Computer Engineering Technician

 

Acquire the skills to adapt to emerging trends and technologies. When a problem arises, whether due to a major hardware failure or a minor software incompatibility, as a Computer Engineering Technician you can help resolve the crisis - with your knowledge of how to configure hardware, software and operating systems. Employment opportunities for skilled technicians are available in a wide range of organizations and locales. The possibilities include everything from work in electronic manufacturing industries, to businesses or organizations with computer networks, databases or websites, to sales and technical support, or service and repair centres.

 

Program Highlights

During the two-year Technician program, courses in computer science are complemented by essential training in oral and written communication, customer relations, and team work. There's plenty of opportunity for hands-on learning, putting the theory you learn in the classroom into practice.

Upon graduation, you'll have the broad-based, transferable skills that are in demand with a firm foundation for a career configuring hardware and software for computer systems. You'll also find opportunities troubleshooting problems in systems both before and after delivery to the customer or client. During this program, you can obtain Cisco Networking certification. As well, the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists conditionally recognizes this program as meeting all the requirements for certification in the Certified Engineering Technician (Ctech) category. Alternatively, when you complete the program, you may choose to pursue your Computer Engineering Technology three-year diploma with one year of additional study.

 

Why Choose Fleming?

Smaller classes mean more attention from dedicated faculty to help you meet challenges, and our broad-based approach to instruction will ensure versatility in your future career. Fleming's partnerships with computer hardware and software industry leaders mean we have the latest in equipment and technology. Through these connections, we're able to direct our grads to satisfying careers in the field. With the common first semester in our computer and engineering sciences programs, you'll obtain a good overview and understanding of today's diverse technologies and how they are interrelated. You'll be well-prepared to adapt to emerging trends and technologies. Your learning environment will be in our 50,000 square foot technology wing - housing state-of-the-art "smart" classrooms and labs devoted to staging, telecommunications, home automation and computer hardware - all designed to support your success.

 

What it Takes to Succeed

• curiosity about how computers work
• experience working with computers, programming an asset
• enjoy working with people
• the ability to be a team player
• excellent listening skills (important for problem solving)
• the ability to explain computing issues to others

 

Career Opportunities

In a typical computing career, you will be involved in a wide variety of tasks, as the world of technology is so diverse. Your broad-based, transferrable skills will be to your benefit. For example, Robert Half Technology, the leading resource on IT hiring and employment trends, reports in its recent Salary Guide that the long-range outlook for IT professionals is strong, and technology's hottest jobs include computer technical support, internet/intranet development and database management. Your Fleming education will help you in this regard. Some graduates join in-house maintenance groups within organizations that use numerous networked computers-such as large offices and production facilities. Others may choose more specialized roles within organizations such as franchised computer stores and consumer electronics. Or, graduates can also choose to set up their own businesses, looking after not only the technical aspects of configuring and troubleshooting computer systems, but also all aspects of client relations. Expect to be in demand-while almost everyone starts off in an entry-level position, there's lots of opportunity to move up the ladder. Starting salaries are typically around $35,000.00.

 

Minimum Admission Requirements

OSSD with the majority of credits at the College (C) and Open (O) level, including: 

• 2 College (C) English courses (Grade 11 or Grade 12)
• 1 College (C) Math course (Grade 11 or Grade 12)

When (C) is the minimum course level for admission, (U) or (U/C) courses are also accepted. 

Mature Students 

If you are 19 years of age or older before classes start, and you do not possess an OSSD, you can write the Canadian Adult Achievement Test to assess your eligibility for admission.

* Students starting in January are required to attend classes over the summer semester.

 

Selection Process

 

Additional Costs

Plan on $1,300 per year for books and supplies.

 

University Transfer Agreements

• University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Course	Hours
Semester 1
Technical Communications	60.00
Applied Mathematics for Technology I	60.00
Electricity	60.00
Introductory Computing	45.00
Software Fundamentals	60.00
Semester 2
Applied Mathematics for Technology II	45.00
Electronics	60.00
Intro to Microprocessors	45.00
Network Fundamentals	60.00
Operating Systems I	45.00
Programming in C	45.00
Semester 3
Computer Hardware	45.00
Computer and Network Security	45.00
Network Operating Systems	75.00
Residential Electronic Systems I	45.00
Routing Protocols and Concepts	45.00
Semester 4
Accessing the WAN	45.00
LAN Switching and Wireless	45.00
Managing Technical Projects	45.00
Network Cabling	45.00
Residential Electronics II	75.00
General Education Elective

Semester 1

Technical Communications

Course Number: COMM032

This course, designed specifically for students in technology-based programs, stresses the development of technical communication as it applies to workplace and academic needs. Students will prepare a variety of technical documents and in the process learn to apply standard rules of usage. Key applications include lab reports, proposals, research reports, documenting sources, editing and proofreading strategies, and spoken presentations.

