Graduate Certificate in Cloud Computing Technologies

at George Brown College - Casa Loma Campus Canada

Building automation systems don't just control the basics: they regulate airflow, monitor energy use and are integrated with security, lighting and other building systems to deliver comfort, safety and energy efficiency. Today’s buildings are increasingly complex, and they differ in use and size, but also in operating hours, comfort levels and environmental conditions. Offices, residences, hotels, schools and administrative buildings all have different requirements. Optimal building services technology is the result of appropriate systems design and integration during planning, construction, commissioning and operation.

This advanced diploma program in Building Automation provides students the technical skills they need for success in the job market. Students learn to:

• Install, program, adjust and maintain building automation systems
• Program and install sensors, actuators and controllers
• Collect data for use in real-time or for archiving in a central server
• Work with building software platforms that interconnect different systems

Graduates will have a diverse set of skills and abilities that will also prepare them for "green" careers focused on energy efficiency, renewable energy and the environment. This program provides a skill set that is in high demand in both the construction industry and the controls and automation industry.

Industry Skills

• Safety practices in the installation and troubleshooting of HVAC/R systems, including applicable codes and standards of the NEC, ASHRAE, OSHA, EPA and other regulatory bodies.
• Basic HVAC/R processes and the function, layout and operation of commercial HVAC/R systems.
• Functions, operating characteristics and applications of the control loops and control modes in digital, analog and pneumatic commercial control systems.
• Blueprints and manufacturer’s technical instructions for installing or servicing a sensor, controller, actuator and related relays and power supplies.
• General-purpose software and specific building automation software that monitors and controls HVAC/R and electrical systems.
• Various BAS controls and systems, including DCS, PLC, PAC and SCADA.
• Functions of network devices and protocols, such as a bridge, router, gateway, hub, firewall, twisted pair, Ethernet, TCP/IP, Zigbee, WiFi, BAS/IP and BacNet.
• Emerging green technologies, such as solar, wind and hydronic, and how they can be integrated into building systems and residential applications.

Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Fabricate and build electrical, electronic, and mechanical components and assemblies in accordance with operating standards, job requirements, and specifications.
• Analyze, interpret, and produce electrical, electronic, and mechanical drawings and other related technical documents and graphics necessary for electromechanical design in compliance with industry standards.
• Select and use a variety of troubleshooting techniques and equipment to assess, modify, maintain, and repair electromechanical circuits, equipment, processes, systems, and subsystems.
• Modify, maintain, and repair electrical, electronic, and mechanical components, equipment, and systems to ensure that they function according to specifications and to optimize production.
• Design and analyze mechanical components, processes, and systems by applying engineering principles and practices.
• Design, analyze, build, select, commission, integrate, and troubleshoot a variety of industrial motor controls and data acquisition devices and systems, digital circuits, passive AC and DC circuits, active circuits and microprocessor-based systems.
• Install and troubleshoot computer hardware and programming to support the electromechanical engineering environment.
• Analyze, program, install, integrate, troubleshoot and diagnose automated systems including robotic systems.
• Establish and maintain inventory, records, and documentation systems to meet organizational and industry standards and requirements.
• Select and purchase electromechanical equipment, components, and systems that fulfill job requirements and functional specifications.
• Specify, coordinate, and apply quality-control and quality-assurance programs and procedures to meet organizational standards and requirements.
• Work in compliance with relevant industry standards, laws and regulations, codes, policies, and procedures.
• Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance work performance and to remain current in the field and responsive to emergent technologies and national and international standards.
• Contribute as an individual and a member of an electromechanical engineering team to the effective completion of tasks and projects.
• Design and analyze electromechanical systems by interpreting fluid mechanics and the attributes and dynamics of fluid flow used in hydraulic and fluid power systems
• Contribute to project management through planning, implementation and evaluation of projects, and monitoring of resources, timelines, and expenditures as required.

As the Information Technology (IT) sector continues to grow in Toronto and our industry partners report skills shortages, George Brown College is helping to meet employer demand by educating IT professionals who understand all aspects of computer systems. Our two-year Computer Systems Technician program provides students with a broad and in-depth technical base, through courses in the high-demand areas of system support, network administration and web technologies. The curriculum prepares graduates with the strong administration, troubleshooting and design skills they need for careers in IT.

