2. Those taking MATH-140 will have the opportunity to complete MATH-186 between semesters 2 and 3.

Once accepted, students of this Biotechnology Technician offering obtain thorough practical training in industrial microbiology as well as chemistry (analytical and organic) and biochemistry. This is achieved in a variety of ways, including through a balance of theory and practical application such as lessons on appropriate safety procedures, biotechnology technician projects; and independently designed microbiology tasks that enhance problem solving and research skills. Students attend specific Biotechnology Technician courses such as: Intro to Biological Systems, Chemistry, Occupational Health and Safety, Mathematics, Microbiology, Microbial Techniques, Lab Instrumentation, Statistics for Applied Science and much more.

It is worthy of mention that this Biotechnology Technician offering is nationally accredited by the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists, which has deemed it as having met the national technology accreditation requirements. In addition, the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists recognizes the Biotechnology Technician - Industrial Microbiology program as meeting all the academic requirements for certification in the Technician Category. These national accreditations support program quality and provide mobility for graduates.

With the education obtained in this biotechnology college program, students take on the Biotechnology Technician role, which is also known as a Bench Technician. In their role, these professionals assure quality control in areas of manufacturing such as food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. This is carried out in a variety of ways. Among which are: isolating, enumerating and identifying microorganisms from many types of samples (water, soil, air, your body, and food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products); preparing specimens for staining and using a light-microscope; handling materials and instruments such as pH and BOD meters, Gas Chromatographs, spectrophotometers (regular/IR/UV), HPLC’s etc; preparing microbiological media and reagents; culture pathogenic microbes; and designing and perform their own microbiology experiments.

Court Clerk Training Covers Range of Topics

With a range of cases being presented throughout the day, it is vital that a courtroom runs like clockwork. Assisting in this are those who have received court clerk training and serve as court monitors or court clerks. But what is the difference between these two vital jobs?

A court clerk is responsible for duties that include: swearing in jury members, interpreters, witnesses and defendants; preparing dockets or calendars of cases to be called; preparing documents recording the outcomes of court proceedings; recording case dispositions, court orders, and arrangements made for payment of court fees; instructing parties about timing of court appearances; explaining procedures or forms to parties in cases or to the general public; and more. On the other hand, a court monitor must: record verbatim proceedings of courts, legislative assemblies, committee meetings, and other proceedings, using computerized recording equipment, electronic stenograph machines, or steno masks; transcribe recorded proceedings in accordance with established formats; ask speakers to clarify inaudible statements; provide transcripts of proceedings upon request of judges, lawyers, or the public; and respond to requests during court sessions to read portions of the proceedings already recorded.

At Centennial College’s municipal court training, officially known as Court Support Services, students obtain the know-how needed to fill both of these positions within The Ministry of the Attorney General (Ontario Court of Justice, Ontario Superior Court of Justice), Municipal courts, tribunals and boards, official examiners, and court reporting services.

Municipal court training is achieved through a two-semester undertaking that is designed on the recommendation of the Ministry of the Attorney General, which will essentially introduce students to the procedural rules, family law and criminal law, court reporting and transcribing, ethics and professional conduct, word processing applications and more. These topics are presented in small-sized classes with newly upgraded computer labs as well as through practical, career-oriented assignments.

Giving students of this municipal court training an advantage over those who may have attended programs at other post-secondary schools is the fact that it offers a practicum portion, use of an assimilated courtroom within Centennial College as well as numerous trips to the various courtrooms and tribunals in order for students to see first-hand exactly what their role will be within the courtroom setting.

Municipal court training applicants are required to possess at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. Academic requirements include compulsory English 12 or U, or skills assessment, or equivalent. Applicants must demonstrate an acceptable level of English language proficiency in order to be considered for admission. It is also worth noting that to graduate from the Court Support Services program, students are required to attain a minimum C grade average and an overall minimum GPA of 2.0 for graduation.

Business Marketing Training Offers Diversity and Practical Skills

“My program is a mix of basic business and the marketing field,” says Brain, a student of Centennial College’s Business Marketing training, known as Business Administration – Marketing. “I chose Centennial College because it actually has the most culturally diverse population in Toronto. I found that if I am going to do marketing, I need to learn to market to everyone and this is the college to help me do it.”

While Brain’s testimonial demonstrates one of the highlights of this Business marketing training, there are many others. First and foremost, in order to apply for this Business Marketing program & training, students must have at least an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 years or older). They must also have completed the English Grade 12 C or U or equivalent, or skills assessment and Math Grade 11 C, M or U, or Grade 12 C or U or equivalent or skills assessment.

