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Electrical Engineering Technician

Kingston Campus | Program Code: 1050 | Open for International Students
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Overview

Today’s electrical field is extremely broad and diverse. Employers need motivated people who have the knowledge and skills to design, implement and maintain power generation, distribution and control systems, entertainment and communication systems, and process, automation and manufacturing systems.

The Electrical Engineering Technician program will provide students with the theoretical and practical skills required to meet these demanding job opportunities. Graduates of the Electrical Engineering Technician Program will have a well-rounded practical and theoretical knowledge of many aspects of the electrical field.

Some areas of study will include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Canadian Electrical Code usage and application
  • Reading and creating blueprints, schematics, and wiring diagrams
  • Residential, commercial, and industrial wiring
  • Industrial process measurement, calibration, and control
  • Power electronics with application to power and motor speed control equipment
  • Industrial automation systems with programmable logic controllers and motor control equipment
  • Power generation and distribution equipment
  • Fire alarm, security, and communication systems

Program Details

Code 1050
Start Date January, September
Credential Ontario College Diploma
Campus Kingston
Program Length 2 Years
Delivery Full-Time
Open for international students

Program Highlights

At the completion of the program, graduates may apply to write exemption tests to provide an exemption from the in-school portion of the Ontario Electrical Apprenticeships. These tests are administered by SLC and are free of charge to all graduates of the Electrical Engineering Technician program.

Program Outline

2023-2024

Technical Communications is a foundational course designed to equip students with the essential skills necessary for effective communication in technical and professional settings. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, students will learn various communication strategies, including written, oral, and visual communication techniques tailored specifically for technical contexts. Leveraging Office 365 software applications, students will integrate tools such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Teams to enhance their communication skills and streamline collaborative projects. By the end of the course, students will have developed the proficiency to communicate technical concepts clearly and concisely to diverse audiences using digital platforms.

This course covers the core principles and operations of algebra and trigonometry, including linear, quadratic, and trigonometric functions, graphs, and equations. Emphasis is placed on developing fluency and conceptual understanding through practice, preparing students for further studies in applied mathematics, fostering both fluency and conceptual depth through interactive learning experiences.

Electrical Fundamentals is designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles of electrical theory, providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze and design basic electrical circuits. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical applications, students will explore key topics including atomic structure, static electricity, sources of Electromotive Force (EMF), batteries, simple electrical circuits, conventional and electron flow, as well as the principles of voltage, current, resistance, work, power, and energy. Emphasis will be placed on developing a solid understanding of these concepts through hands-on experiments, problem-solving exercises, and real-world applications, laying the groundwork for Electrical Fundamentals 2. 

Code and Drawing is a foundational first-year college course that immerses students in the fundamental principles of electrical code and technical drawing techniques. Through an integrated curriculum, students will explore the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) and other relevant regulations, gaining an understanding of their application in system design and installation within Canada. Additionally, students will develop proficiency in technical drawing, focusing on creating precise schematics, diagrams, and plans that adhere to code requirements. Emphasis will be placed on interpreting the CEC, applying it to design solutions, and effectively communicating electrical system layouts through detailed drawings. 

This course focuses on applying safety rules outlined in the Occupational Health and Safety Act while performing installation procedures for electrical devices, cables, and conduits. Students gain hands-on experience wiring residential, signal, and relay circuits, and learn to produce single-line wiring diagrams and lab reports. By the end of the course, students will have acquired the knowledge and practical experience necessary to safely and effectively install electrical systems, preparing them for real-world applications in industry.

Renewable Energy is a foundational course designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of renewable energy technologies, their applications, and their role in addressing global energy challenges. Students learn energy and power fundamentals and the units of measurement required to work with energy and power data. The course provides an overview of Renewable Energy Systems including solar, wind, hydro, tidal, bimass, solar thermal and heat pumps. Learners develop the mathematical skills to work with energy data through laboratory exercises. Students explore the history electricity generation and the impacts of such systems used in societies throughout the world.

Data Literacy and Network Communications is an introductory course designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of data concepts and network communications in the context of modern information systems. This course aims to develop students' ability to interpret, analyze, and communicate data effectively, while also exploring the fundamentals of network communications and their role in data transmission and exchange. Through theoretical knowledge and hands-on exercises, students will gain practical skills essential for navigating the data-rich environments of today's interconnected world.

Expanding on the principles of Electrical Fundamentals 1, this course is designed to deepen students' understanding of electrical theory and expand their skills in analyzing and designing electrical systems. Building upon the foundational knowledge acquired in the previous course, students delve into topics including power generation (conventional and renewable), magnetic induction, capacitance, and voltage/current in relation to time, and semiconductor theory. Through a combination of theoretical learning and hands-on experiments, students explore the behavior of semiconductor devices, gain proficiency in circuit analysis methods, and learn to design and troubleshoot electrical generation, distribution, and storage systems. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills through challenging projects and real-world applications, preparing students for careers in the electrical field.

