Technicians

Technologists and technicians

According to the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists, the difference between these two is in their education levels and work responsibilities.

Technicians are specialists trained for jobs requiring expertise in specific tasks, such as troubleshooting, inspecting, maintenance, manufacturing, testing, sampling, repair, installation, basic design work and equipment operation. Institutes and colleges usually offer one- or two-year programs that teach practical technician skills.

Technologists take advanced mathematics, engineering theory and scientific principles courses. They have usually already completed a two- or three-year program at a college, institute or the equivalent. Their advanced knowledge enables them to work in the following areas: problem resolution, design, data interpretation, complex technical consultation, technical specification preparation, planning, analysis, and project management and decision making. Many technologists obtain higher-level applied science and engineering positions as they acquire experience in the field.

Mechanical technologists and technicians work with engineers to design, manufacture, maintain and test the machines, parts, tools and equipment required in space technologies.

Robotics technologists and technicians work with engineers to develop robotic manipulators for craft, such as space shuttles and the space station.

Electrical and electronics technologists and technicians offer technical services in the design, development and field testing of spacecraft equipment and electrical and electronic systems.

Computer technicians install, repair and maintain electronic systems and equipment in spacecraft. Working with the engineer, they may draw diagrams and build computer system prototypes that will be used to manipulate electronic signals.

Aerospace technologists and technicians install, adjust, repair, review and test engines, navigation systems (used for direction) and instruments used to measure and indicate physical characteristics, such as altitude, temperature and pressure.

Telecommunications has a wide variety of very specialized occupations in laser systems for satellites and telescopes, optic equipment, such as camera, telescope and spacecraft port hole lenses, radar, telecommunication receiving stations, satellite data use and analysis.

Main fields of study for technicians and technologists in the space industry

If the technical side of the space industry is what interests you, here are some possible fields of study. Under the fields of study you will find different titles for technicians. These are only a few fields to help you get started in your search for a specialization that suits you.

Mechanical Engineering Technology

• Mechanical engineering technician
• Robotics technician
• Machine designer
• Heating system designer
• Tool designer

Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technology

• Aircraft instrument technician
• Manufacturing and production support technician
• Microwave facilities maintenance technician
• Electrical engineering technician
• Electronics engineering technician

- Instrumentation and automation

• Robotics technician

Aerospace Technology

• Aircraft mechanic
• Aircraft instrument mechanic
• Computer-assisted design technician
• Avionics technician
• Aircraft design technician

Computer Engineering Technology

• Computer technician
• Software manufacturer
• Telecommunications specialist
• Programmer
• Applications programmer

Telecommunications Technology

• Satellite technologist
• Satellite verification technologist
• Radar technician
• Optical technician
• Laser technician
• Telecommunications technician

This is a robotic manipulator: a hand for the Canadarm2
used to do work in space. This mechanically-intelligent
hand was developed by the Université Laval 
robotics laboratory in Quebec, MD Robotics in
Ontario and the Canadian Space Agency.