The three-year offering combines a broad-based education in business (by having students partake in a first semester that features courses common to most Centennial College business programs) and specific training in marketing. Once students move onto the heart of their business marketing training, they master areas such as: marketing research, marketing communications (which includes advertising and promotion), interactive marketing (which includes direct marketing, e-marketing and customer relationship management) and brand planning. Employed as teaching methods in all Business Marketing training courses are case studies, guest lectures, presentations, projects, and computer simulations and technologies.

Additionally, students have the opportunity to apply what they learn in their business marketing training to an industry project. The project sees students working in a team setting on a real project that is sponsored by an entrepreneurial endeavour, small business or major company. This is the students’ opportunity to show potential employers how well they work under pressure and in a professional situation.

To graduate from this offering, students must maintain a C grade average and an overall GPA of 2.0. Upon Business Marketing training graduation, students may be eligible to participate in articulated programs with selected universities, institutes and professional associations. These partnerships allow students to apply credits earned at Centennial towards further study at other institutions. Partners of this Business Marketing training include: Athabasca University, Algoma University, Royal Roads University, Ryerson University, Davenport University, Northwood University, University of Lethbridge, Griffith University and University of New Brunswick. Should they want to enter the field right away, business marketing training grads may do so in various positions that include: Marketing Coordinator, Marketing Analyst, Promotions Assistant, Sales Representative, Assistant Brand Manager, Public Relations Assistant and Advertising Assistant. In one way or another, these professionals manage the many links between an organization and its customers.

Hospitality Management Program Trains Students for Expanding Field

With the Canadian Tourism Human Resource Council anticipating growth in the food and beverage services sector to employ 1.95-million people by 2015 and 68 per cent of employees within this sector to be young Canadians, it becomes clear that now is a great time to attend a post-secondary Hospitality Management program.

The undertaking offered at Centennial College and officially known as Hospitality Management – Restaurant and Catering prepares students, in two years, for a challenging and satisfying career in restaurant operations management. Applicants to this Hospitality Management program must possess at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or have mature student status (19 years or older). In addition, they must have finished the English Grade 12 C or U or equivalent, or skills assessment.

The industry preparation in the Hospitality Management program begins with learning essentials such as menu management and design, kitchen management, beverage knowledge, bartending, quantity food preparation, theory of food, supervisory practices for the kitchen manager, cuisines of diverse cultures, marketing strategies and more. This is achieved through lectures and labs at Centennial College’s Progress Campus, which houses facilities such as a hospitality management centre and an operating restaurant called Horizons.

The hands-on practice prepares Hospitality Management program students for two field placements that serve to offer real-world experience prior to graduation. The first of these on-the-job experiences enables learners to better understand the dynamics of the kitchen manager position, increase their knowledge of industry practices and provides a competitive advantage of experience in the job market. Meanwhile, the second Hospitality Management field placement offers students a continued learning experience, this time in the restaurant and catering manager positions. Among the Hospitality Management program’s industry partners are: Canyon Creek, Red Lobster, Milagro Cantina, Jack Astor’s, The Keg, Kelsey’s, Swiss Chalet and more.

The Hospitality Management program results in an Ontario College Diploma and Smart Serve program and the National Sanitation Training certificates. With these accreditations, Hospitality Management program grads may be responsible for tasks such as analyzing and planning restaurant sales levels and profitability; setting budgets and/or agreeing on them with senior management; menu management; managing staff and providing them with feedback; organizing and supervising the shifts of kitchen, waiting and cleaning staff; checking stock levels and ordering supplies; and more.

If, however, these grads should want to further their education, they may do so via the Hospitality Management program’s partnerships, which allow them to apply academic credit towards further study. These Hospitality Management program partnerships include: Athabasca University, International Hotel Management Institute (Switzerland), Vancouver Island University, University of New Brunswick and Royal Roads University (B.C.).

Kitchen Management Courses Focus on Offering Students Practical Know-How

"The hospitality program is a great master plan for those who want to pursue a career in this industry," says Severo Vitorio Pastor, a graduate of Centennial College’s Hospitality Operations – Kitchen Management offering. "Each subject truly equips us with the knowledge, skills and experiences that we need to become successful in our field."

This insight from Severo demonstrates just how streamlined the Kitchen Management courses within this offering are to ensure that students spend their time only learning the know-how they truly need. As such, topics covered within the Kitchen Management courses include a range of hands-on kitchen experience, as well as business practices in accounting, human resources, and supervision. This balance is offered through the learning of skills such as: sanitation, hygiene and safety, as well as quantity food preparation, theory of food, practical supervision of food production, customer service, human resources and career planning, hospitality accounting, practical math, purchasing for the commercial kitchen, and many others.

