Over the past four years, Cisco Canada and its partners have been an instigator of transformation in the construction and real estate industry. Changing and disrupting any industry has a profound impact on every aspect of it: from how customers are served, to how products are built, to how stakeholders interact and collaborate. Everyone in the supply chain will need to do its part. With Smart + Connected Real Estate we’ve been successful in changing how we plan, design, and build buildings and communities and have seen tremendous change already in how architects, engineers, contractors, and ICT firms collaborate differently to pursue the best achievable outcomes…together.

Now, here we are: building leading-edge technology enabled buildings that are ready for tomorrow’s tenants and whatever the future holds.

But as we see the changes in this industry accelerate, are we prepared to attract and retain the appropriate workforce to build and operate these next generation intelligent buildings and communities? Surely, the answer is challenging. Like every other industry, labour skills and shortage are a major concern. If we don’t energize and excite the young generation to pursue careers in the industry now, we may end up with a serious problem.

Great news: George Brown College is doing something about this. In close collaboration with Cisco and the construction industry, George Brown College will be launching a brand new 3-year program that prepares its students for Smart + Connected Real Estate. The 3-year program takes an applied approach to the convergence of ICT, mechanical and electrical engineering. Graduates that receive a degree from this program will be trained to take an active role in the construction and real estate industry of the 21^st century. Together with these young professionals, our buildings will increasingly become more intelligent, efficient and productive—and serve our communities as they should.

Out with the tool belts (well, not really), and in with the tablets.

George Brown College CCET Newsletter excerpt:
George Brown College “Center for Construction and Engineering Technologies” launches new Building Automation program

Today’s buildings are increasingly complex, with many systems to control functions such as air flow, telephony, lighting, security and elevators. CCET is responding to the growing need for skilled professionals in this evolving field with the new Electromechanical Engineering Technology – Building Automation program. Launching September 2012, the three-year advanced diploma program will ensure graduates have strong skills in equipment testing and maintenance, computer networking and programming, project management, cost control and retrofitting. Combined with their understanding of eco-friendly and energy-efficient building automation processes, these graduates will be in demand among employers in the construction, property development, industrial and manufacturing sectors.