Certificate in Essential Technical Skills in Architecture, Construction, and Engineering

This hands-on program starts with three in-person courses at Okanagan College’s Kelowna campus in summer 2026 (ACE Summer Intensive program), covering key ACE concepts like digital modelling, construction management, and building technology. If you continue on to the full Certificate, you’ll then complete two paid Work-Integrated learning (WIL) internships with industry partners while taking online courses with BCIT to build skills in design, communication, systems, materials and estimating.

This program prioritizes underrepresented populations in the ACE sector, including newcomers to Canada with a background in an ACE-related field, and recent high school graduates/young adults (18-26) with an interest in exploring a career in ACE. Anyone interested but not falling into one of these priority populations is still welcome to apply to the program.

If you already have a post-secondary plan in place, this program may not be the right fit.

The ACE Summer Intensive program and Certificate tuition is fully funded through the Province of BC's Workplace Innovation Fund, an initiative of the StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan, which focuses on supporting innovative projects that address labour shortages, better prepare employers and workers for the changing economy, and attract, hire, and retain a diverse workforce. 

All required books and supplies will be provided. 

ACE Summer Intensive (in-person at Okanagan Campus in Kelowna)

Digital Modelling Fundamentals

Emphasizing foundational knowledge, this course provides students with a solid understanding of digital geometrical modeling. This course focuses on essential commands, and features of CAD software crucial for architects, building designers, and builders. The curriculum covers 2D drafting, 3D modeling principles, and digital rendering techniques. Through hands-on exercises and practical applications, students develop the skills needed to create detailed plans, section views, 3D models, and realistic visualizations. Students gain proficiency in prominent platforms including but not limited to SketchUp and AutoCAD.

Introduction to Construction Project Management

Students will learn to use Microsoft Excel for project planning and for management of construction projects. They will gain an understanding of how to communicate with stakeholders in a professional manner. Students will also learn about professional office behavior and modes of communication such as audio phone calls and emails.

Introduction to Building Technology

Students will be introduced to the Architecture, Construction, and Engineering (ACE) industry and gain a broad understanding of how typical construction projects come about from conception through to completion, including typical project teams’ makeup, along with their roles, responsibilities and relationships. Students will also learn the fundamentals of building design, building science, planning, and construction processes, how drawings and other contract documents are used to communicate. They will present their understanding through individual and group projects and presentations.

Online Courses (taken alongside work placements):

Revit Fundamentals

Students will be provided with an introduction to Revit Fundamentals, including graphic communication for architecture, essential modelling and annotation tools available in Revit, how to identify and manipulate basic building components in a building model, and the workflow of a typical construction project. Students must have a computer to download & install Autodesk Revit for this course.

Introduction to Business Communication for the Construction Professional

This communication course teaches practical business communication techniques for planning, organizing, selecting, writing, and presenting information in business or industry. It covers routine memos, letters, request and reply letters, and oral presentations.

Introduction to Materials and Methods for the Design-Build Trainee

The course introduces basic materials and methods used in construction. Topics include physical and chemical properties, the manufacturing process of various materials and the way they are implemented in a construction project. Course content is structured though the use of the MasterFormat system and covers materials in Divisions 00 to 05 (and 31/32). Students will be able to utilize their knowledge of the manufacture, properties, and purpose of the construction materials and components identified above to: select materials for the appropriate use, understand proper installation of those materials, communicate site process information using and understanding the terminology, and understand and utilize the MasterFormat process for organizing materials in a comprehensive manner.

Introduction to Systems – Structural, Mechanical and Electrical

In a series of three sections, this course introduces students to basic concepts in structural, mechanical and electrical systems: During the structural module students are provided with a general overview of the structural engineering profession; are introduced to the relationship between applied loads and resultant forces necessary for structural design; and are provided with the fundamental graphical understanding required for structural plan reading. Introductory lecture topics include: engineering project teams, the project development process, sustainability, codes and standards, engineering materials, structural systems, equilibrium equations, support conditions, freebody diagrams, trusses and frames, internal forces, loads and capacities, and structural engineering drawings. During the plumbing, fire protection, and mechanical modules students are introduced to concepts of HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems. Students will develop a high-level understanding of these building systems and their integration into the building as a whole. The mechanical consultant’s role in the design team and how they interface with other disciplines will be discussed. Typical symbols and linetypes used in mechanical, plumbing, and fire protection drawings will be introduced and explained. During the electrical module students discover the intricacies of electrical systems in buildings, familiarize themselves with the standards set by the Canadian Electrical Code, develop the ability to interpret technical drawings, gain a thorough understanding of lighting terminology, explore the different types of light sources available, and learn to do lighting systems layout using a software tool.

Construction Estimating Fundamentals using Digital Tools

This course provides an introduction to measurement of construction work, with a brief review of reading construction drawings and specifications, with a primary focus on the methods of measurement techniques applicable to site work (excavation), concrete, and reinforcing steel quantity take-offs. It covers basic components and requirements for sound estimating procedures, emphasizing method and accuracy and using the spreadsheet format to take-off quantities in preparation for applying material and labour prices.

Two paid internships

Internship WIL 1 & 2

This practicum is designed to provide students with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge and entry level skills learned in a classroom setting in relevant work placements to practice and develop new skills in professional settings. Students will be employed in paid junior positions for the duration of this practicum. Students will complete tasks that relate directly to the core competencies of the Certificate in Essential Technical Skills in Architecture, Construction and Engineering. Students will be monitored and supported by faculty and program administration staff.

To apply to the program please download the ACE Certificate Application Package and follow the instructions to fill out and submit the application form. 

Download Application Package