To allow students the opportunity to apply what they have learned in their Kitchen Management courses prior to graduation, Centennial College offers a range of practical applications. Not only are some classes conducted from the school’s on-campus living lab-restaurant called Horizons, but students also have the opportunity to attend a hospitality program field placement. During this time, students obtain meaningful work experience in approved jobs within the food service industry, adding another educational dimension to their career preparation. Field placement also enables learners to better understand the dynamics of the industry, increases their knowledge of industry practices, and provides a competitive advantage of experience in the job market. In addition to the important career preparation that students of this hospitality program receive through the field placement, the company with which they spend time also hires many full-time. Among this hospitality program’s industry partners are: Moxie’s Grill & Bar, Swiss Chalet, Kelsey’s, Milestones, Red Lobster, Jack Astor’s, and many others. 

Applicants interested in obtaining an Ontario College Certificate, and the Smart Serve program and the National Sanitation Training certificates from this hospitality program, must first go through an application process. Interested parties are required to have completed, at minimum, an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent, or be 19 years of age or older. Students must also have attended the compulsory English 12C or U, or skills assessment or equivalent. It should be noted that possession of minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission to the hospitality program.

With the training obtained in these Kitchen Management hospitality courses, students may enter the second year of Centennial’s two-year Food and Beverage Management program. This further study will provide them with different opportunities and more knowledge. On the other hand, graduates are fully prepared for work as food operations managers. In this position they will plan, organize and direct a varied staff of food service personnel in a many types of food service operations, including catering and banquet, restaurants, or specialty snack food service.

Hospitality and Tourism Administration Program Opens Various Doors

Did you know that under the umbrella of Hospitality and Tourism Administration is an array of areas that include: hotel and restaurant general management, human resources management, sales and marketing management, convention services coordination, tour coordination, food and beverage management, housekeeping management and hotel financial management? What’s more is that at Centennial College, you only have to attend one Hospitality and Tourism Administration program to be eligible to apply for all these areas upon graduation.

The offering at Centennial College takes three years to complete and results in an Ontario College Advanced Diploma, which shows employers a high standard of learning. Additionally, students who study at the Tourism Administration program have the option of continuing their education with articulated programs through selected universities, institutes and professional associations. These educational partnerships allow graduates to apply academic credit towards further study. The hospitality administration’s partners are: Athabasca University, International Hotel Management Institute (Switzerland), Ryerson University, Southern New Hampshire University (U.S.A.), University of Calgary, University of New Brunswick and more.

Priding itself on offering students a balance of theory and practical application, Tourism and Hospitality Administration boasts both classes as well as a 15-week field placement. Considered a standout feature of this program, the work experience sees students working in approved jobs within the Hospitality and Tourism Administration Industry. Among the benefits of the placement are: the opportunity for students to relate classroom theory to the practical world, while adding another career educational dimension career preparation; better understanding the dynamics of the industry; increasing knowledge of industry practices and providing a competitive advantage of experience in the job market.

Aside from this all-important practical experience, students attend Hospitality and Tourism courses at the school’s Progress Campus location.

As the base for all School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culture programs, it includes a full service hospitality management centre, an onsite conference centre and state-of-the-art computer labs. These facilities allow students to encounter real life experiences, deal with customers and see what it takes to run facilities similar to the ones in the industry.

Additionally Hospitality and Tourism courses range from business practices in marketing and human resources, to finance and industry operations — as applied to the entire hospitality and tourism field. Among specific courses are: Dimensions of Tourism, Beverage Knowledge and Bartending, Sanitation, Safety and Hygiene; World Geography for Tourism, Introduction to Hospitality Accounting, Wholesale Tour Operations, Meeting and Convention Management, Responsible Tourism and much more.

Applicants to this Hospitality and Tourism Administration undertaking must possess at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 years or older). They must also have the English Grade 12 C or U or equivalent, or skills assessment.

Food and Nutrition Management Keeps Communities Healthy

Health and nutrition management plays a huge role in keeping communities healthy. When you send your child to school and give him or her money for lunch, you want to ensure that they are ingesting a healthy lunch. When your loved one is hospitalized, you want to ensure the meals they receive have nutritional value. That’s where professionals who have attended a Food and Nutrition Management come in. These Food and Nutrition Managers, Food Service Coordinators, Dietary Managers and Quality Control Technicians are tasked with very important responsibilities that ensure the growing healthcare and food service industry continues to evolve.

