asttbc the voice of technology professionals in british columbia f utura bold ... · 2016. 3....

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

Mataya Cleveland, a student attendingDufferin Elementary School, having a hair-raising, hands-on experience at BIG LittleScience Centre.

Gordon Gore, an Honorary Memberof ASTTBC, is the 2008 recipient ofthe Eve Savory Award For ScienceCommunication from the BC InnovationCouncil. Gordon established the BIGLittle Science Centre in Kamloops, anon-profit society dedicated to teachingscience in an interactive environment.ASTTBC is a strong supporter and asponsor of the BIG Little Science Centre.

John Leech, AScT, CAE, ExecutiveDirector of ASTTBC, has received theBCIT Distinguished Alumni LifetimeAchievement Award. John is a graduate ofBCIT’s Surveying and PhotogrammetryTechnology diploma programs. He hasbeen on staff with ASTTBC for 34 yearsduring which the Association has grownfrom 500 to 9,000+ members, becomingthe voice of technologists, technicians andtechnical specialists in BC. (see separatearticle this issue)

Richard Mayer, AScT, has received theprestigious R. Littledale Award for out-standing service to ASTTBC. CurrentlyManager, Corpora t e Ident i t y, a tASTTBC, he has played a key role in‘putting a face on technolog y’ andincreasing the visibility of the Associationsince 1986.

John Shortreid, AScT, CLS, has beenappointed by Council as Registrar ofASTTBC effective January 1, 2009. Heis currently Associate Registrar. John isalso a Past President of ASTTBC andserved as the first Chair of ASTTBC’scharitable foundation, FEAT.

Peter Link, CTech, CHI, has beenappointed as the new Manager, HouseInspection Certification at ASTTBC.Peter brings experience in inspections,quality assurance and management tothe ASTTBC staff team. He will work toenhance services in house and propertyinspection, and will assist the BCInstitute of Property Inspectors.

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 mastheadoriginal art as Illustrator 5.0.1; gradients as blends

Design/Art by: ASTTBC © 1994rev: 95 12 04/RJM

Issue #123July–December 2008

ASTTBCEST. 1958ASTTBCEST. 1958

Issue #123July–December 2008

. . . 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

TECHNOLOGY CAREERS… IT’S TIME!

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

Murray Coell, Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development, speaks to guests fromacross Canada at ASTTBC’s 50th Anniversary Awards & Recognition Celebration.

50TH ANNIVERSARY INITIATIVESFrom a few members in 1958, ASTTBC has grown to more than 9,000.

DURING ITS FIRST HALF-CENTURY ASTTBC has made a difference in thelives of members.

“Looking back, my reason for joining was no different than it is for my membership today,”says Ron Green, AScT, who served as president of ASTTBC from 1977 – 79. “It is to be arecognized, certified professional…”.

The members in turn have made a difference in the lives of others. This fact was ref-erenced in a letter from Premier Gordon Campbell when he wrote, “As you reflect backover the past 50 years, I am sure you can see how large a contribution your organizationhas made to the unparalleled growth of our province.” The Premier went on to write,“We admire your past and current successes and commend you for your influence on publiclife, public safety and on the public mind.”

ASTTBC marked its anniversary with a number of special events throughout the year:

• ASTTBC Awards & Recognition Celebration. This year’s celebration ofvolunteers and outstanding technology professionals was the biggest ever with 300guests. The Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists held its AGM inVancouver at the same time so that colleagues from across Canada could join in.

• ASTTBC–FEAT 500x50 Campaign. This fund-raiser will increase theTechnology Legacy Fund of ASTTBC’s charitable foundation to half a milliondollars. Since 1990, FEAT has continued to make a real difference in the lives ofBritish Columbians working toward careers in technology. ASTTBC donated$25,000 at the launch of the 500x50 Campaign on October 25 2008.

• Technology Education & Careers Council. ASTTBC launched TECC in 2008the as a ‘blue chip’ group who will help advocate for technology careers.

• First Nations Careers Council. ASTTBC First Nations members are working withthe Association to help draw attention to technology careers.

• TechGREEN. This new initiative will highlight the contributions technologists,technicians and technical specialists can make to a sustainable society.TechGREEN received a ‘soft launch’ at the ASTTBC 2008 Annual GeneralMeeting with implementation planned for 2009.

• National Technology Week. NTW is Canada’s annualshowcase of exciting career opportunities in technology. For our50th anniversary, ASTTBC expanded its support for NTW,including a special newspaper supplement during the week andon-going TechACTion ads in community newspapers aroundthe province.

• QuizMe. In September 2008, ASTTBC began sponsoring thisPGTV television program for school children in northern BC.

• BIG Little Science Centre. ASTTBC will provide up to$5,000 in support during its anniversary year so thatelementary students in Kamloops can experience scienceand technology first-hand. ■

REGISTERED TECHNOLOGYMANAGER DESIGNATIONPlanning on track for Spring 2009launch.

The final touches are being put on theRegistered Technology Manager (RTMgr)certification policy with the view to hav-ing the program running for Spring2009. This certification will appeal tothose AScT and CTech members who arenow managing in a technology environ-ment and who meet the enrollment crite-ria. There will be two methods of attain-ing certification…

• Holding a Diploma or Bachelor ofTechnology in business management,MBA or other appropriate businesseducation credential, plus at least 2years of experience during whichrequired competencies have beenapplied.

• A minimum of four years ofmanagement experience and training,during which required competencieshave been acquired.

A Provisional Certification will also beavailable to those members who areenrolled in a recognized business pro-gram and who meet a primary level ofcompetence. The successful applicantswill show the necessary level of compe-tence in a range of management areas…Technical Specialist as Leader / Manager,Human Resource Management, Law forBusiness, Project Management, ProblemS o l v i n g a n d D e c i s i o n M a k i n g ,Accounting, Business Strategy andStructure, Technology ManagementCommunication, Technology MarketingStrategies and Managing TechnologicalChange. ■

Watch the ASTTBC web s i te andnewsletters for details.

RTMgrSTANDARDS OF EXCELLENCE

Council L1 (20%B).art eps

font(s) required: Nonemax reduction... 50%

Design/Art by: ASTTBC/RJM 1994

rev: 94 10 18/RJM

ASTTBC COUNCILNOMINATIONSNominations are requested for election to the Councilof ASTTBC. Each nomination must be supported bythe signatures of 10 certified members, as well as theconsent and signature of the nominee. Nominationsproperly endorsed must be received by the NominatingCommittee Chair by Saturday, February 21 2009.

Keith Switzer, AScTChair, Nominating Committee10767 – 148th Street, Surrey, BC V3R 0S4FAX: (604) 585-2790

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGFriday, May 22nd, 2009PLEASE MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

Council L1 (228/285/B).art eps

font(s): nonemax reduction... 50%

Design/Art by: ASTTBC/RJM 1994rev: 99 09 08/RJM

In the News…

THE ASSOCIATION FORTECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALSIN BRITISH COLUMBIA

http://www.cten.ca

CONNECTING WITH GOVERNMENT

ASTTBC continues to meet with Members of the Legislature(BC) and BC Members of Parliament (Canada).Our purpose is to inform MLAs and MPs about ASTTBC’s role,initiatives and issues of interest or concern. In 2008 ASTTBCmet formally and informally with the following…

Hon. Murray Coell, Minister of Advanced Education andLabour Market Development – The Minister was guest speak-er at the launch of the Technology Education & CareersCouncil hosted at Science World on June 3. He was alsokeynote speaker at ASTTBC 50th Anniversary Awards &Recognition Celebration on October 25. In each instance,ASTTBC Council members and staff had an opportunity fordiscussions with the Minister.

Robin Ciceri, Deputy Minister of Advanced Education andLabour Market Development – The newly appointed DeputyMinister met with ASTTBC’s Executive Director in October todiscuss technology education and careers. They also coveredASTTBC’s ongoing work to enhance professional recognitionand define rights to practice, and ASTTBC concerns aboutAIBC registering building designers. John Leech updated theDeputy Minister on ASTTBC’s new Guides to ProfessionalPractice and on plans to implement the ‘ProfessionalTechnologist’ (PTech) in BC now that similar legislation willshortly be proclaimed in Alberta.

Hon. John van Dongen, Minister of Public Safety and SolicitorGeneral – The Minister and ASTTBC’s Executive Directorspoke on a couple of topics, notably the licensing of houseinspectors. The Minister confirmed government’s interest in pur-suing a form of licensing that will ensure greater consumer confi-dence. ASTTBC and the BC Institute of Property Inspectorshave actively participated in the Ministry’s consultation on this.

ASTTBC Executive Director presents'The Engineering Team in Canada - aBC Perspective' to Surrey-TyneheadMLA.

Dave Hayer, MLA, Surrey-Ty n e h e a d – E x e c u t i v eDirector & Registrar, JohnLeech, AScT, CAE, met withDave Hayer to talk about

ASTTBC’s work to address the technology skills shortage andconcerns about declining enrollments at BCIT and colleges.

ASTTBC members in Prince Georgeconnect with MLAs during the annu-al Liberal Golf Tournament.

Pat Bell, MLA; Shirley Bond,MLA; John Rustad, MLA;D e n n i s M c K a y, M L A .ASTTBC members met withMLAs at the Liberal Golf

Tournament in Prince George in July. Participating ASTTBCmembers included… Luke McDonald, AScT; Jim Litzen,GradTech; Brook Boudrea, AScT; Randy Chencharik.GradTech; Rob Fehr, AScT; Brian Brown, AScT; ASTTBCVice President Doug Carter, CTech; and Public Representativeon Council, Jim Blake, MBA, CA.

