Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
THE ASSOCIATION FOR
TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALS
IN BRITISH COLUMBIA
ASTTBC Looks Ahead…VISIONING THE FUTUREASTTBC has been charting newdirections since the decision was madenot to merge with the engineers andgeoscientists.
A general member survey just over ayear ago confirmed that memberswant to see enhanced rights to prac-tice and a higher profile of technolo-gists, technicians and technical spe-cialists. Council took this feedbackinto strategic planning sessions andbrainstormed the future of theAssociation with senior staff.
“As a result we formulated our‘Visioning the Future’ document,” saysKeith Switzer, AScT, President. “It’sconcise and clearly lays out our directionfor the decades ahead. Our annualwork plans and our decisions andactions will be driven by this.”
Vision… ASTTBC is the model asso-ciation for technology professionals.
Mission… to serve the public by reg-ulating and supporting technologyprofessionals’ commitment to a safe,healthy, and sustainable society andenvironment.
Goals
1. Self-governing professionallegislation and regulation thatprotects the public interest
2. Assured rights to practice andutilization of qualifications withinthe scope of the TechnologyProfessionals’ education, trainingand experience
3. Professional standards andregulation for certification,accreditation, ethics andaccountability that reflectcontemporary social expectations
4. Consistent and universalrecognition of TechnologyProfessionals by employers,governments, other professionalsand regulatory bodies
5. Member services that enhanceprofessional, career, business andpersonal interests
6. Technology education and careersare valued and supported
7. The Association and its membersare involved as key stakeholdersand contributors to public policyin areas in which TechnologyProfessionals have a demonstratedinterest and expertise
8. Sustained excellence in governanceand management of theAssociation
BC Map 1 (85%228).art epsfont(s) required: Nonefill as… 85% PMS 228, 0.25 op stroke
Design/Art by: Richard Mayer © 1994rev: 2000 01 31/RJM
News P Icon 2EL (285/B).art eps
font(s) required: None
colours at full values... see P Icon 1EL for lighter values;
for NEWS masthead original art as Illustrator 5.0.1; gradients as blends
Design/Art by: ASTTBC © 1994 rev: 95 12 04/RJM
Issue #120January-July 2007
ASTTBCEST. 1958ASTTBCEST. 1958
Issue #120January-July 2007
. . . T H E V O I C E O F T E C H N O L O G Y P R O F E S S I O N A L S I N B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A
RIGHTS TO PRACTICE
Creating Awareness…
TECHNOLOGY CAREERS…IT’S TIME! CAMPAIGNTechnologists and technicians work inengineering, building design, construction,electrical and electronics, bioscience andenvironmental, IT and telecommunica-tions, mining, manufacturing and more.
“The demand is high,” says Jason Jung,AScT, Manager, Technology Careers, atASTTBC. “At the same time, enrollmentin technology programs is declining… thisdisconnect will create a real shortage ofskilled technologists and technicians.”
In the mind of the public and students,technology careers are less visible thantrades or other professions. This can extendinto the job market. In most instancesemployers pay annual dues for engineersand foresters, whereas this stands at about60% for technologists and techniciansaccording to the latest ASTTBC MemberCompensation Survey. Outmoded legisla-tion often adds to the situation by hamper-ing professional practice and the full recog-nition of all qualified practitioners.
ASTTBC is launching an awarenesscampaign on the theme ‘TechnologyCareers… it’s TIME!’ The campaign willtie in with ASTTBC’s Employer LiaisonProgram, discussions with governmentsand other stakeholder groups about pro-fessional recognition and practice, andwith initiatives like National TechnologyWeek. It will include media advertising.
“This will help focus our work in servingthe public interest, achieving professionalrecognition and rights to practice, and inpromoting technolog y careers,” saysASTTBC Executive Director & Registrar,John Leech, AScT, CAE. “I am certain thepublic, government and ASTTBC memberswill come to better know who we are andwhat we contribute to BC as a consequenceof this program.” ■
Watch for it! Become involved!
GUIDE TO PRACTICE IN ELECTRICAL SETS PATH
ASTTBC HAS BEEN WORKING on the issue of an appropriate scope of inde-pendent practice for ASTTBC-registered technology professionals. The
first step along this path was adding a ‘definition of scope of practice’ within theASTT Regulations in May 2005. One aspect of that definition is the possibility forCouncil to develop ‘Guides to Professional Practice’ as a means of bringing greaterclarity for members and the public.
During the past year, ASTTBC developed a draft Guide in the field of ElectricalDesign Services For Building Projects. This first Guide will serve as a template for others.
Members have, by a combination of education, training and experience, attained a levelof qualification which enables them to apply known engineering principles and tech-niques to the solution of practical engineering problems of varying complexity within theASTTBC definition of scope of practice and any Guide to Professional Practice approvedby Council. Members are required to comply with the ASTTBC Code of Ethics.
This particular Guide recognizes the services that ASTTBC members have tradi-tionally carried out in the provision of electrical design and field review services forbuilding projects. Members normally apply professional services in the followingbuilding types… commercial, health care, industrial, institutional, municipal and res-idential. Under the authority of the ASTT Act & Regulations and the Guide, a mem-ber may take responsibility for the carrying out services itemized in Section 3 of theGuide without requiring the direct supervision of another appropriately qualified pro-fessional. A member can apply judgment in the selection of the applicable code orstandard to be used, including comparing the results achieved to those specified inthe code or standard to ensure the appropriate product is realized.
Depending on the size and complexity of the facilities being designed, the membermay be called upon as the designer of a particular technical function as those listed inSection 3, or might alternately work as a member of a team. A member may be theteam leader of a project, which is more complex than the scope of practice contem-plated by the Guide when responsibility is assumed by another appropriately qualifiedand registered professional. A member must be able to recognize unique characteris-tics which, due to their complexity or other issues, are beyond their field of expertiseand require the involvement of another qualified professional, whether a member ofASTTBC or another professional association. Consideration of such matters is espe-cially critical when the risk to the public is increased by factors related to the type andsize of project and the degree of impact on public health, safety and the environment.
ASTTBC members usually complete building design services to voltage levels nogreater than 25kV. Section 3 of the Guide identifies fourteen services that a membermay engage in and take responsibility for. These range from… design of distributionboards for three phase power requirements which includes the siz-ing of busbars and the correct selection of equipment based onfault level calculations; to design of power cable networks, calcula-tion of load levels, voltage drops and diversity factors includingcorrect selection and sizing of cables to meet particular applica-tions and fault levels; and to field reviews of electrical installationsto determine that the constructed works are in general compliancewith the design intent.
As a member of the team providing electrical design services, amember may also be involved in other project-related activities suchas preparing, evaluating and adjudicating tenders; appointment ofcontractors; project field review and supervision; and/or manage-ment of a project, or aspects of a project.
The Guide also addresses issues such as stamping work, profes-sional liability and recommended codes and references.
The full ‘Guide to Professional Practice – Electrical Design Servicesfor Building Projects’ is posted on… www.asttbc.org
ASTTBC Council would appreciate any comments on this docu-ment. Please send your comments to… [email protected]. ■
Find qualified technologists and technicians…
www.cten.ca
Sponsored by… Applied Science
Technologists & Technicians of BC
a virtualemployment
exchange!
CTEN L1–L (185/B).art eps
font(s): Futura Bold (outlines)
maple leaf… PMS 185 gradient fill only, NO strokerelease… 2.25 pt stroke ÷ 2 = 1.25 pt net release
C… BLACK fill only, NO strokerelease… 2.6 pt stroke ÷ 2 = 1.3 pt net release
TEN… BLACK fill, 0.5 pt stroke (to anticipate future trapping)release… (2.25 - 0.5) pt stroke ÷ 2 = 0.875 pt net release
(M) added (OACETT registered CTEN)
Design/Art by: Richard MayerCTEN joint © CM’s and CCTT
rev: 99 02 17/RJM
COAST–TO–COAST
Annual General Meeting 2007Friday, May 25thThe Coast Hotel & Convention Centre, Langley, BC
Programme…• Continental Breakfast • Luncheon• Annual General Meeting • Modernizaiton Project• Meet Council Coffee Reception • Practice Guidelines• Technology Careers Keynote Speakers • Risk Management• Awards • Informal Reception / No Host Bar
RSVP… by May 15thFor more information, see enclosed brochure or visit…
www.asttbc.org/agmEvent Sponsors…
Benwell Atkins, ENCON Group Inc., MBNA Canada Bank, Meloche Monnex, Willis Canada Inc. |
Cityfone, Hertz Canada, Manulife Financial, Mark’s WorkWearhouse
Jason Killins, AScT and Ernie Killins, AScT are among 530 ASTTBC members registered in electrical.
Membership Statistics for 2006…ASTTBC EXPERIENCES MODEST GROWTHOverall, 2006 turned out to be a year of modest net growth forASTTBC. Current Applied Science Technologist numbers areat an all time high with Certified Technician numbers holdingsteady. In 2006 the number of GradTechs increased over theprevious three years. Retention efforts have improved, withfewer members being cancelled. Of some concern is a signifi-cant drop in student numbers along with a decline in Associatemembers. Our growth with the technical specialist certificationgroups remains strong with a net growth of 6.2%.
Requests for applications 1029
New members approvedRegular 245Student 335
Cancelled, resigned or deceased members 467Percent of members from BC colleges & institutes 67.5%
Members by Classification
Members by Discipline
% is rounded to nearest 0.5 (does not include 64 Honorary members)Note: Pie charts do not include ASTTBC’s Technical Specialist programs
E-communications on the Rise…CURRENT EMAIL ADDRESS VITALCommunication between ASTTBC and members is increasing-ly being done by email. Broadcast email is an efficient way toget important information out quickly. We can reach about85% of the membership via email. Are you one of the 15%who are missing out?
Telephone numbers, mailing addresses and employers canchange. Email addresses seem to change even more. Is yourcontact information current? Please go to www.asttbc.org andclick on the ‘Change Your Address’ box. Or email your updateto [email protected]
Registrants We Can Reach Electronically
ASTTBC 88%
Technical Specialist Groups
House & Property Inspection 99%Site Improvements Surveys 96%Steel Detailing 90%Public Works Inspection 86%Building Design 85%Forest Measurements 81%Construction Safety 74%Onsite Wastewater 64%Fire Protection 59%
ASTTBC Moving Forward…WORK PLAN 2007
ASTTBCENTERED 2007 with a renewed vision andenergy, and with the resources to meet our
responsibilities under the ASTT Act and Regulations.During the previous year ASTTBC significantly improved
professional regulation, including introducing into the ASTTRegulations a more comprehensive definition of scope of prac-tice, and enhanced professional accountability standards andprocesses. The Association elevated its profile and that of itsmembers. It engaged the BC Government on a number of keyissues, especially professional reliance, practice rights and leg-islative modeling. Member services such as Errors & Omissionsinsurance were enhanced and careers in technology were pro-moted to students and the public.
