Compendium to the National Technology Benchmarks - NTB 2010 TECHNICIAN Reg d trademark of Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists
GENERAL PROGRAM CRITERIA FOR ALL DISCIPLINES Technician Level The National Technology Benchmarks (NTB) represent the program criteria used by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB) in the review and evaluation of applied science and engineering technology programs. Accreditation of TECHNICIAN level programs by CTAB means that graduates have International Recognition of Academic Qualifications under the Dublin ACCORD (www.ieagreements.org). The NTB establish a minimum level of achievement at the time of graduation. National Technology Benchmarks Composition The NTB comprise two sections: Part 1 - Program Criteria - General for all disciplines Part 2 - Program Criteria - Discipline Specific Objectives Educational Technology programs will have educational objectives that are seen to be consistent with the CCTT profile for an applied science/engineering technician. These educational objectives must be re-evaluated periodically based on the needs of constituencies served by the program. An educational program will also have a series of documented program outcomes, which are consistent with this general section and the appropriate discipline specific section of the NTB. National Accreditation Programs in Applied Science and Engineering Technology will prepare graduates with the technical, managerial and personal skills necessary to enter careers in a specific discipline. The Program Outcome statements set out the culminating demonstration of learning that must be achieved by a graduate. Indicators of Performance associated with each Program Outcome are to be considered such as statements, providing a measure of the type of achievement anticipated in meeting the outcomes. A program may have greater or fewer performance indicators than those shown. In order for a program to achieve National Accreditation status, the institution must clearly show that the graduates have demonstrated the ability to satisfy all of the outcomes in this general section, and substantial coverage of the outcomes listed in Part 2. NTB 2010 General Program Criteria
General Requirements An applied science/engineering technician level program must demonstrate that graduates have: a) working knowledge of math, science, and technology fundamentals to wide practical procedures and practices; b) the ability to identify, solve, and troubleshoot technical problems; c) the ability to assist with the design of systems, components, or processes; d) the ability to conduct investigations, search relevant codes and standards, and conduct tests and measurements; e) the ability to function effectively as in individual and as a member on technical teams; f) effective communication skills; g) the ability to understand the impact of technology solutions and the need for sustainable development. Summary of Part I General & Employability Skills An applied science/engineering technician graduate must have demonstrated the ability to: 1. Communicate clearly, concisely, and correctly in writing and in person. 2. Apply a wide variety of mathematical techniques with the degree of accuracy required to solve problems and make decisions. 3. Interact with others in groups or teams that contribute to effective working relationships. 4. Demonstrate an awareness of the basic fundamentals of management and business principles. 5. Understand the fundamentals of ethics, sustainability, contract law, codes and standards. 6. Obtain and analyze data, and prepare reports, plans, specifications, sketches, graphics, drawings, or other technical documentation. 7. Use computer software, hardware and other technological tools appropriate and necessary to performance of tasks. 8. Apply knowledge of health and safety practices to minimize exposure to unsafe conditions and ensure a safe working environment for oneself and co-workers. NTB 2010 General Program Criteria
ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING and CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN These program criteria apply to architectural, building and construction engineering technician programs. Objectives An accredited Architectural/Building/Construction Engineering Technician program will prepare graduates with the technical skills necessary to enter careers in the design, construction, operation/facilities or maintenance of the built environment. Graduates of technician level programs are prepared to design systems, identify project methods and materials, prepare cost estimates, and administer technical activities in support of building, construction and renovation projects. a) prepare design, construction and facilities documents effectively and accurately; b) assist with preparation of cost estimates related to the design and construction of buildings; c) research, identify and select appropriate materials and practices for building construction; d) apply basic technical concepts to the solution of architectural problems involving history, theory and building code regulations; e) use principles of construction law and ethics in the workplace; f) retrieve and assemble information from past construction projects; g) apply the principles of building science and construction engineering to solve technical problems related to construction projects; h) contribute to human resource management of construction and renovation projects; and i) adhere to health and safety practices. NTB 2010 Architectural, Building & Construction Technician