Hon. Richard Neufeld, Minister of Energy, Mines andPetroleum Resources – The Minister spoke briefly withASTTBC’s Executive Director during the Pacific NorthWestEconomic Region Summit in July.

Hon. Mike de Jong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations andReconciliation – ASTTBC’s Executive Director met theMinister to talk about a number of ASTTBC initiatives and,in particular, the Association’s efforts to support FirstNations involved with, or interested in, technology educa-tion and careers.

Hon. Col in Hansen ( then Minis te r o f EconomicDevelopment) – ASTTBC’s President, Darrin Heisler, AScT;Secretary Treasurer Bill MacPherson, AScT; and ExecutiveDirector & Registrar, John Leech, AScT, CAE, met with theMinister to talk about issues such as technology skills shortages,declining enrollments in technology programs, recognition ofInternationally Trained Professionals and ASTTBC members’rights to practice and professional recognition.

Hon. Joan McIntyre, Minister of State for IntergovernmentalRelations – Also at the PNWER conference, Hon. JoanMcIntyre and ASTTBC’s Executive Director connected aboutthe Association’s work, re: BC–Alberta Trade, Investment andLabour Mobility Agreement (TILMA) and ASTTBC’s supportof PNWER.

ASTTBC staff meet withMinister Polak

Hon. Mary Polak, Minister ofHealthy Living and Sport –The Minister has ‘inherited’ theregulations dealing with onsitesewage, under which ASTTBCregulates Registered OnsiteWas tewate r Prac t i t ioner s(ROWPs). The Minister agreed

to meet to discuss ASTTBC role and initiatives to furtherenhance onsite sewage standards and practices.

ASTTBC staff meet with the Leaderof the Opposition

C a r o l e J a m e s , M L A ,Victoria–Beacon Hill andLeader of the Opposition –ASTTBC’s Executive DirectorJohn Leech, AScT, CAE, andJason Jung, AScT, Manager,Technology Careers, met withthe Leader of the Opposition.

They talked about ASTTBC’s work to enhance professionalrecognition and to define the scope of ASTTBC members’practice. John talked about ASTTBC’s Guides to ProfessionalPractice and efforts to have ASTTBC members included as‘Qualified Professionals’ in appropriate government legislationand through various regulatory bodies.

Rob Fleming, MLA, Victoria–Hillside and NDP AdvancedEducation Critic – The ASTTBC Executive Director met withthe Opposition’s Advance Education Critic, Rob Fleming. Thetwo spoke about technology education and careers; ASTTBC’swork to enhance professional recognition and rights to practice,and other topics similar to those discussed with Carol James,Leader of the Opposition.

Hedy Fry, MP – Executive Director, John Leech, AScT,CAE, met with Hedy Fry to talk about ASTTBC’s key ini-tiatives of particular interest to the federal government.Topics such as technology skills shortage, recognition ofInternationally Trained Professionals and ASTTBC’s workto enhance linkages with technology professionals in othercountries were of interest.

Minister John van Dongen addresses Vancouver-based industry and association reps in the lead-upto Pacific NorthWest Economic Region Summit.

Pacific Northwest SharesCommon GoalsThe Pacific Northwest Region includes20 million people and accounts for $700billion of economic activity. Alaska,I d a h o , M o n t a n a , O r e g o n a n dWashington states in the USA, alongwi th A lbe r t a , Br i t i sh Co lumbia ,Saskatchewan and the Yukon in Canada,is one of fastest-growing regions of NorthAmerica.

The Pacific NorthWest EconomicReg ion (PNWER) i s a s t a tu to r y,public/private partnership composed oflegislators, governments and businessesthat promotes greater cooperation toenhance the region’s global competitive-ness, while striving to maintain or improveits environment.

PNWER holds an annual summit,which for 2008, was held in Vancouver.To s e t the s t ag e f o r the summi t ,ASTTBC invited Minister John vanDongen, who was also serving as VicePresident of PNWER, to address busi-ness and association leaders at a pre-event information luncheon on March19. ASTTBC is taking a lead role inhelping PNWER engage with profes-sional, technical and special interestassociations. ■

BRINGING EMPLOYERS& MEMBERS TOGETHERC T E N , t h e C a n a d i a n Te c h n i c a lEmployment Network, is a 24/7 onlinejob network that brings skilled technolo-gy professionals together with prospec-tive employers across Canada. FromJanuary 1 to October 31 2008, a total of228 BC-based jobs were posted.

www.cten.ca

CTEN LN1–L (185/B).art eps

font(s): Futura Bold / Gill Sans (mark/name as outlines)




CTEN name… BLACK op fill only



rev: 99 02 17/RJM

BUYING OR BUILDING A HOME?Groups within ASTTBC specialize in providing housing-related services.

Building Design. The designations of RegisteredBu i ld ing Des i gne r (RBD) and Ce r t i f i edResidential Designer (CRD) represent profession-al building designers practising in BC underprovincial statute with ASTTBC. Members’

expertise covers the full spectrum from residential, commer-cial and industrial to recreational allowing them to offeruncompromising professionalism and service in the designand construction of buildings. In the public interest, RBDsand CRDs work with architects and professional engineerswhere required by law. For a list of building designers, visitthe Building Designers Institute of BC web site…www.bdibc.bc.ca

House and Property Inspection. A CertifiedProperty Inspector (CPI) or Certified HouseInspector (CHI) is qualified with the education,training and experience to carry out professional

house and property inspections. For a list of certified house andproperty inspectors in your area, visit the BC Institute ofProperty Inspectors web site… www.bcipi.net

S i t e Improvement s Sur vey s . The p rac t i c e o f S i t eImprovements Surveys is the determination of the relative loca-tion of structures to cadastral survey monuments and LandTitles Office records and plans. ASTTBC membership isrequired before one may be Registered in Site ImprovementsSurveys (RSIS). Contact ASTTBC for a list of practitionerswith the RSIS designation.

Onsite Wastewater. The Ministry of Health SewerageSystem Regulation provides for two types of AuthorizedPerson – a Professional, such as a Professional Engineer,and a Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner (ROWP)to plan, install and maintain an onsite wastewater system.ASTTBC registers four main classifications of ROWP…planner, instal ler, maintenance provider and privateinspector. For a list of ROWP practitioners, visit…owrp.asttbc.org

BCIPI L1–SS (285/3415).art eps

font(s): Gill Sans (outlines)

Design/Art by: BCIPI / Richard Mayer © 1999rev: 2000 09 11/RJM

Issue #123

News P Icon 2 (285/B).art eps


Design/Art by: ASTTBC 1994rev: 2000 02 21/RJM

http://owrp.asttbc.orghttp://bcipi.asttbc.orghttp://www.bdibc.bc.cahttp://www.cten.ca

Doug Carter, CTech, shows government ministers how a bioenergy system canconnect to the existing UNBC heating system.

UNBC EXPLORESRENEWABLE ENERGYTHE UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN BC could become thefirst university in Canada to be heated largely with renewableenergy. The proposed project will focus on testing the econom-ic, environmental, operational and industrial viability of bioen-ergy and biomass fuels such as wood.

UNBC has received $3.5 million from the provincial govern-ment’s Innovative Clean Energy fund. “The Minister ofTechnology, Trade and Economic Development, and the Ministerof Energy, Mines, and Petroleum Resources, made the announce-ment,” says Doug Carter, CTech, who is both UNBC’s ChiefEngineer and ASTTBC’s Vice President. “There were severalmedia outlets covering the event and taking pictures in the plantincluding PGTV, CBC and the newspapers.”

In the early 1990s when the campus was built, the power plantwas designed for expansion and to accommodate alternativeenergy systems. A bioenergy installation attached to the plantcould immediately connect to the hot water pipes already servingthe campus. The bioenergy system could then provide base heat-ing for the entire year, and be supplemented by the existing boil-ers during periods of peak loads and very cold temperatures. ■

ViewPOINT…by Don Wright, President, British Columbia Institute of Technology

CONGRATULATIONS ASTTBCon 50 years of advancing the vitalrole of technology professionals inBC, and promoting technology educa-tion and careers. Today, you are 9,000members strong, many of whom aregraduates of the British ColumbiaInstitute of Technology.

I am proud of the strong ties betweenASTTBC and BCIT. We share a com-

mitment to quality, to providing leadership, and being relevantand responsive. When I joined BCIT this year, I was struck byhow many of my friends and associates told me a powerful,personal story about what BCIT had done for them, a familymember or a close friend. Since then, I have come to trulyappreciate the impact our graduates – and ASTTBC members– have on BC’s social and economic prosperity.

One of our graduates is none other than John Leech, AScT,CAE, Executive Director & Registrar, ASTTBC. BCIT had thepleasure of bestowing John with the BCIT DistinguishedAlumni Award for Lifetime Achievement on September 17,2008. John’s leadership and dedication have clearly shaped thesuccess of ASTTBC.

Looking forward, I believe that ASTTBC’s agenda of promot-ing technology education and careers will be even more impor-tant to British Columbia. As our population continues to grow,and our traditional industries face such challenges as the moun-tain pine beetle and increased competition from abroad, BCwill need to strengthen its economic base. We will need toenhance the competitiveness of our traditional naturalresource-based industries and expand the relative size of theemerging, non-resource based industries. This will only be pos-sible if we expand the proportion of our workforce that is tech-nologically focused, innovative and creative.

