Program Overview

Building Systems Engineering Technician (BTS)

Overview

The Building Systems Engineering Technician program is a two-year diploma program that prepares students with the skills and knowledge required to work in the building systems industry. Throughout this two-year program, students will learn to use various software tools, including AutoCAD and Revit, to model and design building systems. They will also be introduced to energy modelling software which is used to analyze building energy performance and efficiency.

In addition to practical skills, students will also learn about heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, air handling and control systems. They will gain an understanding of the principles of energy efficiency, including how to recommend energy-efficient solutions, as well as the exploration of emerging renewable energy technologies, which are a key component of the program.

Upon completion of the program, students will be equipped with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to excel in the field of building systems engineering and be prepared for a variety of career paths in the industry.

Computer Requirements

This program has a bring your own device policy. While laptops are not a mandatory purchase, it is recommended that all students have access to a laptop prior to their course start date in order to effectively complete the course materials.

Skills

Throughout this program, students will develop the following skills:

• Energy efficiency principles
• Renewable energy technologies
• Building design software including AutoCAD, Revit
• Building control systems
• Instrumentation and troubleshooting
• Critical thinking
• Communication skills
• Building systems operations management

Work Experience

Optional Work Term

This program offers the option to complete a work term, providing valuable hands-on experience in the field of study. Students interested in completing a work term should apply to the Building Systems Engineering Technician (Work Term) (BTSC) program.

Students who select the work term stream will have the opportunity to participate in a work term(s) if eligibility requirements are maintained. Students will have the flexibility to transfer to the non-work term stream at any time. The work term(s) is similar in length to an academic semester and is typically a full-time position that may be paid or unpaid. The work term job search is student-driven and participation in the work term stream does not guarantee that a work position will be secured. However, students will receive guidance and support through in-class career workshops and one-on-one coaching to help prepare for the work term.

Program Availability

• Canadian Applicants
• International Applicants

Start in | Location | Availability ---|---|--- Start in Sept. 2025 | Location Newnham | Availability _ _ Open Start in Jan. 2026 | Location Newnham | Availability _ _ Open

Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.

Program and Course Delivery

This program is offered in Seneca's hybrid delivery format with some courses available in Seneca's flexible delivery format. Some coursework is online and some must be completed in person. Students will need to come on campus to complete in-person learning requirements.

In courses delivered in the flexible format, using interactive learning spaces, professors teach in person to students in a physical classroom or lab and stream to students online at the same time. Students have a choice of coming to campus for an in-person experience or learning online.

Your Career

Graduates of the program can explore the following career options:

• Energy systems operator
• Energy efficiency technician
• Sustainable energy technician
• Revit and building CAD specialist
• Building operator
• Building systems engineering technician
• Facility maintenance technician
• HVAC technician
• Building automation systems technician
• Building commissioning agent
• Building systems water treatment technician

Professional Certifications

You will be eligible to pursue certificates in:

• Building Environmental System (BES) Operator Class II
• BES Operator Class I

In one of the following areas:

• Pipe system design
• Air system design
• Hospital building systems

These certificates are recognized by the Toronto Building Managers and Operators Association (TBMOA). The Operator Class I certificate is recognized by the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA).

The program is accredited by Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC)

Degree Pathways

Every Seneca diploma has a degree pathway. You have the opportunity to continue your studies and complete a degree at Seneca or a partner institution.

Experiential Learning

Graduate career-ready and world-ready. This program has an optional work term to help you hone essential skills for the workplace.

Career Support

Seneca Works offers students and graduates lifelong access to an exclusive job board, career coaching, networking and more.

Building Automation Lab

You will gain hands-on, practical experience in our state-of-the-art Building Automation Lab, preparing you for your in-demand career.

Related Programs

• Civil Engineering Technician
• Civil Engineering Technology
• Mechanical Engineering Technology – Building Sciences