Engineer Your Future | Engineering | University of Waterloo

Professional Licencing | Professional Organizations | Discipline Specific Professional Societies | Industry Associations

Waterloo Engineering at the University of Waterloo is Canada’s largest engineering school and a pipeline for top engineering talent to the world’s leading companies. Ranked among the top 50 engineering schools in the world, our reputation for excellence is built on the foundation of co-op education and a bold history of innovation.

We are renowned as a university that embraces differentiation. We are trailblazers, laying the groundwork for others to follow, and we want to help you reach all your career goals, from licensing, to support all the way to specific disciplines.

Professional Licencing

Canadian Licencing Boards | Becoming Licenced | Student Memberships

One of the highest standings you can receive after graduation is the title of Architect, Professional Engineer (P.Eng) or Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo). Below you will find a guide on how the licensing process works in Ontario as well as other Canadian licensing boards and ways you can get involved as an undergraduate student.

Canadian Licencing Boards

Province/ Territory	Architecture	Engineering	Geoscience
Ontario	Ontario Association of Architects	Professional Engineers of Ontario	Professional Geoscientists of Ontario
Prince Edward Island	Architects Association of Prince Edward Island	Engineers Prince Edward Island	Not Regulated
Newfoundland	Architects Licensing Board of Newfoundland and Labrador	Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Newfoundland and Labrador
Nova scotia	Nova Scotia Association of Architects	Engineers Nova Scotia	Geoscientists Nova Scotia
New Brunswick	Architects’ Association of New Brunswick	Engineers and Geoscientists New Brunswick
Quebec	Ordre des Architectes du Québec	Ordre des Ingeneurs du Quebec	Ordre des Geolouges du Quebec
Manitoba	Manitoba Association of Architects	Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba
Saskatchewan	Saskatchewan Association of Architects	Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan
Alberta	Alberta Association of Architects	Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta
British Columbia	Architectural Institute of British Columbia	Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia
Yukon	Department of Highways and Public Works	Engineers Yukon	Not Regulated
Northwest Territories	Northwest Territories Association of Architects	Northwest territories and Nunavut association of professional engineers and geoscientists
Nunavut	Northwest Territories Association of Architects

Licencing Process

What do I need to become a Professional Engineer?

In Canada the P.Eng Process typically takes a minimum of 8 years to complete (Including time in post-secondary education). You will need to complete the following in order to apply...

Bachelor's degree in engineering (B.A.Sc, BEng)

48 months of work experience in professional engineering (minimum)

What do I need to become a Professional Geoscientist?

In Canada the P.GEO Process typically takes a minimum of 8 years to complete (Including time in post-secondary education). You will need to complete the following in order to apply...

Bachelor's degree in science (B.A.Sc, BSc, BS)

48 months of work experience in professional geoscience (minimum)

What do I need to become an Architect?

4- or 5-year bachelor's degree (B.A.S)

2-year accredited master's degree

3720 hours of work experience/internship in architecture (minimum)

Examination

Student memberships from Canadian licensing boards

Architecture | Engineering | Geoscience

Ontario Association of Architects

The Ontario Association of Architects allows for students in accredited Master of Architecture programs to become student associates which provides them with several benefits including the ability to log experience hours and increased engagement with the OAA.

Architectural Institute of British Columbia

The AIBC has several affiliate categories for individuals who are not registrants of the AIBC but who wish to be connected to AIBC activities. Joining the AIBC as an affiliate may also serve as a steppingstone for individuals who are working towards their registration requirements.

As an affiliate, you are eligible to receive reduced fees on professional development courses, invitations to AIBC events and a subscription to the monthly AIBC Connected e-newsletter. Some affiliates may also be eligible to post on the AIBC Classifieds website. To apply as an affiliate with the AIBC, see application processes and forms under Affiliate Resources.

The Alberta Association of Architects

Students may become members of the AAA if they are engaged in a course of study in the practice of architecture and interior design.

Nova Scotia Association of architects

Benefits of being a Student Member/Recognized Student Member include networking opportunities, periodic updates from Atlantic Associations in the architecture community, opportunities to participate in NSAA committees, and attending annual meetings

Professional Engineers of Ontario

Professional engineers of Ontario offers a student membership program for undergraduate students interested in eventually receiving their P.Eng standing. This program is completely free and by joining the student membership program you will have access to the following...

student website with information about engineering news/presentations/surveys and issues, and how to obtain your license;

invitations/email notices for local events/presentations offered by PEO chapters and other organizations (including student pricing, in some cases);

opportunities to have your questions about licensure and engineering answered by PEO and members of the engineering community; and

access to PEO’s official journal, Engineering Dimensions through your post-secondary School’s Engineering Society.