BCIT is excited about working with ASTTBC to meet thechallenges of the next 50 years. ■

PREMIUMS REDUCED ONPROFESSIONAL LIABILITYINSURANCEIn May 2008, Council made the decisionto change the insurance carrier for theAssociation’s Professional LiabilityInsurance and CGL Insurance to thelargest syndicate at Lloyd's of Londonbased on premium capacity. CATLIN isa recognized leader in numerous classesof specialty insurance and reinsurance.The CATLIN Syndicate has nearly 200underwriting professionals who can beaccessed by brokers. Underwriters aresupported by a range of specialists,including an actuarial team and a 60-per-s on c l a ims s t a f f . Wi l l i s Canada ,ASTTBC’s broker for Profess ionalLiability Insurance, will work with theCATLIN office in Calgary.

Highlights from the change are ananticipated average rate decrease of 20%for all renewing members except for‘Class 4 Members’ and ‘House andProperty Inspectors’. The renewing Class4 Members’ premium remains the same,as it was already quite low. RenewingHouse and Property Inspectors willreceive a substantial rate decrease ofapproximately 74% on average! ■

Fo r i n f o r m a t i o n o n A S T T B C ’sProfessional Liability Insurance programvisit…

www.asttbc.org/services/programs/group_programs.php

bcit.ca/alumniwww.asttbc.org/services/programs/group_programs.phpwww.asttbc.org/services/programs/group_programs.php

CODE OF ETHICS A KEY TOOLThe ASTTBC Practice Review Board has two elements by whichit measures members’ conduct. One element is a member’s practicemeasured against accepted normal standards of practice, whetherdefined by codes through regulation, standards set by industry, orstandards set by the ASTTBC Council. The other element is toexamine a member’s conduct against the requirements as outlinedin ASTTBC’s Code of Ethics. The purpose of the Code of Ethicsis to give general statements of the principles of ethical conduct inorder that the members of ASTTBC may fulfill their duty to thepublic, the profession and their fellow members.

The Applied Science Technologists and Technicians Act states,as one of the objects of the Association: “to regulate standards oftraining and practice of and for its members and to protect the inter-ests of the public.” Typically a failure to exercise ‘best’ practices bynot adhering to the required standard also creates a violation ofPrinciple #1 of the Code of Ethics. This principal states… “Holdparamount the safety, health and welfare of the public, the protectionof the environment and the promotion of health and safety withinthe workplace.” This Principle is the cornerstone of the Code andmust be considered the most significant. It best exemplifiesASTTBC’s mandate as a professional association.

The most frequent charge that is brought against membersresulting in censure is violation of Principle #1 of the Code ofEthics. Realistically any project undertaken involves some riskto safety, health and welfare and may have some impact on theenvironment. To ‘hold paramount’ is to emphasize the need togive diligent regard to this Principle and to rank it ahead ofexpediency or economic gain to either client or self.

Members shall take appropriate action and notify properauthorities if in their professional opinion, unacceptable haz-ards to the public, human welfare or the environment do exist.Members shall not complete, sign or seal plans or other docu-ments that, in their professional opinion would result in unac-ceptable hazards to the public, human welfare or the environ-ment, or do not conform to current standards.

Members must be familiar with current safety codes, standardsand other external regulations pertaining to their discipline.They must understand their implications to the safety and wel-fare of the public. Members should maintain a responsible inter-est in both the immediate and long-term effects of the applica-tion of practices that affect the public welfare and should beaware that the use of technology may create situations thatendanger the long-term safety and welfare of the public. If nec-essary, members should advise corporate management accord-ingly. Occasionally the obligations that members have to theirclients/employers and to the public may be in conflict.

While members are obliged not to disclose confidential infor-mation, or to use such information to the disadvantage of theclients/employers, failure to report a situation that membersbelieve may endanger the safety or welfare of the public wouldbe contrary to this paramount Principle.

For further information and the complete list of Principles towhich members must abide, please refer to the Code of Ethicson the ASTTBC web site. ■

This article is the first in a series of articles offering comment onthe ASTTBC Code of Ethics and subjects related to professionalpractice such as risk management.

Construction Safety Officer’s UpdateASTTBC was a gold sponsor for the 2008 Construction SafetyOfficer Symposium held in Richmond, November 14 – 15, 2008.Some 200 delegates took part. CPD eligible and workshops cov-ered a broad range of topics for construction safety professionals.

Bruce Stevens, AScT, Construction Safety Officer ProgramManager, manned the ASTTBC booth. CSO panel membersRick Cox, CSO, Cameron Hacault, CSO, and Jim Hopkins,CRSP, were on hand to provide delegates with details on theCSO/TSC program and new initiatives. Bruce Stevens, AScT,spoke of the work by ASTTBC and the CSO Certification Panelon behalf of CSOs and TSCs. A survey taken at the symposiumshowed a high level of interest in certification with ASTBC. ■

As ASTTBC’s Construction Safety Officers program grows,help is needed. Members wishing to volunteer, please contactRick Cox, CSO at [email protected] or phone604-214-7433 ext 119.

ONSITE WASTEWATERREGISTRATION TOPS 500

The manner in whichonsite wastewater/sew-erage system services areprovided by industrychanged in 2005 witha new Sewerage SystemR e g u l a t i o n b y t h eMin i s t r y o f Hea l thServices. It applies to all

types of onsite wastewater systems, fromseptic systems for single-family homes tocomplex systems for multi-residential,industrial and commercial applications.

Under the new regulation, industry prac-titioners must be registered with “a registra-tion certificate issued by the Applied ScienceTechnologists & Technicians of BritishColumbia that certifies that the holder is com-petent to construct and maintain a seweragesystem that uses a treatment method classifiedas Type 1 or Type 2.” (An existing ‘profes-sional’, another ‘authorized person’ definedwithin the Regulation, is excluded from theASTTBC registration requirements.)

On July 7, 2008, the Onsite WastewaterRegistration Program passed a milestonewhen ROWP certificate #500 was issued.“This performance-based approach encouragesquality systems,” says Ron Hein, ROWP,Manager, Onsite Wastewater RegistrationProgram. “Home owners now have a growingnumber of ROWP practitioners across theprovince who have the necessary training andregistration as ‘Authorized Persons’ to ensurethe performance and longevity of onsite waste-water systems.”

ASTTBC was also recently awarded agrant by the Ministry of EconomicDevelopment to compare the regulatoryframework currently existing in Albertaand British Columbia with respect to theregistration/licensing of onsite wastewaterpractitioners. Key objectives are to pro-vide a comparative analysis of educationaland work experience requirements neces-sary for registration in each province andto provide solutions to comply with theAlberta – BC Trade Investment & LabourMobility Agreement (TILMA). ■

To download a copy of the new ‘OnsiteWastewater Systems for Residences in BC’brochure, visit… owrp.asttbc.org/new.htm…or to receive a complimentary printedcopy, contact ASTTBC at 604-585-2788or email [email protected]

Muhammad Abro,AScT (Provisional),credits registration byASTTBC for makinga big change inresponse fromprospective employers.

IMMIGRANT PROFESSIONALCREATES CAREER IN BCEngineer from Pakistan could only find work as a securityguard after immigrating to Canada; now a technologist withCity of Abbotsford.

The day that a bank robber put a gun to his chest was the daythat Muhammad Abro, AScT (Provisional), decided to dowhatever it took to become a professional in Canada.

Unable to find work in an engineering field after emigrating, hehad been working for two years as a security guard before that ill-fated day. “He was very wild and shouting to everyone,” saysMuhammad in describing the robber. “He jumped over the counterand demanded money from the teller. It was the longest time of my life.”

Muhammad Abro completed his bachelor degree in engineeringin Karachi and worked for ten years as a Civil Engineer in Pakistanon water supply and sanitation, and on roads construction. His firstvisit to Canada was for seven months in 1988 as a student in thePakistan Canada World Youth Exchange. He immigrated in 2003.

“As a new immigrant I started to look for a job in my own profes-sion, but I did not make it,” says Muhammad. He felt like therequirements of Canadian regulatory bodies created barriers tocertification. He was advised by an educational institute toundertake civil engineering studies here in spite of having aBachelor of Engineering degree. An evaluation from ICESestablished that his degree was equivalent to Canadian educa-tional standards, but he was advised to take courses to upgradehis English skills. “I became frustrated and gave up going for fur-ther education,” he says. “My security job had longer hours and Icould not afford to survive here without that job.”

Finally determined to improve his skills and to find a job in theengineering field, he undertook a succession of courses includinga program from the Waterworks Technology School in Delta; theRoad Builder & Heavy Construction foundation course; com-puter courses; and English from BCIT. It was while taking thewaterworks course that his instructor, Wayne Nowlan, CTech,encouraged him to apply for registration with ASTTBC. “I wasreluctant because of the long list of requirements,” says Muhammad.“But he always encouraged me and he became my advisor. I fulfilledall requirements and got my provisional certification. After my certi-fication I felt a big change in response from employers.”

With his new AScT (Provisional) credentials, he secured aposition as Engineering Technologist I (Water works) with theCity Of Abbotsford. It turned out to be a dream comes true.

“I am thankful to Wayne Nowlan of Waterworks and to JenniferKuenzig of the Working Solutions for Skilled Immigrants program,and to ASTTBC, because they really helped to change my life andgive me the new ray of light,” says Muhammad. “I would say tonew immigrants do not give-up. Improve your English, it is thebasic hurdle. There are opportunities and a lot of facilities to helpus if you want to be part of system. Do not think about what youwere, always see ahead, attitude is everything.” ■

BCjobnetwork.commailto:[email protected] owrp.asttbc.org/new.htm http://working.com/mailto:[email protected]

Darrin Heisler, AScT, ASTTBC President presents BIG Little Science CentreExecutive Director Gord Stewart with a cheque for $2,500.

CREATING TOMORROW’STECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALSIt’s all about giving kids a chance to discover technology is cool.

