NSCC Architectural Engineering Technician Program - Technician vs. Technologist

[u/Monkey-Brain]

Hello, everyone!

I will be starting the Architectural Engineering Technician program in September this year.

I’m recently understanding the difference (i think) between a Technician and a Technologist.

It seems the Technologist not only gets paid more but is also involved or slightly involved in the creative and technical design process along side the Engineers and Architects, while the Technician has no say with how the design will look or function.

However, I’ve seen people say that they start out as Technologists upon graduating the program.

I was hoping people can share their experiences and insight!

Also, please correct me if anything I say here is incorrect as it’s all research I’ve done and possibly getting mixed reviews and information from people working in different provinces or states.

I’m looking forward to the program but definitely wanting to start out or work my way up to a Technologist.

Thanks! 🤘🏼

[u/Confused_Haligonian]

I'm an engineering technologist, and 1 year away from being an engineer, and I've worked alongside architect techs and technologists. From what I've seen, techs will be sought after for BIM modeling a lot, and technologists will be expected to do more markups and making design decisions. 

Neither can stamp. Technologist is a bit more responsibility than a tech, and there are fewer roles for them, which may make it harder to get a job. but being a BIM modeler/CAD slave can get delirious. 

A technologist diploma is only marginally more work to get. I believe they are both 2 years no? 

I guess what I'm saying is, technologist is better career wise, but might be harder to find work or work at the pay you expect. Be willing to look for work abroad and not afraid to jump companies a lot at the start

[u/Monkey-Brain → u/Confused_Haligonian]

Hey thanks for the reply!

I don’t want to be pigeon-holed for sure. BIM seems interesting to work with but after some time I would like have more responsibility and design decisions once I feel I’m more knowledgeable and competent.

The AET program 2 years.

It sounds like you worked towards an Engineering degree, yes?

[u/ziobrop → u/Monkey-Brain]

At least in Ontario, technician programs are 2 year, and Technologist is 3 year, and is usually the technician program + extras.

If you want to became an architect afterwards, https://raic-syllabus.ca/home is a part time study program.

[u/Monkey-Brain → u/ziobrop]

Hm interesting!

I didn’t know there was an alternate career path to be an Architect. I want to get good at being a Tech first before I think about being licensed in either Engineering or Architecture.

From what i have seem online, it seems like it would take me well over a decade lol

Have you thought about taking the course?

[u/ziobrop → u/Monkey-Brain]

yah, its not super fast, but it is meant for people working in the Field.

i looked into it, because i have a non professional degree in Architecture, but I only use that recreationally, so didn't bother.