Environmental Technician (ETM)

Program overview

Are you passionate about the land, air, and water? The Environmental Technician (ETM) program is a two-year diploma designed for those looking to start a career in the dynamic environmental industry. This program will equip you with essential knowledge about the natural and built environment, enabling you to tackle complex environmental challenges. You will gain practical skills in monitoring, sampling, and species identification, while also learning about ecosystem management, soil and groundwater quality, and legislative requirements. The program includes a significant field component, allowing you to apply your learning in real-world settings.

Program structure

The Environmental Technician program is structured to provide a comprehensive education over a duration of 4 semesters (2 years). The program is delivered in a hybrid format, combining online and in-person learning experiences. Key features of the program structure include:

• Field components at various natural landscapes, including King Campus and Newnham Campus.
• Optional co-op work term for hands-on experience in the environmental field.
• Flexibility to transfer between co-op and non-co-op streams.
• Courses designed to meet the Ministry of Environment Conservation and Parks (MECP) approved Entry-Level Course (ELC) curriculum.

This program prepares students for a range of entry-level positions in the environmental sector, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet industry demands.

Featured Experiences

The Environmental Technician program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and practical application:

• Optional co-op work term providing valuable hands-on experience.
• Substantial field components integrated into each semester.
• Access to the vast natural landscapes for practical learning.
• In-class career workshops and one-on-one coaching to prepare for co-op opportunities.
• Hybrid delivery format allowing for both online and in-person learning.

These experiences are designed to ensure that students graduate with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the environmental field.

Career Options

Graduates of the Environmental Technician program can explore a variety of career options in Canada, including:

• Field Technician: Conducts field surveys and collects environmental data to support various projects.
• Ecology Technician: Assists in the study of ecosystems and wildlife, contributing to conservation efforts.
• Remediation/Restoration Technician: Works on projects aimed at restoring contaminated sites to their natural state.
• Water/Wastewater Operator: Manages and operates systems that treat and distribute water and wastewater.
• Environmental Consultant: Provides expert advice on environmental regulations and best practices to businesses and organizations.
• Water Quality Analyst: Tests and analyzes water samples to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
• Environmental Compliance Officer: Monitors and enforces environmental regulations within organizations.
• Erosion Management Technician: Develops strategies to prevent soil erosion and protect natural landscapes.
• Geospatial Technician/Analyst: Utilizes GIS technology to analyze spatial data for environmental projects.
• Project Coordinator: Oversees environmental projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.

These career paths reflect the diverse opportunities available to graduates in the growing environmental sector.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.