One answer to the technology skills shortage is to expose moreyoung people to the exciting career possibilities that technologyoffers. ASTTBC works closely with organizations that enhancescience and technology awareness. And, ASTTBC’s charitablefoundation, the Foundation for Education & Advancement inTechnology, provides bursaries for students and funding fortechnology-based events. Some activities from 2008 include…

PRINCE GEORGE• ‘QuizMe!’ TV Show. Starting September 14, 2008, students

from sixteen schools in the Prince George area begancompeting for the ‘QuizMe! Cup’. ASTTBC is a sponsor forthe science and technology section of the program. Runningon CKPG Television, the show airs Sundays at 7:00 pm,with repeat broadcasts on Mondays at 6:00 and Saturdays at5:00. ASTTBC promotional advertising will highlighttechnology careers, focusing on several of the Association’smembers in Prince George including… Doug Carter,CTech; Colin Dix, AScT, EngL; Heather Andreychuck,AScT; Lorelei Reier, AScT; and Scott McLaren, AScT.

• ‘Kids Page’ Contest. The ‘Kids Page’ is running twice a monthin the Prince George Free Press. ASTTBC is sponsoring thescience and technology section. What’s more, ASTTBC isrunning a kids’ contest in conjunction with the newspaperfeature, with one iPod prize being awarded each month.

VANCOUVER• ‘Girls Exploring Trades & Technology’ Camp. Both

ASTTBC and FEAT provide annual support to the ‘GirlsExploring Trades & Technology’ Camp held at BCIT eachsummer. This year, BCIT instructor Anabelle Paxton, alongwith staff and volunteers, lead two groups of girls through aweek-long GETT camp. It gave them the opportunity toexplore trades and technology by having teams design andconstruct soapbox go-carts from scratch. The teams werethen judged in different categories such as ‘coolest cart’ and‘best construction’.

VICTORIA• ‘Taste of Electronics’ Event. In a bid to encourage more

girls to go into electronics technology, Camosun Collegeheld its 6th annual ‘Taste of Electronics’ this fall. The eventhas become so popular that the College had to run it on asecond date. FEAT, ASTTBC’s charitable foundation,helped out by stepping up as a Silver Sponsor. Grade 10 girls

Instructor at Taste of Electronics conducting test of circuit board.

built a ‘Simone Says’ musical memory game, which they tookhome at the end of the day. They spent the morning learningabout hardware components and then soldering them to aprinted circuit board. In the afternoon they tackledprogramming with each girl personalizing her game by writingher own tunes to play for game start and high score. “The girlsreally have a good time and feel so proud of their achievements,”says Joyce van de Vegte of Camosun’s Electronics & ComputerEngineering Technology Department. “In fact, two pastparticipants have enrolled into our college program.”

• ‘DiscoverTech’ Camp. This summer Camosun College ran aone-week introduction to the world of engineeringtechnology for Grade 9 – 12 students. At DiscoverTech,students gained an understanding of what technology isthrough a series of hands-on activities hosted by thedepartments of Mechanical, Computer Systems, Civil, andElectronics & Computer Engineering Technologies.ASTTBC committed $1,000 to Camosun College to helpcover the cost of the event.

KELOWNA• ‘RoboCup’ Challenge. RoboCup is an educational event

that targets elementary, middle and secondary schoolstudents. The mission is to promote science and technologythrough hands-on, fun and challenging activities. The eventis divided into… the soccer challenge, the rescue challengeand the dance challenge. ASTTBC was a $2,000 sponsor of‘RoboCup’, which was held November 22 at the KelownaCampus of Okanagan College.

KAMLOOPS• BIG Little Science Centre. Located in Kamloops, the BIG

Little Science Centre allows visitors to experiment at morethan 120 science and technology stations. The Centre alsoconducts demonstrations and hosts a basic teachinglaboratory. During 2008 ASTTBC will provide a total ofabout $5,000 in support of BIG Little’s work. In May, theAssociation provided a grant of $2,500 to help the Centregear up for summer camps for elementary students. This wasfollowed by a further $1,500 in conjunction with a one-dayevent in July to promote technology education and careers.Near Halloween, ASTTBC participated in ‘FrankenScience’,BIG Little’s open house. More than six hundred peopleattended. ASTTBC’s support of BIG Little Science Centreregularly gets media coverage, as well as being recognized inthe Centre’s own newsletter. For example, during the event oncareers in technology, BIG Little’s Executive Director, GordStewart, and ASTTBC’s Executive Director & Registrar, JohnLeech, AScT, CAE, appeared on B-100 FM Radio, on RadioNL and on the ‘Midday Show’ on CFJC TV. ■

Darrin Heisler, AScT, President, ASTTBC and Mike Iviney, AScT, Chair,

President Darrin Heisler, AScT, and Mike Iviney, AScT, FEAT Chair, joinTed Nodwell, CAE, FEAT Executive Director and John Leech, AScT, CAE,ASTTBC Executive Director in unveiling $25,000 contribution byASTTBC.

500X50 KICK-OFFFundraiser will support student bur-saries and science and technologyawareness in years ahead; donors willreceive charitable tax receipts.

During ASTTBC’s 50th anniversary, the Association is rollingout a special ‘500x50’ campaign. The goal is to encouragetoday’s technologists, technicians and technical specialists tohelp tomorrow’s technology professionals by donating toFEAT’s Technology Legacy Fund. The slogan ‘500x50’ repre-sents boosting the charitable foundation’s endowment fund to$500,000 in celebration of ASTTBC’s 50 years.

The 500x50 campaign was launched at ASTTBC’s Awards &Recognition Celebration on October 25 2008.

“This joint ASTTBC–FEAT initiative will increase our charita-ble foundation’s Technology Legacy Fund from $320,000 to$500,000,” says Ted Nodwell, CAE, Executive Director of theFoundation for Education & Advancement in Technology.“ASTTBC Council earmarked a $25,000 contribution to kick-start the 500x50 campaign and volunteers on the FEAT Boardpersonally committed another $2,000 as soon as it was announced.Now we are giving the members of ASTTBC the opportunity tokeep the momentum rolling.”

In this milestone year members are invited to ‘go the extramile’ by adding a bit to what they have donated in the past,and to do this in a way that ties to the 50th anniversary, forexample by adding $50, $100 or even $500 to their donation.For members who have not donated before and who want togive something back to the technology community, this is anideal time. All donations of more than $15 receive a charitablereceipt from FEAT for tax purposes.

FEAT currently provides $24,000 in bursaries each year totechnology students. Since the charitable foundation was estab-lished in 1990, it has also provided $365,000 in support of sci-ence and technology awareness in the province of BritishColumbia. Donations by ASTTBC members have been vital inmaking this happen. ■

To dona t e p l e a s e down load a dona t i on f o rm a t…www.asttbc.com/about/docs/form.pdf …or use the ‘Our BestFEATures’ form enclosed with this issue of ASTT News.

Colton Gombots receives a $1,000 FEAT bursaryfor a high school student who is a child or grand-child of an ASTTBC member and who will begoing into an accredited technology program.

Students & EducatorsSay ThanksASTTBC’s charitable foundation –FEAT – provides $24,000 per year inbursaries to technology students.

“Thank you for awarding me the $1,000ASTTBC/BC Hydro bursary. The moneywill help to cover some of my tuition fees.Hopefully I will be able to give back toFEAT after I graduate.”

Alan Blakeley, student, CamosunCollege Civil Engineering Technology

“The appreciation I hold for theASTTBC/BC Hydro bursary comes notonly from the financial aid, but from theinvaluable encouragement it lends me.”

Ben Dunsmuir, student, CamosunCollege Mechanical EngineeringTechnology

“I was awarded a $1,000 ASTTBC/TDInsurance bursary for 2008. Thanks to theamazing donors of the ASTTBC FEATbursary grants, I am now in the forth-term,studying full time.”

Ray Chen, student, BCIT Electrical &Computer Engineering Technology

“Thank you for your contribution of $7,000for the 2008 ASTTBC awards for studentsof BCIT accredited technology programs.Your commitment is really appreciated.”

Susan Walters, Awards Coordinator,BCIT Foundation

“Please accept the thanks of Selkirk Collegefor your gift of the ASTTBC bursary.Contributions such as yours are very signifi-cant to the College and students.”

Joyce Buckler, Donor ServicesCoordinator, Selkirk College

“Please accept my sincerest appreciation for yourgenerous donation in support of the ASTTBCaward. Many of our students rely on the finan-cial assistance of scholarships, awards and bur-saries. Thank you for considering these studentswhen you made your gift to Kwantlen.”

Jeff Norris, Executive Director, KwantlenUniversity College Foundation

“ The Thompson R ive r s Unive r s i t yFoundation thanks you for your generouscontribution to the ASTTBC FEATaward. The TRU Foundation is celebrating25 years of support to students; thank youfor being part of our continued success.”

Christopher Seguin, Vice PresidentAdvancement, Thompson Rivers University

“Thank you for the ASTTBC/IBETaward. During my studies, I was apracticum student at Siemens Canada andshadowed the biomeds in their daily rou-tine. I am now employed with Siemens.The recognition of your award has helpedto give me confidence to succeed in my field.I truly appreciate the kindness of allASTTBC and IBET members.”

Craig Haker, graduate, BCITBiomedical Engineering Technology

Mike Iviney, AScT, (l) Chair of FEAT, and TimLittle, PEng, (r) Chief Engineer of BC Hydro, withstudents receiving the ASTTBC/BC Hydro bursary.