Code, Prints, and AutoCAD is a course focusing on electrical design, building upon foundational knowledge introduced in the previous course, code and drawing. Through a blend of theoretical learning and hands-on exercises, students deepen their understanding of electrical codes, particularly the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC), and learn technical drawing skills using AutoCAD software. Students also learn to interpret construction drawings and specifications, enhancing their ability to create precise schematics and plans. By the end of the course, students are proficient in using AutoCAD to produce designs that comply with industry standards, preparing them for roles in various sectors.

Electromechanical Systems is an introductory course designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, components, and applications of electromechanical systems in various disciplines. This course integrates fundamental concepts from electrical engineering and mechanical engineering to analyze, design, and control systems that involve the interaction of electrical and mechanical components.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to instrumentation systems. Students will learn common terminology, measurement units for pressure and temperature, and conversion between temperature scales. Topics include Thermocouples, Thermistors, and Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTD), as well as deformation elements and accuracy assessment of pressure measuring equipment. Industrial pressure sensors, instrumentation symbols, and principles of measuring physical parameters such as pressure, temperature, flow, level, speed, and vibration will be covered. Additionally, students will explore concepts of measurement accuracy, error, data collection, presentation, and feedback control, with practical experience in computerized data collection labs.

Introduction to Electronics is a foundational course designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles of electronics. Through a combination of theoretical learning and hands-on practical experiences, students will explore key concepts including basic logic gates, the standard resistor color code, semiconductor diodes, opto-couplers, and transistor switches and amplifiers. Emphasis will be placed on developing students' ability to identify, explain, and apply these basic electronic fundamentals in both theoretical and practical environments. By the end of the course, students will have a solid understanding of electronic components and their applications, laying the groundwork for further studies in electronics and related fields.

Workplace practices offers students foundational training for various technical professions, focusing on safety requirements and proper utilization of tools and equipment in a professional environment. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical applications, students gain comprehensive knowledge of industry-specific practices necessary for a safe and efficient workplace. Topics covered include identifying and implementing safety protocols, understanding hazard assessments, and correctly using personal protective equipment (PPE). Additionally, students will learn to identify, select, use, and maintain tools and equipment. This course equips students with skills essential for success in their field and fosters a culture of safety and professionalism in the workplace.

Wind Turbine Systems is a foundational course that introduces students to the principles, technologies, and applications of wind energy. Students will explore the design, operation, and maintenance of wind turbine systems, with a focus on understanding the conversion of wind energy into electricity. Through theoretical learning and practical exercises, students will examine topics such as wind turbine components, power generation, environmental impacts, and integration into electrical grids. Emphasis will be placed on developing a holistic understanding of wind energy systems and their role in sustainable energy production. Additionally, students will explore current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the wind energy industry. This course serves as a comprehensive introduction to the field of wind energy for students pursuing studies in renewable energy, engineering, environmental science, and related disciplines.

In this course, students learn the practical applications of connecting and examining the operation of AC motors and alternators. Learners explore the parts of AC machines, the design and installation of single-phase and three-phase AC motor and alternator circuits, forward and reverse control, capacitive, split winding and wye/delta start, wound rotor motors, and voltage, current, power and load measurements of AC motors and alternators.

In this course, students connect and examine the operation of AC motors and alternators. Learners explore the parts of AC machines, the design and installation of single-phase and three-phase AC motor and alternator circuits, forward and reverse control, capacitive, split winding and wye/delta start, wound rotor motors, and voltage, current, power and load measurements of AC motors and alternators. 

In this course, students learn about the electronic components and circuits used to provide AC and DC power control. Students demonstrate the ability to design, assemble, and analyze power control circuits. Learners explore rectifiers, filters, regulators, linear and switch-mode single-phase and three-phase power supplies, SCRs, Phase Shifting SCRs, diacs, triacs, and phase shifting triacs.

This course continues the study of process control and instrumentation by examining, constructing, and operating level, flow and motion processes. Students have an opportunity to use actual industry equipment on fully functional process simulators.

In this course, students learn the fundamentals of programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and their uses in industrial automation. Learners explore the functions and applications of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). Students learn to determine the language and addressing requirements of a PLC and demonstrate the programming of common relay instructions, timers, counters, mathematic functions, and word comparisons within a PLC. Learners develop proper methods of safe, acceptable programming practices including clear documentation and identifying methods of installing a PLC system and performing hard wiring of PLCs to equipment. Students demonstrate methods of testing PLC inputs and outputs and design programs to operate machines in a desired manner using many of the internal functions of a PLC.

This course introduces students to the concepts and techniques of producing computer generated drawings. Students use their skills to interpret and prepare information in graphical formats based on industry standards for Electrical Technicians.

