Communications Engineering Technology

Assiniboine’s two-year Communications Engineering Technology diploma provides graduates with the skills to create, manufacture, install and analyze different types of communication technologies. Graduates are prepared to support the design, development and repair of communication systems, such as voice, video, data, fiber optics, wi-fi and Bluetooth. 

Graduates are prepared for careers as engineering technologists in the communications industry in areas such as computer-aided design, electronic design and repair, computer programming, network design, communication systems installation or design or project management. 

The program culminates with students partnering with an industry representative to work through a problem identified by industry, bringing real world practical experience to the student and strengthening their networks for future career opportunities. 

With two years of technical experience, graduates may pursue certification with The Certified Technicians & Technologists Association of Manitoba.  

Graduates are employed by electrical utilities, communications companies, manufacturers of electrical and electronic equipment, consulting firms, and in governments and a wide range of manufacturing, processing and transportation industries. 

Program Learning Outcomes 

• Analyze, interpret, modify, design and produce electrical and electronics drawings, layouts and reports.
• Analyze and solve technical problems related to electronics engineering by applying principles of advanced mathematics and science.
• Apply appropriate troubleshooting techniques to electronic circuits or systems and generate and perform test procedures.
• Design, build, test and troubleshoot electronic circuits, equipment, systems  and subsystems in accordance with job requirements, functional specifications and relevant standards.
• Modify, maintain, repair and recommend electronic equipment and systems in accordance with relevant operational guidelines.
• Determine, select, recommend and justify the purchase of electronic equipment, components and systems in accordance with code, standards and job requirements and functional specifications.
• Design, modify, analyze and troubleshoot logic and digital circuits, and embedded microprocessor-based and microcontroller-based systems, including assembly and high-level language programs.
• Design, analyze and troubleshoot circuits consisting of passive components by applying appropriate measurement techniques.
• Design, analyze and troubleshoot circuits consisting of low power, high power, active and electromechanical components, and analog integrated circuits.
• Design, analyze and troubleshoot control systems.
• Design, analyze, troubleshoot and repair analog and digital communication systems.
• Apply relevant shop practices in compliance with safety policies and current regulations for electronics engineering workplaces.
• Collaborate in selecting, co-ordinating and conducting quality control and quality assurance programs and procedures.
• Complete work in compliance with relevant legislation, established standards, policies, procedures and regulations, and ethical principles.
• Contribute to the planning, implementation, management and evaluation of team projects by applying project management principles. 

Examples of what communication engineering technician graduates can do: 

• Assist in the design, development and testing of electrical and electronic components, equipment, and systems.
• Assist in inspection, testing, adjusting and evaluation of incoming electrical, electro-mechanical and electronic components and assemblies to ensure conformance with product specifications and tolerances
• Assist in building and testing prototypes to specifications.
• Installation of cable and fiber optic commercial and household systems.
• Carry out a limited range of technical functions in support of research in electrical and electronic engineering and physics.
• Install, operate and maintain electrical and electronic equipment and systems.
• Calibrate electrical or electronic equipment and instruments according to technical manuals and written instructions. 

Success Factors 

You might be a good fit for this program if you have: 

• An interest in circuitry, electrical systems, and electronic components
• Strong attention to detail
• Solving complex problems that require analytical thinking and troubleshooting abilities
• Enjoy learning how electronic components and systems work
• Are curious about wireless communications, the use of sensors and how communication systems are integrated into most everything we use today.
• Have heard about the Internet of Things (IoT) and would like to understand more about it
• Enjoy building electronic devices, soldering, wiring, and the development of robotic features. 

The industry and program environment often requires individuals to: 

• Adhere to safety protocols and promote a safe working environment
• Be adaptable to changes and have a willingness to learn and update knowledge
• Be meticulous, employ patience and pay close attention to details
• Convey technical information clearly, document procedures, and explain complex concepts in a concise and understandable manner
• Work as part of a team
• Enjoy working with computers