Those who attend the two-year Food and Nutrition Management program at Centennial College are especially equipped to handle their duties as they are able to: practice in accordance with the code of ethics of the appropriate professional association, the Canadian Society of Nutrition Management; apply a knowledge of normal and clinical nutrition; participate in the provision of nutritional care in a variety of settings, including institutional and community environments; participate in procurement of goods and services and master menu planning; supervise the preparation of food products and special feedings following standardized recipes and production procedures; supervise food distribution according to established standards; and supervise operational procedures to meet established standards for safety and sanitation according to established policy, procedures and regulations.

But how this Food and Nutrition Management program get students from novices to seasoned professionals? First and foremost, the offering is based at Morningside Campus, Centennial College’s most high-tech location. At this campus, using Centennial’s Hospitality Management Centre, students learn the practical aspects of quantity food preparation and service and conduct experiments to learn the physical food properties. This is achieved through a variety of lecture and lab courses such as: Kitchen Production, Perspectives on Human Aging, Food Properties Analysis, Purchasing for the Food Services Industry, Food Service Accounting, Medical Nutrition Therapy, Supervision Practices and more.

Secondly the final seven weeks of Food and Nutrition Management are balanced by a supervised work experience in a health care facility. This allows students to not only apply what they have learned but also network and work alongside seasoned professionals.

It is worth noting that the Food and Nutrition Management program has received the President’s Academic Program Recognition Award for Preparation for Job Market, Student Satisfaction, Graduate Satisfaction, Employer Satisfaction and Quality of The Learning Experience. It also holds an accreditation from the Canadian Society of Nutrition Management (CSNM). The Food and Nutrition Management’s CSNM accreditation ensures that graduates are automatically eligible for membership in the CSNM and OSNM (Ontario Society of Nutrition Management). CSNM membership is a requirement of the Ontario’s Ministry of Health and Long Term Care to work in a long-term care facility and most acute care facilities.

To apply for the Food and Nutrition Management program, applicants are required to possess at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. In addition, they must have compulsory English 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent and Math 11M or U or 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent.

Firefighter Program Offers Solid Base

Centennial College’s firefighter courses within its Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training are a great way to ensure that you have the knowledge and requirements to confidently apply for a position with your local fire department. That’s because this type of undertaking is increasingly becoming minimum criterion for fire service hiring. The best part is that the firefighter program takes just three semesters to complete and results in an Ontario College Certificate.

Applicants to the firefighter program are required to have completed at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. Also required are compulsory English Grade 12 C or U, or equivalent; math Grade 11 or 12, C or U, or equivalent; and one Science Grade 11 or 12  (Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Exercise Science) C or U, or equivalent (minimum grade required). Additionally, there is a host of non-academic requirements, among which are: filling out a self-identifying questionnaire, demonstrating the ability to wear a breathing apparatus, producing a medical certificate indicating the ability to perform the duties of a firefighter. Lastly, in order to obtain a career as a firefighter, many municipal fire services may also require further qualifications, including: 20/30 vision in each eye without corrective lenses, satisfactory completion of a colour vision assessment, normal and unaided hearing, no conviction for a criminal offense for which a pardon has not been granted, and possession of a Class DZ driver license.

Once accepted, students attend firefighter courses that are in accordance with the approved curriculum developed by the Ontario Association of the Fire Chiefs (OAFC) and the Ontario Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM). Among these courses are: Introduction to Fire Service, Fire Ground Operations, Emergency Patient Care, Fire Equipment, Fire Suppression, Fitness and more. Through the firefighter courses, students also benefit from simulation training under the guidance of qualified instructors, while enjoying ample time in smaller group-teaching scenarios. To round out training, firefighter program students attend a Firefighter Pre-Graduate experience that provides them with an opportunity to integrate knowledge and skills learned in the previous two semesters and to apply them during intensive practice of basic fire fighting skills in a simulated environment, including live fire. Students also gain better insight into the role of the fire fighter, the operations of the fire service and other related emergency services.

Upon completion of the firefighter program, students have the know-how to take the Ontario Fire Marshal Provincial Testing.  As such, they are able to: demonstrate the culminating role performance in fire suppression, community education and fire prevention, firefighter emergency patient care, environmental protection and special rescue operations; meet the ethical, legal and safety requirements of professionals in the fire service industry; use safe practices and techniques with fire department apparatus, tools and equipment; communicate effectively using verbal, non-verbal, written or electronic methods including recognized and appropriate fire service terminology; work effectively with other members of the fire service team, pre-hospital emergency care providers and other emergency service-related groups to provide comprehensive service in emergency and non-emergency situations; and more.

Developmental Services Workers Obtain In-Depth Training

The Centennial College training for those parties interested in becoming developmental services workers teaches everything they need to know to enter the field in just two years. That’s because this offering, which results in an Ontario College Diploma, boasts a curriculum that reflects current issues and developments. Emphasis is placed on in-depth analysis and critical thinking, managing and affecting change, interpersonal communication and leadership skills as well as clarification of values. Not only that, but future developmental services workers who attend this program also apply what they have learned in various ways prior to graduation.

