There is a lot of technology at work in today’s commercial and institutional buildings, from energy efficient boilers to complex HVAC systems (heating, ventilation, air conditioning). Building systems require regular, skilled maintenance—mechanical and technical. That’s why building systems technicians are always in demand. It’s a job that requires good problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.
Building Systems Technician is a one-year certificate program that consists of 3 semesters between September - June. You’ll receive comprehensive training in maintaining, operating and repairing electrical, ventilation, refrigeration and water treatment systems.
Most courses include practical activities to develop your troubleshooting skills. You’ll also get hands-on experience with a boiler during a work experience in your second term. It’s a great way to use what you’ve learned in class and labs in a real-world setting. It’s also a way to develop contacts for possible future employment.
*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted:
Tuition: $5,000*
Graduates are working in building systems maintenance and operation in medium to large buildings (apartment blocks, hotels, malls, schools, health facilities, etc.). You could work in boiler and refrigeration plants, perform maintenance crew work or take charge of a building. Potential employers include building owners, property management companies and government agencies.
Sample Job Title | NOC Classification1 | Earning Potential2 |
---|---|---|
Maintenance Manager | Facility Operation and Maintenance Managers (721) | $39,400 - $101,400 |
Property Administrator | Property Administrators (1224) | $27,700 - $90,100 |
Heating and Air Conditioning Mechanic | Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics (7313) |
$34,300 - $83,200 |
You will solve practical problems using arithmetic, linear equations, geometry and right triangle trigonometry. You will manipulate and use some formulas related to your trade.
Equivalent Course(s): MATH 182, MATH 193
You will perform tasks related to electricity, lighting, plumbing, interior and exterior systems.
You will safely troubleshoot basic electrical and plumbing systems. You will perform interior and exterior maintenance of buildings.
BLDG 113
You will be introduced to building control systems in medium to large size buildings and study various types of controllers. You will learn how to manage central control systems as well as practice operating basic control systems. You will identify the safety and control of building lighting systems.
You will work with basic tools and fasteners while maintaining a safe workplace. Your studies will include discussing boiler fittings, piping and valves as well as welding terms and inspections. You will discuss plant layouts and diagrams.You will practice skills used in plant maintenance.
Corequisites(s): ENGP 107
CODE 103 (concurrent)
You will reflect on the skills, training, and knowledge you acquired throughout your work experience. Using the knowledge you acquired in the program, you will prepare a presentation recommending changes for the company for possible implementation.
Corequisites(s): WORK 108
You will learn and practice written, oral and interpersonal communication for the workplace. You will apply these skills as team members and in short presentations. You will also develop effective job search strategies.
Equivalent Course(s): COMM 127, TCOM 102, TCOM 105CE
You will identify water savings measures in buildings through detection and repair of leaks, operational changes, and low-cost equipment improvements. Your studies will include examination of water and sewer bills for savings opportunities. You will study irrigation and drainage systems and solid waste management. You will perform the steps of an audit.
Your studies will focus on the many dimensions of culture and approaches to promoting inclusion and innovation. You will explore culture in Canadian society as it pertains to Indigenous and immigrant populations. You will also examine the correlation between culture and diversity.
You will be introduced to construction characteristics and maintenance requirements of various types of buildings. You will investigate how sealing and insulating techniques impact energy consumption and conservation. You will examine techniques used with green buildings.
You will study the components of hydronic, steam heating, electric, infrared, and warm air heating. You will operate hydronic, electric, infrared, and warm air heating systems. Your studies will involve ventilation and humidification. You will perform heating system maintenance.
Corequisites(s): HEAT 107
You will learn the purpose and uses of a word processor and electronic spreadsheet. You will develop the basic skills of creating, editing and formatting documents and spreadsheets.
You will recognize and apply different types of legislation, codes and regulations, and their applications. You will use and interpret blueprints. Your studies will include safety practices, fire safety and fire systems.
You will practice safety needed when working around boilers. You will learn about components and systems associated with boilers. You will use proper technics to start up and shut down a boiler system.
Corequisites(s): MAIN 109
You will practice workplace safety. You will perform boiler inspection and maintenance in accordance to provincial codes and regulations. You will test the interlock for the boilers. You will perform water tests. You will interpret combustion and draft data.
ENGP 107
You will be introduced to project management. You will examine the basic theory of project planning and control, from project initiation to project close out. You will apply research techniques and various tools to practice project management theory in a variety of projects. You will practice skills using project management software.
Equivalent Course(s): MGMT 222
You will be introduced to principles and theories related to refrigeration systems. You will discuss refrigerants as well as refrigeration components and equipment. You will operate and maintain refrigeration equipment.
THER 182
You will examine alternative energy sources. You will identify where to access government grants and funding agencies in the alternative energy sector.
Your orientation will include discussions regarding the role of technicians/technologists in the workplace and society. You will study time management skills, diversity in the workplace, principles of sustainability and safety requirements.
Equivalent Course(s): ENGM 181, ETHC 183, ORTN 120, SEM 104
You will receive an introduction to the field of thermodynamics. You will learn the quantities, units and principles involved in elementary thermodynamics. You will learn the concepts of basic mechanics.
Equivalent Course(s): PHYS 224
You will have an opportunity to observe and participate in the operation of a boiler in the workplace. This experience will help you relate the theory you learned to an operational plant. It will also help you develop contacts for possible future employment.