Engineers of Nova scotia: ENS

Engineers of Prince Edward Island: EPEI

Engineering graduates and engineering students who are looking for employment can upload their resumes.

Ordre des Ingenieurs du Quebec: OIQ

Nothing specific outside of Quebec however they host events that students can attend

Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta: APEGA

Designed to fit your schedule, the Work Readiness Program is self-directed and can be completed at your own pace.  You select learnings that interest you and align with the eight areas of competency (listed above). For each competency, you will:

acquire knowledge through resources like podcasts, YouTube videos, and books (don’t forget to factor in what you’re already learning in your university courses!)

apply that knowledge by putting everything you learned into practice at work, through an extracurricular activity, or at an APEGA University Outreach event

consolidate your learning through conversations with your peers, a coach, an adviser, or a mentor

Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia: EGBC

At Engineers and Geoscientists BC, we believe the future success of the professions depends on the students of today. Our Student Program allows undergraduate and master's engineering and earth science students to connect with their future professional organization. The program eases the transition from student life to your career and provides you with access to events and resources that connect you to your future.

Professional Geoscientists of Ontario: PGO

Geoscience is a regulated profession in Ontario and most of Canada. Just as engineers, doctors, lawyers, and many other professions are regulated in Canada, so are geoscientists. Practising geoscience without a licence can result in legal action and financial penalties as defined by the Professional Geoscientists Act (2000). PGO is the regulator of geoscientists in Ontario and as such, governs the practice of geoscience in this province. PGO registers geoscientists and confers the Professional Geoscientists (P.Geo.) designation on them. It also handles complaints and discipline with respect to the actions of P.Geo.’s. Over 2000 P.Geo.’s are registered with PGO.

Professional Organizations

Engineers can become members of several professional boards and associations. Each has its own requirements and benefits of membership.

Canadian collation of women in engineering, science, trades and technology | Ontario Society of Professional Engineers | Society of Women Engineers | The Canadian Centre for Women in Science, Engineering, Trades and Technology

Canadian collation of women in engineering, science, trades and technology: CCWESTT

The Canadian Coalition of Women in Engineering, Science, Trades and Technology (CCWESTT) is a leader for and a voice of a national community for women in Science, Engineering, Trades and Technology (SETT). We are proud to promote girls and women studying and working in these fields, and celebrate the contributions of women in all spheres of SETT.

Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE)

Established in 2000, the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) is a member-interest, advocacy organization, created jointly by Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) and the Canadian Society of Professional Engineers (CSPE). OSPE is a partner with ONWiE is offering the GoEngGirl outreach program.

Society of Women Engineers – Toronto (SWE)

Even in this day and age, 30% of women leaving engineering profession cite organizational climate as the reason [1]. According to Engineers Canada, in 2015, only 15% of practicing engineers were women. The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) has given women engineers a unique place and voice within the engineering industry for more than six decades. In January 2017, SWE Toronto became an official international affiliate of the Society of Women Engineers in Toronto, Canada. SWE Toronto envisions a world where women engineers and engineering graduates are successful and thriving by getting the support they need to become leaders in solving tough problems for our world.

The Canadian Centre for Women in Science, Engineering, Trades and Technology (WinSETT Centre)

WinSETT Centre is an action-oriented, non-profit organization that aspires to recruit, retain and advance women in science, engineering, trades and technology (SETT).

Discipline Specific Professional and Technical Societies

Consulting Engineers of Ontario (CEO)

Consulting Engineers of Ontario (CEO) is a non-profit organization devoted to the business and professional aspects of consulting engineering in Ontario. Its membership of over 285 firms from across the province includes companies of all sizes from sole proprietorships to the largest engineering firms.

Canadian Geotechnical Society

Providing a wide range of opportunities for learning about geotechnical engineering and related geosciences. Most of the Canadian Geotechnical Society’s structure and activities are directed towards continuing education in various forms. This is done through a combination of local groups in all regions of Canada, technical divisions in all principle areas of geotechnical activity, conferences, seminars, workshops, and publications. All of these are described in more detail in their Website.

Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM)

Founded in 1898, the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) is the leading technical society of professionals in the Canadian Minerals, Metals, Materials and Energy Industries.

Canadian Nuclear Society (CNS)

The CNS is dedicated to the exchange of information in the field of applied nuclear science and technology. This encompasses all aspects of nuclear energy, uranium, fission and other nuclear technologies such as occupational and environmental protection, medical diagnosis and treatment, the use of radioisotopes, and food preservation.

Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering (CSChE)

The Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering (CSChE) is an organization representing the interests of chemical engineers. Through its programs and services, the CSChE offers you opportunities for professional growth, career enhancement, and financial benefit.

Canadian Society for Civil Engineering (CSCE)

The Canadian Society for Civil Engineering (CSCE) is an organization representing the interests of civil engineers. Through its programs and services, the CSCE offers you opportunities for professional growth, career enhancement and financial benefit.

Canadian Society for Engineering Management (CSEM)

The Canadian Society for Engineering Management (CSEM) had its beginnings as the General Membership of the Engineering Institute of Canada (EIC) representing those engineers who had no affiliation with the either civil, mechanical, electrical or geotechnical societies. In 1990, CSEM changed its mandate in order to focus on the needs of engineers in management. Today, CSEM continues as one of the six constituent societies of the EIC.

Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineering (CSME)

As the only Canadian Society in the domain of Mechanical Engineering with the exclusive potential of providing a forceful voice for the discipline, the CSME provides the following services: mechanically oriented technical activities, professional development for expanding competence of the members, forum to exchange opinions with other members of the discipline and make recommendations to government and the public, undergraduate technical activities, international access to technical meetings and to foreign publications at discount rates, and technical involvement through technical discussions.

Canadian Medical and Biological Engineering Society (CMBES)

Founded in 1965, the CMBES is Canada’s principal society for engineering in medicine and biology. It is affiliated with the International Federation for Medical and Biological Engineering (IFMBE). CMBES is also a member of the Engineering Institute of Canada (EIC).

Engineering Institute of Canada (EIC)

Today, the EIC is a federation of technical “Member Societies” pursuing their common interests and cooperation. Within the national Canadian engineering community as a whole, the EIC niche includes: the promotion of “continuing education standards” and the “EIC CEU”, providing an opportunity for engineers to record their “professional development” on-line, recognition of individuals with “Awards” and preservation of Canadian Engineering “History and Heritage”.

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)

The IEEE (Eye-triple-E) is a non-profit, technical professional association of more than 377,000 individual members in 150 countries. Through its members, the IEEE is a leading authority in technical areas ranging from computer engineering, biomedical technology and telecommunications, to electric power, aerospace and consumer electronics, among others.

Industry Sector Associations

When entering the Engineering field, it is common for your employer to be registered with some of the following organizations that specialize in different forms of science and engineering.

Buildings / Construction

Building Industry and Land Development Association | Canada Green Building Council | Canadian Home Builders Association | Council of Ontario Construction Associations | Ontario Home Builder Association

Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD)

The Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) is the voice of the home building, residential and non-residential land development and professional renovation industries in the Greater Toronto Area.

Our 1000+ member companies come from all corners of the industry. In addition to home builders, land developers, and professional RenoMark™ renovators, BILD members include financial and professional service companies, trade contractors, and manufacturers and suppliers of all types of home-oriented products. BILD is affiliated with the Ontario Home Builders’ Association and the Canadian Home Builders’ Association.

Canada Green Building Council

The Canada Green Building Council supports the people and businesses involved in designing, constructing, and operating buildings. We offer practical solutions that unlock the value of green buildings for attracting investment, reducing costs, and increasing asset value and resiliency. Working collaboratively with members, industry, and government, we can reduce environmental impacts and help Canada’s building sector achieve their business, sustainability, and carbon leadership goals.

Canadian Home Builders Association

Since 1943, the Canadian Home Builders' Association (CHBA) has been "the voice of Canada's residential construction industry." Representing one of the largest industry sectors in Canada, our membership is made up of ~8,500 companies - including home builders, renovators, land developers, trade contractors, product and material manufacturers, building product suppliers, lending institutions, insurance providers, and service providers.