To apply for Centennial College’s Development Services Worker program, students are required to have an Ontario College Diploma or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. In addition, they must have completed the English 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent. 

Once accepted, Developmental Services Worker program students will discover that the program curriculum allows for use of learning tools such as projects, seminars, community observations, Internet searches, teamwork and electronic communication.

These hands-in techniques, which cover a variety of topics, allow students to master skills that include in-depth analysis and critical thinking, managing and affecting change, interpersonal communication and leadership skills as well as clarification of values, helping people to fill valued social roles, teaching and the provision of personal support. Among the topics that developmental services workers cover in the offering are: interpersonal skills development, valued social roles, social psychology, pharmacology, history of disability and more.

Not only do these program’s future developmental services workers apply what they learn on campus, they also have the opportunity to see what the industry is like prior to graduation through two field placements. In the third and fourth semesters, students gain applied experience supporting people who have intellectual disabilities within different contexts. Students have the opportunity to take the responsibility for designing and implementing plans or strategies to teach and support individuals and/or work with communities. Some field placement agencies may require a criminal reference check prior to student placement. Certain criminal convictions may disallow placement in these agencies and program completion may not be possible.

Upon graduation, developmental services workers may also obtain titles such as educational assistant, support worker, residential support worker and employment supporter. While the different roles may have different specific duties, the professionals in the Developmental Services Workers field who train at Centennial College all have the know-how to: complete and maintain client history and background forms; participate in the development and implementation of person directed plans; support individuals to develop and maintain relationships within the family and community; manage individual medication; develop and apply crisis intervention strategies; be responsible for modeling and promoting a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a safe environment; and more.

Mechanical Engineering Program Focuses on Technology

Those who attend a Mechanical Engineering program know that mechanical engineering technology is defined as “the application of engineering principles and technological developments to the creation of useful machinery or products. Through the application of computer-aided manufacturing, the models may also be used directly by software to create ‘instructions’ for the manufacture of objects represented by the models, through computer numerically controlled machining or other automated processes.” As such, professionals in this field obtain jobs in the manufacture and production of mechanical equipment in which they may develop quality control systems, assist in plant expansions and layouts, conduct time and motion studies, plan and schedule new facilities and prepare job safety programs and manuals. Among the titles grads of a mechanical engineering program can attain are: supervisor (which offers additional opportunities), junior engineer, assistant to rofessional engineers, lab technician, quality control, CAD operator, technical sales and marketing, production control, and product design and development.

Before they can do so though, professionals must attend a Mechanical Engineering program such as the Mechanical Engineering Technology – Industrial (PTY) offering at Centennial College, which teaches engineering theory as well as more specialized subjects relating to modern manufacturing and production processes and offers practice in the manufacturing and production of mechanical equipment.

Applicants interested in attending this school’s mechanical engineering courses must have completed at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 years or older). In addition, they must possess English Grade 12 C or U, or equivalent, or skills assessment; and Math Grade 11 M or U or Grade 12 C or U, or equivalent, or skills assessment.

Students of this mechanical engineering program attend three year’s worth of courses that offer a 60-40 balance of theory and practice, and include: Statistics, Machine Shop, Fluid Mechanics, Applied Electricity, Differential Calculus and Analytic Geometry, Properties of Materials, Tool Design, Quality Assurance, Physics, and more. A project-heavy approach allows learners gain experience in machine shop operation, tool design, plus computer numerical control programming, designing, as well as building and testing an original piece of equipment. In addition, they learn essential computer-assisted drafting and manufacturing (CAD/ CAM), as well as industry-current software instruction in AutoCAD, Inventor and Mastercam.

Many of these all-important mechanical engineering program topics are covered in a new mechanical engineering lab that includes Thermodynamic Fluid Power testing modules, and Tensile, Hardness and Impact Testers. This environment also serves as great preparation for the most hands-on components of the mechanical engineering program — two individual projects and a co-op in the field. The project, which simulates actual workplace assignments, gives students practical experience in designing, building and testing an original piece of equipment. Meanwhile, academically qualified Mechanical Engineering program students enhance their education by working three terms as paid employees in the field. This experience not only allows them to put classroom learning into practice, but also provides valuable networking opportunities for future careers. Please note that a minimum C grade required in COMM-170/171, minimum 2.5 GPA and minimum 80 percent of year 1 and 2 courses are requird for COOP-221.

