Manufacturing Engineering Technician MEN

Holland Code: R (Realistic)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

Math & Science Strong math skills needed: students who do not have the required level of comfort and ability with math may want to consider Fanshawe’s Pre-Technology Program High school courses in Physics and Chemistry would be beneficial preparation for this program.

Arts & Literacy Applicants should be able to communicate effectively in English (professionally written reports). High school courses in Business and technical Communication or Communications Technology would be beneficial preparation for this program.

Technology Moderate computer skills required (Microsoft Office suite, email, Internet, AutoCAD). Moderate use of student portal system, students need to check email and posts several times per week. High school courses in Manufacturing Technology, Computer Engineering technology and Communications Technology would be beneficial preparation for this program.

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• An aptitude for mathematics and physics
• The ability to visualize three-dimensional objects from two-dimensional drawings and visualize the relationships between parts in machinery and systems
• High degree of intellectual curiosity
• Problem solving skills
• The ability to pay close attention to detail and be precise and accurate
• Resourceful, innovative, diligent and creative
• Ability to see the big picture
• The ability to communicate design ideas and solutions clearly and concisely orally and in writing

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become a

Manufacturing engineering technician; technical analyst; project engineering technician; CAD designer; CNC machine operator or programmer; or automated manufacturing.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Usual work conducted within an office environment.
• Work standard office hours although overtime occasionally may be required to meet deadlines.
• May be involved in field and site work, and project supervision.

Places you may find yourself employed include

Machine design firms; engineering consulting firms; municipal, provincial and federal government departments; construction, manufacturing and assembly companies; companies in the petrochemical, food processing, pulp and paper, and energy industries; electronic manufacturing companies; or concrete, steel, timber and precast companies.

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

• Develop and prepare engineering drawings, plans, diagrams or layouts from sketches
• Operate computer-assisted drafting equipment or a conventional drafting station
• Assist in the design of plant layouts
• Conduct work measurement or other studies
• Collect and compile operational or experimental data and assist in the development of estimates, schedules, specifications and reports
• Collect and analyze data and samples in support of quality assurance and industrial health and safety programs
• Develop manufacturing and processing procedures and variables, set machine or equipment controls, oversee production and inspect processes
• Assist in developing engineering specifications and drawings
• Participate in field surveys, inspections or technical investigations of topography, soils, drainage and water supply systems, road and highway systems, buildings and structures to provide data for engineering projects
• Perform other technical functions in support of civil engineering activities.

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

Websites with good information for further research on the careers associated with this program

• Professional Practice Exam
• Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT)
• Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists (CCTT)
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Opportunities for further development or education

• Graduates of this program may apply for advanced standing (third year) in the Ontario College Advanced Diploma in Manufacturing Engineering Technology

What is the difference between a technician and a technologist?

Check out this chart the from OACETT website.

Last Modified: October 28, 2025