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Instrumentation & Control Engineering Technology - Industrial Automation

ICET
City: Sarnia
Three-Year In-Person with Co-op Ontario College Advanced Diploma
SEP Closed JAN Closed MAY Closed

Overview

Mesh your hands-on skills and your love for technology and discover the limitless opportunities within the field of automation and instrumentation.

Students who enjoy hands-on automation and process control will appreciate the strong training and technical foundational provided in the Instrumentation & Control Engineering Technology program.

Instrumentation, final control elements and process computer control systems in any manufacturing process environment are broken down into sequential logical steps, analyzed, and control is implemented. In industry, measured variables are then monitored and controlled. Examples of these variables include pressure, flow, temperature, level, motion, force, and chemical composition.

Topics of study include signal conditioning, transmitters, analyzers, controllers, control systems, and final control elements such as control valves, dampers, and electric motors. These are components of automated control loops. Typical process industries that utilize this technology include petrochemical, pharmaceutical, food processing, pulp and paper, automotive, and mining. Alongside the maintenance requirements of these industries there are other career options available including engineering, sales, and service providers or maintainers.

Students enrolled in this program train in the Centre of Excellence in Energy & Bio-Industrial Technologies. This centre offers state-of-practice technology laboratories and infrastructure to support learning and research in next-generation technologies in collaboration with industry. Numerous hands-on labs are designed to enable participants to install, configure, calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain instruments (pneumatic, analog, digital) and control systems in a variety of industrial-replicated settings.

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Let Andrew show you what it's like being a student in the Instrumentation program.

Admission Requirements

O.S.S.D. or equivalent with:

  • Grade 12 English C or U
  • Grade 12 Mathematics C or U

Grade 12 Mathematics Requirement

Grade 12 Mathematics for College Technology or any grade 12U mathematics is recommended; Grade 12 Foundations for College Mathematics (MAP4C) minimum final grade is 60%. If the program is highly competitive, students with Grade 12 Mathematics for College Technology or any Grade 12U mathematics will be given preference.


The admissions process is competitive and meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee admission.

Lambton College reserves the right to alter information including admission requirements and to cancel a program or course at any time; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies or changes in the job market; to change the pathways to third-party certification bodies; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations or over-acceptance of offers of admission. In the event Lambton College exercises such a right, Lambton College's sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to Lambton College.

English Language Requirements

  • IELTS of 6.5

- or -

  • TOEFL iBT 79

- or -

  • Passed Lambton Institute of English placement test

Please Note: IELTS is the only proficiency score accepted by the Study Direct Stream (SDS) program. Additional country-specific requirements may also be applicable.


Meeting the minimum English requirements does not guarantee admission. Students with higher English proficiency scores will receive priority in the admission assessment process.

Ben's Story

Ben Black Instrumentation & Control Engineering Technology - Industrial Automation Student
Ben Black - ICET student

'The ICET program at Lambton College has been an invaluable experience, providing me with cutting-edge industry knowledge, hands-on practical training, and a supportive learning environment, all of which have significantly enhanced my career prospects and personal growth."

Costs

  • Term 1 $8,583.22
  • Term 2 $7,797.12
  • Term 3 $8,497.12
  • Term 4 $7,797.12
  • Term 5 $0.00
  • Term 6 $0.00
  • Term 7 $7,797.12
  • Term 8 $0.00
  • Term 9 $8,497.12
$48,968.82
Total Cost of Program

Tuition fees are estimates and are subject to change each academic year. Fees do not include books (unless specifically noted), supplies or living costs.

Lambton College reserves the right to alter information including admission requirements and to cancel at any time a program or course; to change the location and/or term in which a program or course is offered; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies or changes in the job market; to change the pathways third-party certification bodies; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations or over-acceptance of offers of admission. In the event Lambton College exercises such a right, Lambton College’s sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to Lambton College.

Additional Fees

  • Lab Coat
    $40.00
  • Calculator
    $40.00
  • Safety Shoes
    $150.00
  • Safety Glasses
    $20.00

Important Dates, Deadline & Late Fees

For additional information on registration dates, deadlines and late fees please refer to Registration Dates and Deadlines.

Student Fees

A student services fee is included in your tuition.