FEAT L1S–01S (228/B).art eps

font(s): Bauhaus Bold (outlines)

Design/Art: Richard Mayer © 2001Rev: 2001 06 12/RJM

www.asttbc.com/about/docs/form.pdf

NTW Feature inBlack Press

Corinne Dalgas, AScT, receives the 2008 ‘Professional Leadership Award forWomen in Technology’ at ASTTBC’s Awards & Recognition Celebration.

ASTTBC PROMOTES WOMENIN TECHNOLOGYOF THE MORE than 9,000 members of ASTTBC, only 9%are female. While the percentage is much higher in some disci-plines and increases among younger members, it is still causefor concern. ASTTBC is looking into ways the Association canplay a larger role in bringing about change.

In November 2008, ASTTBC conducted an online surveyamong female members. The goal was to get feedback to helpthe Association understand the challenges women face inchoosing a career in technology, entering the workforce andduring career progression. Industry, educators, government andothers, such as the new Technology Education & CareersCouncil, also want to hear from ASTTBC about female mem-bers’ key challenges and suggested recommendations and/orsolutions. When the survey is compiled, results will be postedon the ASTTBC web site.

ASTTBC is in its second year of honoring women in technol-ogy at its annual Awards & Recognition Celebration. This yearCorinne Dalgas, AScT, was the recipient of the ‘ProfessionalLeadership Award for Women in Technology’. This award hon-ours women who are ASTTBC members who have distin-guished themselves in their field of technology and havedemonstrated leadership within the Association or local com-munity by serving as a role model and promoting careers intechnology. The ‘Employer Award for the Enhancement ofCareer Success of Women as Technology Professionals’ went toDayton & Knight Ltd., Consulting Engineers. Of the womenworking at the firm, 71% are professionals, either P.Eng., AScTand CTech, and Engineers In Training and GradTechs.

The Today’s Woman Conference & Awards in Prince Georgeis in its third year and ASTTBC was once again sponsor of theTechnology Leadership Award. As part of ASTTBC’s efforts topromote women in technology, the Association was featured byway of an advertisement in the TWA supplement published bythe Prince George Free Press. This year ASTTBC increased itsparticipation by arranging a ‘Women in Technology’ panel;sponsoring a bursary for a female high school student andsecuring a matching bursary from the College of NewCaledonia; and arranging with Stantec to sponsor registrationfor the event for female high school students.

Also in Prince George, ASTTBC was a sponsor of the ‘AHealthier You Expo, Forum & Awards’ on November 7 – 8,2008. The College of New Caledonia Medical Lab TechnologyProgram was this year’s recipient of ASTTBC’s Technology InHealth Care Award. This award goes to a company, individualor organization that has developed, introduced or improved atechnology product, or that has improved the interface betweentechnology and health care that enhances health and wellnesswithin Northern BC. ■

Meg Janecki, (l)AScT, Manager of e-Business atASTTBC, presentsthe staff of CNC’sMedical LabTechnology Programwith the ASTTBCTechnology InHealth Care Award.

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 Home Insurance toPROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT!

1.877.722.2299

Get your direct quote at…www.MelocheMonnex.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: Nonemark… WHITE fill, 0.25 pt stroke

name… WHITE fill, NO stroke

Art: Richard Mayerrev: 2000 05 04/RJM

The Plan that over 48,000 engineering

and technology professionals have trusted to

protect their families just got even better!

sponsored by Engineers Canada

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 Engineers Canada

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

E&O INSURANCE HOME INSURANCE HEALTH, ACCIDENT, DISABILITY, DENTAL & LIFE INSURANCEGroup Plans & Services…adding value to yourregistration!

Group Plans & Services…adding value to yourregistration!

ASTTBC ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2007

Poster design, as submitted by Linette Ho from BC, illustrates ‘green technology’.

MAJOR PUSH FOR NATIONALTECHNOLOGY WEEKNational Technology Week is an annual showcase of excitingcareers in technology and a golden opportunity to recognizethe valuable contribution of technologists, technicians, andtechnical specialists across BC and Canada. This year it tookplace from November 3 – 7.ASTTBC’s major National Technology Week initiative forthis year is a two-page spread on technology in 27 newspaperswith a combined circulation of almost 800,000. The mediablitz reached out to young people and their parents, whetherthey were living in Abbotsford, Victoria, Terrace, Trail or othercommunities in the Black Press network.

The Association was successful in approaching the Province ofBritish Columbia to proclaim National Technology week in BC.

ASTTBC also worked with the Canadian Council ofTechnicians and Technologists on national activities for theevent. One example is the annual poster contest. This year,students were asked to design a poster with the theme: ‘Whatis Canada’s Best Technology Invention Ever?’ Prizes wereoffered for youths in grades 7 – 9 (Junior Level) and 10 – 12(Senior Level). ■

For more information on ASTTBC’s National TechnologyWeek activities, visit the Technology Careers section of the website at… www.asttbc.org/ntw

Partners & Sponsors…

TECHACTION TALKSTECHNOLOGY CAREERSMedia campaign and web site to moti-vate students.

ASTTBC’s TechACT-ion program is onemore way the Associa-tion is reaching out toyouth. The objectivesof TechACTion are todraw attention to the

contribution that technology makes toBC’s growth and prosperity, and to letstudents know about the exciting careeropportunities that are in high demand.

TechACTion is taking a two-prongedapproach…

A special web site has been developed thatgives brief information on careers fortechnologists and technicians in building,civil, mechanical, industrial, biosciences,metallurgical, natural resources, environ-ment, biomedical engineering, informa-tion and electronics technologies. Eachpage also has a link to the correspondingBCIT course and career profiles onASTTBC’s TechWORKS! web site.

The TechACTion web site also hasinformation on ASTTBC and on profes-sional registration. This section links toTechPRO, the member profile section ofthe ASTTBC web site, where studentscan see what hundreds of members dofor a living.

A TechACTion media campaign in BlackPress community newspapers, now enter-ing its second year, will heighten awarenessof the potential in technology careers. ■

For information visit…www.TechACTion.ca

Issue #123




www.TechACTion.ca www.asttbc.org/ntwwww.asttbc.org/xcwww.manulife.com/ASTTnewswww.MelocheMonnex.com/asttbc

Industry, educational institutes, associations and other stakeholders will col-laborate through formation of the Technology Education & Careers Council.

TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION& CAREERS COUNCIL TO COMBATSKILLS SHORTAGE

THERE ARE AN ESTIMATED 50,000 technologists,technicians and technical specialists working in BritishColumbia. Many rank among the highest paid profes-sionals and it has been projected this group collectively repre-sent $5 billion in economic impact. In spite of the current soft-ening of the economy, BC is facing a critical shortage of theseprofessionals in the long run.

On June 3, 2008, ASTTBC introduced the prestigiousTechnology Education & Careers Council drawn from industryand stakeholder leaders. TECC is a direct outcome of an indus-try-wide commitment undertaken at the ‘Building Careers inTechnology Conference’ hosted by ASTTBC three years ago.

Guest speaker Murray Coell, Minister of Advanced Educationand Labour Market Development, acknowledged the serious-ness of purpose for this initiative. “I am impressed by theCouncil’s plans to work with stakeholders from industry, employers,education institutions and government to encourage more people topursue careers in technology, which is vital to the continued growthof our knowledge-based economy,” he said.

Sandy Innes, Vice President of Human Resources at TELUS,will serve as the first Chair and Jan Marston, Vice President,Human Resources & Operations Governance, Terasen, willserve as Vice Chair. Others who have volunteered for TECCinclude Harry Diemer, CEO, BC Safety Authority; AndrewHay, Vice President, Okanagan College; Reid Johnson,President, Health Sciences Association; John Leech, ExecutiveDirector & Registrar, ASTTBC; Grahame Rainey, President,BC Science Teachers Association; Sid Siddiqui, Vice President,Stantec; Bryan Tisdall, President and CEO, Science World;Harry Watson, President, Metro Testing; MJ Whitemarsh,CEO, Canadian Home Builders’ Association of BC; LesleyWilson, Principal, Concost Consultants Inc.; and Don Wright,President, BCIT. Josh Blair, Executive Vice-President, TELUS,will serve as TECC’s Executive Advisor.

Emcee for the launch, ASTTBC Executive Director &Registrar John Leech, AScT, CAE, stressed the need for a col-laborative approach between industry, government, educa-tion and associations such as ASTTBC. “BC needs morewealth creators like technologists, technicians and technical spe-cialists if we are to continue to grow our economy, meet the chal-lenges of global warming and diversify our industries in responseto significant changes, such as those brought on by the pine beetlecrisis,” he said.

The mandate of the Council is to oversee and champion atechnology skills action plan to deal with the fact that almosthalf of the current technologists and technicians will soon retireas baby boomers start to leave the workforce and, by 2010,there is projected to be a 70% shortfall of supervisors, managersand contractors in trades and technologies. In the meantime,BC post-secondary institutions are closing, or reducing spacesin, technology programs. The Technology Education & CareersCouncil recently convened its second formal meeting and isdeveloping a statement as to its primary role and what successwill look like at the end of its three-year mandate. ■

For more info, visit…www.asttbc.org/careers/tecc or www.tecc.ca

ASTTBC members form the First Nations Careers Council.

REACHING OUT TOFIRST NATIONS YOUTHASTTBC put out a call for volunteers to promote careers intechnology to First Nations youth. This was in response to dis-cussions at ASTTBC’s ‘Building Careers in Technology’ confer-ence and at subsequent roundtables, that groups who have beenunder-represented in technology should be encouraged to con-sider it as a prime career choice.

