Education · 1 of 5

The path

A college diploma with a lot of lab hours, then a job.

1. 1

   High school

   Grades 11 and 12

   Grade 12 chemistry, math and English. Physics helps. Admission usually needs the 65% to 75% range.

2. 2

   College diploma

   2 years

   Two years in chemical technology, chemical laboratory technology or process technology. Programs accredited by Technology Accreditation Canada are the safest bet.

3. 3

   Co-op or lab placement

   One term

   Many programs include a paid work term. It is the usual route to the first job.

4. 4

   First job

   Right after graduation

   Quality control, environmental testing, water treatment, food and drug manufacturing, or a refinery lab.

5. 5

   Optional certification

   2 years after graduation

   After about two years of work, apply for the C.E.T. (certified engineering technologist) title through your provincial association.