Engineering Physics
Engineering physics combines the fundamentals of engineering, physics and mathematics to convert theoretical science into new technology. Engineering physicists undertake fundamental scientific research and apply it to the development of new technologies in fields such as nanotechnology, quantum devices, computer simulation of physical systems, photonics, nuclear engineering to name but a few leading edge scientific pursuits. By applying mathematics and the laws of physics to engineering problems, engineering physicists engage what is seemingly abstract to real-world challenges: how to build complex nanoscale devices; or how to find practical applications for non-linear optics. This multidisciplinary attribute of the work of engineering physicists means that, unlike other engineering disciplines, engineering physics is not tied to a single branch of science. Indeed technological advances will often be the result of new scientific discoveries made possible by creative technological innovations developed by engineering physicist. In a word, science advances technology as technology advances scientific research. How to do so is the skill set of engineering physics.
Requirements for Engineering Licensure in Canada
If you are not licensed to work as an engineer in Canada you must be prepared to work under the direct supervision of a licensed professional engineer. To work independently you must obtain a P.Eng. designation awarded by one of the provincial or territorial engineering authorities whose role it is to govern the engineering profession in Canada. Although they differ slightly among the provinces and territories, the basic requirements for licensure are:
- An engineering degree awarded by a Canadian or Canadian equivalent university;
- A minimum of four years of relevant engineering experience of which one year must have been gained in Canada;
- Successful completion of a Professional Practice Examination;
- Canadian citizenship of proof of permanent residency in Canada;
- Be of good character as vouched for by three referees.
The process of obtaining your P. Eng. can start even before you arrive in Canada. Visit the Roadmap to Engineering in Canada at newcomers.engineerscanada.ca. This takes you to the Engineers Canada website. There you can link to the provincial or territorial body where you plan to work and obtain the necessary application forms and list of required documentation.
Alternative Careers in Engineering Technology
Engineering technicians and technologists may offer non-regulated engineering and technical services directly to the public. They must, however, work under the supervision of a Professional Engineer when providing professional engineering services to an employer or the public.
Technologists apply theoretical and practical methods to design, plan, develop, test, manufacture, construct, install, commission, operate and maintain engineered products, processes, systems and services. Technicians apply theoretical and practical methods to assist with the design, development, manufacturing, testing, construction, installation, commission, operation and maintenance of engineered products, processes, systems and services.
If your training and or work experience is in engineering but you chose not to become licensed as a professional engineer you may be qualified to work in a wide range of technology occupations as a professional technician or technologist. Discover the many alternative career pathways to rewarding and well paid occupations in engineering technology.
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