The 2007 Work Plan is based on this strong foundation andis mindful that ASTTBC Council will govern within the fullpotential of the ASTT Act and Regulations. The Plan contains23 action items. Key initiatives include…
ASTT Act & Regulations
• Review ASTT Regulations to ensure full suitability with the‘Objects’ of the Association as stated in the ASTT Act.
• Continue to seek BC Government support for a full reviewof professional regulation and engage other professionalassociations in considering an ‘umbrella legislation’ model.
Professional Recognition & Practice
• Develop Guides to Professional Practice.
• Finalize framework for professional regulation of members’practice in architectural design.
• Engage with the BC Government’s plans for ‘professionalreliance’.
• Take an active role in implementation of the BC – AlbertaTrade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement (TILMA).
Professional Regulation & Standards
• Develop policies for a professional practice review program,including… Continuing Professional Development;renewed ethics and practice course and examination; and,practice audits.
• Develop a comprehensive risk management program.
• Implement provisional member categories to ensureinternationally educated professionals are able to fullyengage in technology careers.
Member & Employer Services
• Implement communications program for Student Membersand Graduate Technologists and Technicians.
• Broaden Employer Liaison Program.
• Conduct biennial Member Survey.
Science & Technology Awareness (Public Policy)
• Facilitate a TechWORKS! plan
• Assume leadership role in BC for National Technology Week
Corporate
• Develop a volunteer leadership program.
• Develop a marketing plan for 2008 – 2010.
• Increase use of e-enterprise. ■
Are you covered?DON’T GAMBLE YOUR ASSETS!
1-800-665-5252
Errors & Omissions and Commercial General Liability
Insurance for Technology ProfessionalsAre you covered?
DON’T GAMBLE YOUR ASSETS!
1-800-665-5252
Group Plans & Services…adding value to yourregistration!
Group Plans & Services…adding value to yourregistration!
Group Home Insurance toPROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT!
1.877.722.2299
Get your direct quote at…www.TDmelochemonnex.com/asttbc
Group Home Insurance toPROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT!
1.877.722.2299
program administered by…
underwritten by…
MF M/N1H–L (W).art eps
font(s) required: None mark… WHITE fill, 0.25 pt stroke
n
The Plan that over 48,000 engineering
and technology professionals have trusted to
protect their families just got even better!
sponsored by CCPE
NEW BENEFITS AND CHOICES FOR YOU!
visit… www.manulife.com/ASTTnews OR call… 1.877.598.2273
The Plan that over 49,000 engineering
and technology professionals have trusted to
protect their families just got even better!
sponsored by CCPE
NEW BENEFITS AND CHOICES FOR YOU!
visit… www.manulife.com/ASTTnews OR call… 1.877.598.2273
For more information aboutASTTBC’s Group Plans andServices check out theweb at…
www.asttbc.org/xc
E&O INSURANCE HOME INSURANCE HEALTH, ACCIDENT,DISABILITY, DENTAL & LIFE INSURANCE
Arnold Badke, PEng, President of the ConsultingEngineers of BC, and Keith Switzer, AScT, Presidentof ASTTBC, celebrate excellence in engineering.
Sponsors Awards Gala…
ASTTBC FORGES LINK WITHCONSULTING ENGINEERS
The Consulting Engineers ofBritish Columbia celebrated 30years of engineering excellence
at its Awards Gala in March. ASTTBC was aPlatinum Sponsor of the event.
Keith Switzer, AScT, President of ASTTBC,volunteered as a judge for the CEBC 2007Awards for Engineering Excellence competi-tion. A winner was selected in each of five cat-egories including Building, Municipal,Transportation, Natural Resource, Energyand Industry, and Soft Engineering. “Therewere about 50 excellent entries, a difficult taskfor the judges,” says Keith. “These awardsdemonstrate the technical excellence and innova-tion in BC’s engineering sector, and ASTTBCwas pleased to be involved.”
CEBC Awards forEngineering Excellence 2007
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR’S AWARD FORENGINEERING EXCELLENCE
Sandwell Engineering Inc.Tanker Loading Unit – Aniva Bay, Sakhalin Island
BUILDINGS
Award of ExcellenceStantec Consulting Ltd.Gulf Islands Operations CentreAward of MeritGolder Associates Ltd. and GAIA Inc.Vancouver Island Conference Centre DSM
MUNICIPAL
Award of ExcellenceKlohn Crippen Berger Ltd., Hatch EnergyInc. and GVWDSeymour Falls Dam Seismic UpgradeAward of MeritDayton & Knight Ltd.Hart–Nechako Water Supply Improvements
TRANSPORTATION
Award of ExcellenceMcElhanney Consulting Services Ltd.Mount Lehman InterchangeAward of MeritISL Engineering and Land ServicesSea to Sky Highway DBFO Furry Creek toMinaty Bay
NATURAL RESOURCE, ENERGY & INDUSTRY
Award of ExcellenceSandwell Engineering Inc.Tanker Loading Unit – Aniva Bay, Sakhalin IslandAward of MeritKlohn Crippen Berger Ltd.Tucush Valley Surface Water Management
SOFT ENGINEERING
Award of ExcellenceSandwell Engineering Inc.GVS & DD Seismic AssessmentAward of MeritKerr Wood Leidal Associates Ltd.KWL Emerald
Technologist TechnicianAssociateGrad TLGrad TNStudentHonoraryTotal
CivilElectronicsMechanicalBuildingElectricalGeomaticsEnvironmentalBiological SciencesChemicalBiomedicalGas & PetroleumIndustrialMetallurgicalMiningInformation Forest Engineering
3722 53.3%1215 17.4%456 6.5%
1079 15.5%38 0.5%
408 5.8%64 0.9%
6982
1989 28.8%1270 18.4%1122 16.2%861 12.4%523 7.6%292 4.2%175 2.5%133 1.9%121 1.7%115 1.7%98 1.4%71 1.0%53 0.8%49 0.7%32 0.5%14 0.2%
Pej Namshirin,a GradTech member of ASTTBC, isworking on the integration of biomedical equip-ment and systems.
“The Honorary Membership award was asurprise and something that I will alwayscherish. The recognition was especiallymeaningful for it came from an associationof professionals which strive to improve thebuilt environment in the interest of publichealth and safety.”
George Humphrey, BArchPast President BOABC
“Thank you very much for my designationas an Honorary Member of ASTTBC. Thiswas unexpected but much appreciated.”
Verne Sundstrom, RPF, ATE
“In appreciation of my HonoraryMembeship with ASTTBC, I would like todonate a portion of the normal dues toFEAT.”
Dr. Brian Carr, DeanKwantlen University College
“The flowers brightened both the new digsand our spirits. Your kindness and thought-fulness are much appreciated. Thanks to allthe good folks at ASTTBC.”
Yaroslaw Zajac, Executive Director/Directeur General, Canadian Council ofTechnicians and Technologists
• No Activation Fee (save $35)• Free delivery• 30-day moneyback guarantee• ASTTBC members receive
25% off the market price
1.888.322.1113www.cityfone.net/asttbc
GREAT RATESon wireless phones
and airtime forASTTBC members!
• No Activation Fee (save $35)• Free delivery• 30-day moneyback guarantee• ASTTBC members receive
25% off the market price
1.888.322.1113www.cityfone.net/asttbc
RELIABLE andAFFORDABLEWeb Hosting
www.imaginet.ca
604.985.3074
For your BEST possible price
www.autosalesandlease.com
1.800.300.GREG
For your BEST possible price
www.autosalesandlease.com
1.800.300.GREG
RELIABLE andAFFORDABLEWeb Hosting
www.imaginet.ca
604.985.3074imagiNet L1–SS (185/W).art eps
font(s): Palatino (as outlines) o
The card that’s designed to meetall your specifications as a
TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONAL
1.888.876.6262
The card that’s designed to meetall your specifications as a
TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONAL
1.888.876.6262MasterCard is a registered trademark of MasterCard International,
used pursuant to license. © 2003 MBNA Canada Bank.
CREDIT CARD CELL PHONES & LONG DISTANCE WORK CLOTHING AUTO RENTALS AUTO PURCHASE & LEASING HOTEL RESERVATIONS WEB HOSTING
ASTTBC loyalty savings card00212341
Be sure to takeyour account cardto any store andstart enjoying thesavings on work
wear today.
ASTTBC loyalty savings card00212341
Be sure to takeyour account cardto any store andstart enjoying thesavings on work
wear today.
ASTTBC discount numberCDP 1136085
A World ofBENEFITS.A World of SERVICES.
1.800.263.0600
ASTTBC discount numberCDP 1136085
A World ofBENEFITS.A World of SERVICES.
1.800.263.0600
Available onwww.asttbc.org/xc
Preferred member pricingfor hotels in BC
Rates downtown starting at$72/night and Four Starhotels starting at $125/night
Available onwww.asttbc.org/xc
Preferred member pricingfor hotels in BC
Rates downtown starting at$72/night and Four Starhotels starting at $125/night
ASTTBC Executive Director & Registrar, John Leech, AScT, CAE, VancouverMayor Sam Sullivan and public relations consultant Debbie Walker talkabout technology careers, membership in ASTTBC for City employees and sup-port for City initiatives around sustainability.
Connecting With Local Government…
ASTTBC MEETSVANCOUVER MAYORConnecting with BC’s leaders is a key part of ASTTBC’s out-reach program to enhance awareness of technology careers andthe professionals who make a significant contribution to socie-ty. ASTTBC Executive Director & Registrar John Leech,AScT, CAE, met recently with Vancouver Mayor Sam Sullivan.
“We had a great chat about our work to enhance awareness oftechnology education and careers,” says John Leech. “I asked theMayor and the City of Vancouver to work with us to ensure youngpeople see the value of a career as a technologist, technician or tech-nical specialist.”
ASTTBC is also asking the City, a major employer of tech-nology professionals, to support and call for registration withASTTBC for their staff. “ASTTBC registration is a factor inengaging and retaining technical staff,” continues John Leech.“Many municipalities support ASTTBC registration and paymember dues as they do for other professionals. We knowVancouver is generally supportive and we are asking for that sup-port to be equitable across the board.” ASTTBC will be followingup with senior staff as well as Mayor Sullivan.
