Electro Mechanical Technicians Career Information

Electro-mechanical technicians are responsible for solving technical problems in electronic and electrical machines, devices, equipment, circuits and systems. They are typically employed in construction, automotive, manufacturing, aircraft, and rail, power, oil and gas and telecom sectors. They handle a large number of job duties, including installation, maintenance, testing, troubleshooting and repairing of electrical and electronic devices and systems. In addition to this, they are also employed in the areas of customer service and sales.

Building a Career as an Electro-Mechanical Technician in Canada

In order to work as an electro-mechanical technician in Canada, it has become important for individuals to have undergone a postsecondary training in electrical/electronic engineering technology combined with mechanical engineering. They may consider enrolling themselves into a two-year post-secondary electro-mechanical engineering program. Such programs help them gain expertise in the field of automation and robotics, which are at the heart of all advanced manufacturing industries.

In addition, they gain a thorough understanding and hands-on laboratory experience in hydraulics, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), electronics, pneumatics and robotics. The emphasis is also placed on report writing in technical environment, business communications and ethics in technology and the environment. Students considering this career option should take maths as a compulsory subject during their secondary education. This is the basic requirement to enter a post-secondary electro-mechanical engineering technician program. With this, they must be proficient in English language.

Additional Skills

The electro-mechanical technicians must be able to work on all traditional and modern electro-mechanical devices. Employers are keen on hiring professionals who not only have undergone a formal education and training but are also capable of troubleshooting and repairing these devices and equipments. They are also expected to possess good communication, interpersonal and sales skills, as they may need to deal directly with the customers.

Studying Electro-Mechanical Engineering in Canada

There are a number of colleges in Canada that offer two-year post-secondary courses to aspiring electro-mechanical technicians. However, most colleges provide general education and theory. Technical understanding and hands-on laboratory and work experience in a real-world setting play a vital role in seeking a decent-paying job after course completion.

Moreover, not all programs are accredited. Centennial College's two-year post-secondary program in electro-mechanical engineering technician is accredited by Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB). Centennial College has also received key-school status with the U.S. based Fluid Power Education Foundation (FPEF). Besides, the course provides an in-depth understanding of engineering fundamentals to advanced systems and hands-on laboratory allowing students put their learning into practice. The program graduates can either choose to pursue their careers or continue for additional study and co-op experience in three-year automation robotics engineering technology program.

Applying for a Post-Secondary Electro-Mechanical Engineering Program

Interested students need to fill an application form and submit secondary school diploma certificate along with scores in English Grade 12 C or University or equivalent and Math Grade 11 m or 12 C or University or equivalent. Applicants not meeting academic requirements must take English and Math assessments conducted by the college for admission. The application can be submitted in person or by mail or online.