More students will be able to train for careers in construction and project management with the launch of two new innovative programs at Okanagan College, focusing on an integrated and holistic approach to modern day construction.
Okanagan College student Graham Dykstra working on sustainable building practices.
Applications are open now for the new one-year Sustainable Construction Management certificate or the two-year Sustainable Design and Construction Management diploma. The programs are offered primarily online and in the evenings to accommodate working professionals and learners who aren't able to attend in-person.
"As construction projects become more complex, today's leaders need to not only understand energy-efficient design, but also how to deliver safe, resilient and affordable buildings that perform over time," said Ashley Lubyk, program chair. "Our graduates will know how to deliver buildings that balance these priorities while standing up to changes in our environment and keeping long-term costs down. This applies as much to new construction as it does the retrofitting of millions of existing buildings across Canada."
Careers for graduates may include construction management and coordination, energy advising, estimating and project supervision -- many with salaries ranging from $90,000 to $120,000 per year.
The programs were developed with support from a $495,000 grant from FortisBC, allowing the College to expand access through flexible online learning that is supported by a weeklong in-person intensive beginning each fall term. Demand for employees from FortisBC and others within the industry means graduates will be stepping into in-demand careers as technologists, project coordinators, and construction managers.
The B.C. Labour Market Outlook forecasts the need for more than 17,000 new construction managers by 2030 (2,200 in the Thompson-Okanagan). They will be responsible for delivering high-performance, resilient and cost-effective building projects. Sustainable construction aims to reduce environmental impact while enhancing the quality-of-life building occupants and users, considering factors such as energy efficiency, materials, water conservation, air quality and waste reduction.
"The construction industry is evolving rapidly," said Dr. Samantha Lenci, Okanagan College's provost and vice president, academic. "We've designed these programs to meet that shift - training technologists and construction managers who can integrate new materials, technologies and methods to build safer, more resilient and energy-smart buildings without compromising affordability."
While the programs are offered primarily online, optional in-person sessions are available for locals and for international students interested in applying for a Post Graduate Work Permit. Students can start with the one-year certificate and continue seamlessly into the two-year diploma.
Students will learn from industry experienced instructors and be challenged to consider how safety and comfort, resiliency, affordability and energy efficiency must all work hand in hand.
Okanagan College is hosting several upcoming online information sessions for prospective students interested in a career in construction and other technologies.
- Dec. 9: OC technologies departments
- Jan. 13, Feb. 26 and March 31: Sustainable Construction Management certificate and Sustainable Design and Construction Management Diploma.
For more information or to register, email askoc@okanagan.bc.ca
