Overview

This program is designed to train technicians in the operation and maintenance of large, complex buildings, and a system of connected and interdependent variables which must be operated and maintained efficiently, in order for the building to function in a healthy and sustainable way.

Building on the skills and knowledge gained through the Class II certification, successful graduates of Class I can apply for the Systems Maintenance Designation from BOMI (Building Owners and Managers Institute) Education Canada.

Three certificates are offered:

1. Building Environmental Systems Operator Class II is the entry level credential for a career in Commercial, Office, and residential buildings.
2. Building Environmental Systems Operator Class I equips graduates to operate larger institutional buildings.
3. Building Environmental Systems Facility Manager prepares graduates to become supervisors of building operations staff.

Information Session

Students are invited to attend an information session.

Career Opportunities

In addition to the skills required of Class II Building Operators, Class I Operators are responsible for maintenance of larger building or a portfolio of buildings that have complex heating, plumbing, mechanical and electrical systems.

Class I operators are more typically employed in institutional settings, such as industrial and manufacturing plants, hospitals, universities, government, utilities, hotels and other commercial establishments. They require knowledge of Building Automation Systems (BAS). Some may assist a Facility Manager in managing work or purchase orders or liaising with contractors and tradespeople.

Sample job titles:

• Building Systems Technician
• Building Superintendant
• Auxiliary plant operator
• Powerhouse Operator

Curriculum

Note: As of Winter 2019 the BES courses that were formerly offered via correspondence are now delivered online. As a result, course materials will no longer be shipped. Instead students must purchase the required textbook(s) directly from the Seneca bookstore, and the accompanying course material is available online via OntarioLearn Blackboard.

Blackboard is an online Learning Management System, through which facilitators and students are connected to allow communication, submission of assignments and keeping of grade records throughout the term.

Login information for Blackboard is sent to registered students via email in time for the start date of each course. Any questions about the online BES courses can be sent to online@senecapolytechnic.ca

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students are able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of all the systems and system components which make up the operation of a building
• Discuss the design, components, purpose and operation of each of the following building systems: heating, air conditioning, air handling, electrical, HVAC controls, water treatment.
• Operate each system studied in a safe, comfortable, energy efficient and environmentally conscious manner
  • Manage waste
  • Work safely and protect the safety of building occupants
  • Perform calculations to achieve a desired outcome for a specific building system
  • Use a physchrometric chart
  • Identify factors which contribute to building safety, comfort and energy efficiency
  • Interpret and analyze charts and graphs commonly used in building operations
  • Troubleshoot and maintain building systems
  • Analyze large building operations from an energy efficiency perspective and create proposals to achieve more efficient utility consumption

Credit for Prior Learning

Prior Learning Assessment

Earn college credits for what you already know.
Prior Learning Assessment is a method of assessing and recognizing learning that is equal to college level learning, but has been gained outside a traditional classroom (through work experience, volunteering, outside study, etc.). If you can prove that the knowledge you have gained meets the outcomes of a Seneca course, then credit will be awarded.

How does the PLA process work?
Prior Learning is demonstrated through a "challenge" process. The process measures learning through a variety of methods which may include tests, portfolio assessment, interviews, demonstrations, essays, and work samples. The method used will be determined in consultation with a Program Coordinator.
For more information and to determine if you are eligible for PLA, please call the Program Coordinator.

The process may take from 6 to 8 weeks.

Note: Not all courses can be challenged. For more information go to PLA website or contact your Program Coordinator.

Transfer Credit

Many students who enter Seneca Polytechnic will have earned academic credits in postsecondary educational institutions which they may be able to apply toward completion of a Seneca Polytechnic program.

Requests for Transfer Credit must be for a specific course and must be accompanied by an official transcript and course outline. A minimum grade of "C" (60 percent) is generally required for a course to be considered for Transfer Credit.

Download a Transfer Credit Request form. An official copy of your transcript and applicable detailed course outlines should be attached and submitted. Please note it may take 4 to 6 weeks for a Transfer Credit decision.

More Information

Please visit the Office of the Registrar.

Graduation/Convocation

Minimum Performance for Graduation

A student will be eligible to graduate from a certificate, diploma, advanced diploma or graduate certificate program if they have achieved a minimum graduating GPA of 2.0.

A student will be eligible to graduate from a degree program if they have achieved a minimum graduating GPA of 2.5, which includes a minimum GPA of 2.5 in the courses in their main field of study and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in breadth courses.

Residency Requirements

A faculty of Seneca Polytechnic may recommend a student for a certificate, diploma or degree only after the student has earned a minimum of twenty-five percent of the credit for that program at Seneca.

Methods of Delivery

Traditional Classroom Delivery:
Classroom instruction includes both theory and practice in a multi-skills approach. Delivery methods include use of up-to-date results-oriented print materials and case studies. This comprehensive energy efficiency training program for building operators and technicians is available for individual registration or institutional partnering.

Online:
This course involves delivery through the internet. This includes the use of online materials, group discussions and consultation with your instructor via Blackboard and email. Students will be responsible for completing all online activities as well as working through textbook content, as required. The textbook must be purchased by the student.

Affiliations

This program is recognized by the following organizations:

• Building Operators and Managers Association (BOMA)
• Toronto Building Managers and Operators Association (TBMOA)

Program Contacts

Andrew Hoang
Program Assistant
Andrew.Hoang@senecapolytechnic.ca
437.312.0344

Desmond Duke
Part-time Program Coordinator
Desmond.Duke@senecapolytechnic.ca
437.312.0341

For more information about this program, fill out the following form.

Information Session

Students are invited to attend an information session.