If you're looking for a career that will prepare you for employment far into the future, College of the Rockies' Wireless Systems Technician (WIST) program might be right up your alley.

Automation based on wireless telecommunications systems is quickly transforming many industries. New jobs are being created and require talented technicians with new skills. That could be YOU!

Student success stories

Tyson Smith was one of the first students to enrol in this innovative program, which aims to prepare you to install, maintain, and repair wired and wireless communications networks and electronics equipment for use in natural resource and manufacturing environments. It was his experience with, and interest in, new and emerging technologies that led him to the program.

"As an avid gamer, I've seen and experienced incredible technological advancement while growing up, from the motion sensor bars to virtual reality," he said. "With the rate at which technology has progressed, wireless technologies are an unavoidable part of the future. I'm excited to learn about all the internal workings of devices we use every day, and ones we will be using well into the future."

Opportunities are anticipated for graduates of the WIST program due to the upcoming retirement wave and new job creation. WorkBC currently lists the annual provincial median salary for telecommunications installation and repair workers at $61,671 per year.

"Our students are on the forefront of this rapidly evolving work environment," program instructor Dr. Dare Sokoya said. "They will leave WIST with a diverse set of technological skills they can use today and carry into the careers of tomorrow."

Supporting women in tech

With women making up only 14 per cent of those currently working in the industry, now is also an ideal time for female students to lean in and lead.

"I have previous experience working as an IT Communications Technician in Suriname," said Javiera Kuisma, another WIST student. "Technology is constantly evolving, so there is always something new to learn. This program is exactly what I needed. It has given me a deeper understanding."

If you have an interest in new technology and would like to be part of the changing resource and manufacturing sector, applications are now being accepted for the fall 2022 semester.