Students interested in the technical aspects of building design will soon be able to bring their ideas to life through a new full-time program at Red River College.

Beginning in September 2018, the College will offer a revamped Architectural Technology diploma program that prepares students for career success in the fields of architecture, engineering and construction.

The skills acquired through these programs are in high demand in sectors across the province. According to recent surveys, 98 per cent of RRC grads choose to stay and work in Manitoba, a trend that helps meet the needs of our province’s economy.

“As industry evolves in Manitoba, it’s important that we continue to redesign and create new programs that not only anticipate the changes that are emerging in industry, but allow our students to adapt to those changes as they enter into meaningful and rewarding careers,” says RRC President Paul Vogt.

“Staying ahead of the curve — and engaging with industry — ensures we can be agile in program development, while continuing to provide relevant training that ensures the success of our students and the many industries we support.”

The new program replaces the current Building Design Technology program, and was developed in consultation with representatives from a wide range of industry employers and partners. A new curriculum was created to address the current and future needs of the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) sectors.

“Architectural Technology will more closely align with the current needs of the AEC industry, providing graduates with the knowledge, skills and capabilities to join the workforce in a contributing role, while continuing in the life-long learning experience inherent to our world,” says Stephane Chappellaz, a certified architectural technologist at Crosier Kilgour & Partners Ltd., and chair of the program’s partner advisory council.

The program is a comprehensive, two-year, direct entry program consisting of four 16-week semesters and a four-month co-operative session between Year One and Year Two. The co-op session provides students with practical experience related to their chosen career. Graduates of the program will be job-ready thanks to the hands-on learning made possible by highly skilled, industry-based faculty.

Rapid advances in building and construction technology have increased the need for professionals prepared to meet the demands of a dynamic industry. Students will experience a wide-ranging curriculum of courses that emphasize the practical application of current design and construction techniques, architectural working drawings, building codes, construction specifications, contract administration, Building Information Modelling (BIM), and the mastery of modern technology used in industry.

“As the industry evolves, it’s great to see Red River College being responsive to that evolution by working with industry professionals to address the current needs of the architectural, engineering and construction industries,” says Leighton Klassen, project manager at Colliers Project Leaders.

“Having this insight ensures the new program caters to the many different aspects of the field that students could move into, preparing graduates for the challenges they will face in their future career.”

Registration for Architectural Technology opens on Feb. 1, 2018, at rrc.ca.