This course introduces students to the physical laws and principals governing hydraulics and pneumatics. Students learn how to identify the schematic symbols and components used in hydraulic and pneumatic circuits. Safe working practices is stressed throughout the course. Students use acquired skills to assemble, operate, and troubleshoot hydraulic and pneumatic systems.

This practical course enables students to demonstrate their ability to prepare and execute installation details for an industrial construction project from a complete set of drawings and specifications. Topics covered include the layout of single and three-phase systems for feeder and branch circuits from utility supply to utilization points, the calculation of pulling stresses on a conductor/cable, the layout and the grounding and bonding requirements for high-voltage indoor and outdoor substations and vaults, identify precautions for installing stress cones, the requirements for terminating shielded and concentric neutral high-voltage cables, and the testing methods and safety requirements for testing high-voltage cables. Students prepare a material take off using drawings, specifications and prepare sketches to solve and document construction problems and solutions, as well as prepare as-built drawings and develop basic single line, schematic, and wiring diagrams.

In this course, students examine the power distribution systems used to transmit and distribute electrical energy.

This practical lab-based course provides students with an introduction to the connection and operation of power distribution systems as used to transmit and distribute electrical energy by industry.

In this course, students learn the fundamentals of open loop versus closed loop control systems, PID control, and process controllers.

In this course, students learn about the operation of AC and DC variable speed drives, as well as their installation and programming. Students demonstrate how to select the correct sized motor, drive, wiring, and protection for an application; and how to install a variable speed drive system, program, and tune it. Learners explore the examination of the electronic circuits used to construct AC and DC variable speed drives, feedback circuits, and the examination of programmable drive parameters and how they affect drive operation.

In this course, students explore trade-specific sections of the Canadian Electrical Code. Learners explore motor overcurrent and overload protection, conductor sizing, and protection for transformers, welders, capacitors, and high voltage installations.

This course provides students with the skills necessary for wiring, interfacing, programming, and operating state-of-the-art Allen Bradley programmable logic controllers and human-machine interfaces (HMI). This course gives students the opportunity to apply skills to safely create project applications in machine design and troubleshooting techniques.

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Requirements

Admission Requirements

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent including the following prerequisites:

  • Grade 12 English at the C or U level
  • Grade 11 Math at the C or U or M level

For OSSD equivalency options, see Admission Requirements.

If you are missing prerequisite courses, enroll in the Career/College Prep program, free for Ontario residents who are 19 years or older.

Fees

2023-2024

Tuition
Program Fees
Ancillary Fees
Total
CAD
Tuition
$2,721.36 CAD
Program Fees
$30.00 CAD
Ancillary Fees
$1,498.52 CAD
Total
$4,249.88 CAD

Fees are estimates only.  Tuition is based on two semesters.

Tuition
Program Fees
Ancillary Fees
Total
CAD
Tuition
$15,960.00 CAD
Program Fees
$30.00 CAD
Ancillary Fees
$2,273.85 CAD
Total
$18,263.85 CAD

Fees are estimates only.  Tuition is based on two semesters.

Kingston

Our Kingston campus has seen significant renovation over the past few years, including a brand new Student Life and Innovation Centre that houses a new gymnasium, fitness centre, pub, and more.

Kingston Campus

Career Opportunities

Electrical Engineering Technician: Whether designing a factory or a small piece of consumer equipment, Electrical Engineering Technicians are actively involved in absolutely every part of our modern society. They work closely with engineering and architectural staff towards the common goal of designing the devices and structures that make our everyday lives easier.

Industrial Electrician: In today’s automated manufacturing facilities, employers demand well-educated and highly skilled employees to maintain plant operations and improve productivity levels. Certified industrial electricians, in cooperation with engineers, industrial millwrights, operators, and quality control technicians, are key to filling this demand. Graduates of this program will acquire the foundational skills to succeed in this evolving and challenging environment.

Construction and Maintenance Electrician: The construction industry is diverse. Since a construction site can be anything from a residential home to a nuclear generating station – each with its own service types and installation practices – construction electricians are equipped to handle this diversity in a highly skilled and professional manner. Working in coordination with engineering and other trades, a construction electrician can deal with all aspects of electrical installation from start to finish.

Testimonials

"The Electrical Engineering Technician program at St Lawrence College, Kingston Campus has given me a fantastic opportunity to expand my electrical knowledge. The program as a whole covers many different aspects of electrical, process control and electronics."
Jessica Nyysola
"The practical hands-on labs allow you to apply what you have learned in theory class, as well as teach you how to wire increasingly complex circuits safely and according to electrical code. The instructors are knowledgeable about the course content and emphasize how what you are learning is used in the workplace. "
Wayne Roberts

Other Information

Additional Costs

Students will also be required to purchase textbooks, electronic kits, green CSA triangle, and orange OMEGA symbol safety boots and hand tools. The approximate cost of all items is $1,300.

Program Contacts

Program Contact

Jay Krawchuk
eletcoordinator@sl.on.ca
613.544.5400 ext. 1627

Admissions Information
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