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Technology Career Essentials

Course Number: GNED058

Employers hire people who are successful in demonstrating important social, emotional and essential employment skills. This course allows you to understand and further develop positive social and emotional learning, and how to manage yourself and others now and in your careers in today's technology world. You learn emotional intelligence including self awareness, successful self-management, interpersonal awareness and relationship management to help you interact with others including teams. It also includes effective learning techniques, dealing with a diverse individual and global workplace, methods to appreciate and develop a positive work ethic and an innovative problem solving and adaptable mind. These skills are taught with an individual, team, business and customer focus. These success skills are what technology employers are looking for in their employees and this course can help you towards being triumphant in your technology career.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Applied Mathematics for Technology I

Course Number: MATH018

This course is designed to prepare the student mathematically for a variety of technical areas. The intention is that students successfully completing the course: will make accurate calculations of applied problems involving approximate numbers using accepted engineering rules; perform basic algebraic operations involving fundamental concepts in order to properly manipulate algebraic formulae; recognize and solve technical problems requiring the concepts of ratio and proportion; identify mathematical functions and use EXCEL to prepare graphs of those functions; apply a basic routine to solve linear equations emphasizing the solutions of linear formulae; recognize exponential and logarithmic functions and use EXCEL to graph these functions using both normal and semi-logarithmic scales; recognize and solve technical problems requiring quadratic equations. Emphasis will be placed on appropriate use of computer spreadsheets as a problem-solving tool. Data and formulae from the first semester case study will be integrated as much as possible into the first semester mathematics curriculum.

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Electricity

Course Number: ELCT084

This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of electricity and electrical test equipment. Topics to be covered include; basic DC and AC principles, such as voltage, current, resistance, power and the laws that govern them. Students will also learn how to work with components such as resistors, inductors, capacitors and test equipment, including digital multimeters, power supplies and oscilloscopes. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to construct and analyze simple DC and AC circuits and use test equipment to verify their operation and troubleshoot them as needed. Students will also be introduced to the basic concepts of semiconductors and the P/N junction diode and to basic digital logic to help prepare them for courses in the following semester.

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Introductory Computing

Course Number: COMP345

Working in the Windows XP environment, this computer course introduces the student to computer basics (computer terminology, e-mail, Internet, file management) and the application and use of word processing, spreadsheet, and database software. Through the extensive use of hands-on activities, students will gain sufficient knowledge and experience to make productive use of computers as a tool in both college and workplace environments.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Software Fundamentals

Course Number: COMP086

This course provides a foundation for a variety of topics in Applied Computing and Engineering Science including algorithmic solutions and the algorithmic process, information processing, computer programming as well as the system development life cycle. This introduction will focus on algorithmic design and computer solutions using object oriented principles. Lecture material will provide an introduction to the theory and logic behind today's computer oriented society and computer programming in an object oriented environment. Hands on computer labs will allow the student to apply and reinforce the principles of algorithm development and programming in an object oriented environment.

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Semester 2

Technology Teams

Course Number: SOCI124

Learn about the movement towards getting work done through teams in organizations, and develop the knowledge and skills to thrive in this area. This course deals with both virtual teams as well as face-to-face teams. You will increase your skills in communication, problem solving, conflict resolution, meeting management and reporting, as well as dealing with diverse team behaviours and cultures. Accountability and recognition among other team skills will be learned to help move teams forward in a positive manner. This course meets the General Education requirements primarily in the areas of Work and the Economy and Social Understanding, as well as touching Civic Life, Personal Development, and Cultural Understanding.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Applied Mathematics for Technology II

Course Number: MATH037

Applied Mathematics for Technology II prepares students mathematically for a variety of technical fields. All topics are covered with applicable problem sets in both written and spreadsheet formats. The topics covered are: graphing of linear, quadratic, polynomial, hyperbolic, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions: curve fitting and linearization: exponential and logarithmic functions and equations: complex numbers and basic statistical analysis.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Electronics