As the Information Technology (IT) sector continues to grow in Toronto and our industry partners report skills shortages, George Brown College is helping to meet employer demand by educating IT professionals who understand all aspects of computer systems. Our two-year Computer Systems Technician program provides students with a broad and in-depth technical base, through courses in the high-demand areas of system support, network administration and web technologies. The curriculum prepares graduates with the strong administration, troubleshooting and design skills they need for careers in IT.

George Brown continues to invest in up-to-date networking, wireless and security lab equipment to help students develop hands-on installation, configuration and troubleshooting skills. Students use the NetLab platform, which enables them with 24/7 remote access to Cisco Systems physical equipment. This investment, along with our hands-on teaching environment, was recognized by Cisco when the college was designated an Area Support Centre and Instructor Training Centre.

Graduates of the Computer Systems Technician program are prepared to write several industry certification exams that are in demand by employers.

Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Identify, analyze, develop, implement, verify and document the requirements for a computing environment.
• Contribute to the diagnostics, troubleshooting, documenting and monitoring of technical problems using appropriate methodologies and tools.
• Implement and maintain secure computing environments.
• Implement robust computing system solutions through validation testing that aligns with industry best practices.
• Communicate and collaborate with team members and stakeholders to ensure effective working relationships.
• Select and apply strategies for personal and professional development to enhance work performance.
• Adhere to ethical, legal and regulatory requirements and/or principles in the development and management of computing solutions and systems.
• Assist with the implementation of computer systems.
• Install, configure, troubleshoot, maintain, upgrade and decommission computing system infrastructures.
• Automate routine tasks using scripting tools and programming languages.
• Provide technical support for computing system infrastructures that aligns with industry best practice.
• Implement the basic concept, principles, and scope of DevOps.
• Apply task automation using configuration management and the Cloud.
• Automate network administrative tasks across distributed clients.

Graduates from this program benefit from a combination of advanced machine-tool technology principles (CAD/CAM/CNC) and extensive hands-on manufacturing practices that better prepare them for the technical challenges they may face in the workplace.

Advanced CNC and Precision Machining students have the opportunity to strengthen their skills by engaging in specialized industry partnerships that include precision machining/welding workshops and formula race-car and rocketry manufacturing with University of Toronto Engineering and Aeronautics undergraduate students.

In their final year, students engage in applied projects to design and fabricate prototypes using digital manufacturing technology (lasers, 3D printer, multi-axis CNC machine tools).

All students will augment their technical training with courses in mathematics, communications, and general education.

Your Field Education Options

• Students will have the opportunity to complete a mandatory 15-week co-op term in Year 2. Co-op participants will be selected based on their academic performance, including a minimum GPA of 3.0 and an interview component.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Complete all work in compliance with current legislation, standards, regulations and guidelines.
  • Apply quality control and quality assurance procedures to meet organizational standards and requirements.
  • Comply with current health and safety legislation, as well as organizational practices and procedures.
  • Apply sustainability best practices in workplaces.
  • Use current and emerging technologies to support the implementation of mechanical and manufacturing projects.
  • Analyze and solve mechanical problems by applying mathematics and fundamentals of mechanics.
  • Interpret, prepare and modify mechanical drawings and other related technical documents.
  • Perform technical measurements accurately using appropriate instruments and equipment.
  • Manufacture, assemble, maintain and repair mechanical components according to required specifications.
  • Contribute to the planning, implementation and evaluation of projects.

This three-semester graduate certificate program provides applied education for construction management positions in the construction sector. Candidates will receive graduate-level training that builds on their internationally acquired education and experience to enable them to successfully enter the Canadian construction workforce.

Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:

• Develop and use strategies to promote continuous professional learning in the construction industry.
• Monitor and support workplace health and safety practices and procedures that are compliant with current legislation and regulations.
• Assess construction project operations for compliance with contractual obligations, applicable laws, standards, bylaws, codes and ethical practices in the construction industry.
• Analyze and monitor construction processes to ensure that sustainability practices are implemented in accordance with contract documents, industry standards and environmental legislative requirements.
• Establish and manage relationships among diverse project stakeholders to achieve construction project goals.
• Manage the production, storage, retrieval and communication of project-related digital documents according to best practices, to meet construction project deadlines and goals.
• Perform a feasibility study to inform decisions in the planning phase of a construction project.
• Schedule, manage and evaluate the progression of construction projects by applying the principles, practices and tools of construction project management to complete projects on time and within budget.
• Prepare estimates and manage procurement processes to control costs in accordance with best practices in construction project management.
• Develop and oversee quality assurance and control processes involved in the completion of construction projects to meet project specifications and industry quality standards.
• Analyze and manage project risks to mitigate their impact throughout the construction project lifecycle.
• Formulate human resource management strategies to optimize personnel requirements for construction project completion.
• Build and lead multidisciplinary teams throughout the construction project lifecycle to accomplish construction project goals.

Employment opportunities in the Welding trade span several industries including transportation, petro chemical, oil and gas, aerospace, fabrication, manufacturing, pipelines, mining and construction.

George Brown’s Welding Techniques program prepares students with practical, hands-on experience that applies the technical theory and elements of the welding field. Students articulate their technical and essential employability skills through an e-portfolio, based on skill development throughout the program.

At the end of this intense, two-semester program, students will have the opportunity to challenge the shielded metal arc weld test, in accordance with CSA W47.1/W59 standards, in a position(s) of their choosing through the Canadian Welders Bureau. (This test will be voluntary and at an extra cost to the student.)

This experiential program will provide you the skills to master five of the most common types of welding processes:

• Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW): This process uses a consumable electrode covered with flux. It is the primary type of welding used in the maintenance and repair industry. Arc welding is usually used to weld iron and steel, although it can also be used for alloys (aluminum, nickel, etc.).
• Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW): This welding process uses electricity to melt and join pieces of metal together. It is generally regarded as one of the easiest types of welding to learn. It is also called Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW). It can be used to weld a variety of metals such as carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, magnesium, copper, bronze, etc.
• Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW): The process uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode that delivers the current to the welding arc. The tungsten and weld puddle are protected and cooled with an inert gas, typically argon or helium. It is most commonly used for welding stainless steel and non-ferrous metals like aluminum, magnesium and copper alloys.
• Plasma Arc and Oxyfuel Cutting: This process utilizes an electrode and compressed gas, forced at high speeds through a nozzle, usually copper, to cut metal, primarily mild steel, stainless steel and aluminum. Oxyfuel cutting uses fuel gases combined with oxygen to cut metals, usually steel.
• Fabrication: Metal fabrication is the building of metal structures by cutting, bending, and assembling processes. It is a value added process that involves the construction of machines and structures from various raw materials.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Perform work responsibly and in compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and industry processes and procedures, including demonstrating learned knowledge of WHMIS.
  • Interpret engineering drawings and blueprints to produce basic graphics and welding projects as required by industry.
  • Select, plan, and demonstrate sustainable metal fabrication operations using industrial metal fabrication machinery and emerging technologies.
  • Perform basic technical measurements and welding functions accurately, using appropriate equipment and welding techniques.
  • Create welds on various types of materials and joints in the major welding positions to industrial standards and codes.
  • Use shop tools and equipment to manufacture, assemble, maintain and repair components according to required specifications and industry standards.
  • Interact effectively and professionally in shop environments, both independently and with fellow workers and other tradespeople.
  • Assess weld quality and implement corrective action where required to follow quality control and quality assurance procedures and meet organizational standards and requirements.
  • Create a professional development plan that addresses one’s strengths and areas for growth in the greater context of the welder profession.

The Fashion Business Industry two-year diploma program at George Brown College's School of Fashion and Jewellery in Toronto gives students an introduction to all aspects of the fashion industry, from product knowledge to marketing and small business management.

The small to medium-sized business enterprise is a flourishing sector of the fashion industry and represents a great opportunity for entry into the fashion world. Smaller companies require employees who possess a variety of management skills to manage a business from the start-up stage to more developed business models. Students will be prepared for the roles and develop skills essential for the operation of a successful small fashion business. The entrepreneurial aspect of this program guides students through the process of developing a comprehensive business plan, which is essential to start a new business or manage an existing business.