Centennial College’s Automotive Service Technician Apprenticeship Focuses on Canadian Tire Employment

If there is one brand that is recognizable across Canada, it is Canadian Tire. Founded in 1922, this store is not only known for its loyalty reward program and great prices but also its automotive services. As an automotive technician who wants a clear advantage over the competition, the only program you should consider is the Automotive Service Technician apprenticeship at Centennial College. That’s because this offering, officially known as Automotive Service Technician Canadian Tire MAP 32, is actually partnered with the store. As such, you will be employed or sponsored by Canadian Tire stores and receive all the in-school training necessary for your apprenticeship as an automotive service technician.

Applicants to this automotive service technician training are required to have completed an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or GED (General Educational Development). Additionally, applicants must be employed by a Canadian Tire dealership or be selected through an advising/interview session; and they must also be able to legally work in Canada. It is worth noting that when space permits, additional applicants are selected through an interview process. If the college determines there are additional seats available, applicants will receive a letter and questionnaire with instructions on how to request a program interview. Admission is on a first come first served basis. Lastly, students enrolled in a Centennial College Modified Apprenticeship Program (MAP) are Registered Apprentices, in accordance with the Apprenticeship Branch of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities.

The structure of the automotive service technician apprenticeship sees students experience more in-depth automotive service technician training that includes 32 weeks of in-class training. During this time, students complete five courses, which are part of a provincial automotive curriculum and satisfy the knowledge necessary to become a licensed technician.  These courses are: Drive train Systems, Electrical/Electronic & Emission Systems, Engine Systems, Work Practices and Procedures, Suspension/Steering and Brake System. All of these automotive service technician apprenticeship courses are facilitated from Ashtonbee Campus. As Centennial College’s transportation training hub and the largest facility of its sort in the province, it is fully equipped with product-generic tools and includes a broad range of makes and models from the automotive industry.  It is worth noting that automotive service technician training students may be eligible for EI (employment insurance) during the in-class training.

Students of this automotive service technician apprenticeship also obtain four weeks of On-the-job experience at one of Ontario’s over 190 Canadian Tire stores, which leads to a high placement rate for candidates.  At Canadian Tire locations, automotive service technician apprenticeship student’s work alongside automotive service professionals, applying what they have learned during their in-school sessions, gaining new knowledge and getting to know the company. It is a chance to show off their newly acquired or developed skills. During the employer sessions, Automotive Service Technician Apprenticeship are compensated.

General Motors Technicians Receive Practical Application of All Theory at Centennial College

Did you know that the General Motors Company is an American multinational automotive corporation and the world’s largest automaker, by vehicle unit sales? Furthermore, did you know it employs 202,000 people and does business in 157 countries? As such there was many General Motors technicians who are in charge of writing vehicle damage repair estimates, repairing broken or worn mechanical components, maintaining repair and service records, installing equipment, components and systems; testing vehicles both before and after repair; and repairing electrical wiring, circuits, fixtures, brakes, transmissions, electrical systems, breaks and tires.

In order to learn these skills, General Motors technicians attend post-secondary programs such as Centennial College’s GM technician training, which is officially known as Automotive Service Technician General Motors of Canada ASEP (MAP 32). At this particular program students are exposed to the latest GM vehicle systems, with emphasis on diagnosis and repair following recommended GM service procedures.

Structured into a 64-week program, students of GM technician training spend an even amount of time on campus and with their employer. This makes the undertaking longer than traditional apprenticeships and allows for a more in-depth knowledge of General Motors vehicles and procedures. While attending the in-school portion of the program, future General Motors technicians attend five specific courses: Motor Vehicle Gear Trains, Electrical/Electronics & Fuel Systems, Motor Vehicle Engine Systems, Applied Work Practices and Procedures, and Suspension/Steering and Brakes. Helping them to become comfortable with all aspects of the GM vehicles is Centennial College’s Ashtonbee Campus, which is Canada’s largest transportation training centre. At this facility, future General Motors technicians have the opportunity to use tools that are common in the field and practice on actual GM vehicles. Students enrolled in this GM technician training may be eligible for employment insurance during the in-class training.

Meanwhile, during the time with their employer, General Motors technicians apply their new knowledge, obtain tips from seasoned professionals with years of experience in the field and network. During their employer sessions, students are compensated for their work.

As a program admission requirement, applicants to this GM technician training must be employed as automotive apprentices at a General Motors of Canada dealership. They must also possess at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or a GED or equivalent. Interested parties can apply directly to the College. Acceptance to the GM technician training is based on successful completion of all entry requirements and space is limited. It is worth noting that if students are not currently General Motors employees, they may be selected through an interview process. Once they’ve been accepted, they are required to obtain an employer and register as a MAP apprentice with the Apprenticeship Branch of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities.