The Mayor asked ASTTBC to get behind the City’s efforts topromote sustainability and the ‘Civil City’ initiative. ASTTBCwill see how the Association and members can be involved, andindicated it will also work with groups such a TETRA, anorganization in which Sam Sullivan has taken a lead role overthe years. ■
You Told Us…You Told Us…
Riding the Wave of Change…PEJ NAMSHIRIN, GRADUATE TECHNOLOGIST
Investigation & Discipline Summary 2006…PRACTICE REVIEW BOARD PROTECTSSTANDARDSComplaints Statistics 2006 2005 2004 2003
ASTTBC ComplaintsUnauthorized use of title 1 3 7 1
Ethics/logo/procedural, etc. 2 3 1
Unauthorized use of CET 1 1
Inquiry – no action 1
Special Certification ComplaintsProperty Inspection title/logo 5 12 5 2
Property Inspection ethics/other 2 2 3 2
Fire Protection title/logo 2
Fire Protection ethics/other 15 7 10 12
Timber Cruiser title/logo 1
Timber Cruiser ethics/other 2 1
Onsite Wastewater title/logo 1 1
Onsite Wastewater ethics/other 18
All other Special Certification groups – title/logo
All other Special Certification groups – ethics/other 2
Files Closed to Date 49 27 32 18
Where there are multiple complaints, where a hearing/meeting was held and the decision covered all complaints, it is recorded as only 1 complaint.
Complaint Outcome 2006 2005 2004 2003Cease & Desist – ethics/logo/title/CET – compiled 11 15 15 3
Ethics Complaint – censure applied 11 4 5 6
Ethics Complaint – no breach of code found 9 7 11 9
Ethics Complaint withdrawn 2 1 1
Title/logo inquiry – no action taken by PRB 16
Total Complaints 49 27 32 18
Type of Action Involved 2006 2005 2004 2003Disciplinary Hearing held 1 5
Special Investigative Meeting held 2
Stipulated Order accepted 9
Stipulated Order rejected
Appeal to PRB upheld 1
Appeal to PRB denied
Appeal to ASTTBC Council upheld 1
Appeal to ASTTBC Council denied 1
Title/Logo/Stamp/Inquiry – no action by PRB 3
‘Type of Action’ is included in totals of ‘Complaint Outcomes’
To date for 2007, 16 Ethics Investigations and 5 Cease &Desist Orders are in progress. Investigations in progress are notincluded in charts above. ■
ADDING VALUE TO YOURMEMBERSHIP IN ASTTBC…
MS LT2A–S (285/B).art eps
font(s): Adobe Garamond Semibold / VAG Rounded Black (oultines)ASTTBC… PMS 285 op fill, NO stroke; KO behind as WHITE fill, 0.3 pt stroke
ASTTBC DS… BLACK op fill onlyMember Services… BLACK op fill, NO stroke; KO behind as WHITE fill, NO stroke
Design/Art by: ASTTBC/RJM © 1999rev: 00 02 22/RJM
IT IS A NEW WORLD for Pej Namshirin. This 28 year-oldGraduate Technologist is in on the high tech evolution ofcatheterization imaging systems at Vancouver General
Hospital. Less than two decades before that, he was learningEnglish as a new immigrant to Canada.
Pej is on a staff of roughly 40 technologists in the biomedicalengineering department at VGH. He is assigned to the diagnosticteam that supports the cardiac care units, catheterization lab, neu-rological facilities, ophthalmology and several other labs. Thediagnostic team has a strong ‘systems based’ expertise, which ledto Pej being involved in a large-scale upgrade of the cardiaccatheterization X-ray labs. “The cath lab lets doctors essentially seeright inside patients arteries and heart,” say Pej. “This upgrade wasground-breaking. It’s one of the most integrated in North America inhow all of the equipment talks to each other. The X-ray machine linksto a dynamic system so doctors can see not only the images, but also allthe information that has been gathered on the patient at once.”
Pej sees a transformation underway in almost all aspects ofbiomedical engineering technology, with less time spent work-ing on individual pieces of electronic equipment, and more onnetwork issues and software. For example, the VGH biomeddepartment has been involved in integrating a drug library withinfusion pumps that patients use to increase their comfort level.No matter how much a patient pushes the button, the integrat-ed system will not release medication outside of an acceptablerange. The approach has increased drug accuracy and safety.
The training Pej received at BCIT hasenabled him to step into this complex work.“Our courses in anatomy, chemistry, physics, elec-tronics and information systems gave us an under-standing of what the medical practitioners are askingfor, and the knowledge of how to get the equipment andsoftware to do what they want,” he says. “I chose BCITbecause of its reputation and I realized that by putting in twototally focused years I could come out as a qualified professional.”While at BCIT, he joined ASTTBC as a student member.“Even at that time I knew it was important to have professional recog-nition,” he says. Now he has almost enough work experi-ence to apply for his AScT designation.
Most of his family is in the medicalfield. “My mom was a nurse in Iran,”says Pej. “We immigrated to Canada withless than $100 and jumped into the Canadian situa-tion rather than staying in our comfort zone. Now we are contribut-ing to society in Canada. My mom got a job at VGH as a sterile sup-ply technician, my brother is a paramedic and my sister works in thetreasury department of Fraser Health.”
An avid soccer player and snowboarder, this ASTTBC mem-ber is riding another wave of change, climate change. He soldhis car and moved within walking distance of work. Youngtechnologists like Pej Namshirin are going to make a huge dif-ference in the decades ahead. ■
Internationally Trained Professionals…ASTTBC IMPLEMENTSPROVISIONAL MEMBERSHIPBRITISH COLUMBIA is projected to have one million jobopenings in the next 12 years. Our education system will onlyproduce 650,000 Grade 12 graduates. Combine this with thedemographics of aging baby boomers and the skill shortageproblem is readily apparent. Immigration will play a major rolein filling the gap and is critical to supporting economic growth.
Internationally trained professionals typically have the aca-demics and relevant experience for registration, but lack theCanadian experience required by most professional associa-tions. The ‘catch 22’ is that certification requires Canadianwork experience, but without certification it is harder to obtainappropriate employment.
ASTTBC has implemented a new provisional membership forinternationally trained professionals. The policy provides amore efficient and practical process for credential recognitionto assist immigrants with their employment opportunities.
The first AScT (Provisional) registration was issued in January toYongwoong Park who immigrated from Korea. He has a bachelordegree in electronic communications engineering and a careerspanning 19 years planning and designing voice, data and videocommunication systems. What he did not have was local contactsand an understanding of business here, or Canadian credentials.“English and a different culture are barriers for immigrants,” he says.
Connecting With Internationally TrainedProfessionals…GALA FOR ENGINEERS &TECHNOLOGISTS INCLUDES ASTTBC
T h e So c i e t y o f Pu n j a b i En g i n e e r s a n dTechnologists of BC held its 12th Annual Dinnerin January. SPEATBC is a non-profit organization,which has successfully brought together engineersand technologists from different disciplines from
both Canada and the Indian subcontinent. The Society hopes topromote the engineering profession in the Punjabi communityand to foster a spirit of fellowship among its members.
“They were definitely successful in doing so at this wonderfulevent,” says Nancy Fowler, AScT, Vice President of ASTTBC.“Over an excellent meal of Punjabi and Indo-Canadian dishes, myhusband Bruce and I enjoyed the company of Prakash Joshi and hiswife Darshana, Milton and Valerie Carrasco, Gillian Pichler, PEng,a Director with APEGBC, and Mary Polak, MLA for Langley.”
The banquet attracted more than 400 people. The eveningbegan with an inspirational keynote from Milton Carrasco,President of Transoft Solutions. Several scholarships were givenout as well as a leadership award that was presented to J.P. Sandhuand an appreciation award to Arvind Parmar. Entertainmentincluded gazals by Past President of SPEATBC and currentCouncil member of ASTTBC, Prakash Joshi, AScT, EngL, whowas accompanied by tabla player Yogish Kudva.
“ASTTBC and SPEATBC have a strong working relationship,”says Nancy. “Both organizations have a keen focus on fostering theprocess of integrating immigrating engineers and technologists toCanada. With our growing labour shortage expected to continue forsome time, this focus has become a priority for both organizations.” ■
“Integration is very important. Learning about a professional asso-ciation like ASTTBC and getting certified is also very important.”
Yongwoong Park enrolled in a program at SUCCESS. “Wehelp with job search strategies and mentoring,” says Rene Kozak,Facilitator/Counsellor at the Tri City SUCCESS office. “We tryto partner new immigrants who have no local experience or localeducation with companies that have the same expertise. It gives ourclients exposure to Canadian qualifications and work practicesand, really critical, opportunities to build networks.” SUCCESSrecommended to Yongwoong that he apply for the AScT(Provisional) designation.
“In the past, Internationally Trained Professionals applying toASTTBC were registered as Associate members, a status that wefelt did not properly reflect the full potential of their qualificationsor experience for employers and other agencies,” says JohnShortreid, AScT, CLS, Associate Registrar at ASTTBC.“Obviously as a professional body, ASTTBC has a duty to act inthe public interest and ensure due diligence for competency. At thesame time, we must ensure assessment tools and procedures do notcreate barriers. With our new provisional membership we antici-pate that we have removed a significant barrier while upholdingstandards and protecting public health and safety.”
Geoff Sale, AScT, Manager, Internationally EducatedProfessionals Program, says that, “ASTTBC has been seekingways to improve the access to labour markets for immigrants forwell over two years. Our relationships with a variety of immigrantassistance agencies in and around the Lower Mainland have beengrowing steadily, and representatives from both ASTTBC andAPEGBC frequently visit those agency venues and jointly discussthe structure of the Engineering Team in Canada with theirclients. As a consequence, ASTTBC is expecting more applicationsfrom internationally educated professionals who choose ourAssociation as their professional home.”
Yongwoong Park, AScT (Provisional) is continuing to adapt.One thing that he noticed was the cultural diversity inVancouver. “The first time that I ever had Vietnamese rice noodleswas here in Vancouver,” he says. He is looking forward to build-ing a career in Canada. ■
For the full Board of Examiners policy visit… www.asttbc.org…or contact the Registration Department at ASTTBC.
Report Published…ACCESS TO LICENSURE FORINTERNATIONALLY TRAINEDPROFESSIONALS
A NEW REPORT – ‘Solutions ForAccess’ – makes a number of recommen-dations for regulatory bodies to ensurethat internationally trained professionalshave access to licensure in BritishColumbia. The report was prepared byMOSAIC with funding from the LawFoundation of BC and the Ministry ofEconomic Development, InternationalQualifications Unit. Input was soughtfrom licensing bodies for accountants,architects, engineers, dental hygienists,pharmacists, teachers and others.