Students will gain an understanding of textiles, garment construction, quality criteria and apparel merchandising. They will also learn to apply marketing, accounting, financial and other business concepts necessary for the decision-making they will encounter in their future careers.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Use basic apparel drafting and construction skills and industrial sewing machines to complete apparel products.
  • Use standard fashion industry computer software for business and for design development.
  • Manage daily operations, resources, visual merchandising and customer relationships to ensure profitability in a retail enterprise.
  • Develop a business and finance plan for a small apparel enterprise that reflects awareness of market conditions, resources required and cash flow.
  • Apply appropriate buying, merchandising and accounting practices to support small business operations in the fashion industry.
  • Apply supply chain management and logistics to operate a successful fashion business.
  • Develop, communicate and implement a marketing plan by combining marketing research, strategies and tactics.
  • Analyze economic, fashion and industry trends to make business decisions in small and medium-sized apparel enterprises.
  • Evaluate products by applying quality control processes to meet appropriate standards.
  • Identify textile materials, asses their suitability and compatibility, and select accordingly for end use.

The Gemmology program teaches you to analyze and classify a wide variety of gem materials, both natural and artificially created. The program focuses on analyzing chemical and physical characteristics of gem and gem-like materials, and identifying different gems. The gem materials are classified into categories according to their desirable characteristics, which eventually determine the value of the gems. To accomplish the identification and classification, you use a number of specially designed instruments, such as microscopes, spectroscopes, refractometers and polariscopes, on real gem materials.

Visual acuity and accurate colour rendition are essential traits for success in Gemmology.

Refractive Index liquid (RI liquid), which contains diiodomethane, is a commonly used chemical in Gemmology practice. If you are pregnant, have certain medical conditions or are sensitive to RI liquid, please consult with your physician for advice before you attend this program, as you will be exposed to RI liquid in Gemmology lab work.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Identify a large number of gemstones and gem materials and distinguish them from synthetics and imitations.
  • Use, maintain and handle gemmological instruments and testing equipment competently and safely.
  • Grade gemstones for quality based on their cut, colour and other physical characteristics, chemical composition and possible place of origin.
  • Grade diamonds based on their cut, clarity, colour and carat weight.
  • Apply the basic skills of jewellery appraisal to assess market value.
  • Contextualize jewellery according to historical and stylistic qualities to assess provenance, materials and method of production.
  • Conduct ethical and secure business practices consistent with jewellery business standards.

The Computer Systems Technology program is designed with extensive input from industry and offers two optional specializations in its third year. The Networking specialization focuses on network security, voice-over-IP (VoIP) and wireless LANs. The Systems specialization focuses on mail server administration, content management systems (Collaboration), database administration and computer security. Both specializations include core courses on infrastructure virtualization (through the VMWare IT Academy) and cloud computing, along with best practices in Information Technology.

The three-year Computer Systems Technology program is designed with extensive industry input and offers two optional specializations in its third year:

The Networking specialization focuses on network security, voice-over-IP (VoIP) and wireless LANs.
The Systems specialization focuses on mail server administration, content management systems (Collaboration), database administration and computer security.
Both specializations include core courses on infrastructure virtualization (through the VMWare IT Academy) and cloud computing, along with best practices in Information Technology (IT).

George Brown College continues to invest in up-to-date networking, wireless, radio frequency, VoIP and security lab equipment, so that all students gain hands-on experience in installation and configuration of equipment ranging from small offices all the way to enterprise-class hardware and software. This investment, along with the hands-on teaching environment, was recognized by Cisco when the college was designated an Area Support Centre and Instructor Training Centre, and became part of a very select group of Cisco Networking Academies in Canada.

In the third year of the program, students will be involved, hands-on, in real-life projects or case studies. These may be completed independently, in conjunction with an industry partner, or George Brown's Office of Research and Innovation, and may include developing proposals and working in teams to plan, set schedules and achieve specific goals in the field of information technology. Through some of these projects, George Brown students have recently helped develop IT solutions for hospitals, large corporations and major IT and telecommunications service providers, including Bell Mobility, Rogers Communications, Cogeco Data Systems and many other well-known companies in the Greater Toronto Area.