Health Insurance Coverage

Emergency medical insurance is mandatory for all international students at Lambton College. This includes students who are full-time and part-time and who are on a co-op. This insurance is provided by GuardMe - a third party insurance provider.

See Insurance Costs & Details

Technology Requirements

In order to keep pace with the requirements of each and every course in your program, Lambton College requires that each student have access to a laptop while studying at our college.

Labs & Equipment

Courses

COM-1013
Critical Thinking & Writing

In this writing course, students respond to current issues and news articles via various styles of paragraphs and essays. Students practice thinking critically and organize and hone their writing to ensure clarity and correctness in their messages. Students explore different perspectives, and through synthesis, analysis, and response, strive for clarity of message and diplomatic expression of opinion based on fact. One of the pillars of Lambton College is a commitment to sustainability and equity, diversity, and inclusion, including Indigenization of the curriculum; where appropriate, readings in this course will reflect this commitment. Critical Thinking and Writing lays the foundation for a subsequent research-writing course.

ELE-1055
Electric Circuits I

This is an introductory course in electricity consisting of fundamental electric principles together with an analysis of simple electric circuits. Emphasis throughout the course is on problem solving. Laboratory exercises complement the material covered in class.

ICS-1302
Fundamentals of Instrumentation I

This is an introductory course in process instrumentation and safety. Topics will include WHIMS and an introduction to industrial hazards, Job Safety Analysis, and Work Permits. Basic instrumentation and control loop concepts, instrument signalling, wiring, and calibration techniques will be studied. Pressure measurement will be covered in greater detail. The reading and interpretation of Process and Instrumentation Diagrams will be addressed. The laboratory component will expose the student to the correct use and operation of calibration devices, pressure sensors and measuring instruments.

MTH-1904
Mathematics for Technology I

This course reviews and develops concepts in algebra, trigonometry, complex numbers, and vectors with technical applications.

GED-XXX3
General Education Elective

GED-XXX3
General Education Elective

COM-2043
Communications for Technology II

Technical writing differs from most student writing; therefore, it is necessary for students to learn the structure, nuances, and style of technical writing to be successful in completing labs, summaries, and reports. Through research writing and documentation, and through oral presentations, successful students will gain important transferrable skills that provide the basis for technical communication required in their other coursework and the workplace.

ELE-2055
Electric Circuits II

This course is designed to extend the student's knowledge and experience in the areas of DC network theorems and alternating current RC, and LCR networks. Emphasis throughout the course is on problem solving. These concepts are supported and reinforced in the laboratory portion of the course.

ICS-2204
Introduction to CAD for Instrumentation & Control

This is an introductory course on the use of AutoCAD 2019 Computer Assisted Design and Drafting software. Students learn to access AutoCAD commands for preferences, drawings modifying, dimensioning, applying text and plotting, to produce 2-D drawings. The use of Computer Assisted Design as a drafting and design tool that is used extensively in many industries locally and throughout the world. An individual who learns understands and can apply this program, has little difficulty transferring those skills to other CAD programs. AutoCAD is introduced as a valuable tool that could be used by any technologist, with a focus on electrical, process control and instrumentation.

ICS-2303
Fundamentals of Instrumentation II

This course consists of an introduction to some of the fundamentals of process variables such as temperature, pressure, and level measuring instruments. Topics include primary sensing devices, terminology and symbols, and test equipment usage including calibration procedures. The laboratory portion of the course allows the student to become familiar with various types of test equipment, connection of instruments to sense process variation, apply calibration standards, and learn troubleshooting skills.

MTH-2904
Mathematics for Technology II

This course contains elements of algebra, and introduces the concept of functions including graphing. It also introduces differential and integral calculus with basic applications.

PHY-2204
Physics

An introductory course in physics covering mechanics and heat. This course consists of six units of theory and six laboratory assignments. The theory unit topics are measurements; motion; fluids; heat energy; force; and work, energy and power. The laboratory component provides the learners with hands-on experience in exercises, which complement the lecture material.

ELE-3505
Electronic Devices & Circuits I

This course, intended for Instrumentation and Control Engineering Technology students, investigates the characteristics, basic circuits, and biasing techniques of semiconductor diodes, transistors, thyristors, and linear integrated circuits. Operational amplifiers are examined and various applications of Op-Amps to instrumentation and control are explored. The student's knowledge and understanding of electric circuits will grow through the use of lectures and labs.

