Double Take -- by Erin Ryan-Walsh

Like a lot of people, when Al Matchett graduated from high school he did not know what to do with the rest of his life. In the face of a recession he decided that post-secondary education was the only viable option. Given this, he registered for the Communications Engineering Technology Program at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT).

Fifteen years later, Matchett is now the senior engineering technologist at Shaw Cable. He is responsible for the installation, configuration, and maintenance of Shaw's Digital Cable Network. More specifically, he installs Digital Cable Terminals (DCT's) which, simply put, are the boxes that sit on top of your television and enable you to access the specialty channels such as Super Channel. Although he works primarily with the digital cable network, Matchett also works with satellites, cyber-installations and long-haul communication systems.

A typical day at Shaw Cable might involve planning for a project, ordering equipment and planning the installation of this equipment. Matchett often works on-site in order to solve any problems with existing systems as well overseeing the set-up and configuration of new systems. Although being on call can sometimes be arduous, according to Matchett, there is not much about his job he dislikes. The hands on and theoretical aspects of his work are the most interesting parts of the job, he said. Cable communications is an exciting industry because things are constantly advancing and changing, he added.

According to Matchett, a SAIT diploma is not the only or the most linear way to break into this industry. Any kind of technical education is an excellent stepping-stone into the industry. He said it is also useful to have a keen interest in electronics, good computer skills, and to be easy going with the ability to accommodate changing trends, goals, and skill levels. As with most industries, it is important to remember that you have to work your way into it and not to expect too much too quickly, Matchett said.