BIOTECHNOLOGY TECHNICIAN Biotechnology encompasses several disciplines including cell biology, chemistry, physics, molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, and fermentation. Objectives Graduates of Biotechnology Technician level programs may conduct physical, chemical, biochemical, and microbiological analyses in quality control analysis in a broad range of industries such as food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and environmental protection. a) assist in conducting biological, microbiological and biochemical tests and lab analyses; b) perform basic technical functions in support of agriculture, plant breeding, animal husbandry, biology, biomedical research and environmental protection; c) assist in conducting field research and surveys to collect data and samples; d) carry out field testing of water, soil, plants and animal tissues; e) assist in the analysis and preparation of reports; f) set up, calibrate and monitor equipment; and g) work in accordance with established health and safety procedures. NTB 2010 Biotechnology Technician
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN These program criteria apply to programs that include, but are not limited to: Chemical Technology, Chemical Engineering Technician, Food Technician, and other programs with similar modifiers in their names. Objective Chemical Engineering Technician graduates may be employed in research and development, manufacturing, marketing, operations, testing and regulation of products, and technical services. a) apply basic mathematical, physical, and chemical concepts in the analysis of problems; b) conduct and interpret manual and instrumental quantitative and qualitative analyses and tests accurately using prescribed laboratory procedures; c) perform Quality Assurance and Quality Control procedures; d) maintain and troubleshoot laboratory equipment; e) perform routine statistical calculations; f) operate chemical processes and equipment; g) apply problem-solving skills; and h) use appropriate interpersonal and communication skills. NTB 2010 Chemical Engineering Technician
CIVIL ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN These program criteria apply to Civil Engineering Technician program and specialities in the following areas: transportation, municipal, structural, environmental, geotechnical, hydrological, and construction. Objective Civil Engineering Technician graduates may be employed in business, industry, government, and private organizations. They may find employment in areas such as design/maintenance of infrastructures; preparation of specifications and drawings; construction repairs; contract administration; field testing; customer service; sales of construction equipment; quantity surveying; engineering and construction survey layout; project management; supervision of projects and training activities. They may work independently or interdependently as part of a civil engineering or multi-disciplinary team. a) apply basic engineering concepts in the analysis of problems; b) assist in the planning and design of structural elements and infrastructure work; c) schedule and coordinate civil engineering work; d) collect, process, and interpret technical data; e) utilize the latest technology to support civil engineering projects; f) inspect public works and buildings; g) adhere to health and safety practices; and h) carry out quality control procedures. NTB 2010 Civil Engineering Technician
COMPUTER SYSTEMS TECHNICIAN Computer Systems technicians are able to work individually or as part of a team to analyze, implement, and maintain software applications and hardware devices that make up computing devices and computer systems. Objective Graduates work in a broad range of employment settings within the Technology sector and in business that relies on the advantages of computer systems. Responsibilities range from troubleshooting existing components to installing new ones. The integration of computers and their associated technologies has led to an emergence of job opportunities in the creation, integration, and support of technology systems and infrastructures. a) use documented solutions to troubleshoot technical problems involving computing devices; b) support the integration of multiple software and hardware components using appropriate network architecture; c) configure and maintain a variety of computer systems in accordance with documented functional requirements; d) install and maintain the operations of a variety of computer hardware, software, and networked systems; e) apply principles of digital and analog circuits to the troubleshooting of embedded computing devices; f) contribute to the analysis, building, testing, implementation, and maintenance of applications; g) apply knowledge of security issues related to computing devices; h) conform to workplace expectations found in technology environments; and i) contribute to the successful completion of projects by applying basic project management principles. NTB 2010 Computer Systems Technician
ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN Graduates of Electrical Engineering Technician programs commission, install, test, maintain, as well as analyze and troubleshoot, a variety of electrical circuits, equipment, and systems. In addition, graduates will be able to participate in quality control and assurance programs and to apply communication, documentation, computer applications, information technology, and teamwork skills to support the engineering activities of an organization. Objectives Graduates of Electrical Engineering Technician Programs work in a broad range of employment settings in businesses and industries using electrical engineering, in both large and small organizations. Their jobs could involve working with a variety of electrical environments including those relating to power distribution and utilization; electrical power generation, transmission, and protection; industrial telecommunications; electrical maintenance and installation; and control systems a) assist in the preparation of CAD drawings; b) produce clear and accurate specifications; c) carry out a range of electrical engineering tests and analysis; d) assist in the inspection of electrical installations and construction projects; e) assist with project administration work; f) participate in the installation, repair and maintenance of electrical equipment and systems; and g) carry out Quality Control checks. NTB 2010 Electrical Engineering Technician
