Architectural and Building Technology British Columbia Institute of Technology

Overview

Rapid advances in technology have increased public expectations of their communities and the buildings constructed in them. Buildings are expected to be designed and constructed to rigorous standards of workmanship and safety while at the same time incorporating all the features that contribute to speed of erection, financial efficiency and user satisfaction.

High public expectations and the dynamic nature of the industry present both a challenge and an opportunity, attractive criteria for any career.

During this Architectural and Building Technology diploma program from British Columbia Institute of Technology students learn from industry-based faculty, develop extensive practical skills for rewarding careers, and graduate with an industry recognized credential in the design, development, construction, and building science sectors. Many employers seek out graduates from this program to join their companies.

Students follow a fixed curriculum of common courses that includes lectures and practical applications in construction drawing, materials and methods, estimating techniques, building systems, and computer applications. Organized field trips and ‘hands-on’ workshops form part of the curriculum and attendance is required. Students are often able to further their education through summer jobs with architects, engineers, developers, and contractors.

Career

Graduates of Architectural and BuildingTechnology perform many tasks of a technological nature as part of the interdisciplinary team of professionals and tradespeople involved in the building design, construction, and management processes. Graduates have the advantage of understanding buildings from several perspectives: the architectural and structural elements; the mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems; the feasibility implications and the contractual and managerial processes.

Architectural and Building Technology graduates have the following attributes. They:

• Possess up-to-date skills and knowledge
• Possess good organizational and time management skills
• Demonstrate good work attitudes
• Are qualified to perform many technical and professional tasks
• Are able to work independently or cooperatively on a team
• Are prepared for the multi-tasking required in the performance of a complex job

Graduates may begin careers in some of the following areas of the industry:

• Design and architectural firms
• Building consulting
• Project or construction management
• Development or property management
• Field engineering specialists
• Specification writing
• Inspections and testing
• Estimating and quantity surveying
• Building envelope consulting
• Municipal planning and permitting departments
• Provincial and federal agencies, including BC Housing Authority
• Design-Build
• Technical representatives for product suppliers and manufacturers
• Specialty code consulting
• Contractors and sub-contractors
• Physical plants and facilities management departments for corporations and the educational and health sectors