Civil Engineering Technology Diploma

The civil engineering technologist is involved in the design and construction of buildings, bridges, highways, streets, parks, subdivisions, dams, drainage and irrigation systems, water supply and sewer systems, and plants. Aspects of civil engineering and urbanization in Canada are studied throughout this program. A diverse and stimulating program, Civil Engineering Technology incorporates field trips to reinforce theoretical background, and to develop appropriate methods of approach and solution. Graduates will possess the following knowledge and skills:

• a knowledge of mathematics, applied science, surveying principles, graphical language and oral and written communication techniques;
• a grounding in applied civil engineering technology as related to highway surveying, road design and construction, municipal construction, bridge construction, municipal water and sewage works, irrigation and drainage, and heavy construction;
• skills in drafting, detailing, computing, surveying, laboratory testing (soil mechanics, concrete and asphalt paving), construction inspection, writing technical reports and correspondence, preparation of specifications and costs, basic structural design in steel, reinforced concrete, design of water distribution and sewage collection systems, heating and air conditioning and other building services, and engineering law.

Employment Opportunities:

Graduates of this program can seek employment in the following types of positions:

• engineering assistants in highway construction, communications and power development projects; draftsperson; estimators, detailers and assistant designers;
• technologists in concrete, asphalt and soil testing labs; construction inspectors in municipal water development and structural projects; technologists in hydrographic surveys, waste resources studies, irrigation and hydraulic laboratories;
• town works superintendents and building inspectors; concrete plant supervisors; technical sales involving building and construction materials and equipment; and
• project chiefs and instrument persons in field surveys related to pipelines, construction, mining drainage, irrigation, highways and roads, etc.

National Accreditation:

The Civil Engineering Technology program is nationally accredited by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB). While attending Okanagan College, students may register with the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia (ASTTBC). Graduates are eligible for registration as an applied science technologist after two years of related work experience.