Perks of Community College

Although the term community college is not widely used in the Canadian context, it essentially describes educational institutions providing higher education and tertiary education, granting certificates, and diplomas. There are 150 Canadian institutions that could be roughly equivalent of the US community college in certain contexts. They are usually referred to simply as "colleges" since in common usage a degree granting institution is almost exclusively a university.

There are many benefits to attending a community college — especially the first public college in Ontario called Centennial College. Firstly, a community college offers a reduced tuition. The vast majority of universities charge thousands of dollars per semester, and over four years that can up to $50,000 plus. However, because community college programs are shorter in length, students don't pay nearly that much. As such, they can accomplish very similar academic successes at a fraction of the cost. At Centennial College, for example, students also have access to various financial aid programs that will ease the load even more.

Secondly, a community college offers the ability to transfer credits. For example, at Centennial College, there are many programs linked to universities that allow students to use their credentials to skip certain course. These partnerships include universities in the United States and around the world. As such, students can take preparatory core classes at community college and then transfer to a university for extended, more precise coursework.

Thirdly, a community college program is designed to develop vocational skills. As such, you are not wasting time on liberal arts courses that will be of no use to you when you graduate. Instead, you are attending courses directly linked to your field. At Centennial College, this is even reflected in the community college's mission statement, which reads in part: "Our mission is to educate students for career success. We make every decision to support the career and personal development of our learners. Our curriculum, teaching and services demonstrate that we value the diverse profiles of our learners."

A fourth benefit of attending community college is convenience and size. Community colleges are often situated in the hearts of towns or cities, as such they are accessible by public transportation and allow students to live at home and save money. At Centennial College, there are four campuses that cater to specific areas of study: Ashtonbee Campus (transportation), Progress Campus (business and tourism), Centre for Creative Communications and Media (communications and media), and Morningside Campus (health and community studies as well as engineering technology and applied science).

A final community college benefit is the flexibility of its courses. Often, a community college takes into account the busy life of its students and also presents courses in part-time format. At Centennial College, this is achieved either through evening classes on a part-time basis or Distance Learning, which is facilitated entirely online or through print-based courses. In this community college option, experienced instructors understand adult learning needs; offer flexible, learner-centered teaching methodologies; provide practical hands-on knowledge to place relevant theory into context and perspective; and more.

Degree Programs Ensure Unique Experience

We all know there are pros to attending either college or university. With college programs, you get an ample amount of practical experience but graduate with a diploma. In university, you forgot that amount of practice but graduate with a degree. With Centennial College's Degree Programs, you can have both the four-year degree, as well as practical application of your newly acquired skills prior to graduation.

Not only does Centennial College offer four-year degree programs, it also sees students partake in undertakings that are partnered with various institutions that allow them to transfer to university campuses to complete their learning. As such, in conjunction with Ryerson University, Centennial College students can participate in the degree program Bachelor of Science Nursing program. Meanwhile, University of Toronto college degree programs include: Applied Microbiology, Environmental Science and Technology, Journalism, New Media Studies and Paramedicine. There is also a Bridging to Software Systems Design offering for students who wish to complete the Software System Design college degree in two years, while keeping a full-time job, if they have a diploma in software and are working in the field.

The two college degree offerings facilitated fully from Centennial College are called Computer and Communication Networks and Software System Design. The first of these degree programs saw Centennial College become the only post-secondary institution in the province to offer a bachelor's degree program in Computer and Communication Networking. It consists of a distinctive blend of technology and business subjects — creating an innovative balance between the practical and the theoretical backgrounds for which employers are looking. Students also benefit from state-of-the-art laboratories that are specially designed for the curriculum and include VoIP, cellular networks, wireless broadband (WiMax), advanced routing and switching as well as network management. This college degree program boasts a co-op work term during summer between second and third year. Upon completion from the degree program, grads can pursue careers as: project management analysts, IT program managers, technical account managers, business account managers, network administrators, network analysts, network support and more.

The other of these degree programs at Centennial College is called Software Systems Design. Again, it is the only of its kind in the province and offers students a blend of technology and business subjects as well as industry placement, focusing on system design. As such, students can specialize in mobile application development or service oriented architecture and cloud computing. During their four years in the degree program, students partake in courses such as Website Design and Development, Logic and Problem-Solving Strategies, Object Oriented Programming, Logical Self Defense, Database Driven Websites, Internet Programming and more. Their training is rounded out with three software development projects. These real-world business applications require students to utilize all the technical, systems and business skills acquired during their studies to build higher quality software.