By 2011 it is estimated that 100 percent of Canada’s net labour force growthwill depend on immigration according tothe report. Many immigrants are work-ing outside their profession because ofobstacles that currently deny them theopportunity to use their skills. ‘SolutionsFor Access’ looks at ways to remove thebarriers to equal access to licensure andemployment for internationally trainedprofessionals. It identifies that action bygovernment, employers and regulators ofprofessions is needed. ■
For copies of the report, please go to theMOSAIC web site at…www.mosaicbc.com
Yogesh Kudva and Prakash Joshi, AScT, EngL,ASTTBC Council member.
L to R (sitting)… Darshana Joshi, Veena Kudva(wife of Yogesh Kudva – tabla player), PrakashJoshi, AScT, EngL. (standing)… Bruce Fowler,Valerie Carrasco, Milton Carrasco (keynotespeaker and President of Transoft Solutions),Nancy Fowler, AScT, Vice President of ASTTBC.
AScT CTechS T A N D A R D S O F E X C E L L E N C E
Yongwoong Park, AScT (Provisional), is the first to achieve the new provi-sional membership for internationally trained professionals.
by: John E. Leech, AScT, CAEExecutive Director & Registrar, ASTTBC
THE ONLY THING CONSISTENT inthe current system is inconsistency! Withthe exception of the Health Professions
Act, BC does not have a cohesive and sustainablesystem for professional and occupational regula-tion. Legislation has emerged and changed overtime based on the immediate need of a particular
group or societal issue requiring attention. In short, the currentsystem is built on a century of ad hoc legislative initiatives andincremental changes that has created a patchwork model of pro-fessional legislation. BC needs a new way for a new century.
Professional Regulation Needs New Governance Model
Legislation has been enacted without broad policy direction andcontext for the formulation of professional and occupationalregulation. There are exceptions, notably the Health ProfessionsAct, which now includes all health professionals, and theQuebec Professions Act, which captures 50 professional groups.
There is a need for a strategic look at regulation with theintent of developing a long-term approach that provides a sus-tainable foundation for existing and future professional andoccupational legislation. Government should establish broadconcepts from which will flow the specific legislative model(s).Whatever the legislative model, it must be enabling, with theLegislature setting the broad framework and leaving the gover-nance to an at-arms-length entity(ies) to address the specifics ofprofessional and occupational regulation. In the ideal modelthere would be limited call to return to the Legislature.
The Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement providesa solid base for ensuring portability of credentials, but the agree-ment does not assure ‘harmonization’ of professional and occupa-tional regulation… a critical consideration for Canada to competein the global economy. We cannot continue to work with a‘hodge-podge’ of professional and occupational regulation.
Umbrella Legislation for a New Century
There are many good and valid reasons for ‘bundling’ profes-sional and occupational legislation…
• a common foundation for all regulation, especially onmatters such as title protection, definition of scopes ofpractice, codes of ethics, complaints and discipline processes
• a clear and common mechanism for managing grey andoverlapping practice
• a more effective vehicle for continuing professionaldevelopment and like programs
• little need to involve the Legislature when makingadjustments to address changing social interests
The move to a new form of professional regulation cannot beprotracted. The foundation, eg: Health Professions Act, hasbeen established and tested. The need at this stage is for thewill of Government to begin the process that will lead to a newmore effective and sustainable regulatory model. ■
These diagrams illustrate the current regulatory framework and a suggested ideal model to establish a new pathway to regulate professions and occupations.
NOTES: (1) Health Professions Act is a fairly large ‘umbrella’ regulating all health professions.(2) All professions operating under separate statutes.
NOTES:(1) One large umbrella similar to Quebec model. One statute regulating all professions and occupations.(2) Broad grouping of self-governing professions and occupations.
MOU Between ASET & APEGGA…ALBERTA ENGINEERING TEAM IN TALKSAFTER DECADES OF WRANGLING over professionalrecognition of technologists and technicians, in January this yearthe Councils of both the Association of Science and EngineeringTechnology Professionals of Alberta and of the Association ofProfessional Engineers, Geologists and Geophysicists of Albertaunanimously approved a Memorandum of Understandingregarding a possible new ‘One Act, Two Associations’ regulatorymodel. The two associations would continue their registrationfunctions with the addition of joint regulation of technologistswho would be granted a licence to practice.
The Memorandum and a discussion paper are online atwww.aset.ab.ca. Members of ASET and APEGGA are beingasked to review the proposed legislative model and providefeedback. In addition, members of both associations were invit-ed to joint Town Hall meetings. ASET and APEGGA will holda special mail-in ballot among their members regarding theproposed new One Act, Two Associations regulatory model forengineers and technologists in Alberta.
“Professional regulation of engineering, geoscience and architecturevaries greatly across Canada,” says ASTTBC Executive Director&Registrar John Leech, AScT, CAE. “This is one reason we advo-cate a form of umbrella legislation. As we look to a new model inBC, we are closely tracking developments in other provinces.”
ASTTBC has had discussions with ASET and with the BCGovernment about the Alberta initiative and the progress it signalsin building linkages and resolving, at least in part, professional regu-lation in the broad field of engineering. “I see much good that cancome from this, but I also have some concerns that we would wantaddressed for anything in BC,” says the Executive Director. “Forexample, trades people are already licensed and this proposal will lead tolicensing of technologists, yet there is no recognition for CertifiedTechnicians in it. I don’t see the need for 50:50 representation on thejoint boards, this is like suggesting that nursing be regulated by a 50:50board of doctors and nurses. And the proposed scope of practice wouldbe individual to each technologist much the same way the LimitedLicence is granted, and this is not where we are at in regulatingASTTBC members.” ASTTBC will continue to provide its perspec-tive on the Alberta model to ASET and to the BC Government. ■
…PATHWAYS TOCAREER SUCCESS!
BUILDING TOMORROW … THROUGH ACTION TODAY!
TechWORKS! is a program designed to helppromote careers in technology. You will finduseful information on the TechWORKS!web site at…
techworks.asttbc.org
www.asttbc.org
Members & Employers Log In…
MEMBER COMPENSATIONSURVEY 2007More than 500 members and employerslogged onto the Member CompensationSurvey 2007 within two weeks of itbeing posted on the ASTTBC web site.
The Member Compensation Survey ispublished so that members of theApplied Science Technologists &Technicians of British Columbia andtheir employers have the opportunity tocompare job responsibility, experienceand other factors with the salary rangesreported by the Association. “Thankyou for compiling and publishing the2007 Member’s Compensation Survey,”wrote Terry Edwards, AScT, in anemail. “I place a high value on this sur-vey and hope you can return to publish-ing this biennially.”
In fact, ASTTBC plans to do just that.The compensation survey and a generalsurvey of the membership will be done inalternate years.
Members and employers alike indicatethe Member Compensation Survey ishighly useful. “Many other associations selltheir compensation surveys, sometimes for asmuch as $2,000,” says Wendy Lawson,Manager, Marketing, at ASTTBC. “So,the fact that ASTTBC’s survey providessimilar information to members and any-one else who looks on the web site at no costis a huge member service.”
This edition is the first where compen-sation information has also been includ-ed for ASTTBC Technical Specialist cer-tification programs. The CompensationSurvey has been published by theAssociation since 1977.
Median Monthly Salary
AScT $5,615
CTech $5,375
GradTech $3,835
4% average increase in the past year
Monthly Salary By Year Of Graduation
1997 $5,833
2000 $5,025
2003 $4,292
Self-employed Members $70,000/yr.
Average Canadian Salary for 2005 was$38,010 according to Statistics Canada.
A printed version of key charts from the‘Member Compensation Survey 2007’ isenclosed as an insert with this issue ofASTT News. ■
For the full survey, go to… www.asttbc.org
Just got a promotion, moved to a newcompany? If you have some interestingnews to share, please let us know!
E-mail: [email protected]
An ASTTBC delega-tion consisting of KeithSwitzer, AScT, DarrinHeisler, AScT, andJohn Leech, AScT,CAE, meet with Hon.John Les, Minister ofPublic Safety andSolicitor General, todiscuss improvements inthe regulation of houseinspectors.
House Inspector Regulation Update…GETTING BEYOND ‘BUYER BEWARE’ IN HOUSING
ASTTBCHAS PROVIDED professional regulation of house and property inspec-tors for more than a decade. Certification, however, is not required by
legislation, essentially opening the door for anyone to set up shop as a house inspector.ASTTBC believes enhancements are required to protect consumers. This view isshared by many consumers who are the ones most affected by the current situation.
“My experience as a consumer of home inspection services leads me to express in the strongestpossible terms my opinion regarding the need for regulated standards in the home inspectionindustry,” says Lorraine Bennett of West Vancouver. “In January 2003, my husband andI offered to purchase an 8 year old house in West Vancouver, subject to a satisfactory report bya building inspector. We retained (Editor’s note: a home inspector who was not certified byASTTBC) who spent approximately four hours inspecting the house and pronounced it, witha few minor provisos, ‘a lovely home’. We purchased the property, by far the largest singleinvestment we had ever made. In February 2005, we began a process which would lead tothe discovery of complete failure of the building envelope. It was necessary to deconstruct andto reconstruct the entire exterior of the house. On the basis of that home purchase, govern-ments assess taxes, which I am duty-bound to pay. Surely, it is the Province’s duty to ensurethat those who give the ‘clean bill of health’ in this process are qualified to do so.”
John Leech, AScT, CAE, Executive Director & Registrar of ASTTBC, made the fol-lowing points in a letter that was published in the Vancouver Sun in December 2006…
• The challenge for consumers is how to determine which inspectors are competent.
• The debate on how to ensure that the public has access to qualified and accountablehouse inspectors has yet to produce solutions.
• A balance of consumer awareness and regulatory reform is needed.
• Consumers need not be compelled to engage the services of a house inspector whenbuying a home, but should they decide to do so, inspectors should be licensed.
• ASTTBC is the one organization in BC with a government-sanctioned mandateand the organizational capacity to fully govern the certification of house inspectors.
For several years, ASTTBC has been talking with government about setting up acommon regulatory framework based on one standard. Government is now signalingthat it is prepared to consider a new model, recognizing the need for an enhanced reg-ulatory model in addition to more consumer awareness.