Cliff Shackelly, AScT, Tim Duerden, AScT, and GradTechsBill Baglot, Kristopher Peters and Shauna Francis offered tolead the initiative. They conducted their first planning sessionin conjunction with ASTTBC’s Annual General Meeting inMay 2008. The result was the First Nations Careers Council,made up of First Nations members of ASTTBC. The groupwill encourage First Nations students and young adults to seekpost-secondary education, which will lead to a professionalcareer in one of the many ASTTBC fields of applied scienceand engineering technology.

The group was quickly into action…

• Leadership. Tim Duerden was elected Chair and Bill BaglotVice-Chair of FNCC.

• Presentations. In July, Tim Duerden, who works with Koers& Associates Engineering Ltd. in Courtenay, was a guestspeaker at a careers information session sponsored by theSnuneymuxw Band. Representatives from the NativeEducation College, BC Hydro and Terasen Gas alsoattended.

• Student Bursary. ASTTBC’s charitable foundation, theFoundation For Education & Advancement In Technology,is funding a $1,000 bursary awarded annually to any FirstNations resident of BC who is enrolled in, or will beenrolling in, the Architectural and Engineering Technologyprogram at Thompson Rivers University. The applicationdeadline for the inaugural bursary will be the third Friday inSeptember 2009. www.tru.ca/finaid

• Logo Contest. The FNCC needs an artistic logo to placealongside its name and is inviting entries for a logo contest.$2,000 in prize money will be shared between the top fivelogos created. www.asttbc.org/docs/fnlogocontest.pdf ■

Health & dental benefits forsmall businesses

1.800.727.4493 www.olympiatrust.com/asttbc

Health & dental benefits forsmall businesses

1.800.727.4493www.olympiatrust.com/asttbc

RELIABLE andAFFORDABLEWeb Hosting

www.imaginet.ca

604.985.3074

For your BEST possible price

www.quinellaauto.com

1.800.300.GREG

For your BEST possible price

www.quinellaauto.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)op strokes @ 0.4 pts

colours… PMS 185 and WHITEround to oval as 45% vertical scale only

Design: Bob Bunting © 1995Art: Richard Mayer

rev: 2000 02 14/RJM

The card that’s designed to meetall your specifications as a

TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONAL

1.866.434.5393

The card that’s designed to meetall your specifications as a

TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONAL

1.866.434.5393MasterCard is a registered trademark of MasterCard International,

used pursuant to license. © 2003 MBNA Canada Bank.

HEALTH & DENTAL INSURANCE CREDIT CARD WORK CLOTHING AUTO RENTALS AUTO PURCHASE & LEASING 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

KELOWNAROUNDTABLE LATESTIN SERIESRoundtables seek community-basedsolutions to tech skills shortage.

A par tner sh ip between ASTTBC,Okanagan College and the OkanaganScience and Technology Council provid-ed the forum for more than thirty leadersfrom the technology community at theOctober 9, 2008 Kelowna Roundtable.Delegates included representatives fromindustry such as Disney Club Penguin,Nor th s ide Indus t r i e s and Vad imSoftware; educators from colleges and thelocal school district; and governmenta g e n c i e s l i k e t h e M i n i s t r y o fTransportation, Interior Health Authorityand the City of Kelowna. Delegates fromthe Westbank First Nation attended, asdid representatives from associations suchas APEGBC and the Southern InteriorConstruction Association.

Jim Hamilton, President of OkanaganCollege spoke about trends, the role oftechnology and the array of opportuni-ties in technology as a career. ASTTBCExecutive Director, John Leech AScT,CAE, having conceived of the idea of aprovince-wide roundtable series, outlinedthe issues and strategies that have evolvedfrom previous roundtables. Andrew Hay,P.Eng., VP of Education at OkanaganCollege, made a presentation aboutdeclining enrollments at the same time asindustry is issuing a cry for trained tech-nology professionals. According toDouglas McLeod, Executive Director ofOSTEC, it is imperative to ‘fire theimagination’ of students and educators.Keynote speaker, Claude Kisteman, HRDirector with TELUS, drew attention tothe need to understand the current gen-eration of employees, their priorities,strengths and how to best attract andretain this innovative generation.

Following the presentations, a workingsession had the delegates arranged attables and tasked with addressing specificquestions and formulating ideas. Eachgroup of delegates then reported on theirdiscussions, ideas and opportunities.

A joint luncheon for Roundtable delegatesand the Kelowna Chamber of Commercefollowed. John Leech summarized theRoundtable goals, messages and outcomesto the Chamber members. ClaudeKisteman, who also served as luncheonkeynote speaker, brought his morning mes-sage to the Chamber audience.

The Kelowna Roundtable producedgood media coverage with a front-pagearticle in the business section of theKelowna Courier.

This was the third community-basedroundtable following similar discussions inCampbell River and Prince George. Thegoal is to add a regional perspective to theall-stakeholders’ roundtable ASTTBCorganized in Vancouver in 2007. ■

Issue #123




Are YOU online? Do it today!www.TechPROfile.ca

T E C H N O L O G Y P R O F E S S I O N A L S A T W O R K

www.techPROfile.cahttp://www.imaginet.cawww.quinellaauto.comwww.quinellaauto.comwww.olympiatrust.com/asttbcwww.asttbc.org/docs/fnlogocontest.pdf www.tru.ca/finaidwww.tecc.cawww.asttbc.org/careers/tecc

BCIT student Jessica Holman receives $1,000CCTT Manulife scholarship from Geoff Sale,AScT. Paul Thurston, Issy LeBlond, and PatrickStewart look on.

KEEPING TABS ONTECHNOLOGY TRAININGAccreditation ultimately benefits stu-dents; receiving a $1,000 scholarship isa bonus.

The role of the Canadian TechnologyAccreditation Board role is to develop,coordinate and manage the nationalaccreditation program for applied scienceand engineering technology programsacross the country. CTAB is a standingcommittee of the Canadian Councilof Technicians and Technologists .Accreditation helps colleges make suretheir graduates will meet the educationalrequirements for certification as a tech-nologist or technician.

In June 2008, a CTAB team conducteda biennial review of BCIT’s ElectronicsTechnology program’s Power andComputer option. The team consisted ofGeoff Sale, AScT, CTAB Chair and aPast President of ASTTBC; MartinMacGregor, AScT; Fred Carey, AScT;and Jordy Bowen, AScT.

This was followed by a presentation onthe National Technology Benchmarks toBCIT program heads and to ASTTBCstaff by Issy LeBlond, Director, ProgramDevelopment for CTAB.

The day was topped off by presenting a$1,000 CCTT/Manulife scholarship toBCIT Civil Engineering student JessicaHolman. Through the generosity ofManulife, CCTT provides two $1,000scholarships each year to children/grand-children of members of the provincialtechnology associations. ■


ASTTBC Executive Director & Registrar, John Leech, AScT, CAE, welcom-ing special guests from all points in BC and across Canada.

Sever Rondestvedt, AScT, receiving recognition for 50 years of continuousmembership from ASTTBC President Darrin Heisler, AScT.

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCEAwards & Recognition Celebration a ‘once in a lifetime’ event.

ASTTBC’s annual Awards & RecognitionCelebration is a way of saying thanks to theAssociation’s many volunteers. It is a time tohonor highly talented people, the ASTTBCaward recipients. And, it is an opportunity for

ASTTBC to thank partner organizations for their contributionsand for members to connect with colleagues in the science andtechnology community.

Speaking at the event on October 25 2008, ASTTBC PresidentDarrin Heisler, AScT, said, “We are rolling out the red carpet as wecelebrate 50 years of success.” He went on to extend a west coastwelcome to all special guests, and a particular thanks to col-leagues from the Canadian Council of Technicians andTechnologists, and the other provincial technology associationswho traveled thousands of miles in some cases.

Murray Coell, Minister of Advanced Education and LabourMarket Development, was the guest speaker. As well, emceeJohn Leech read out a message of congratulations from thePremier. Mayor Sam Sullivan brought greetings on behalf ofthe City of Vancouver.

A highlight of the evening was the launch of the 500x50 cam-paign accompanied a cheque for $25,000 from ASTTBC. Thegoal of this joint ASTTBC–FEAT initiative is to increase theTechnology Legacy Fund to $500,000. By the end of theevening the 500x50 campaign was well underway with totalcontributions of nearly $40,000. This included the cheque fromASTTBC; donations from members, staff and past presidents;and proceeds from the silent auction and raffle at the gala.

Something else that made this a ‘once in a lifetime’ event wasa special presentation to Sever Rondestvedt, AScT, membernumber 007, for 50 years of continuous membership in theAssociation. Later in the evening, $1,000 bursaries were pre-sented to six students who are just on the cusp of their careersin technology. “I thoroughly enjoyed the banquet and celebrations.It was an honor to have been invited to such an event,” said BenDunsmuir, one of the students who received a bursary.

FEAT’s Silent Auctionprovided many wonder-ful opportunities to helpraise funds for theFoundation’s TechnologyLegacy Fund.

Performance by Adagio Rhythmic Academy was one of many highlights.