Toyota Technician Training Offers Unique Opportunity

Did you know that by attending Toyota Technician training at Centennial College, you may go on to work as more than just an automotive service technician? That’s because this undertaking also offers the knowledge needed to obtain jobs such as service writers (responsible for writing repair orders, communicating them to the mechanic and estimating the final cost to the consumer), service parts managers (ensure that right spare part and resources are at the right place, where the broken part is, at the right time), trainers and professors (teach students how to become automotive service technicians) and automotive manufacturer specialists. Within the Toyota organization, these professionals can rest assured that they will be in demand as they are working for the eleventh-largest company in the world by revenue.

This Toyota training, officially known as the Automotive Service Technician Toyota (Map 32) program, requires applications to possess at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) or equivalent. In addition, they should be employed by a Toyota dealership. Candidates may apply directly to Centennial College, with successful applicants obtaining an employer and registering as a MAP apprentice with the Apprenticeship Branch of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. Students may apply to a maximum of three programs at Centennial College. There are a limited number spots within this Toyota technician training. However, when space permits additional applicants who may not be employed by Toyota are selected through an interview process.

Toyota technician training is covered in four eight-week blocks, alternating with apprenticeship work terms at students’ Toyota dealers. As such, students first gain an understanding of the basics through a traditional apprenticeship curriculum as well as additional training on Toyota products’ description, operation, diagnostics and repair. They then head out into the real world to apply what they have learned and obtain new knowledge from seasoned professionals with whom they work side-by-side.

The on-campus component of this Toyota training is delivered at Ashtonbee Campus, Centennial College’s transportation training hub. This location is also the largest transportation training centre in the province and comes with fully-equipped automotive labs. As such, students’ training on Toyota products makes them productive immediately after completing each level of their training. Using the labs and actual Toyota vehicles, the Toyota technician training covers five particular courses: Drive Train Systems, Electrical/Electronic & Fuels, Engine Systems, Work Practices and Procedures and Suspension/Steering and Brake Systems.

While they are in school, students of this Toyota Technician training may also be eligible for Employment Insurance (EI) and while they are with their employers, they are fully compensated. Another benefit of the Toyota technician training is that students may also be eligible for up to $4,000 in various grants and tax incentives. This Toyota technician training also makes employers eligible for up to $45,000 over four years in various federal and provincial tax incentives.

Honda Technician Training Appeals to Driven Individuals

If you are looking to enter an automotive field that will see you working for the sixth largest automobile manufacturer in the world, then you may want to consider the Honda technician training. This type of offering is specifically focused on offering students the skills they need to work for the Honda Motor Company.

At Centennial College, students can attend the Honda technician training, officially known as the Automotive Service Technician Honda AHAP MAP 32 programs. Applicants are asked to possess an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or a GED or equivalent. They are also required to be employed by a Honda dealership or be selected through an interview process and be able to legally work in Canada. Candidates may apply directly to Centennial College, with successful applicants obtaining an employer and registering as a MAP apprentice with the Apprenticeship Branch of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities.

Because the in-school sessions of this Honda technician training are facilitated from Centennial College’s Ashtonbee Campus, students have the advantage of learning in an environment that mimics the real world as they study a range of topics that include an emphasis on electronics and the diagnosing of mechanical systems. Additionally, all aspects of vehicle technology are embodied in the program, including electrical, body electrical, engine, transmission, steering, front-end, and all other aspects that would allow a Honda vehicle to be serviced. Among the specific courses in the Honda technician training are: Applied Work Practices and Procedures, Motor Vehicle Engine Systems, Steering, Suspension and Brakes; Electrical Electronics and Fuels, Motor Vehicle Gear Trains, and more. Also thanks to its location, this Honda technician training program allows students to practice in labs that are fully equipped with the tools they will encounter in the industry as well as Honda parts and vehicles. In fact, training on Acura/Honda products and over 100 on-line Honda training modules makes them productive immediately.

It is worth noting that some students within the Honda technician training at Centennial College may be eligible for Employment Insurance during the in-class aspect. Apprentices are also currently eligible for up to $4000 in various grants and tax incentives.

As students of Honda technician training alternate between the College and their employer for a total of 64 weeks (32 weeks with each), the length of the program offers students more in-depth and longer school sessions than traditional apprenticeship programs. Meanwhile, sessions with employers provide the opportunity to apply what has been learned to real life situations. During this aspect of the Honda technician training, students are compensated for their work.

After completing Centennial College’s Honda technician training, students are able to perform a variety of tasks, among which are: diagnosing problems using Honda diagnostic equipment; performing repairs and preventive maintenance on engines, transmissions, electrical systems, brakes and tires. Honda technicians also conduct vehicle inspections. Additionally, they may obtain titles such as: automotive service technicians, service writers/advisors, service and parts managers, trainers/professors and automotive manufacturer specialists.