ICS-3306
Process Instrumentation I

This is an intermediate level course in Instrumentation for those going into the field of Instrumentation & Control. Students will develop an understanding of Instrumentation terminology, symbology, and elements of Instrument systems. Methods of flow measurement and installation aspects of devices will be covered in detail. Final control elements such as solenoids, electric motors, and control valves will be covered in detail. The laboratory portion of the course allows the student to become familiar with various types of test equipment, connection of instruments to sense process variation, apply calibration standards and learn troubleshooting skills.

JSS-1001
Job Search & Success

This course provides student with skills and knowledge to help support their career search and succeed in the workplace. Students align their personal skill set and goals to guide them on their career paths. They will learn how to effectively conduct a job search, build a professional and well-tailored resume and cover letter, and develop and practice interview techniques. Students will also develop their personal brand to help support effective career networking and aid in their job search. Teamwork and collaboration in the workplace are also discussed. Self-reflection is used to inspire insight and support their professional career journey.

MTH-3903
Mathematics for Technology III

This course is a continuation of differential and integral calculus, including trigonometric, logarithmic and exponential functions. The course also contains partial differentiation, methods of integration, and advanced applications of derivatives and integrals.

STA-1903
Statistics for Technology

This course contains descriptive statistics, basic probability, and regression analysis. The course also includes binomial distribution, normal distribution, Student's t-distribution and F-distribution. The statistical ideas of sampling, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing are introduced. This course also includes elements statistical process control, and system reliability.

GED-XXX3
General Education Elective

ELC-4744
Digital Logic

This course is designed to give technology students a thorough understanding of digital techniques and logic circuits, as applied to Industrial Control Circuits and to Processor Based Control Systems. Theory is presented in a two-hour weekly lecture schedule supported and supplemented by a two-hour weekly laboratory, which is designed to reinforce the lecture materials. The foundation of the course begins with a study of digital logic gates and functions and expands to include combinational and sequential logic, culminating with a study of the architecture and functioning of microprocessor based systems such as computers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and industrial control systems.

ELE-4155
Electrical Systems & Control

This course is designed to extend the student's knowledge and experience into the areas of single-phase and balanced three-phase alternating current systems. The terminal properties of AC and DC motors, generators and transformers are thoroughly investigated, and the student is introduced to the control strategies and devices most commonly used with these machines. Emphasis throughout the course is on problem solving. These concepts are supported and reinforced in the laboratory portion of the course.

ICS-4305
Microcontrollers & Sustainable Systems

This course is a continuation of ICS-3305. Topics will include: principles of measurement of additional process variables such as weight, density, and humidity; control valve technologies; panel instruments; sizing and application of control valves; instrument air systems; hazardous area classifications; electrical wiring practices and interpretation of loop wiring diagrams; overview of digital communications network structures and protocols; and an introduction to fiber optics technology. A series of laboratory experiments will illustrate the measurement principles, calibration and installation techniques for a variety of sensors and control valves.

ICS-4353
Programmable Logic Controllers I

MTH-4903
Mathematics for Technology IV

This course contains the analysis and applications of arithmetic, geometric, and power (Maclaurin and Taylor) series as well as the construction and application of trigonometric (Fourier) series. Methods of solving first and second order differential equations are introduced, including the use of Laplace transform.

CPL-1049
Co-op Work Term (Four Months)

Co-operative education provides students with the opportunity to apply classroom learning to the workplace, undertake career sampling and gain valuable work experience that may assist students in leveraging employment after graduation.

CPL-2049
Co-op Work Term (Four Months)

Co-operative education provides students with the opportunity to apply classroom learning to the workplace, undertake career sampling and gain valuable work experience that may assist students in leveraging employment after graduation.

ICS-5233
Process Instrumentation Projcet Management & Documentation

ICS-5305
Process Control Systems

This course consists of an introduction to process control and control systems. Topics include process characteristics, Proportional-Integral-Derivative(PID) modes of control, On/Off control, PID tuning, batch/continuous control, multivariable control and non-linear control. Applications are presented in each case. The laboratory portion of the course allows the student to operate many types of single loop and multi-loop control systems, with the primary emphasis on controller tuning.

