Chemical and Chemical Engineering Technologists

The time is now past when a university degree, or even a doctorate, was compulsory for science or laboratory work. The world of research is expanding rapidly, both in large factories and small private companies, and in government or university laboratories. All these laboratories and companies, without exception, need the support and help of a workforce skilled in analytical chemistry technology, chemical engineering technology, or other related technology programs.  

In former times, these programs did not receive the attention they deserved from public opinion, but today they represent promising, rewarding occupations and career choices for which there is competition, but in which the employment rate is very high. To meet the growing demand in the marketplace, a number of technical institutions and colleges have decided to introduce chemical technology programs, and even to increase their clientele.  

Studies in analytical chemistry and chemical engineering technology prepare students to work primarily in laboratories as product quality control, analysis, or inspection technicians. Their studies also prepare them to take an active part in scientific experiments and discoveries in research laboratories.  

The field of activity for analytical chemistry and chemical engineering technologists is very extensive. It covers the areas of analysis and synthesis in mineral and organic chemistry in various sectors: laboratories for the analysis of drugs, ores, pulp and paper, petroleum, agricultural and food products, the environment, energy, health, pharmaceuticals, and basic research on the biochemistry of cancers, genetic diseases and others. Graduates of technical programs, that include both laboratory and theoretical courses, are very well prepared for the labour market. “Theoretical courses help us to understand what we are doing, and practice in the laboratory provides us with the skills to carry out the required tasks,” one of the technologists tells us. She adds, “it is rewarding to be given responsibilities and to feel indispensable to the success of the process.”  

A young technologist told us proudly, “I am the person responsible for analysing the purified effluent from our factory to verify that water evacuation does not present any danger and that it meets environmental standards.  My sister carries out quality control by analysing the final product to ensure that it meets company standards.” 

Analytical chemistry and chemical engineering technologists are generally part of a team and work closely with other technologists, chemical or other engineers, chemists and other scientific researchers. 

Are you wondering if you are suited for a program like this?  If you like studying science, conducting laboratory experiments and meeting challenges, this is a very good indication. If you are also comfortable with teamwork and responsible enough to carry out tasks without supervision, it’s high time you obtain some information from the institutions in your region about enrolling in this kind of technical program that is offered all across Canada. Good luck!