Course Number: ELCT082

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Intro to Microprocessors

Course Number: ELCT019

This course introduces microprocessors with an emphasis on microcontrollers. The microcontroller is a programmable device used to control industrial and consumer devices. These include things such as automobiles, security alarm systems, cameras, robots, printers and keyboards. The course covers microcontroller data handling at the machine level. Participants use a simulator to learn assembly language for the 80x86/805x processors. This includes addressing modes, look-up tables, decision, branching, looping, subroutines and interrupts.This course is primarily simulator based. Students should use class hours to complete lab exercises. They should perform lab preparation, reading assignments and exercises outside class. Lectures may be provided at the beginning of lab sessions. Course participation is a prerequisite to further study about embedded microcontroller interfacing and computer architecture.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Network Fundamentals

Course Number: COMP053

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Operating Systems I

Course Number: COMP091

Operating systems manage a computer's hardware and software resources. This course explores many concepts associated with operating systems using MS-DOS, Windows 98, Windows XP, Windows 2000 Server and Linux as hands-on examples. The concepts include:file management, device management, memory management, processor management, process management and system management. A computer professional will manage and configure operating systems to enhance their speed, efficiency, and reliability using a sound knowledge of operating system principles. Often, they will configure the operating system when installing a new operating system, new application software and hardware to a computer system. Students should have competency in basic computer operations.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Programming in C

Course Number: COMP080

This is a computer-programming course using ANSI C. Students will learn the basics of language syntax and programming structures. Students will learn the four phases in writing a program: (1) Analysis, (2) Design, (3) Implementation, and (4) Testing and Debugging. As well, the importance of documentation will be emphasized. Topics include: the top-down design approach, structured programming, Software Life Cycle, Modular Design, I/O, Program design techniques and flow charts, structure diagrams, and pseudocode, Strings and Character Manipulation. Although no formal prerequisites exist for this course, basic word processing skills, file management skills, and experience with the Windows XP and Linux environment would be useful.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Semester 3

Computer Ethics

Course Number: COMP019

Each day, computer professionals and computer users make information technology related decisions that affect individuals and organizations. Some of these decisions however are unethical and can have far reaching implications. Copying software, reading someone else's electronic mail or even installing software that is poorly written or not properly tested are all decisions that are unethical. However, in most cases they are not perceived as being unethical because the implications are not immediately obvious and in some cases never known until it's too late.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Computer Hardware

Course Number: COMP191

In this course, the student learns and practices the fundamentals of supporting and troubleshooting computer hardware. With hands-on exercises with dedicated PCs, students will learn the knowledge and skills needed to install, build, upgrade, repair, configure, troubleshoot, optimize, diagnose, and perform preventative maintenance of basic personal computer hardware. The course also covers solder practice and solutions to some common operating system issues. Students will also run a simple computer clinic as a capstone project or undertake a placement at a computer service business.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Computer and Network Security

Course Number: COMP013

Every year, companies all over the world lose millions of dollars due to lost or stolen information, network down-time and natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and fires. In most cases, many of these incidents could have been prevented or at least minimized if a security plan had been in place. Until recently, however, computer security was not taken very seriously by most companies. Now, companies are hiring computer security specialists to specifically formulate and implement a computer security plan. This course gives an overview of the technical and managerial aspects of computer and network security.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Network Operating Systems

Course Number: COMP235

Units: 75.00
Hours: 75.00

Residential Electronic Systems I

Course Number: ELCT080

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Routing Protocols and Concepts

Course Number: COMP371

This course describes the architecture, components and operation of routers and explains the principles of routing and routing protocols. Students analyze, configure, verify and troubleshoot the primary routing protocols RIPv1, RIPv2, EIGRP and OSPF. By the end of this course, students will be able to recognize and correct common routing issues and problems. Students complete a basic procedural lab, followed by basic configuration, implementation and troubleshooting labs in each chapter. Packet Tracer activities reinforce new concepts and allow students to model and analyze routing processes that may be difficult to visualize or understand.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Semester 4

Accessing the WAN

Course Number: COMP092

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

LAN Switching and Wireless

Course Number: COMP070

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Managing Technical Projects

Course Number: ELCT020

This is a multi-disciplinary course designed to help students develop their skills in managing technical projects. Students will learn how to identify and plan a project and work toward achieving their project goals. They will interact with a team in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of the project goals. They will communicate in written, spoken, or visual format at various stages of the project. The course also includes evaluating the technical, interpersonal, and communication processes the team uses. Students will work on managing a project typical to one that a computer-systems professional would be involved in.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Network Cabling

Course Number: ELCT074

This course serves to introduce network cabling concepts, trade safety, codes/standards, and installation methods for copper/fibre cable. In this course, the student will gain the knowledge and skills to safely and effectively, install, operate and maintain building electronic systems. These systems include structured cabling, AV, telecommunications, network and security wiring in residential buildings.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Residential Electronics II

Course Number: ELCT081

Units: 75.00
Hours: 75.00