Building Systems Technician

Program Overview

The Building Systems Technician Certificate Program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to maintain and operate electrical, ventilation, refrigeration, and water treatment systems in medium to large buildings. The program combines theoretical instruction with hands-on practical experience, preparing students for diverse careers in building systems maintenance and operation. Graduates are eligible for industry certifications in 5th Class Power Engineering and Refrigeration Engineering, enhancing their career prospects and earning potential.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Objectives:

• Equip graduates with the knowledge and skills to perform maintenance and operation tasks on various building systems.
• Prepare graduates for industry certifications in 5th Class Power Engineering and Refrigeration Engineering.
• Foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities essential for success in the field.
• Develop strong communication and teamwork skills for effective collaboration in the workplace.

Description:

The Building Systems Technician program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical experience. Students gain a solid understanding of building systems principles, operation, and troubleshooting through classroom instruction, labs, and a second-semester work placement. This work placement allows students to apply their learning in a real-world setting, gain valuable industry experience, and build potential career connections.

Outline:

The program comprises three semesters, each focusing on specific aspects of building systems maintenance and operation.

Semester 1:

• Building Applications 1: Introduces students to various building systems like electrical, plumbing, interior, and exterior systems.
• Legislation Codes and Safety: Covers critical safety regulations, codes, blueprints, and fire safety practices.
• Introduction to Microsoft Word and Excel: Develops basic computer skills for document creation and spreadsheet manipulation.
• Power Lab 1: Focuses on boiler safety, components, and operation procedures.
• Heating Systems: Explores different heating systems, including hydronic, steam, electric, infrared, and warm air systems.
• Building Systems Maintenance: Introduces basic tools, fasteners, boiler fittings, piping, valves, welding, and plant layouts.
• Applied Mathematics: Develops problem-solving skills using arithmetic, linear equations, geometry, and right triangle trigonometry.
• Communications for Technicians: Enhances written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills for effective teamwork and job search strategies.
• Thermodynamics and Mechanics: Provides an introduction to thermodynamics principles, units, and basic mechanics concepts.

Semester 2:

• Building Applications 2: Advances troubleshooting skills for basic electrical and plumbing systems and interior/exterior building maintenance.
• Consumption and Waste Management: Explores water conservation measures, leak detection and repair, and waste management practices.
• Energy Management: Studies the impact of construction techniques and insulation on energy consumption and conservation, including green building principles.
• Building Automation: Introduces building control systems, controllers, central control management, and safe operation of lighting systems.
• Culture and Diversity: Examines cultural dimensions, inclusivity, Indigenous and immigrant populations, and the relationship between culture and diversity.
• Power Lab 2: Focuses on boiler inspection, maintenance, testing, and interpretation of combustion and draft data.
• Project Management: Introduces project planning, control, research techniques, and project management software usage.
• Technology Seminars: Covers the role of technicians in the workplace and society, time management, diversity, sustainability, and safety requirements.

Semester 3:

• Renewable Energy: Explores alternative energy sources and government funding opportunities in the sector.
• Capstone Project: Integrates program knowledge and skills to analyze a workplace situation and recommend potential improvements.
• Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems: Introduces refrigeration principles, components, and operation and maintenance procedures.
• Work Experience: Provides an opportunity to observe and participate in boiler operation, relate classroom theory to practical applications, and build industry contacts.

Assessment:

The program employs various assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress. These include:

• Assignments: Regular assignments evaluate knowledge and application of concepts through written reports, calculations, and problem-solving.
• Quizzes and Tests: Periodic quizzes and tests assess understanding of key concepts and theories covered in lectures and labs.
• Practical Labs: Hands-on lab activities evaluate practical skills and application of knowledge in simulated or real-world scenarios.
• Capstone Project: This comprehensive project integrates program learning and requires students to analyze a workplace situation, propose solutions, and present their findings.
• Work Experience: The work placement is assessed based on the student's performance, participation, and ability to apply classroom knowledge in a practical setting.

Teaching:

The program utilizes a combination of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles and promote effective knowledge acquisition.

• Lectures: Classroom lectures present theoretical concepts and principles, using visual aids and interactive discussions.
• Labs: Hands-on laboratory sessions provide practical experience with building systems, equipment, and troubleshooting techniques.
• Group Projects: Collaborative projects encourage teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills while applying program knowledge.
• Field Trips: Visits to operational facilities and industry sites enhance understanding of real-world applications and expand industry knowledge.
• Guest Speakers: Industry professionals share their expertise and insights on the latest trends and technologies in the field.

Careers:

The Building Systems Technician program prepares graduates for various career opportunities in building systems maintenance and operation. Potential career paths include:

• Maintenance Manager/Facility Operation and Maintenance Manager: Overseeing building maintenance and operation, managing staff, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Property Administrator: Managing building operations, tenant relations, and property maintenance.
• Heating and Air Conditioning Mechanic: Installing, maintaining, and repairing heating and cooling systems.
• Boiler Operator: Operating and maintaining boilers in buildings and industrial facilities.
• Refrigeration Plant Operator: Operating and maintaining refrigeration systems in commercial and industrial settings.
• Building Automation Technician: Installing, programming, and maintaining building automation systems.
• Facilities Technician: Performing maintenance and repair tasks on various building systems and equipment.

Other:

• Industry Certifications: The program prepares students for industry certifications in 5th Class Power Engineering and Refrigeration Engineering, enhancing their career prospects and earning potential.
• Personal Study: Students are encouraged to study independently in preparation for industry certification exams.
• First Aid and CPR: While not admission or graduation requirements, First Aid and CPR certification is recommended for many employers and can be obtained before or during the program.