ASTTBC representatives, including President Keith Switzer, AScT, ASTTBCCouncil Director Darrin Heisler, AScT, and John Leech, AScT, CAE, met withMinister John Les in January 2007. ASTTBC brought the Minister up to date onASTTBC professional certification and regulation. While other groups offer houseand property certification, ASTTBC believes it is ideally suited to effectively serve thepublic interest when it comes to professional regulation of house inspectors. The dele-gation advised the Minister that some form of ‘licensing’ will best serve consumers.
The Minister asked the ASTTBC representatives how the Association would handlethe transition to a new regulatory framework. Several steps are required… bring allkey stakeholders to the table; agree on the requirements for professional regulation;insure that all those offering services would continue to be able to practice and begiven time to reach the new requirements for professional registration; set a targetdate by which time all practitioners would have to meet the established standard (3years suggested); define the need for BCIT and the colleges to cooperate toward offer-ing province-wide training; and, develop a strategy to enhance consumer awareness.ASTTBC agreed to draft a regulatory proposal and submit it to the Minister. ■
ASTTBC plans to send regular updates on key developments to a number of groupswho have an interest in this initiative. If you have any questions or wish to provideinput, please contact John Leech, AScT, CAE, at… [email protected]
APEGBC Task Force Report…LIMITED LICENCEUPDATE
In 1993 the ProvincialGovernment approved changest o t h e E n g i n e e r s a n dGeoscientists Act to providefor a ‘Limited Licence’ which
allows a qualified candidate, often anApplied Science Technologist (AScT), toindependently offer services within aclearly defined scope of practice in thefield of professional engineering or geo-science. This initiative came after manyyears of discussions between ASTTBCand the Association of ProfessionalEngineers and Geoscientists of BC.
“The licensing arrangement is a win-winsolution for both associations and individ-ual members of the engineering team” saidDan Mooney, AScT, the President ofASTTBC at the time. “The Act changerecognizes that some AScT's work in areasthat are accepted as professional engineer-ing. The new approach will enhance theAScT's contribution, utilization, careeropportunities and recognition.”
John Beggs, AScT, a technologist withBC Hydro, was the first to receive aLimited Licence in Engineering fromAPEGBC. There are now twenty-sevenAScT’s holding the Engineering Licensee(Eng.L.) designation. This new title forholders of the Limited Licence was creat-ed and approved by APEGBC Councilin September, 2006.
In September, 2006 APEGBC Councilalso received a task force report on theLimited Licence. This task force was given abroad mandate by APEGBC Council. Thegoal was to examine the Limited Licenceand related processes to determine whatactions, if any, would increase effectivenessand accessibility, and identify changes thatwould be beneficial for protection of thepublic, for APEGBC and for LimitedLicence holders. The Limited Licence TaskForce identified a dozen recommendationsthat could be given immediate action, threethat required future study and two Act orby-law changes to be considered. ■
For the full Limited Licence Task ForceReport visit www.apeg.bc.ca
Workshops Organized for Members…
ASTTBC DEVELOPSRISK MANAGEMENT VISION
ASTTBCAND WILLIS CANADAINC., the Association’s bro-
ker for Errors & Omissions insurance andCGL insurance, share the vision thatinsurance should be only one componentof a good overall risk management plan formembers.
ASTTBC has become more active ineducating members about the importanceof risk management. The best way ofreducing a member’s liability exposure isby the member taking responsibility formanaging his/her own risk. ASTTBC isoffering Risk Management Workshops tomembers around the province. Theseworkshops include an introduction torisk management, liability/business risks,risk transfer and financing, what areclaims, case studies and loss controlstrategies. The workshops encourageinteractive participation by attendees.
The workshops are provided as a freemember service, with support from Willisand ENCON. Ric Darke, ManagingPartner of Barnescraig & Associates, leadsthe workshops. To date, successful eventshave been presented to members inLangley and Kelowna, and to studentmembers at Okanagan College.
Plans are underway for workshops inVictoria, Kamloops, Prince George and atthe ASTTBC AGM. Registration informa-tion will be broadcast emailed to membersas it becomes available. Seating is generallyrestricted to about 50, so early registration isimportant. ■
FEAT Bursaries…FIRST WADE WICKSMEMORIAL BURSARYAWARDED
Scott Ford, a studentat BCIT, receivedthe inaugural FEATWade Wicks MemorialBursary. This bursary
is in memory of Wade Wicks, a youngman who maintained a positive, ‘can do’attitude in spite of his struggles with mus-cular dystrophy. The $1,000 bursary isintended for students who are overcom-ing any significant or extraordinary obsta-cle to pursue an education in technology.
“I’m pleased to receive this bursary andglad we could do it at the DisabilityResource Centre,” says Scott. “It lets thepeople who work there see a positive resultof their efforts to help someone.”
FEAT provides $13,000 per year in bur-saries to BCIT and the colleges, and awardsup to another $11,000 per year directly todeserving technology students. This ismade possible by the generous donations toFEAT by ASTTBC members. ■
FEATThanks You!
News P Icon 2 (285/B).art eps
font(s) required: None
Design/Art by: ASTTBC 1994 rev: 2000 02 21/RJM
ENCON Group Inc.
TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALSQual i f ied . Reg istered . Accountab le .
Council Approves Policy…PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENTPROGRAM FOR MEMBERSIn the interests of protecting public health and safety, the environ-ment and the economy it is essential that technology professionalsengage in lifelong learning. The public expects technology profes-sionals to operate at the current level of knowledge and expertise.That level is constantly changing with innovation and develop-ment. Professional technologists, technicians and technical spe-cialists are accountable to the public and their profession. To sup-port all ASTTBC registrants in their efforts to maintain andenhance their professional skills and knowledge, and to provideassurance to the public, ASTTBC has established a voluntary andself-managed Continuing Professional Development Program.
Last summer, Jennifer Christensen, BA, MEd, volunteered todraft a policy for ASTTBC. The draft was approved in principlein September then circulated for member input. The final ver-sion was approved by Council and is effective February 15, 2007.
Purpose:• To strengthen professional reliance and the importance of
ASTTBC professional designations• To provide opportunity for peer recognition• To provide opportunity to transfer knowledge to others• To provide a focus for individual registrants’ continuing
professional development and to serve as a resource forupdating resumes
The Program:• Provides a standard web-based format for documenting
continuing professional development• Defines the categories of continuing professional development• Establishes a rating for each category of continuing
professional development• Provides a minimum credit for each category• Encourages each member to record continuing professional
development activities on a secure e-address on ASTTBC’sweb site
The policy identifies some two dozen professional developmentactivities with corresponding credits. These range from complet-ing technical courses at an accredited institution to more informallearning such as self-directed study, seminars, technical field tripsand employer training programs. Learning and developmentoccur in many situations, so activities like participating on techni-cal committees, serving on ASTTBC Council, Board or commit-tees, or college boards and industry advisory committees, allcount. It is recognized that any list such as this cannot be exhaus-tive, therefore it remains a ‘guideline’. As this is a voluntary andself-managed program, members will be asked to record all oftheir professional development activities. The annual recommen-dation is 20 credits per year with a five year goal of 100 credits.
The CPD Program will be implemented in 2008 with a mentor-ing component being added the following year. In the 2009 –2012 time frame, surveys will determine the level of participationin the self-managed program. Audits of randomly selected mem-bers will evaluate CPD activities and establish the ProfessionalDevelopment Assurance status for ASTTBC membership.Deficiencies assessed on reviewed member files will be identified tothe member with suggestions to support the member’s efforts. ■
To see the full Continuing Professional Development Programpolicy, visit… www.asttbc.org
John Leech, AScT, CAE, Executive Director,Darrin Heisler, AScT, Council member, MurrayCoell, Minister of Advanced Education, ColinHansen, Minister of Economic Development, andKeith Switzer, AScT, President, meet in Victoria.
Professional Recognition…CONNECTING WITHVICTORIA
ASTTBC continues toinform our elected and
government officials about the work ofmembers, their contribution to BC socie-ty and the need for greater emphasis ontechnology careers.
A delegation from ASTTBC includingPresident Keith Switzer, AScT, Councilmember Darrin Heisler, AScT, andExecutive Director & Registrar JohnLeech, AScT, CAE, had a joint conversa-tion with the Hon. Murray Coell, Ministerof Advanced Education and Hon. ColinH a n s e n , M i n i s t e r o f E c o n o m i cDevelopment. They talked about umbrellalegislation, ASTTBC’s new ‘TechnologyCareers… it’s TIME!’ campaign and theneed for changes to the Architects Act.
Recent meetings also included anupdate with Hon. John Les, Minister ofPublic Safety and Solicitor General, whois responsible for overseeing an enhancedapproach to regulating house inspectors.The Minister asked ASTTBC to mapout its vision of how BC might move toa new regulatory scheme.
While in Victoria, John Leech, also metwith Richard Taylor, CEO of the Unionof BC Municipalities to review the BCGovernment’s Modernization Project,licensing of house inspectors and regis-tration of onsite wastewater practitioners.
A chance meeting with the Hon. GaryLunn, MP for Saanich-Gulf Islands, andfederal Minister of Natural Resources,provided an opportunity to chat abouttechnology careers, nation-wide concernabout declining enrollments, and theneed to fully recognize and enable allpractitioners. ■
CTech Seal O (70%285).art eps
font(s) required: None
rev: 01 05 10/RDS
ASTTBC members are competent to design buildings within Part 3. Changes
to the Architects Act, such as a ‘limited licence’, are needed to recognize all
qualified practitioners.
Practice Regulation…ASTTBC SEEKS EXEMPTIONIN ARCHITECTS ACTThe Architects Act must be changed to include recognition ofASTTBC-registered building designers, according to ASTTBCCouncil.
“The statute dates back over 85 years and none of the subsequentamendments have recognized designers other than Architects,” saysASTTBC Executive Director & Registrar, John Leech, AScT,CAE. “Work practices have changed and the time has come to cor-rect this serious shortcoming in professional legislation.” ASTTBCPresident Keith Switzer, AScT, concurs, stating, “This is an issuethat restricts highly qualified members and ASTTBC will activelypursue this initiative with Government.”
Keith Switzer and John Leech, along with Council DirectorDarrin Heisler, AScT, met recently with Minister of AdvancedEducation Murray Coell and Minister of EconomicDevelopment Colin Hansen. The ASTTBC delegation askedthat Government amend the statute to include an exemptionfor ASTTBC-registered building designers similar to theexemption already in the Architects Act in Saskatchewan.
The Architectural Institute of BC is seeking new legislationentailing a complete overhaul of the statute. “Our sense is it’shighly unlikely that government will enact a complete re-write atthis time, but might consider amendments,” continues John.“This is an opportunity to ensure that BCIT and college grads, aswell as foreign educated building designers, are properly recognizedand fully enabled to practice within the scope of their education,training and experience.”
