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Building Operations Technician
Open to International Students
Area of study
Skilled Trades
Credential
Advanced Certificate
Program Length
1 Year | Full time
Program Overview
CIP Code: 46.0401
Buildings don’t run themselves—and that’s where you come in.
This program gives you the knowledge and skills to integrate building systems and keep modern buildings in various environments at their best. You will learn about electrical, plumbing, HVAC, refrigeration, flooring and ceiling repair, life safety systems, and general building upkeep so you can make spaces work better for the people who use them every day.
Core Information
Program Highlights
- Industry-Focused Curriculum: Comprehensive training in building systems and facility maintenance aligned with current industry standards.
- Hands-On Learning: Get lots of practical experience in realistic learning labs, utilizing industry-standard tools and equipment.
- Specialization Certifications: Pursue specialized certification in refrigeration through the Province of Manitoba Power Engineer Refrigeration Class exam.
- Experienced Instructors: Guidance from professionals with extensive experience in the building operations industry.
- Career Preparation: Development of essential skills for various building maintenance roles in a variety of facilities.
- Safety Emphasis: Strong focus on workplace safety practices and protocols to ensure a secure learning environment.
Career Outcomes
- Property management companies
- Government agencies
- Schools
- Recreational facilities and arenas
- Hospitals
- Private contracting companies
Entry Requirements
2026-2027
Domestic
Manitoba high school diploma (or expected completion within 45 days of the program start date), or equivalent, including:
- Credit in 40S Mathematics
- Credit in 40S English Language Arts
Mature Student eligibility and requirements for this program can be found on our Mature Students page.
International
Manitoba high school diploma (or expected completion within 45 days of the program start date), or equivalent, including:
- Minimum grade of 50% in a Senior Level Mathematics course
- Minimum grade of 50% in a Senior Level First Language Literature course
Additional Requirements
- Demonstrated English language proficiency (if educated outside Canada).
Visit Admission Requirements to learn more.
Tuition and Fees
| Estimated Program Costs (International) | |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $6,680 |
| Fees | $725 |
| Estimated Textbook Costs | TBC |
| Total Estimated Program Costs | $7,405.00 |
Costs are estimates and are subject to change. Visit Tuition and Fees and Program Information for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
This program is primarily taught in person during full-day sessions, with less than 10% of course content delivered online.
This program runs for 12 consecutive months, excluding student success weeks and holidays. See the Academic Schedule for details.
Textbooks and Supplies
A complete supply list and textbook information can be found on the Program Information page.
Laptop Requirements
Students must bring a Tier 1 laptop for this program. More information and technical specifications are available on the Laptop and Technical Needs page.
Yes. The program includes two seven-week work placements at local facilities. This provides students with:
- On-the-job training in real facilities
- Exposure to industry standards and workflows
- Valuable professional connections and references
Yes, financial aid may be available to those who qualify. Explore financial aid options.
Yes. Students participate in Bridging to Work workshops to build:
- Job search and resume skills
- Interview preparation
- Workplace communication and etiquette
Take Your First Step Towards Success
Learn more about this program
Fill out this form, and one of our helpful recruitment experts will contact you to discuss your goals, answer your questions, and guide you through the next steps.
Building Operations Technician
All Courses
Seminar in Building Operations Fundamentals (BOT-105) — 22 hours
This seminar introduces students to the building operations technician trade and the role, responsibilities and work norms of a building operations technician. Students learn about the types of workplaces and buildings, organizational structures, and working relationships that are typical for building operations technicians. In addition, career options and advancement opportunities stemming from a building operations technician credential are discussed.Building Operations Health and Safety (BOT-100) — 44 hours
This course prepares students to work safely in different facilities. Students study safe working conditions and procedures; the safe use of tools, equipment and materials; ways of identifying workplace hazards and risks; and the importance of maintaining a healthy, safe and accident-free work environment. Students learn about the WorkSafe Manitoba and worker’s rights. In addition, WHMIS, first aid and CPR training modules are included in this course.Communication Skills for Technicians (BOT-110) — 44 hours
This course helps students develop the written and oral communication, interpersonal and teamwork skills required of building operations technicians. Students practice communicating technical information, including directions and instructions, into accurate, clear and concise written formats and presentations for colleagues and clients. In addition, students learn valuable job search strategies.General Building Maintenance (BOT-120) — 66 hours
This course prepares students for the scope and types of tasks and expectations considered general building maintenance. Students learn basic maintenance planning, including assessment, frequency, urgency, and prioritization of tasks, and when to call in tradespeople with specialized technical knowledge. General topics of this course include janitorial basics, drywall repair and painting, furniture maintenance, and door and window maintenance.Mathematics for Building Operations (BOT-125) — 33 hours
This course provides students with the foundational math needed in the building operations field. Topics include basic math operations, fractions, decimals, percentages, equations, ratios and proportions, area and volume, and basic trigonometry.Introduction to Refrigeration and Ice Maintenance (BOT-135) — 33 hours
