2010 OACETT Salary Survey Demonstrates the Value of Certification

TORONTO, Nov. 22 /CNW/ - A college education in engineering and applied science technology opens the door to an average salary of more than $70,000, and total cash compensation of more than $77,000 annually, for a typical engineering technology professional in Ontario.

Furthermore, certification leads to a quantifiable, and substantial, increase in total annual compensation, according to the findings of a recent survey of its membership conducted by the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT).  Results show OACETT certification can produce a $16,000 annual increase over base salary for engineering technology professionals.

Based on responses gathered from more than 3,300 members across a variety of industries and disciplines, OACETT's 2010 Salary Survey shows a college technician or technologist diploma leads to a mean salary of $70,510, well above the average Canadian income of $25,000. 

And certification correlates strongly with higher levels of compensation.  Compared to associate members, certified technologists and technicians earn on average $16,000 more in annual salary - a 26% premium - which has a present value over a 30-year career of $276,000. 

"The findings clearly show that investing in the OACETT certification pays off significantly for members," said David Thomson, Chief Executive Officer of OACETT.  "Becoming certified is like getting a permanent raise of $16,000 a year."

Associate members of OACETT, and non-members in the engineering technology field, including new graduates and internationally trained professionals, can learn more about the process of certification at www.oacett.org.

About OACETT
OACETT is a non-profit, self-governing, professional association of over 23,000 members and a 50-plus year history of certification in Ontario.  OACETT promotes the interests of engineering and applied science technicians and technologists in industry, educational institutions, the public and government.

OACETT confers the designations C.E.T. and C.Tech.  These symbols of achievement in engineering technology are legally protected for use by certified members.  The designations are recognized across Canada and internationally by employers and other engineering professionals.

For further information:

Melissa Wood
Manager, Marketing and Communications
Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists
404-10 Four Seasons Place
Toronto, ON M9B 6H7
Tel: [phone], ext. 228
Fax: [phone]
www.oacett.org