ASTTBC supports removing outdated clauses that allow anyoneto design certain buildings and adding recognition of ASTTBCdesigners. ASTTBC is looking for an exemption statement that,as a bare minimum, reflects what has been happening in BC fordecades, namely that other designers have been designing build-ings and components of buildings within Parts 9 and 3 of the BCBuilding Code. The current Architects Act restricts design to 470square meters (5,060 sf ) gross area, whereas the BC BuildingCode Part 9 does not require a ‘registered professional’ (PEng orArchitect) for design of a building with a 600 square meter (6,458sf ) footprint, a very significant difference in scope of practice.“The reality is that throughout most of the province non-architects aredesigning Part 9 buildings and it’s time this common practice be rec-ognized in the legislation,” says the Executive Director. “ASTTBC isactively seeking recognition as a ‘registered professional’ within the BCBuilding Code and acknowledgment of ASTTBC members’ designwithin established standards and codes.”
Getting changes to professional legislation is a challenge givenother issues facing government. Nevertheless, with the need toensure all BC’s qualified practitioners are enabled under legislation,ASTTBC is working to secure a commitment from Governmentfor early attention to this critical issue. Amendments to theArchitects Act could be introduced in the Spring of 2008.ASTTBC would like to see changes this fall at the latest, at least toaddress the ASTTBC concerns about practice restrictions. TheExecutive Director believes that the scope of practice for ASTTBCdesigners must go beyond Part 9 and include sections of Part 3.
The Architectural Institute of BC and the Building DesignersInstitute of BC, an institute of some 95 ASTTBC members reg-istered in architectural/building design, have signed an agree-ment to discuss how to resolve the issue. These two groups arelooking at a ‘One Act – One Association’ model while ASTTBCbelieves there are other models that need to be considered. TheAssociation’s goal is to ensure that professional legislation recog-nizes all designers, including members of ASTTBC. ■
WWhhoo aarree wwee??• We build roads and generate power – but we are not engineers.• We design robots and troubleshoot electrical equipment – but
we’re not technicians.• We make hospitals work and clean your water – but we are not
scientists.
We are a little of all of the above.We are the glue between them.
We are Engineering Technologists.
Wooden ‘catapults’ of all shapes and sizes set up and ready to compete.
National Engineering Competition…TECHNOLOGY STUDENTSCATAPULT TO WINNERS CIRCLE
TWO SECOND-YEAR Civil Engineering Technologystudents from Okanagan College know what it’s liketo be on the firing line. Clint Monson and Caleb
Pomeroy went up against ten other teams in a contest todesign a catapult, trebuchet or crossbow made of wood thatwas capable of tossing a 2-pound concrete ball the length ofa football field and accurately hit a series of targets.
On February 17, 2007, the Wood WORKS! BC program, aninitiative of the Canadian Wood Council to promote the use ofwood in non-residential construction in British Columbia, host-ed the BC Wood WORKS! / Canadian Wood Council – WoodEngineering Competition. The goal was to engage students inengineering programs from universities and colleges across west-ern Canada in a hands-on approach to wood engineering.
Students were required to design, build and operate a woodencatapult. Not only did they have to choose the best approachwith regards to design, but they also had to explore variouswood species examining weight to strength ratios. Competingteams had to file a report on their machines and provide an oralreport to the judges before firing.
Each team was given 30 minutes to successfully hit three con-secutive targets placed at 20, 30 and 50 yards. They were alsogiven 5 minutes at the end to see how far they could toss theconcrete ball, with a prize given for the longest distance.
While Clint and Caleb’s machine was the smallest and lightestin the competition, it packed a lot of punch. When the dustsettled, they had racked up 1800 points, blowing away thecompetition and more than doubling the best score in a similarcompetition held in Eastern Canada.
The shoot-out was held at UBC. “Everyone who attended the CWCCompetition had a great time,” says Terry Stewart, an instructor withCivil Engineering Technology at Okanagan College. “Our
Winners of the competition with support staff from Okanagan College (left toright)… Professor Terry Stewart, Clint Monson, Caleb Pomeroy and ProfessorTom Guenther.
Department Chair Tom Guenther, PEng, was the other instructor whomade the trip to Vancouver to support Clint and Caleb. They are bothstudent members of ASTTBC and we are extremely proud of them.”This was echoed by OC President Jim Hamilton who said, “We’rereally proud of Caleb and Clint. They have demonstrated their abili-ties and knowledge, and I think it safe to say, their performances sayssomething about the quality of our program and instructors too.”
Bill Billups, AScT, a technical consultant on the CanadianWood Council’s Wood WORKS! Program in BC, was involvedin planning the event. “What I found most interesting was the verydefinitive separation of design approach that was unmistakable,” hesays. “Crossbows and catapults extracted the maximum stress fromthe wood while the trebuchets focused on the physics of motion,designing their apparatus to flow with little or no stress on the wood.A bit like mind over muscle. The difference in approach was evidentwhen the competition was over. The trebuchets were still functionalwhile the catapults and crossbows were in varying degrees of pieces.”
Clint Monson and Caleb Pomeroy systematically dismantledtheir competition, hitting the farthest target an unprecedented34 times in 30 minutes. Their accuracy was dead on with mostof their shots hitting home within five feet of the target.
“It was great to see two eager engineering technology students fromOkanagan College win the event,” says Darrin Heisler, AScT, whoserved as one of the judges. “Seeing this team beat out stiff compe-tition from much larger engineering schools warmed my heart.”Clint Monson agrees. “It was really rewarding,” he says. “It showsthat at the college level skills are much more practical.” ■
— 8 —
News P Icon 2 (285/B).art eps
font(s) required: None
Design/Art by: ASTTBC 1994 rev: 2000 02 21/RJM
MS… LT2A–S (285/B/W).art eps
font(s): Adobe Garamond Semibold / VAG Rounded Black (oultines)ASTTBC… PMS 285 op fill, NO stroke; KO behind as WHITE fill, 0.3 pt stroke
ASTTBC DS… BLACK op fill onlyMember Services… WHITE fill, NO stroke; DS… BLACK op fill only
Design/Art by: ASTTBC/RJM © 1999rev: 00 02 22/RJM
Adding VALUE to Your MEMBERSHIP
in ASTTBC
Impacts All Levels ofEconomy…LABOUR MOBILITY ISA HOT TOPICThe scarcity of human capital is becominga major economic threat. Improvinglabour mobility has become the focus ofmany reports and is a government priority.
The Federal-Provincial-TerritorialCommittee of Ministers on InternalTrade met in Halifax in September 2006.A key component to the resulting actionplan calls for Canadians to be able towork anywhere in the country withoutrestrictions on labour mobility by 2009.This will result in full compliance by allregulatory bodies. The regulatory bodieswill also be required to establish a processof mutual recognition for recognizing for-eign credentials of internationally trainedprofessionals.
At about the same time, a separate reportcalled ‘Advantage Canada: Building aStrong Economy For Canadians’ looked atthe role of post secondary education, theneed for employers to do more to trainworkers and the need for government toenhance labour mobility across the country.
The Canadian Council of Techniciansand Technologists is a partner in anational Labour Market Study that isunderway. Tom Roemer has agreed to siton the steering committee of the tech-nology professions in Canada. He hasworked closely with ASTTBC over theyears to promote careers in technology.
Kerry Jothen, another strategist thatASTTBC works with, advocates govern-ment reform to lead the way on humancapital recruitment. He feels thatenhancing employment access for ‘under-used Canadians’ is part of the solutionalong with changes to labour mobilitypolicies within the country and updatingcriteria for attracting and recognizingskilled workers from other countries.
“ASTTBC is ideally positioned to hearabout the latest trends and the current hottopic for all groups is what to do to addressthe skills shortage,” says Geoff Sale, AScT,Manager, Internationally EducatedProfessionals Program. “Given the sizeand immediacy of the tsunami coming ourway, it’s none to soon for action.” ■
Getting It Right…TALKING TO THE MEDIANot infrequently members find them-selves approached by the media for aninterview. As a private citizen it is yourright to speak on any issue you wish.However, if you are identifying yourselfas a registrant or member of ASTTBC,the rules change! You must ensure yourremarks comply with the Code of Ethics.
Even officers of the Association or itsInstitutes should not make statements onbehalf of the Association without refer-ence to Senior Staff. This is to ensurethat what is being said is representativeof Council policy on the issue.
The opportunity to raise the profile ofASTTBC through the media is very desir-able. Please take time to ensure it is posi-tive for both you and the Association. ■
TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALSQualified.Registered.
Accountable.
Jason Jung, AScT, Manager, Technology Careers,and Jim Blake, public representative on Council,at the Northern BC Business & Technology Show.
Luke Macdonald, AScT, and Gina Purchase,GradTech, both from L&M Engineering in PrinceGeorge, chat with Hon. Pat Bell, Minister ofAgriculture and Lands.
Business & TechnologyConference and Awards…EVENT CREATES BUZZIN NORTH
The Nor thern BCBusiness & TechnologyShow, now in its 5thyear, attracts hun-dreds of businessesand individuals, alongwith a s soc ia t ions ,
governments and others, to technicalpresentations, a trade fair and an awardscelebration.
The two-day event was held in PrinceGeorge. Premier Gordon Campbellspoke at one of the luncheons. Severalmembers of Cabinet were in attendanceincluding… Minister of Education,Shirley Bond; Minister of Labour andCitizens’ Services, Olga Ilich; Minister ofState for Mining, Bill Bennett; and,A t t o r n e y G e n e r a l & M i n i s t e rResponsible for Multiculturalism, WallyOppal. It was hosted by Pat Bell,Minister of Agriculture and Lands.
ASTTBC once again sponsored the‘Technology Provider of the Year Award’and the Association’s booth was set up topromote the role of technologists andtechnicians. ASTTBC advertised in localpapers across the North as a run-up tothe event and also advertised in the con-ference programme.
Jim Blake, chair of the local airportauthority and public representative onASTTBC Council, ASTTBC Staff andmembers who live in the North, all tookthe opportunity to meet with variousindustry and association leaders to getthe Association’s message out. ■
ViewPOINT…NORTHERN BCAWARDS SALUTETECHNOLOGYby: Pat Bell, Prince George-North MLA, Ministerof Agriculture and Lands
IN JANUARY I had the opportunityto host the 2007 Northern BritishColumbia Business & Technology
Awards during the 5th Annual BC Natural Resource Forum inPrince George.