This course introduces students to the basics of refrigeration and ice maintenance. Students learn about the refrigeration cycle and the components of refrigeration systems as well as basic ice re- surfacing and maintenance. The functions and mechanics of chillers will also be covered in this course.Refrigeration Operation I (BOT-130) — 40 hours
From week 1 of the course, Refrigeration Operator for Recreation Facilities, as offered by Recreation Connection Manitoba.Flooring and Ceiling Maintenance (BOT-145) — 33 hours
This course prepares students for the basic maintenance and repair of various flooring and ceiling materials and types commonly used in different facilities. Students learn maintenance planning of flooring and ceilings, including assessment, frequency, urgency, and prioritization of tasks, and when to call in tradespeople with specialized technical knowledge. General topics of this course include flooring materials, adhesives, raised flooring systems basics, wood flooring, ceramic tiles, concrete floors, under flooring, suspended ceilings, ceiling tile replacement and drop-in lighting.Four Season Building Operations (BOT-155) — 33 hours
This course prepares students to address the various maintenance and repair issues that come up as a result of Canada’s distinct four seasons. Students study ice and snow safety, storm preparedness (both summer and winter), summer heat issues, pest control, basic landscaping care, and artificial turf maintenance. In addition, students learn the basics of outdoor sports venue maintenance.Electrical Fundamentals and Maintenance (BOT-140) — 88 hours
This course provides students with the overall knowledge to maintain electrical systems and troubleshoot common electrical problems. IN addition to electrical principles, students learn electrical safety and the basics of light and light bulb replacement, electrical fuses and circuit breakers, electrical control systems, uninterrupted power systems and battery maintenance. Students also receive training in computer system operations training as well as building automation, fire and lighting systems. To facilitate this learning, students study basic mechanical and architectural blueprint reading.People Movers Workshop (BOT-141) — 11 hours
This workshop introduces students to elevator and escalator fundamentals. Students learn basic people mover maintenance and strategies to troubleshoot problems and perform basic repairs.Life Safety Systems (BOT-165) — 33 hours
Integral to the safe maintenance of any facility are its life safety systems. In this course, students learn the fundamentals of sprinkler systems, standpipe and fire hose systems, fire alarm systems and emergency lighting and power systems. Students learn how to maintain these systems while adhering to safety standards and best practices.Legislation and Regulatory Requirements (BOT-175) — 33 hours
Students are also introduced to the legal codes and regulations pertaining to the maintenance of facilities and their practical applications. Students also explore the topics of occupancy, housekeeping and risks associated with clutter, and fire exit clearances. In addition, students study building permits.Basic Plumbing Maintenance (BOT-150) — 44 hours
This course introduces students to the various components of the typical plumbing system, as typically found in most facilities. Students study the fundamentals of sink, toilet and urinal operations; cold and hot water piping; drain pipes, drain access and clean out procedures, hot water tanks and sewage systems, including basic plumbing safety.HVAC Fundamentals (BOT-160) — 88 hours
This course provides students with the fundamental knowledge and skills pertaining to the maintenance of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems typical of many buildings. Topics include steam, gas and electric heating systems, air handling, balancing and conditioning systems; and chilled water and condenser water systems.Control Systems (BOT-185) — 33 hours
This course prepares students to operate and maintain the control systems of a facility. Students learn the basics of direct digital control (DDC) systems versus pneumatic systems, as well as basic automation systems. In addition, students study new trends and developments in these technologies.Customer Service and Workplace Relations (BOT-170) — 44 hours
This course provides students with the knowledge and skills to engage effectively with clients and the public to enhance career success and a positive work environment. Students study acceptable practices pertaining to noise, etiquette and safety of clients and themselves. Students learn how to manage on-the-job expectations and how to communicate effectively with clients and co-workers. In addition, students will learn valuable skills in contract management.Building Systems Integration (BOT-180) — 44 hours
This course gives students the opportunity to analyze the building as one larger unit comprised of the various interconnected systems covered thus far in this program. Students also study the characteristics and challenges of different buildings in which they might find themselves working. Case studies are used to facilitate students’ problem solving skills, and sample projects allow students to synthesize and apply their knowledge and skills. This course also includes an overview of the types of specific training/certification that the building operations technician may wish to pursue in the future.Refrigeration Operation II (BOT-190) — 40 hours
From week 2 of the course, Refrigeration Operator for Recreation Facilities, as offered by Recreation Connection Manitoba.Winter Internship (BOT-200) — 240 hours
This unpaid internship gives students opportunities to synthesize and apply the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program in a real work environment. Students are expected to demonstrate competencies pertaining to the inspection, maintenance and repair of the different facilities studied. The focus of this internship will be on the unique challenges that winter in Canada brings for the successful maintenance of buildings and their various systems.Summer Internship (BOT-210) — 240 hours
This unpaid internship gives students opportunities to synthesize and apply the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program in a real work environment. Students are expected to demonstrate competencies pertaining to the inspection, maintenance and repair of the different facilities studied. The focus of this internship will be on the challenges that summer in Canada brings for the successful maintenance of buildings and their various systems.