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Industry Profile -- by Jennifer Bysterveld
Wireless communications is definitely a growing industry, with new developments in the design, manufacturing, service and sales of the different systems. As we continue to demand more from communication systems in the way of quality, speed and variety, new companies develop and existing ones expand to meet this demand. The companies contacted for this article range in size from seven to 750 employees with Southern Alberta making up the largest portion of this industry in the province. Many companies are involved in the production of several types of wireless applications at the same time.
Working conditions are very good in both the offices and the shops. Most companies hire only full-time permanent employees, and work tends to be steadily paced, rather than slow periods followed by rushes. Heavy physical labour is not a requirement as the emphasis in wireless communications tends to be on small, detailed work. The industry does not seem to be predominantly male or female. There are many opportunities for advancement in this industry as most companies contacted indicated that they prefer to promote from within.
The growth of the wireless communications industry is expected to continue into the next century. In the future we will likely see even greater mobility, better quality and quite possibly new features in wireless products such as colour images and voice recognition.
Main Occupations and Wages
Training or education at post-secondary level is basic requirement for employment in the wireless communications industry.
Electrical Engineer - This occupation involves the research, planning, designing, evaluation and testing of electrical equipment and systems. The work is performed in an office or laboratory setting, as it is for other engineering positions. A Bachelor of Science or an Applied Science Degree in Electrical Engineering with a major in Electronics can be obtained from the University of Calgary or Alberta.
Starting wages: $30,000-$45,000
Computer Engineer - This occupation involves the research, planning, designing, evaluation and testing of computers and their related equipment and software. A Bachelor of Science in Engineering with specialization can be obtained from the University of Alberta.
Starting wages: $30,000-$45,000
Mechanical Engineer - This position includes the research, design, development and installation of machinery and systems for manufacturing wireless products. A Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering is available from the University of Alberta or Calgary.
Starting wages: $30,000-$45,000
Radio Frequency Engineer, and Test/Trouble Shooting Engineer - These positions require a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the University of Alberta or Calgary. Through on-the-job training, these engineers become specialized in their specific area of wireless. RF Engineers specialize in the workings of wireless products while Test/Trouble Shooting Engineers specialize in testing wireless products and preventing or correcting problems.
Starting wages: $30,000-$45,000
Technical Writers - This occupation involves translating abstract theory of wireless communication systems into clear prose. The work is performed in an office setting. A Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Computer Science with English can be obtained from the University of Calgary or Alberta.
Starting wages: $31,720-$42,000
Computer Programmer - Programmers write and test the codes that form the computer programs as well as, the instructions for their use. Work is mainly done in an office setting. A Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science from the University of Alberta or Calgary, or a Computer Programming Diploma from NAIT, SAIT or Mount Royal College is required.
Starting wages: $30,000-$42,000
Electronic Technician - Technicians maintain, repair and trouble-shoot electronic systems. This type of work is performed in laboratory or in the field. An Electronics Technician Diploma is available from NAIT, SAIT, Mount Royal College, and the DeVry Institute of Technology.
Starting wages: $24,000-$35,000
Design Technologist - Technologists work closely with engineers in the design of wireless systems and are involved in the operation, maintenance and installation of these systems. This type of work may be performed in an office or laboratory setting. A diploma in Telecommunications Technology is available from SAIT and DeVry.
Starting Wages: $24,000-$41,000
General Labourers - Labourers are involved in the handling of material, clean-up or packaging of the wireless systems. There is generally no training required for this type of position, however, some employers prefer to hire person with some background in computers or electronics.
Starting wages: $10,000-$20,000
What employers are looking for.
- Appropriate education and experience - degrees and diplomas are important but having related experience depends on the employer as many will train in-house.
- Soft skills - the ability to work in team atmosphere both with co-workers and clients, this means being able to communicate well with others.
- Innovation, adaptability, creativity, flexibility and willingness to learn - as the technology changes so quickly, these skills give the company competitiveness
Hiring Methods
Most companies find suitable employees in one of three ways:
- placing newspaper advertisements
- advertising at an educational institution
- interviewing promising candidates who are self-referred, meaning they dropped off a resume
Now What?
The growth of the wireless communications industry is projected to continue. In order to do so, there will be a demand for people with knowledge and skills. So what are you waiting for? Pick up a cell phone and make some calls, hook onto the Internet and do some research because you are probably just the person they are looking for!
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