This program covers all courses of the official Cisco CCNA Routing & Switching curriculum. The curriculum also prepares students to write several other examinations leading to industry certifications, such as the Certified Wireless Network Administrator (CWNA) and Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate.

Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Identify, analyze, design, develop, implement, verify and document the requirements for a computing environment.
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, document and monitor technical problems using appropriate methodologies and tools.
• Analyze, design, implement and maintain secure computing environments.
• Analyze, develop and maintain robust computing system solutions through validation testing and industry best practices.
• Communicate and collaborate with team members and stakeholders to ensure effective working relationship.
• Select and apply strategies for personal and professional development to enhance work performance.
• Apply project management principles and tools when responding to requirements and monitoring projects within a computing environment.
• Adhere to ethical, social media, legal, regulatory and economic requirements and/or principles in the development and management of the computing solutions and systems.
• Investigate emerging trends to respond to technical challenges.
• Analyze, plan, design, implement and administer computer systems and cloud solutions.
• Research, design, deploy, configure, troubleshoot, maintain, upgrade and decommission computing system infrastructures.
• Select and apply scripting tools and programming languages to automate routine tasks.
• Install, monitor, optimize and administer a database management system in response to specified requirements.
• Design, implement and administer technical support processes for computing system infrastructures that aligns with industry best practice.

The General Arts and Science one-year (two semesters) certificate is designed for students who wish to develop the skills and competencies required in college, university and the workplace. The program allows students to explore subjects within the Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Science and Mathematics; and to develop skills in critical thinking, oral and written communications, and career development. An effective career counselling component helps students consider their options for a vocationally specific college education, as well as their interests and eligibility for university/degree transfer.

As a student in the General Arts and Science one-year (two semesters) certificate program, you will develop the skills and competencies required in college, university and the workplace. The program allows you to explore subjects within the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and science and mathematics; and to develop skills in critical thinking, oral and written communications and career development. An effective career exploration component helps you consider your options for a vocationally specific college education, as well as your interests and eligibility for university/degree transfer.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Develop, through general knowledge gained in a wide range of subjects, insight into both self and society.
  • Develop flexibility and clarity of both thought and expression in order to develop communications competence to a level required by business and industry.
  • Understand and utilize critical thinking processes and problem solving techniques.
  • Examine and evaluate various aspects of our changing society to assist in developing a sense of personal and social responsibility as a citizen in society.
  • Employ basic vocational skills drawn from the areas of the Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences of Vocational Studies (Business, Technology).

Learning in state-of-the-art architectural studios with the most up-to-date equipment and software, you will develop a thorough knowledge of architectural drawing and technical design skills, as well as an understanding of sustainable building design and construction materials grounded in current green principles.

Courses cover 2D and 3D computer-aided drafting, design, rendering and modelling, design and development drawings, construction drawings and architectural presentation. You will also learn and apply the concepts of building science, building systems, building codes and construction law. Teamwork in a project-based learning environment is emphasized.

Note: If you enrol in the program in January, you are required to complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into semester 3 in the fall.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Communicate with clients, contractors, other building professionals, and approval authorities.
  • Assist in the preparation, reading, and interpretation of drawings, and other graphical representations used in building projects.
  • Read and assist in the preparation of specifications and other project documents used in design and construction.
  • Assist in the preparation of estimates of time, costs, and quantity.
  • Assist in solving technical problems related to building projects through the application of principles of building science and mathematics.
  • Collaborate with members of the building team.
  • Assist in the development of architectural designs.
  • Review and assist in the preparation of site planning documents.
  • Comply with the legal and ethical requirements of an architectural technician in the practice of building design and construction.
  • Assist in the assessment of buildings related to repurposing and renovation projects.
  • Ensure personal safety in the workplace.
  • Identify sustainable design and building practices.
  • Use current and emerging technology to support building projects.
  • Assist in the administration of the construction phase of building projects.