The International Society of Automation (ISA) defines instrumentation as "the art and science of measurement and control". It involves using and/or working with instruments used to measure, record, and control process variables (such as level, flow, temperature, and pressure). Complex process control and measurement systems are found in the oil and gas industries, chemical processing industry, food processing operations, power generation, and the pulp and paper industry.
Instrumentation involves automation in the production of various commodities. Complex process control and measurement systems such as those found in the oil and gas industry, chemical plants, food processing operations, and the pulp and paper industry require sensitive and accurate instruments. The technician repairs, maintains, calibrates, adjusts and installs Industrial measuring and controlling instrumentation. This instrumentation makes sure that all machines in a plant are safe and running correctly. They may regulate the water flow in equipment or check the air quality in a mine.
Geomatics is the art and science of acquiring, analyzing, presenting, and managing geographical and spatial data. Geomatics includes the traditional surveying and mapping sciences together with new study areas such as Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and the satellite controlled positioning system the Global Positioning Systems (GPS).
Electrical Engineering Technology (Power and Controls) Co-op is a three-year cooperative education program providing a comprehensive coverage of the electrical power discipline with emphasis on power systems, control systems and electrical design. The theoretical aspects of this program are complemented by extensive practical components that allow students to gain invaluable experience with installation, operation and maintenance practices. This is further supplemented with real-world experience provided by two work terms.
The three-year Electrical Engineering Technology (Industrial Controls) program specializes in Electrical Industrial Controls. It has been developed in response to provincial and national needs with input from professionals associated with the design, installation, operation and maintenance of industrial control systems.
Natural resource development projects (hydropower, oil and gas, mineral processing, etc.) will continue to create substantial employment opportunities for Civil Engineering Technology (Co-op) graduates. The Civil Engineering Technology (Co-op) program will enable graduates to play an important role in the professional team which is responsible for the translation of ideas into the finished product.
The program covers safe practices, process operations, Power (Stationary) Engineering Certification training, chemi- cal engineering principles and regulatory processes, process stream analysis, instrumentation and process control. Students will also acquire valuable work experience through the completion of two co-op work terms.
The reliance upon fossil fuels, particularly oil and gas, to supply Canada's growing industrial and domestic requirements has increased rapidly during the past decade. However, the increasing world demands for these fuels and the growing uncertainty of traditional sources of supply have intensified Canada’s commitment to become self sufficient in its fossil energy needs. With discoveries of new oil and gas resources, particularly along the east coast and in the Arctic regions, and with proper management and development policies, this goal may be attainable.
Seven cash prizes totalling $70,000 will be awarded by Engineers Canada in 2012 to reward excellence in the Canadian engineering profession and to support advanced studies and research.