ICS-5354
Programmable Logic Control II

An integrated lecture/laboratory course where learners are introduced to the fundamentals of programmable logic control design. Applications of programmable logic controllers are stressed. This course will allow the learner to study control systems which use discrete components and continuous/analog systems operated in well defined sequential steps to bring about a desired result. Using the unique control features afforded by PLC's, and by judicious application of PLC fundamentals, the learner will also demonstrate an ability to bring process systems under control.

ICS-5405
Process Analyzer Systems

This course is a study of industrial, continuous operation process stream analyzers that measure process conditions directly. The course focuses on analyzer theory of operation, application, installation, programming and calibration of on-line analyzers. Analyzers studied include gas chromatographs, pH, electrolytic conductivity, IR, oxygen, gas detectors as well as process stream sample systems. These analyzers monitor feedstock and product composition and quality, give insight into process efficiency, and are often the first line of defence for worker health and safety and environmental protection. This course will also give insight into their use for closed loop process control.

ICS-5703
Systems Automation I

This course is an introduction to automation systems and robotics technology. Canada's robotics safety code will be examined and interpreted. Automation hardware components such as industrial robotic arms, tooling, controllers, teach pendants, industrial sensors, vision systems, conveyors and safety systems will be utilized. The programming of industrial robots to efficiently accomplish assignment objectives is an integral part of the course. Hands on lab exercises will permit students to illustrate their knowledge and competency in achieving a reliable solution to various automation objectives.

CPL-3049
Co-op Work Term (Four Months)

Co-operative education provides students with the opportunity to apply classroom learning to the workplace, undertake career sampling and gain valuable work experience that may assist students in leveraging employment after graduation.

ELE-6154
Electrical Systems & Controls II

This is an introductory course in the study of electric power generation, transmission, distribution and utilization as it applies in industrial, commercial and residential settings. Students will learn about single-phase and three-phase systems, emphasizing the study of voltage drops and fault current analysis leading to calculation of cable and conductor sizing and specification of coordinated protective device systems. This is a hybrid course which combines weekly two-hour lectures with two-hour labs. The lab sessions support and reinforce the lectures and are conducted in a dedicated lab which includes an integrated voltage, current and power monitoring system with a data acquisition and display system. The students will extend their knowledge through additional on-line learning assignments.

ICS-6309
Advanced Process Control

This course is a continuation of ICS5306. Students will study advanced aspects of process control including: use of distributed control systems; feedforward control; multi-loop control; process control applications for chemical process unit operations such as distillation, steam generation (boiler) etc. The laboratory component will require students to design and configure control systems using the distributed control systems located in the college's pilot plant facilities.

ICS-6204
Instrumentation & Control Capstone Project

A capstone course provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate all that has been learned during their studies and co-op work experience. Capstone experiences are superior examples of engagement through the integration of learning, knowledge, and application. This course provide the opportunity, space and resources for the instrumentation and control engineering technology students to innovate and create engineering projects that address today's automation and manufacturing challenges. Student will develop ideas into workable engineering projects, create a project statement of work that identify deliverables, needed resources, and milestones. In addition, they will provide complete design concepts with the appropriate documentation; flow diagram, instrument loops, technical drawings, installation procedures and operational manuals. Students will learn to work within the scope of the applicable codes and standards needed to implement a functional engineering system.

ICS-6703
Systems Automation II

ICS-6715
Control Systems Architecture & Data Communication

This course is an introduction to industrial process control systems, hardware architecture, and industrial data communications. Techniques and tools utilized for troubleshooting process control loop problems, and data communication systems are examined. The need for Instrumented Safety Systems is investigated and various system architectures are examined and evaluated using traditional qualitative and quantitative analysis techniques. Laboratory exercise involve the programming of traditional operator interfaces, implementing, integrating, and troubleshooting industrial communication systems, safety instrumented systems, and processes.

Contact

Centre for Global Engagement

LAMBTON COLLEGE SARNIA

1457 London Road

Sarnia ON, N7S 6K4

After Graduation

Employment Opportunities

ICECT students in industrial lab posing for photo.

