Wireless Systems Technician
In tackling talent shortages, telecommunication skills training with an autonomous focus benefits both remote communities and industry.
Project Overview
Updated May 21, 2024
The Problem
The Internet of Things, machine learning, and artificial intelligence are changing the way resource companies operate remote facilities, with real-time sensors and systems monitoring equipment, increasing productivity and ensuring employee safety.
There is a short supply of qualified employees in rural communities that can support the resource sector as it increasingly uses wireless technologies to enhance operations.
How We Are Solving It
The Wireless Systems Technician project offers training and certification as the resource sector implements new technologies to enhance operations with real-time data. A collaboration between the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), College of the Rockies, and Teck Resources Limited, the project is equipping students with the digital skills to install and maintain remote telecommunications systems while preparing them to work with future innovative technologies.
The pilot program focuses primarily on training women, Indigenous peoples and youth who are currently underrepresented in the field. Training people locally enables them to stay close to home while supporting sustainable community development and reducing travel and other industry expenses.
The East Kootenay Region is the first region to participate with 10 students in the program. After the pilot, the goal is an annual class of 16 students.
The Result
This project was an illustration of the importance of relationships between industry and higher education. Curriculum was able to quickly adapt to the emergent training needs identified by Teck, and in turn have participants connected through to job opportunities or further upskilling. While this program was launched early in the COVID-19 pandemic, it was able to recruit eight students and offer job shadowing during its second year. The program successfully graduated three participants, with two of the graduating students immediately hired by Teck.
Project Lead
Project Partners
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“As automation becomes more commonplace, College of the Rockies has been seeking a technology program that fits with our economic and geographical context. This program meets a regional economic demand, attracts students from elsewhere and delivers a designation appealing to those looking to move into a new technology-focused field that has promising labour market demand. Without this investment, we would not have been able to launch this advanced technology program.”
Vice-President of Academic and Applied Research, College of the Rockies Check out the Wireless Systems Technician Program