Electrical Trade and Technology

Traits, skills and aptitudes

Those working in electrical trades and technology tend to be objective, innovative and methodical.

You need:  

• a willingness to experiment, improvise, innovate, and imagine 
• an aptitude for math
• to analyze, evaluate, synthesize, and reconstruct information to inform and make logical and reasoned decisions and judgements
• physical strength and stamina
• to understand and facilitate the connection between people, society and the planet for the sustainability of systems, both cultural and environmental
• to seek out information and experiences and strive to understand 
• to work and communicate effectively with others.
  

Those who find employment working in homes or businesses should be prepared to maintain a neat appearance and be comfortable dealing with customers. 

Academic path

This program aligns with the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) curriculum for electricians. If you are in good standing at the end of each semester, you can challenge the AIT exam relevant to that semester.

Graduates of the program are eligible to write both the Construction Electrician Red-Seal exam and the Industrial Electrician Red-Seal exam. Upon passing, you can register as an apprentice and complete the on-the-job training hours to earn your journeyperson designation.

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities

After completing the second semester of this program, you will have the option to participate in a work-integrated learning co-op and gain work experience hours that can be used towards your apprenticeship.

Accreditations, designations or certifications

Electrical contractors and fire safety organizations require highly trained individuals to install, maintain, and inspect fire alarm systems.

Graduates of this program will have completed the technical training requirements for Canadian Fire Alarm (CFAA) technicians and be eligible to challenge the final written and practical exams to earn their certification.

Credential

After successfully completing this program, you’ll receive a SAIT Electrical Trade and Technology diploma.

Program length

2 years​​​​​​​

Accepts international applicants - PGWP-eligible

This program accepts international applicants and meets the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, as long as the student is registered in on-campus classes or completes more than 50% of the courses on campus (for blended options). 

International students attending all classes online will NOT be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. International students are responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies. 

Not eligible for CAJG

This program is not eligible for the Canada Alberta Job Grant. 

Related careers

Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education. 

Potential careers (NOC):

• Electricians (except industrial and power system) (72200)
• Industrial electricians (72201)
• Contractors and supervisors, electrical trades and telecommunications occupations (72011)
• Construction managers (70010)

Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and meet the following requirements or equivalents:

• at least 50% in English Language Arts 20-1 or English Language Arts 20-2, and
• at least 50% in Math 20-1, Math 20-2, or Math 20-3, and
• at least 50% in Science 10.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.

Admission requirements - Applicants educated outside of Canada

All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find accepted educational documents and assessment options. 

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

Program outline

The Electrical Trade and Technology Diploma requires 66 credits (21 courses) to complete.

The program spans two years, with two to three semesters in the first year (depending on if you choose to complete the optional work term) and two semesters in the second year.

Required courses

You must take all of the following courses to complete this program.

• CNTR 228 - Fire Alarm Fundamentals 1.5 Credits
• CNTR 363 - Fire Alarm Advanced Applications 1.5 Credits
• COMM 238 - Technical Communications I 3 Credits
• COMP 213 - Computing for Engineering Technology 3 Credits
• ELEC 204 - Electrician Theory I 6 Credits
• ELEC 318 - Motors and Machines Theory 3 Credits
• ELEC 319 - Motors and Machines Lab 3 Credits
• ELEC 321 - Transformers 1.5 Credits
• ELEC 354 - Electronics for Electricians 3 Credits
• ELTR 218 - Lab Fundamentals 3 Credits
• ELTR 219 - CE Code I & Safety 3 Credits
• ELTR 272 - Electrician Theory II 6 Credits
• ELTR 275 - Heating & Cooling Systems 1.5 Credits
• ELTR 276 - Magnetic Controls/RLC Lab 1.5 Credits
• ELTR 279 - CE Code II 3 Credits
• ELTR 306 - Electrician Theory III 6 Credits
• ELTR 308 - CE Code III 1.5 Credits
• ELTR 352 - Industrial Controls 6 Credits
• ELTR 353 - CE Code IV and Arc Flash 6 Credits
• ENGD 238 - Electrical Diagrams and AutoCAD 1.5 Credits
• MATH 266 - Applied Mathematics for Technicians 1.5 Credits

Optional courses

The zero-credit cooperative work term is not required to graduate. If you choose to complete the work term, you will do so between semesters two and three. 

• CPWK 253 - Cooperative Work Term 0 Credits

Suggested schedule of study

Progression

You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.

To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure > 

Books and supplies

Books and supplies are approximately $4,300 per full-time year.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.

Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore’s website. Booklists are released by semester and made available approximately two weeks before your classes begin.

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

You’ll need CSA-approved safety glasses for your labs. No other PPE is required. 

Energy program advising

For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our MacPhail School of Energy.

Phone: 403.284.8451
Email: macphail.students@sait.ca 

Program outcomes

• Electrical theory -  apply electrical theory to lighting, power and control equipment.  
• Codes and standards - apply the relevant codes and standards for electrical installations.  
• Systems - analyze the control systems for heating, cooling and alarm systems.  
• Industrial controls - analyze the control systems for Programmable Logic Controller (PLCs), pneumatic and hydraulic systems.  
• Motors and machines - differentiate between types of motors and machines in electrical installations.  
• Design and blueprints - interpret blueprints and various digital design formats for electrical installations.  
• Safety - identify safety requirements for electrical installations.
• Troubleshooting - analyze electrical systems and equipment for the purpose of troubleshooting and maintenance.   
• Collaboration - collaborate with other tradespeople in the construction industry and recognize the integration of all trades in building construction.   
• Quality - perform assigned tasks in accordance with quality and production standards required by industry using the appropriate test instruments and tools.