Our graduates find employment in a wide variety of areas in the instrumentation and control field. Technologist opportunities for employment exist in the chemical, petroleum refining, food processing, automotive manufacturing, steel production, and pulp and paper industries. Typical positions include: process analyzer specialist, instrument designer, control systems technologist, instrument technologist, instrument technician, and process control.

Accreditations & Certifications

Canadian Armed Forces

This program is recognized by the Canadian Armed Forces for the Weapons Engineering Technician training requirement. ICET graduates are eligible for 750 hours (52%) of training avoidance.

Weapons Engineering Technicians are responsible for the corrective and planned maintenance activities of the weapons on board a ship.

Pathways

Transfer to Programs within Ontario

McMaster University

Want to see more Ontario transfers? Visit ONTransfer.ca.

Transfer to Programs outside of Ontario

Atlantic Technological University - Ireland

Looking for Support After Graduation?

The International Graduate Services & Support Centre (GSSC) is a place dedicated to assisting International alumni as they seek employment and settle into Canadian life following graduation.

Post-Graduate Employment

International students who successfully complete their programs of study at Lambton College may be eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program. This program allows students to gain valuable Canadian work experience.

A work permit under the PGWP may be issued for the length of the study program, up to a maximum of three years. A post-graduation work permit cannot be valid for longer than the student's study program, and the study program must be a minimum of eight months in length. The length and approval of the PGWP is determined solely by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Students must meet the eligibility requirements to apply for a post-graduation work permit.

Visit the PGWP Website

Immigration Regulations & Changes

Immigration regulations are legislated by the Federal Government of Canada and are subject to change at any time without notice. Students are responsible for ensuring that they are in compliance with all Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada regulations at all times during their studies and while in Canada. Lambton College staff are not authorized to provide advice or guidance on immigration-related matters. Prospective applicants and current students should consult the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website or call the IRCC Call Centre at 1-888-242-2100 to answer or clarify any immigration-related questions or information.

Co-op

About Co-op

Students in this program have the opportunity to gain valuable work experience by applying classroom learning during co-op experiences.

Learn more about co-op terms and the roles and responsibilities of students and co-op advisors.

More Information

Pathway to Apprenticeship

Graduates of Lambton College's Instrumentation & Control Engineering Technology - Industrial Automation program now have a pathway to pursue apprenticeship after graduation.

Lambton College is approved by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities to offer a unique diploma-to-apprenticeship pathway that would exempt graduates of this program from all levels of the ICT-447A apprenticeship.

International student in lab
Find a pathway to pursue apprenticeship after graduation.
Set yourself up for success!

Student Responsibilities

  • Course and program delivery schedules are proposed and subject to change for each intake.
  • Students are required to bring their own laptop with wireless capability.
  • Students are advised to bring an official copy of their most recent police clearance, driver's license, and vaccination record from their home country.

Women in Technology & Trades

Female students, alumni, staff, and faculty of the technology and trades programs at Lambton College meet once a month to:

  • Network and support each other
  • Share experiences
  • Build a sense of community

Each year, the group attends a final retreat at Camp Ak-O-Mak. Learn more by emailing the Technology & Trades department.

Women standing from a sign posing for photo outside.

Technology Requirements

It is recommended that students purchase a laptop with a Windows operating system.

Internet Speed Requirements

For best performance for students learning remotely, an internet connection with a minimum of 40 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload speed is recommended in order to effectively use video conferencing and remote lecture delivery software as well as, other online resources remotely. Due to the large area over which students may be dispersed, we are unable to recommend a specific provider, so you will need to inquire around your area to find one that best suits your needs.

Minimum Laptop Requirements

In order to access the internet and virtually-delivered software and courseware, student laptops should include the following at a minimum. By meeting the following specifications, students will be equipped to access software and courseware on their laptop through the internet:

  • Intel i5 8th Gen Processor or equivalent
  • 16 GB of RAM (with a minimum of 8 GB)
  • 100 GB HDD or more
  • HD Graphics
  • Webcam with a microphone
  • Wireless 802.11n/ac 5ghz capable
  • Windows Operating System (Windows 11)

Software

To ensure students are getting the most our of their classroom experience, some software will be required.

Lambton College has made this software easily accessible online. Students can leverage our Microsoft Office 365 software packages and services. In addition, much of the software you require for your courses will be available on demand for use on any device - on or off campus.