I believe it is particularly important to recognize the contribu-tions that the technology sector makes to our society. In theNorth, most of our economic strength comes from resource-based industries such as forestry, agriculture and mining.Thanks to technological advances, these industries are safer forworkers and they are far more efficient, which helps make themcompetitive in today’s global market.
The Awards acknowledge some of the companies, individualsand organizations that have demonstrated exceptional leader-ship in their field.
The Technology Provider of the Year Award, which was spon-sored by ASTTBC, went to Coastfor whose ‘CruiseMate’ soft-ware helps timber cruisers collect field data and complete thecruise cards error free. This software is another example of hownortherners are coming up with new, innovative, technologicaladvancements that are improving local industry. I believe this isthe first time that the Technology Provider of the Year Awardhas gone to a timber cruiser and I believe this is a reflection of
the crucial role technical specialists, technicians and technolo-gists play in the North along with foresters, engineers and otherprofessionals.
The Technology & Industry Newsmaker of the Year Awardwas presented to The Canadian Wood Pellet Association. Theassociation, based out of Prince George, has helped developsector-wide research and development that has advanced theindustry nationally. Annual exports have gone from zero to twomillion tonnes in just eight years thanks to their innovation.
TRC Cedar received the John Humphreys Memorial ForestInnovator Award for its work over the past ten years to becomethe top producer of western red cedar rails and posts on thecontinent. The company also recovers the fibre waste from theprocess to make into landscape mulch. Their work is a greatexample of how our forest industry can diversify to remain sus-tainable in the face of the mountain pine beetle epidemic.
I think it’s important to thank the sponsors for the Awards.Whether it’s Alcan coming on as the title sponsor for the event,or the Applied Science Technologists & Technicians of BCstepping up to sponsor the Technology Provider of the YearAward, the generosity of all the sponsors is what makes the BCNatural Resource Forum such a high-profile event.
Lastly, I would like to thank everyone who is involved in thedevelopment and design of new technology and innovation inthe North. Your work helps keep our economy strong andmakes the future brighter. While the awards night recognizessome very worthy winners, congratulations are due everybodywho won or was nominated for any of the awards this year…you are all valuable contributors to a better tomorrow. ■
Technology Provider of the Year…AWARD SPOTLIGHTSTIMBER CRUISERJOHN ARMSTRONG, RFT, ATE, of 150 Mile House felt awarm glow in the middle of winter when he learned in Januarythat he had been selected for the Technology Provider of theYear Award.
The award is presented in conjunction with the Northern BCBusiness & Technology Show. It is granted to a technologycompany, individual or organization that has developed orintroduced a product or service which furthers business growthin northern British Columbia, or which assists individual com-panies in their own development. Nominees must currentlyreside in northern British Columbia for a minimum of oneyear. The recipients are role models for other entrepreneurs andhave demonstrated leadership in their field.
John Armstrong, a Timber Cruiser and Auditor withCoastfor, has more than 30 years of field experience. He devel-oped new software to help the timber cruiser complete cruisecards quickly and error free. ‘CruiseMate’ includes automaticage correction, height calculations and built-in notes. Data isemailed in a compilation-ready format and can be compiled ina matter of minutes. The cards are produced in a user-friendlyformat and can be emailed to the licensee or Ministry ofForests. Many companies use the software.
Besides spending countless hours developing CruiseMate withhis program designer, Chris Kovalcik, John commits much ofhis time at his own expense to better the forest industry as awhole. For example, he is on various committees including theInterior Cruising Advisory Committee and is also a great advo-cate of certification for Timber Cruisers.
“We are pleased to sponsor the Technology Provider of the YearAward,” says John Leech, AScT, CAE, ASTTBC ExecutiveDirector & Registrar. “One of the comments we hear is to makesure that our Association works for members outside the LowerMainland. There are a lot of great things happening around theprovince and it is something ASTTBC is keen to recognize.” ■
For more information on the Northern BC Business &Technology Show, visit… www.businesstechshow.com
Attention
Geomatics Technologists
and Technicians
The Association of British Columbia LandSurveyors invites you to consider a career asa commissioned professional land surveyor.If you are working in the field of cadastralland surveying and are not currently regis-tered as a Survey Student please contact theRegistrar at the Association office in Sidney(250) 655-7222 to sign up today.
For more informationcheck out our web site at…
www.bclandsurveyors.bc.ca
The Association ofBritish ColumbiaLand Surveyors
TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALS…TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALS…“Human capital has and will become the ultimate scarce resource.Technologists and technicians are a precious commodity because they notonly know what needs to be done, but also know how to do it with theright tools and equipment.”
Roslyn Kunin, Economist
Qualified. Registered. Accountable.
John Armstrong, RFT, ATE, receives the Technology Provider of the YearAward at the Northern BC Business & Technology Show.
Check it out…
www.asttbc.org
In the News…In the News…
News P Icon 2 (285/B).art eps
font(s) required: None
Design/Art by: ASTTBC 1994 rev: 2000 02 21/RJM
Derek Doyle, PEng, MBA, CBM, hasbeen appointed as Executive Director andRegistrar of the Association of ProfessionalEngineers and Geoscientists of BC. Hehas been Assistant Deputy Minister forthe Manitoba Ministry of NaturalResources; Director of the OntarioEnvironmental Assessment Branch; and,was Commissioner for the BC Oil andGas Commission from 2001 to 2006.
Sharon Glover has been appointed as thenew Executive Director of the Associationof BC Forest Professionals. She was previ-ously CEO of the Ontario Society ofProfessional Engineers. Paul Knowles,RPF, of Salmon Arm, BC, has beennamed the ABCPF’s 60th president.
Tom Roemer has been appointed Dean,Trades & Technology at CamosunCollege effective July 1, 2007. He waspreviously with Okanagan College for 14years, most recently as Associate Dean,Science, Technology and Health.
Martin Dunsmuir, AScT, received aCertificate of Appreciation for his manyyears of service on ASTTBC Council.He is also serving as a Director of theCanadian Council of Technicians andTechnologists.
Pirie Elliot , RPF, AScT, of PrinceGeorge, BC, has been appointed to theCanadian Technology AccreditationBoard. As a standing committee of theCanadian Council of Technicians andTechnologists, CTAB’s mandate is toensure the continued quality of engineer-ing and applied science technology edu-cation across Canada, through thenational accreditation process.
Dana Boutilier, CET, of Halifax, wasrecognized with the 2006 CanadianEngineering Technologist of the YearAward presented by CCTT.
M.J. Whitemarsh, CEO of the CanadianHome Builders’ Association – BritishColumbia, received the Dave StupartAward of Honour for the ExecutiveOfficer of the Year from the CHBAnational association.
Just got a promotion, moved to a newcompany? If you have some interestingnews to share, please let us know!
E-mail: [email protected]
Creating Profile…AD CAMPAIGN CONTINUESCareers in technology and the contribution to the economymade by technologists and technicians often go unseen.ASTTBC is working to change that. A media blitz was startedin 2006. The Association continues to enhance the profile oftechnologists, technicians and technical specialists. The WorkPlan & Budget 2007 earmarks $100,000 for the awarenesscampaign. Below are some of the ads that have been placedsince the last issue of ASTT News.
TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALSQualified. Registered. Accountable.
top… Advertorial oncritical issues in BOABCNews & Reports.
left… Advertisementin special feature for theToday’s Woman Awardsin Prince George…promoting careers intechnology for womenand a new TechnologyLeadership Award.
above… Advertisement in Outlook, a Prince Georgebusiness and community feature promoting economicdevelopment in Northern British Columbia.
above… Advertisement in BCIT Student Handbook,promoting registration as a Technology Professional.left… Advertorial in Minerals North Conference2007 feature promoting Technology Professionals toBC’s mineral exploration and mining industry.
below… Promotion for Career Info Session in Kamloops; part of TCIT campaign.
update
Do we have your current
contact information? Email
[email protected], update your
contact information online at
www.asttbc.org or phone the
ASTTBC office at (604) 585-2788.
News Sent Electronically…ASTTBC PUBLICATIONS EVOLVINGASTTBC is not only about technology… the Association isbeing driven by technology.
Just a few years ago, ASTT News was printed three times a yearand mailed to members. In 2007 this will drop to two issues becausethe primary medium for getting important information to membershas become ASTT e-News, which is now broadcast monthly.
Commenting on the February 2007 ASTT e-News, GeoffSale, AScT, a Past President of ASTTBC, said, “This is an excel-lent newsletter production! Very informative, easily readable, inter-esting, good topics and useful links.” Richard Mayer, an AppliedScience Technologist who works with ASTTBC as Manager,Corporate Identity, stated, “It’s great to see ‘streaming news’ via ‘e-communications’ is now a reality!”
ASTTBC sends broadcast emails when something needs toreach members between the monthly electronic newsletters.The Association’s web site contains a wealth of information oneverything from how to become a member, to the compensa-tion survey, to FEAT bursaries.
The Annual Report & Services Directorycontinues to be printed and mailed to mem-bers. Even this venerable publication hasseen a change. At one time the list of regis-trants was printed in the Directory, however,that meant it could only be updated once ayear. Now it is part of the web site and isupdated after every Board meeting. ■
Check It Out & Win!NEW WEB SITE COMING SOONASTTBC is in the final stages of revamping the Associationweb site. The official launch will take place this Spring.Members will have the opportunity to win one of five iPods byvisiting the site and entering a contest. Watch for announce-ments in ASTT e-News and by broadcast email.
ASTTBC Web Site: Visitors Per Day On Average
Addition to Web Site…
TECHPRO WILL CREATEPROFILEASTTBC members work in a wide rangeof interesting careers in all corners of theprovince. The new ASTTBC web site willadd TechPRO, a regular section high-lighting the Association’s members.
Members will be invited to post theirprofiles on TechPRO. Watch for infor-mation on how you can be involved! ■
Bringing Members andEmployers Together…
CANADIAN TECHNICALEMPLOYMENT NETWORKASTTBC helps members find career oppor-tunities and employers to find qualified can-didates for their technical team through theCanadian Technical Employment Network,a national, web-based employment referralservice operated by a network of provincialtechnology associations.
Members in good standing can searchfor a job and register confidentially at nocharge. Employers can easily post jobopenings and search for candidates at avery reasonable cost. Since CTEN isrestricted to members of ASTTBC andour sister technology associations acrossCanada, employers have access to a tar-geted pool of qualified candidates.
There were more than 1,300 jobs post-ed to CTEN nationally in 2006, withclose to 250 located in British Columbia.