ASTTBC Awards included:

• ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY AWARDStephen Ibaraki, Chairman, iGEN Knowledge Solutions

• PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDTrevor Hutton, AScT, General Manager, North Salt SpringWaterworks DistrictLuke McDonald, AScT, Project Manager, L&MEngineering LimitedEdgardo Tapia, AScT, President, Odessa ManufacturingIncorporatedMike Lambert, CTech, Associate Deputy Minister & CEO,BC Public Service Leadership Centre (unable to attend)

• HONORARY MEMBERSHIPM.J. Whitemarsh, CEO of the Canadian Home Builders’Association of British ColumbiaJohn Reynolds, MP (unable to attend)

• PROFESSIONAL LEADERSHIP AWARD FOR WOMEN INTECHNOLOGYCorinne Dalgas, AScT, Program Coordinator, CivilEngineering, BCIT

• EMPLOYER AWARD FOR THE ENHANCEMENT OF CAREERSUCCESS OF WOMEN AS TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALSDayton & Knight Ltd., Consulting Engineers

• R. LITTLEDALE MEMORIAL AWARDRichard Mayer, AScT, Manager, Corporate Identity,ASTTBC (unable to attend)

The President of the Canadian Council of Technicians andTechnologists, Stephen Gould, CET, wished ‘happy birthday’ toASTTBC stating, “On behalf of our national office, our con-stituent members across the country, and your fellow certified tech-nicians and technologists, I would like to extend our warmest con-gratulations and best wishes as you embark on a second half centuryof success.” He then presented the following national awards…

• NATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDHarold Clifford, AScT, President, Shelter Industries Inc.

Geoff Sale, AScT, receiving Volunteer of the Year Award from Stephen Gould,CET, President of CCTT.

• VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARDGeoff Sale, AScT, Chair, CTAB

• RETIRING DIRECTOR AWARDRoger Poitras, AScT, Board member, NBSCET andDirector, CCTT

EVEN

T SPO

NSOR

S

EVEN

T PA

RTNE

RS

Lindsay Kenney, Barristers & Solicitors

TD Insurance – Meloche Monnex

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

TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALSTECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALS

Qualified.Registered.

Accountable.

Ron Hein, ROWP, has been appointedM a n a g e r , O n s i t e Wa s t e w a t e rRegistration Program at ASTTBC. Hehas a wealth of experience and wasinvolved in setting up ASTTBC’s OnsiteWastewater certification.

One of ASTTBC’s original memberspassed away on September 6, 2008…Howard Taylor, AScT, had been a mem-ber for 50 years, coinciding withASTTBC’s 50th anniversary. In retire-ment he remained a regular donor toASTTBC’s charitable foundation, FEAT.

Verne Sundstrom, ATE, RPF, andDennis Swensson, ATE, were bothawarded ‘Life Member’ as an AccreditedTimber Evaluator in recognition of theirextensive contribution to the growth anddevelopment of the Forest MeasurementsRegistration Program and TimberCruising in BC.

Will Miller, BSc, CET, has beenappointed Chair of the CanadianTechnology Accreditation Board for2008 – 2010.

Ted Lunt, AScT, RBD, has retired aftermore than 40 years of serving Victoriaand Vancouver Island as a buildingdesigner. His company will be carried onby sons Bill and Dave, both CertifiedResidential Designers, under the newname of MESA Design Group Ltd.

Chris McCue, AScT, has expanded theservices of McCue EnvironmentalContracting Inc. across Western Canadaa s t h e n e w d i s t r i b u t o r o f I W RTechnologies water treatment products.

Fransen Engineering celebrated thegrand opening of their Prince Georgeoffice in October 2008.

Russ Medvedev has accepted the posi-tion of Director of Communications andMember Services with the Association ofScience and Engineering TechnologyProfessionals of Alberta (ASET).

Dean Rockwell has been appointed CEOof the British Columbia InnovationCouncil. Prior to joining BCIC, he wasVice President and General Manager ofthe worldwide Digital Media Networksbusiness unit within Cisco’s ServiceProvider Video Technology Group basedin Atlanta. Before that he was based inBrussels, following a career with ScientificAtlanta in Burnaby.

Russ Robertson has been selected as thefounding Chief Executive Officer ofthe Transportation Industry TrainingOrganization.

BEIJING TO WHISTLER…Technologist pumped by mega projects.

When Grant Lachmuth, AScT, went to work for the Ministryof Transportation and Highways straight out of high school, lit-tle did he know the journey he was beginning.

This year Grant Lachmuth, AScT, was appointed SeniorProject Director on the $600 million Sea-to-Sky HighwayImprovement Project when the previous director, anotherASTTBC member, John Cavanagh, AScT, was promoted toAssistant Deputy Minister with the Ministry of Energy, Minesand Petroleum Resources.

In his thirty-one years with what is now the Ministry ofTransportation and Infrastructure, Grant has worked on proj-ects from the Yukon border to Kelowna. “It’s been awesome,” hesays. “I’ve seen a lot of amazing sights and been part of many greatprojects. Job satisfaction is immense because I can look back andsay ‘I was part of that’.”

Grant credits his success to having an employer that encour-ages career advancement; a supportive wife and family; and hisASTTBC credentials. In 1979 the Ministry encouraged him totake the Transportation Systems Technology program by dis-tance education. This was the precursor to the BCIT CivilEngineering Technology program. In 2002 his employer spon-sored him to take the Public Sector Leadership Programthrough Royal Roads University. His wife and family have alsobeen supportive as he took the time for his studies and as theywere moved to Prince George, Kelowna, Victoria andVancouver. Grant met representatives of ASTTBC, then calledSETBC, at his BCIT convocation and joined immediately.Initially certified as a technician, he reclassified as an AppliedScience Technologist in 2001. “As I applied for different postings,first technical, then management, my ASTTBC designation wasalways well regarded,” he says.

left photo…A two-month posting to Beijing inthe lead up to the 2008 OlympicGames was a ‘gold medal’ experi-ence for Grant Lachmuth, AScT.

below photo…Grant Lachmuth, AScT, is SeniorProject Director with the Ministryof Transportation & Infrastructureon the Sea-To-Sky HighwayImprovement Project.

Grant Lachmuth’s role as Ministry Representative on theWilliam R. Bennett Bridge project earned him an AdvancedTechnology Award from ASTTBC in 2007. One of only ninefloating bridges in the world, the 50-year old structure wasreplaced with a new one that opened in May 2008. Grantmissed the ceremony because by then he was one of 55 provin-cial employees serving as hosts at the BC Canada Pavilion inBeijing, China. “My volunteer experience with 2000 BC WinterGames in Quesnel and my supervisory experience at work caughtthe eye of the selection committee,” he says. “When your employerprovides you with an opportunity to be immersed in another cul-ture for two months, that’s pretty unique, not many employers canoffer that. I felt honoured and privileged to be there to showcaseBC and Canada.” Grant took an ASTTBC packsack with himduring his two months in China. “A lot of business people inBeijing were always asking me about the Association when theysaw it,” he says.

Grant is not the only one in his family who has built a careerat the ministry. His father worked there for twenty years. NowGrant’s own son has joined the organization. “It’s great to bebuilding in British Columbia,” says Grant. “It makes guys like mewho came up through the ranks pretty excited.” Seems like a lovefor mega projects runs in the Lachmuth family. ■

members logonShaping BC’s Futureemployersconnect

SKILLED 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 professionals registeredwith ASTTBC… highly qualified technical personnel who are job-ready witheducation and experience.

Employers… ask for our Employer Liaison package to learnhow technology professionals can benefit your enterprise.

Shaping BC’s Future

For more information…

www.cten.ca

You Told Us…You Told Us…“Thank you for sending along the copy of the issue of ASTT Newswith the picture of the Premier on the front with the Prime Minister.”

Premier Gordon Campbell’s office, re: ASTT News issue #122

“Thank you for updating me on the work of the Roundtable onTechnology Skills Shortage II and for providing me with theSummary Report… I commend you for the work you are doing toraise the profile of technology careers…”

Premier Gordon Campbell

“Thank you for your letter of April 18, 2008, regardingASTTBC’s commitment to, and work within, the Trade,Investment, Labour and Mobility Agreement.”

Carole Taylor, Minister, Ministry of Finance

“I have been retired now for 4 years and it has been many yearssince I was active in the Kamloops group of ASTTBC. I would liketo thank everyone for the tremendous amount of effort they haveput in to make the organization what it is today. Staff deservemuch credit and recognition for all that you have accomplished formyself and other members of ASTTBC.”

Garry Gregson, AScT

“Congratulations on moving the Technology Education & CareersCouncil initiative forward. I admire your energy and tenacity.”

Chris Hollstedt, RPF, CEO, FORREX Forest ResearchExtension Partnership

“It was a pleasant surprise to win the ASTTBC online survey con-test for a trip to either Whistler or Victoria. My wife and I decidedon going to Victoria because we had not been there since elemen-tary school. We had a great time. I would like to thank ASTTBCfor the wonderful trip.”

Ken Lee, AScT, Traffic Engineering Supervisor, City of Surrey

“Congratulations on the Technology Education & Careers Councillaunch; it’s a good, high-level group!”

Kerry Jothen, CEO, Human Capital Strategies

“I would like to say a special thank you for your contribution toour trade show at our conference.”

Ron Dickinson, Co-chair, BOABC 2008 AGM & EducationConference

“On behalf of our team ‘The Knights Who Say NIC’, thank you foryour support of the BC WoodWorks Catapult Competition at UBC.Your $1,500 prize will enable us to purchase a good qualityadjustable square, pay for a graduation party and contribute$250 to the needy student fund at North Island College.”

Mike Misuraca and Eric Tirion, Co-captains andRuss Ramsden, Instructor, North Island College.

“Thank you for your generous contribution toMISTIC’s recent Science, Technolog y &Innovation Awards.”

Carolyn Tatton, Executive Director, Mid-Island Science, Technology & InnovationCouncil

CTEN LN1–LE (185/B).art eps

font(s): Futura Bold / Gill Sans (mark/name as outlines)




CTEN name… BLACK op fill only



rev: 2000 09 15/RJM

In the News…In the News…

Issue #123




http://www.cten.ca

Kevin Witzke, AScT, brought technical talent andhis passion for railroads to restoration of KettleValley Railway trestles.