ELECTROMECHANICAL TECHNICIAN The field of electromechanical engineering reflects the integration of four areas in engineering: mechanical, electrical, electronics, and automation. These program criteria apply to all technician level included in this group. Objectives Graduates of Electromechanical Engineering Technician Programs work in a broad range of employment settings in businesses and industries using electromechanical engineering, in both large and small organizations. a) assist in the preparation of computer-assisted design (CAD) engineering drawing and specifications; b) carry out a range of tests and analyses; c) participate in the installation, repair and maintenance of equipment; d) troubleshoot technical problems; and e) carry out Quality Control procedures. NTB 2010 Electromechanical Technician
ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN These program criteria apply to programs having titles involving Electronics Engineering Technology and specialties therein, such as Computer, Telecommunications, Industrial, Biomedical, Avionics and Broadcast. Objectives Graduates of Electronics Engineering Technician Programs work in a broad range of employment settings in businesses and industries using electronics engineering, in both large and small organizations. a) assist in the preparation of design layouts and schematics; b) carry out a range of electronic engineering tests and calculations; c) participate in the installation, repair, and maintenance of electronic equipment and systems; d) carry out Quality Control checks; e) troubleshoot technical problems; f) assist with project administration activities; g) adhere to health and safety practices; and h) maintain project records and service logs. NTB 2010 Electronics Engineering Technician
ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNICIAN Environmental Technician programs provide training in scientific, engineering theory, principles and practices. Graduates are prepared to work on projects independently, or interdependently as part of an environmental or multi-disciplinary team. Objective Graduates of an Environmental Technician program could find employment in sectors including investigation and enforcement for government agencies, pollution abatement and clean-up for industries, monitoring water and wastewater for municipalities, and as technical support personnel for engineering and environmental consulting firms. a) participate in environmental surveys; b) assist in the collection of field data; c) participate in the preparation of technical reports and studies; d) conduct Quality Control procedures; e) monitor environmental work and enforce regulations; f) maintain and troubleshoot equipment; g) provide technical support; and h) adhere to occupational health and safety regulations. NTB 2010 Environmental Technician
FORESTRY TECHNICIAN These program criteria apply to technician level programs that have a common basis in forestry, conservation, recreation, ecosystem, and renewable resources and which may have other related modifiers in their titles. Objective An accredited Forestry Technician program will prepare graduates with the technical skills necessary to enter careers in forest and range, wildlife and recreation management. Graduates will be able to communicate with practitioners and have an overview of: forest operations, forest protection, silviculture, mensuration, bioscience, environmental engineering, geomatics and law. a) participate in forest surveys; b) assist in the preparation of forest management and harvest plans; c) assist in the planning and construction of access routes and forest roads; d) coordinate timber scaling, forest fire suppression, and disease or insect control; e) supervise forest harvesting operations; f) monitor logging activities and enforce regulations; g) develop and maintain computer databases; and h) provide technical support; and i) adhere to occupational health and safety regulations. NTB 2010 Forestry Technician
INSTRUMENTATION TECHNICIAN These program criteria apply to Instrumentation Technician programs that include instrumentation, control, manufacturing technician and similar modifiers in their titles. Objective An accredited program will prepare graduates with the technical skills necessary to repair, maintain, calibrate and install industrial measuring and control instrumentation. a) prepare reports, research primary and secondary sources, and analyze analog and numeric data; b) inspect and test instruments and systems to manufacturer s specifications; c) analyze, interpret, and produce engineering drawings and other related documents and graphics; d) write technical reports pertinent to the analysis and synthesis of complex issues and problems; e) apply application software to analyze the performance of instrumentation control systems; f) repair and adjust system components; g) trouble shoot instrumentation control systems applying knowledge of electrical, electronic, electromechanical (pneumatic and hydraulic), analog, and digital systems; h) carry out scheduled preventative maintenance work; and i) practise shop safety applying safety procedures and standard shop practices in a work environment. NTB 2010 Instrumentation Technician
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN Graduates of Mechanical Engineering Technician programs are prepared to perform drafting and analysis functions to support the design and production of components in a mechanical engineering environment, as well as carry out manufacturing and quality control procedures. Objective Graduates of Mechanical Engineering Technician programs work in a broad range of employment settings in a variety of sectors in the mechanical engineering industry, in both large and small organizations. Their activities could range from computer-aided drafting in a mechanical engineering environment to technical sales and support. a) assist in the preparation of computer-assisted design (CAD) engineering drawings and specifications; b) carry out a range of mechanical tests and analyses of machines, components, and materials; c) assist in the design of moulds, tools, dies, jigs, and fixtures for use in the manufacturing processes; d) assist in the inspection of mechanical installations and construction projects; e) participate in the installation, repair, and troubleshooting of mechanical equipment; and f) carry out testing and Quality Control procedures. NTB 2010 Mechanical Engineering Technician