Check it out at www.cten.ca
News P Icon 2 (285/B).art eps
font(s) required: None
Design/Art by: ASTTBC 1994 rev: 2000 02 21/RJM
employersconnect
members logonSKILLED KNOWLEDGEABLE WORKERS are at the core of realizing sustainable,responsible development in British Columbia. The success of your enterprisein a dynamic global market will depend on the professionals on your team.
Add value to your team by employing technology professionalsregistered with ASTTBC… highly qualified technical personnel who are job-ready with education and experience.
Employers… ask for our Employer Liaison package to learnhow technology professionals can benefit your enterprise.
Shaping BC’s FutureShaping BC’s Future
For more information…
www.cten.ca
Kevin Kimberley, AScT, won the Best New Product Award at theInternational PGA Merchandise Show for his design of a folding golf cart.
Product Design…MEMBER SCORES ‘HOLE IN ONE’WITH PGA AWARD
NORTH VANCOUVER COMPANYDesignUp Inc. has been recognized
internationally for its industrial design work on the ClicgearCart, a three-wheeled golf pushcart. The Clicgear Cart beat outnearly 200 other new products when it was judged to be the2007 Best New Product at the PGA Merchandise Show inOrlando Florida this past January. The PGA MerchandiseShow represents the world’s largest golf industry trade showand convention for PGA professionals with attendance of morethan 45,000 buyers and exhibitors. The award is easily thehighest honour for any new product in golf.
“We were up against big companies, so it was pretty exciting anda real achievement,” says technologist Kevin Kimberley, AScT,President of DesignUp.
The idea came to Kevin when he and three friends headed outon a road trip. “We had to leave our golf carts behind, they were justtoo bulky to fit in,” he says. “I thought, I can design a better cart thanthis, something half the size with the same functionality.” As a resultof the PGA award, distributors started lining up at the Clicgearbooth. Sales of 30,000 carts are forecast for this year alone.
Product design is what Kevin Kimberley, AScT, does for a liv-ing. With a diploma in mechanical engineering technologyfrom BCIT and a degree in petroleum engineering from SAIT,he set up shop as an oil tool designer in Calgary. In 2003 hemoved to Vancouver to offer his services in new product designand development. He helps others bring their ideas to market.“When they come in with a patent, it’s just a piece of paper,” hesays. “We get to turn it into a product. That is the hard part andit takes a combination of creativity and technical skills.” It cantake three years to go from an idea to distribution.
A member of both ASTTBC and ASET in Alberta, KevinKimberley, AScT, makes a point of connecting with BCIT stu-dents. “I tell them with the skills they have, they can think up anddevelop their own ideas,” he says. ■
Member Services Update…NEW PHONES / NEW BURSARIES
Cityfone, ASTTBC’s affinity partner forcell phones and long distance, has intro-duced wireless Internet. Stay informed and
entertained with mobile content in the palm of your hand. Forinformation, call Cityfone at (604) 298-5900 or visit… www.cityfone.net/asttbc
TD Meloche Monnex, our affinitypartner for home insurance, willsponsor three $1,000 bursaries
each year through A S T T B C ’s c h a r i t a b l efounda t ion , the Foundation for Education& Advancement in Technology. Details willbe announced soon. For competitive group-rate savings plus 24 hr. emergency service onhome insurance, contact TD MelocheMonnex at 1-877-536-7755 or check out… www.melochemonnex.com/asttbc
Concept page for TechPRO unveiled at ASTTBC’sAwards & Recognition Celebration in 2006.
0
500
1000
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
CTEN LN1–LE (185/B).art eps
font(s): Futura Bold / Gill Sans (mark/name as outlines)
maple leaf… PMS 185 gradient fill only, NO strokerelease… 2.25 pt stroke ÷ 2 = 1.25 pt net release
C… BLACK fill only, NO strokerelease… 2.6 pt stroke ÷ 2 = 1.3 pt net release
TEN… BLACK fill, 0.5 pt stroke (to anticipate future trapping)release… (2.25 - 0.5) pt stroke ÷ 2 = 0.875 pt net release
CTEN name… BLACK op fill only
(M) added (OACETT registered CTEN)
Design/Art by: Richard MayerCTEN joint © CM’s and CCTT
rev: 2000 09 15/RJM
I S S U E 1 2 0 • J A N U A R Y - J U L Y 2 0 0 7ISSN 1198–7758 • Printed in Canada
ASTT News is published by the Applied Science Technologists andTechnicians of BC.
PUBLISHER’S INFORMATION
Editor: Ted Nodwell, CAE ([email protected])Art Direction: Richard J. Mayer, AScTDesign: Rayna Smeltzer
CONTRIBUTORS - ISSUE 120… Ted Nodwell, CAE; JohnLeech, AScT, CAE; John Shortreid, AScT, CLS; Bill Billups,AScT; Hon. Pat Bell; Jennifer ChristensonPHOTOGRAPHY - ISSUE 120… Ted Nodwell, CAE; RichardMayer, AScT; John Leech, AScT, CAE; Bill Billups, AScT
The opinions expressed in ASTT NEWS are not necessarily those ofASTTBC or its directors. All rights reserved. This publication maybe reproduced provided credit is given as to the source of such mate-rial. ASTT NEWS is available by registration in ASTTBC or paidsubscription. Current circulation is more than 9,500.
ADVERTISING… Richard Mayer, tel.: (604) 946-7864 / fax:(604) 946-7829 / e-mail: [email protected]… $65 per yearCOMPLIMENTARY MAILINGS… ASTTBC maintains a compli-mentary mailing list for the purposes of distributing ASTT Newsand important bulletins to government, educators and technologystakeholders in business and industry.
CANADA POST… Publications mail registration No.01894714 98, Vancouver, BC. Send changes of address to:10767 – 148th Street, Surrey, BC V3R 0S4, PH: 604-585-2788, FX: 604-585-2790
News P Icon 2 (285/B).art eps
font(s) required: None
Design/Art by: ASTTBC 1994 rev: 2000 02 21/RJM
…on the web
A virtual marketplace featuring greatproducts, services, networks and more!
Member services on ASTTXChange…
• ASTTBC MasterCard Card – MBNACanada Bank
• Auto Sales & Leasing – Quinella Auto• Cellular Phones – Cityfone• Clothing – Mark’s Work Wearhouse• Car Rentals – Hertz• Disability, Accident, Health & Dental
Insurance, Group Term Life Insurance –Manulife Financial
• Home Insurance – Meloche Monnex• Hotel Reservations – MeetingMax• Internet Design & Consulting – ImagiNet• Professional Liability Insurance –
ENCON / Willis Canada Inc.
ASTTXChange L1–S (4C).art eps
font(s) required: None colours converted to 4C process; compatible gradients (not blends)
Design/Art by: Richard Mayer © 1995 rev: 96 12 15/RJM
A
Lindsay Kenney LLP is a west coastlaw firm providing legal servicesto local , regional, national andinternational clients.We represent a variety of businessenterprises, institutional clients,insurance companies and individuals.We provide litigation and disputeresolution services and practical,personalized business advice.
Contact: Greg Miller [email protected]
#1800–401 West Georgia St. #400–20033 64th Ave.Vancouver, BC V6B 5A1 Langley, BC V2Y 1M9604-687-1323 604-534-5114
Client Focus, Client Friendly, Client Service
Member of Mackrell International,an international network of independent law firms.
Barristers & Solicitors • Trademark Agents
YOUR ASSOCIATION AT WORK
THIS FEATURE in ASTT News is compiled from theExecutive Director’s Report to Council. As part ofASTTBC’s move toward e-enterprise, the full reports
from the Executive Director and Registrar, as well as CouncilMinutes, are available online. Consequently, the printed ‘YourAssociation at Work’ article is being condensed to capture onlythe key highlights.
The Executive Director’s Report to Council presented inFebruary 2007 covers the last quarter of 2006 and the firstmonth of 2007. ASTTBC continued to ramp up efforts toenhance professional recognition, increase ASTTBC and mem-ber profile, and promote technology careers. Key activitiesincluded…
• ASTTBC continued to make the case for a broad review ofprofessional regulation and a new regulatory regime basedon ‘umbrella legislation’.
• A Guide To Professional Practice For Electrical Design inBuildings was drafted with more to follow.
• The Forest Measurements Registration Board and ASTTBCCouncil approved in principal a proposed memorandum ofunderstanding that could see forest measurements specialistsmove to ABCFP.
• ASTTBC is involved in the Modernization Project leadingup to recommendations as to the future direction forregulating the built environment.
• Association representatives met, either formally or ininformal exchanges, with the following BC cabinetministers: Hon. John Les, Hon. Murray Coell, Hon. IdaChong, Hon. Bill Bennett, Hon. Pat Bell and Hon. ShirleyBond.
• ASTTBC submitted a brief to ‘Campus 2020’ on the futureof education in BC.
• A new classification, AScT (Provisional), was introduced tohelp internationally-educated professionals integrate intothe BC workforce.
• A House Inspection Regulation Update was sent tomembers and stakeholders.
• A new Employer Liaison brochure has been printed.
• The Member Compensation Survey 2007 was completedand posted to the web site.
• Career awareness activities included the Northern BCBusiness & Technology Show; National Technology Week2006 and increased advertising in selected publications.
Full reports from the Excuetive Director and Registrar, as wellas Council Minutes, are available online…
www.asttbc.org
TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALSQualified. Registered. Accountable.
for info… www.asttbc.org
Technology In The North
Judy Dix; Colin Dix, AScT, EngL; John Leech, AScT, CAE;Jennifer Christenson (John’s wife); Jim Blake; Doug Carter, CTech,
PE, talk about technology careers and the future of technologyeducation in Prince George. (missing from the photo is JoAnneNiwranski, one of the organizers of the Northern BC Business
& Technology Awards)
ASTTBC members connect with the Hon. Pat Bell, Ministerof Agriculture and Land… (left) Mike and Lorelei Reier, AScT,
and (right) Pirie Elliot, AScT, RPF …at TECH 2007
Ontario Registrar VisitsBC Colleagues
Sam DiGiandomenico, DirectorITO/Registrar from OACETT, visitsJohn Shortreid, AScT, CLS, Assistant
Registrar, and Jason Jung, AScT,Manager, Technology Careers, at
the ASTTBC office.
Chamber of CommerceConnection
John Leech, AScT, CAE, ExecutiveDirector & Registrar of ASTTBC,and Mark Robillard, Chair of theMackenzie Chamber of Commerce,
connect at a luncheon during aconference in Northern BC.
B U I L D I N G L I N K S
