Alberta makes history giving technology professionals right to self-regulate,
practice engineering independently
Oct 16, 2009, 15:34 ET
Alberta first Canadian province to legally authorize scope of practice expansion for applied science and engineering technicians and technologists
The recent proclamation of the Engineering, Geological and Geophysical Professions Amendment Act (EGGPA) confirms the evolution of ASET from registration under the Societies Act - the same status usually conferred to community leagues and sports groups - to a full-fledged, self-regulating professional association. It also heralds the emergence of a new professional designation, P.Tech (Eng.) under which ASET members will be able to practice engineering independently.
From the moment Albertans wake up in the morning and turn on a light switch or shower until the end of the day, they rely on the work of these professionals. Technicians install cable and phone, monitor traffic, work in labs, and serve as process workers in refineries and manufacturing. Technologists design plans with engineers, create commercial buildings and return well sites properly to nature. They ensure fast-acting telephone networks, smart bus connections, proper water pressure at home, perfectly clean water to drink, reliable natural gas service and electrical power, smooth roads on which to drive, and responsible oil and gas exploration/production/processing/and distribution.
"This is great news for Alberta - for its residents who depend on the services provided by technicians and technologists, for this province's economic future, and for the future of the applied science and engineering technology profession itself," said ASET CEO
EGGPA ensures public safety by giving ASET the responsibility to guarantee the qualifications of those holding ASET titles and protect against title misuse, and the ability to exercise disciplinary and legal action to ensure competence of ASET members.
In 2007, Alberta brought into force a similar scope of practice change for pharmacists as the first Canadian province to give pharmacists the legal authority to prescribe some medications and administer drugs by injection.
Representing approximately 17,000 technicians and technologists across Alberta, ASET provides its members the certification that top employers demand. ASET members play an integral role in driving the Alberta economy and their innovation is one reason why the province maintains its competitive advantage. ASET members represent a wide range of sectors including avionics, biomedical, chemical, computers, electrical, environmental, geological, instrumentation, oil and gas, and telecommunications. www.aset.ab.ca
For further information: Media Contact: Michele Penz, Calico Communications for ASET, (778) 888-2249
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