Electrical Techniques ELT

Holland Code: R (Realistic)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

Literacy Communicate effectively in English (written reports)

Math Basic math skills are needed. It is recommended that applicants have taken Grade 12 Mathematics for College Technology (C) OR Grade 12 Foundations for College Mathematics (C).

Technology Basic computer skills required; Use of student portal system, students need to check email and posts every day. High school courses in Trades and Technology would be beneficial preparation for this program.

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• Creative
• Enjoy figuring out problems; able to suggest solutions
• Mechanical, mathematical, and analytical ability
• Able to take direction and follow instructions
• Enjoy figuring out problems; able to suggest solutions
• Reliable, dependable,  respectful
• The communication and interpersonal skills required to maintain harmony with subscribers and work colleagues
• Customer service skills
• Team player, work well with others
• Healthy work ethic
• Attendance in class is a must

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become a

Electrical Apprentice, Fire Alarm Technician, Network Cabling Specialist, Electrical assistant, or Parts and Service customer service representative.

Places you may find yourself employed include

Electrical contractors, communication companies, cable companies, or retail stores.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Working conditions vary considerably in this occupation
• May work indoors or outdoors, and often travel to several work sites in a day
• Generally work a standard 35 to 40 hour week but may have to work some overtime, particularly when weather conditions or other events disrupt cable or telephone service; shift work may be required
• Work may involve using rigging and scaffolding, climbing and balancing in all types of weather conditions
• Will need to distinguish different colours of wires and cables
• Must observe safety precautions to reduce the risk of injury from electrical shocks, falls or hazards associated with cable splicing

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

Residential/Industrial Electrical Wiring

• Installation and maintenance of electrical wiring
• Successfully adhere to electrical code and safety practices

Networks/Cable

• Installing, terminating and testing copper and fibre optic conductors and cables
• Laying out and installing raceways and supporting framework
• Installing, commissioning, maintaining and troubleshooting communications equipment
• Using codes and standards to guide the installation of communication equipment
• Interpreting communications systems drawings to guide the installation of communication equipment
• Installing residential and commercial cable systems

Alarms

• Check the installation site, read the work order and check drawings to determine locations for specified equipment
• Lay out wiring routes, cut openings in walls, floors and frames, mount raceways or conduits, pull wires through and splice them (for wired systems)
• Install motion sensors and other alarm devices
• Test systems using equipment such as multimeters
• Demonstrate systems for customers and explain the cause and seriousness of false alarms
• Troubleshoot malfunctions and make the necessary adjustments or repairs

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

• Canadian Electrical Contractors Association (CECA)
• Electrical Contractors Association of Ontario (ECAO)
• Canadian Fire Alarm Association (CFAA)
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Opportunities for further development or education

• Graduates may choose to apply for an apprenticeship in Electrical Construction and Maintenance, or other related mechanical trades.
• This program is good preparation for Fanshawe College’s Electrical Engineering Technician or Electrical Engineering Technology Programs

Last Modified: January 11, 2024