Okanagan College launches sustainable construction programs

Key Takeaways:

• Okanagan College has launched a one-year certificate and a two-year diploma in sustainable construction management to meet rising demand for construction leaders with energy-efficient and resilient building skills.
• Backed by a $495,000 FortisBC grant, the programs are offered primarily online with flexible schedules, allowing working professionals to upgrade skills and potentially transition seamlessly from certificate to diploma.
• Graduates can pursue roles such as construction management, estimating, coordination and energy advising, with typical salaries between $90,000 and $120,000 and strong labour demand projected through 2030.

The Whole Story:

Okanagan College has launched two new programs designed to train construction and project management professionals in sustainable building practices. Applications are now open for a one-year Sustainable Construction Management certificate and a two-year Sustainable Design and Construction Management diploma, both offered primarily online and in evenings to accommodate working professionals.

The programs address growing demand in the construction sector. The B.C. Labour Market Outlook forecasts a need for more than 17,000 new construction managers by 2030, including 2,200 in the Thompson-Okanagan region, the college said in a news release.

“As construction projects become more complex, today’s leaders need to not only understand energy-efficient design, but also how to deliver safe, resilient and affordable buildings that perform over time,” said Ashley Lubyk, program chair. “Our graduates will know how to deliver buildings that balance these priorities while standing up to changes in our environment and keeping long-term costs down. This applies as much to new construction as it does the retrofitting of millions of existing buildings across Canada.”

Graduates may pursue careers in construction management and coordination, energy advising, estimating and project supervision, with salaries typically ranging from $90,000 to $120,000 per year.

The programs were developed with support from a $495,000 grant from FortisBC. The funding allows the college to expand access through flexible online learning supported by a weeklong in-person intensive at the start of each fall term. Students can begin with the one-year certificate and continue seamlessly into the two-year diploma.

“The construction industry is evolving rapidly,” said Dr. Samantha Lenci, Okanagan College’s provost and vice president, academic. “We’ve designed these programs to meet that shift — training technologists and construction managers who can integrate new materials, technologies and methods to build safer, more resilient and energy-smart buildings without compromising affordability.”

The curriculum emphasizes how safety and comfort, resiliency, affordability and energy efficiency must work together. Sustainable construction practices aim to reduce environmental impact while enhancing occupant quality of life, considering factors such as energy efficiency, materials, water conservation, air quality and waste reduction.

Optional in-person sessions are available for local students and international students interested in applying for a Post Graduate Work Permit. Instruction is delivered by industry-experienced instructors. The college is hosting online information sessions for prospective students.