Navigating the field of engineering can be difficult, especially as a newcomer to Canada. It is important to understand the process of certification and what you need to do in order to become a certified P.Eng. Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO), and other organizations, have some supports available to guide you through this process. Take a look below at some of the supports that exist in Ontario:
- Engineering Intern Program (EIT)
This program is offered by PEO and provides guidance and assistance to engineering graduates in order for them to obtain the necessary 48 months of approved engineering work experience. This program includes annual assessments of experience that will ensure the applicant is on track for licensure. Some of the benefits of this program include, but are not limited to:
- Detailed, confidential work experience reviews
- Eligibility to participate in PEO’s Licensure Assistance Program (see below)
- Opportunity to participate in EIT seminars
- Opportunity to join a PEO chapter, attend meetings and networking events
In order to enroll in this program, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. You must have an undergraduate degree from a CEAB accredited program, and check the box indicating your interest in this program on the application form for licensure. If you are a graduate from a non-CEAB school (most likely for those who acquire their academic experience from outside Canada), you become eligible for this program once you have met the academic requirements for a license, or be in the process of completing the examinations requirements.
For more information and how to register, visit PEO’s website.
- Engineering Financial Credit Program (FCP)
This program provides eligible participants with coverage of the cost of their application fee and the first year of their EIT program (if they enrol) credited towards their registration and P.Eng licencing fee once they have been approved for a licence.
For more information and how to register, visit PEO’s website.
- Licensure Assistance Program (LAP)
This program offered by PEO links engineering interns (those participating in the EIT program) with professional engineers. This provides interns with the guidance and support they need as they move towards getting their professional engineering license.
It is important to note that this program is not intended to job match interns, nor meet the requirements for a professional engineer referee. The main goal of LAP is to orient engineering interns through the licensing process, grow as a professional within the field and to join the engineering community.
For more information on eligibility and how to register, visit PEO’s website.
- Bridge Training Programs
Bridge training programs exist in order to help internationally trained individuals to become licensed and certified in their profession in Ontario. There are bridge training programs for many different professions, including engineering. Some components of these programs may include:
- Evaluation of past work experience and competencies
- Skills upgrading and language courses
- Examination preparation
- Workplace communications training
- Opportunity for mentorship with professionals in your field
Some bridge training programs for Engineers are:
- Engineering Connections, ACCES Employment
- Examination Skills Preparation for Internationally Trained Engineers, Ontario Society for Professional Engineers
- Internationally Educated Engineers Qualification Bridging (IEEQB) Program, Ryerson University and PEO
Build ON Employment Consultants are specialized in Engineering and can provide you with more information on the supports available. REGISTER TODAY for more information.