HISTORIC TRESTLES RISE FROM THE ASHESIn 2003 a forest fire raged across Okanagan Mountain Park, taking with it more than200 homes and 12 historic Kettle Valley Railway trestles. A federal/provincial taskforce determined that the most viable option was to rebuild a combination of ‘look-a-like’ and ‘scaled-down’, but historically accurate, versions of the trestles.

Kevin Witzke, AScT, has been overseeing the four-year design and rebuild of the trestles in hisrole with Earth Tech Canada Ltd.’s Kelowna office. “I’m a bit of a history buff and I’ve always likedthe railway so they came together perfectly,” he says. “We were really privileged to have this opportunity.”

In mid-2008 the Myra Canyon Trestle Restoration Society and BC Parks celebrated thegrand re-opening of this portion of the historic KVR. At the ceremonies, PremierCampbell had praise for community members like Kevin who pulled together to bring thetrestles back. “The Myra Canyon Trestles are an important cultural and historic treasure forBritish Columbia and Canada, as well as being a key tourist attraction here in the Okanagan,”said Premier Campbell. “It’s especially fitting that we’re re-opening these historic trestles duringthe 150th anniversary of the founding of the Crown Colony of British Columbia so that allBritish Columbians can once again share in the heritage, history and beauty of this world-classheritage site. The re-opening of the trestles is only possible because of the commitment and perse-verance of those who worked so hard to rebuild after the Okanagan fires.”

Graduating from the Okanagan College Civil Engineering Technology program in1981, Kevin worked for three years with CP Rail in the department that was responsi-ble for track and structures such as trestles and bridges. In 1987 he moved to Kelownaand joined Reid Crowther, eventually becoming a partner. Reid Crowther became partof Earth Tech in 2000. There are five AScTs and CTechs working in the Kelowna office.

In the past 21 years with the firm, Kevin Witzke, AScT, has worked on the designs of almosttwo dozen water and wastewater treatment plants in Canada, plus treatment facilities inNorway, Australia, the UK, China and S.E. Asia. For an award-winning project in Thailand,Kevin worked for three months with the Thai staff in the Bangkok office of Earth Tech.

“As a technologist, I’ve had a chance to work on a lot of projects that improve the health of peo-ple and the environment,” he says. “And as a past Council Director of ASTTBC, I’ve watchedthe Association grow as an industry leader and guiding light for technical professionals.”

The Myra Canyon Trestles are part of the Spirit of 2010 trail network, a series ofrecreational trails for non-motorized use. ■

For more information, visit… www.bcparks.ca and www.spiritof2010trail.ca

Making a Difference…TECHPROTechPRO, ASTTBC’s online databaseof Technology Professionals, showcasesyou as a member!

AScT, CTech, GradTech and TechnicalSpecialist members are encouraged topost profiles. Aside from the recognitionyou receive by being on the TechPROweb site, you will be helping to promotecareers in technology. The public andyouth alike will learn about the impor-tant role that technologists, techniciansand technical specialists play in oureveryday lives. ■

Visit TechPRO at…www.techPROfile.ca …to view profiles.

Better yet, post your profile today!


NEW HEALTH & DENTALPLAN OFFEREDEnroll before March 31, 2009 and save$225!

ASTTBC’s latest affinitypartner program offersmembers additional choic-

es and flexibility for health and dental cover-age. The Olympia Trust plan provides a newoption for technicians and technologistswho are working on contract or as consult-ants, and for small and medium-sized firms.

The new program has no monthly pre-miums and provides 100% coverage onjust about everything your family mayneed. It allows you to have your owncompany pay for your family’s medicaland dental expenses, then deduct 100% ofthe cost as a business expense. It providescomplete coverage and impressive tax sav-ings, both personally and corporately.Eligible expenses include all dentalexpenses, vision care, chiropractic visits,massage therapy, physiotherapy and more.You can also include premiums paid forother health and dental plans, even whenpaid through a spousal plan.

For ASTTBC members with a smallgroup of employees, this program offers acompletely different approach to settingup employee benefits. Unlike insuranceplans with premiums, with the OlympiaTrust plan you only pay for what youremployees actually spend (plus adminis-tration costs). You also have the option ofdesigning the plan around different cate-gories of employees. For example, man-agement can have a full-featured planwhile new employees can receive a moreflexible plan than is normally offered,without breaking the bank. ■

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n v i s i t …www.olympiatrust.com/asttbc …phone1-800-727-4493 or see insert with thisissue of ASTT News.

PROMOTING CAREERS & ASTTBCTECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALSAt times the role of technologists, technicians and technical specialists iscalled ‘the best kept secret’. ASTTBC continued to invest heavily in apublic awareness advertising campaign throughout 2008.

right: Full page ad in Today’s Woman Awards feature that promoted careers in technologyfor women and ASTTBC’s Technology Leadership Award in northern BC.

below: Editorial on AScT and CTech designations, and ad that promoted ASTTBC-registered techs in The Right Course, a BIV magazine on professional development.

http://www.asttbc.org/http://www.asttbc.org/www.olympiatrust.com/asttbcwww.techPROfile.cawww.spiritof2010trail.cawww.bcparks.ca

Certified Technologists and Techniciansin Canada38,842 as of January 2008

8,0007,0006,0005,0004,0003,0002,0001,000

0

2008 marked a major milestone for ASTTBC.

ASTTBC members who received certificates recognizing 25 years of continu-ous membership.

ASTTBC AGM 2008The Applied Science Technologists & Technicians of BritishColumbia elected a new Council at the Annual GeneralMeeting on May 23, 2008. Darrin Heisler, AScT, the owner ofWest Coast Image and Analysis, continues for a second year asPresident and Doug Carter, CTech, of the University ofNorthern BC, continues as Vice President. Bill MacPherson,AScT, of Broadway Refrigeration, is Secretary Treasurer andKeith Switzer, AScT, employed with BC Hydro, rounds out theslate of officers as Past President.

The Council also includes Dave Boswell, AScT, RBD; NancyFowler, AScT; Prakash Joshi, AScT, EngL; John McNeill,CTech, CHRP; John Meldrum, AScT, RSD; Dave Rutherford,AScT, BCLS, CLS; Janet Scott, AScT; Keith Trulson, AScT,EngL; Graham Wickham, AScT; and two public representa-tives… Jim Blake, MBA, CA, and John Murphy.

Past Presidents unveiled commemorative plaque.

John Leech, AScT, CAE, clowning around with Stuart Ellis-Myers at theclose of ‘Celebrating ASTTBC Excellence’.

The 2008 AGM was the kick off to ASTTBC’s 50thAnniversary celebrations. The day included an awards luncheonwith service awards for Bruce Stevens, AScT, and Ken Lee,AScT, and a certificate of appreciation to Tom Roemer, Dean,School of Trades & Technology, Camosun College. RichMargetson, AScT, CPWI 3, received a professional achieve-ment award and 25-year members were recognized. Workshopswere offered on… HR Perspective on Recruitment &Retention in Technical Professions; Cultural Diversity in theWorkplace; Greening the Code; and Risk Management. Theday wrapped up with a high-energy presentation ‘CelebratingASTTBC Excellence!’ with guest speaker Stuart Ellis-Myers.

“From techs attending their first AGM to out-of-province guests fromother associations, all had great things to say about ASTTBC becauseof your hard work and creative efforts,” said Janet Scott, AScT. ■

Per Kristensen (l)receives an ASTTBCLeadership InTechnology Award fromJohn Leech, AScT,CAE, ExecutiveDirector & Registrar.

ASTTBC LINKS WITHINNOVATION COUNCILSRegional awards and events connect community-level scienceand technology with ASTTBC.

The British Columbia Innovation Council is a crown agencycharged with advancing innovation and commercialization in BC.Regional innovation councils focus on accelerating the growth ofscience and technology within their communities. The goal is tocompetitively position the province in the global science and tech-nology economy in order to provide significant employment oppor-tunities and a high standard of living for British Columbians.

ASTTBC has forged strong links with several of the regionalcouncils. At the corporate level, ASTTBC sponsors LeadershipIn Technology awards at three of the regional councils awardsgalas. Members of ASTTBC attend events that are organizedthroughout the year by the various regional innovation councils.

ASTTBC was a Platinum Sponsor of the 2008 Mid-IslandScience, Technology & Innovation Council 2008 Awards. JohnLeech, AScT, CAE, ASTTBC Executive Director, attended to pres-ent an ‘ASTTBC Leadership in Technology Award’ to PerKristensen. Per, who is with the City of Nanaimo’s InformationTechnology Department, was recognized for 20 years of leading-edge technology solutions. Several ASTTBC members were on handincluding Bob Colclough, AScT, an ASTTBC Past President, andCouncil members Nancy Fowler, AScT, and John McNeill, CTech.

The Association was also a sponsor of the KootenayAssociation for Science & Technology 2008 Gala, the ‘Spirit ofInnovation’ Awards. ■

THE ENGINEERINGTEAM IN CANADANew brochure a resource for students,internationally educated professionalsand tradespersons.

ASTTBC, in par tnership with theAssociation of Professional Engineers andGeoscientists of BC and the IndustryTraining Authority, has brought theBritish Columbia perspective to theEngineering Team in Canada.

“Having spent many hours with immi-grant professionals at ESL classes and skillstraining sessions over the past five years, Icame to realize that neither they, nor thegeneral public, have a clear understandingof the hierarchy within the engineering sec-tor,” says Geoff Sale, AScT, manager ofASTTBC’s program for internationallyeducated professionals. “Students in highschool do not understand the different fasci-nating career options open to them withinthe broad ambit of engineering and tech-nology. And v

asttbc the voice of technology professionals in british columbia f utura bold ... · 2016. 3....

Documents