MINERAL RESOURCE TECHNICIAN These program criteria apply to technician level programs that have a common basis in Environmental Protection, Geology, Mining, Mineral Resource Technology, and other programs with similar modifiers in their titles. Objective An accredited program will prepare graduates with the technical skills necessary to enter careers in exploratory drilling, production engineering, mining operations, and geological work. a) participate in geological surveys, prospecting field trips, exploratory drilling, well logging, environmental audits, and related environmental protection activities; b) apply and perform Quality Control procedures; c) prepare notes, sketches, geological maps and cross sections; d) assist in completing field work and lab reports; e) operate and maintain geophysical survey and well logging equipment; f) use appropriate interpersonal and communication skills; g) adhere to occupational health and safety regulations; and h) exercise due diligence in the workplace. NTB 2010 Mineral Resource Technician
PETROLEUM TECHNICIAN These program criteria apply to technician level programs that include, but are not limited to: Petroleum Technology, Petroleum Engineering Technology, Geology Technology and other programs with similar modifiers in their titles. Objective An accredited program will prepare graduates with the technical skills necessary to enter careers in the areas of upstream research and development, exploration and production, drilling, refining and supply operations, and transportation. a) assist in the seismic testing of promising geological formations; b) log drill cores and operate monitoring equipment; c) collect petroleum samples from producing wells; d) assist in the calculation of flow rates, well potentials and reserves; e) recommend corrective action for production breakdowns; f) assist in the design and construction of field facilities; g) prepare written evaluations and reports; h) exercise due diligence in the workplace; and i) adhere to occupational health and safety regulations. NTB 2010 Petroleum Technician
POWER SYSTEM ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN Graduates of POWER SYSTEM ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN programs will operate high voltage generation, transmission and sub-transmission equipment. They will have "functional" authority over District Operators, Maintenance Staff, Construction Foremen and Generating/HVDC Station Operators. Technicians will monitor (routine and emergency condition) transmission and sub-transmission line status, real and reactive power flow voltage levels, status of generation and reactive reserves and system frequency to ensure system reliability. They will adjust and control the bulk generation and transmission system, direct the actions of field staff to maintain system reliability, determine causes of problems, isolate lines or equipment for maintenance and/or repair, and restore system load from whatever sources are available. In addition, graduates will be able to apply communication, documentation, computer applications, information technology, and teamwork skills to support the engineering activities of the utility. Objectives Graduates of POWER SYSTEM ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN programs work in a broad range of employment settings in the electrical industry using electrical engineering in the utility sector. Their jobs could involve working in a variety of electrical environments including those relating to operating electrical power studies, planning, generation, transmission, sub-transmission and distribution. a) Ensure switching procedures and practices are performed safely and in compliance with Provincial Hydro Safety and Occupational Health Regulations; b) Operate all supervisory control equipment and associated auxiliary equipment as operated from the System Control Centre; c) Direct the actions of the System Operators and field operating staff with subtransmission trouble to maintain system reliability and restore customer service; d) Approve operation orders detailing sequence of switching for sub-transmission line and equipment outages; e) Become familiar with all new main grid system additions, technical developments and relevant operating practices and procedures; NTB 2010 Power Systems Engineering Technician
f) Monitor transmission and sub-transmission line status, real and reactive power flow voltage levels, status of generation and reactive reserves and system frequency to ensure system reliability; g) Assist the Shift Supervisors as required in the adjustment and control of the bulk generation and transmission system; h) Prepare reports, research primary and secondary sources, and analyze analog and numeric data; and i) Analyze, interpret, and produce engineering drawings and other related documents and graphics. NTB 2010 Power Systems Engineering Technician
SURVEY TECHNICIAN These program criteria apply to technician level programs that include, but are not limited to: Geomatics Technology, Survey Technician, Geographic Information Systems Technician, and other programs with similar modifiers in their names. Objective An accredited program in Survey/Geomatics will prepare graduates with the technical skills to determine exact locations of structures and relative positions of natural features on the earth s surface, underground and underwater. a) assist in developing methods and procedures for conducting field surveys; b) record measurements and information; c) assist in analyzing and computing measurements; d) preparing detailed drawings, charts, plans and survey notes; e) maintain and troubleshoot equipment; f) apply relevant computer skills; and g) work in teams and promote safe working conditions. NTB 2010 Survey Technician