Council of Ontario Construction Associations

The Council of Ontario Construction Associations (COCA) is a unique federation of 29 member associations—the largest and most representative group of industrial, commercial, institutional (ICI) and heavy civil construction employers in the province. From foundations to finishes, COCA members represent the sectors that are on the job every day to build a strong, vibrant Ontario. They each focus on a different aspect of the construction industry, but they share a vision for a safe, prosperous and growing Ontario.

Ontario Home Builders Association

The Ontario Home Builders’ Association (OHBA) is the voice of the residential construction industry in Ontario, representing over 4,000 member companies through 28 local associations.

Construction Materials

Cement Association of Canada | Ontario Asphalt Pavement Council

Cement Association of Canada

Our six member companies operate 14 cement plants in five provinces. Vertically integrated, they own and operate aggregate and concrete businesses.

Ontario Asphalt Pavement Council

OAPC is recognized as the authoritative voice of the asphalt producing industry in Ontario. We produce news and events surrounding the use of asphalt in the road construction industry. We strongly advocate for the use of asphalt paving as we believe it has clear benefits as it is economical, sustainable, and ensures an enjoyable road experience for consumers.

Manufacturing

Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters | Canadian Manufacturing Coalition | Ontario Branch of CME

Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters

From the first industrial boom in Canada, CME has advocated for and represented member interests. 150 years strong, CME has earned an extensive and effective track record of working for thousands of leading companies nationwide. More than 85 per cent of CME’s members are SMEs and collectively account for an estimated 82 per cent of total manufacturing production and 90 per cent of Canada’s exports.

Canadian Manfacturing Coalition

The challenges facing the manufacturing sector are diverse and complex. The Canadian Manufacturing Coalition (CMC) focuses on both international and domestic issues by outlining progressive policies and new ideas to build as a strong foundation for a renewed and competitive manufacturing sector.

Ontario Branch of CME

Ontario Made brings together manufacturers and makers, retailers, and consumers to celebrate and promote the many world-class products that are made right here. We are dedicated to helping consumers identify Ontario-made products, celebrate what is Ontario Made, and support the purchase of Ontario-made products.

There has never been a more important time to support Ontario-made products, and we are dedicated to spreading the word.

It is our mission to tell the story of how manufacturers and retailers contribute to the growth of Ontario's economy and create meaningful jobs for Ontarians.

Municipalities

Conservation Ontario | Association of Municipalities Ontario

Conservation Ontario

Conservation Ontario is a non-profit association that represents Ontario’s 36 Conservation Authorities.

Conservation Authorities are community-based watershed management agencies, whose mandate is to undertake watershed-based programs to protect people and property from flooding, and other natural hazards, and to conserve natural resources for economic, social and environmental benefits.

Conservation Authorities are legislated under the Conservation Authorities Act, 1946.

Conservation Ontario is governed by a six-member elected Board of Directors and directed by a Council comprised of appointed and elected municipal official from the 36 Conservation Authorities Boards of Directors and Conservation Authorities staff. Conservation Ontario’s main source of funding is secured from its membership through levies and supplemented by project funding and contracts.

Conservation Authorities provide enriching opportunities for everyone to get involved in activities happening in and around their watershed.

Association of Municipalities Ontario

AMO works to make municipal governments stronger and more effective. Through AMO, Ontario’s 444 municipalities work together to achieve shared goals and meet common challenges. Through our policy development, cost-saving programs, conferences and training opportunities, AMO provides municipal officials with tools to succeed, and programs to help maximize taxpayer dollars.

AMO’s educational programming has been developed for municipally elected officials to support and advance your leadership skills at the organizational and community level. Our workshops are custom designed for municipal leaders focusing on the issues, skills and tactics that you need as a community leader and decision maker.

AMO is committed to supporting and enhancing strong and effective municipal government in Ontario. We do that in a variety of ways including through our AMO Education workshops.

We continue to evolve our education offerings and encourage you to check back here often.

View the complete calendar of AMO educational opportunities here.

For additional courses relevant to municipal work, we encourage you to explore the offerings available on the LAS website.

Transportation

Crosslinxs | Metrolinx

Crosslinx

Crosslinx Transit Solutions (CTS) is a design and construction consortium building the Eglinton Crosstown LRT. The consortium is comprised of four global and local leaders in transportation infrastructure: ACS-Dragados, Aecon, EllisDon and AtkinsRéalis.

Metrolinx and Infrastructure Ontario awarded the contract to CTS for the Eglinton Crosstown LRT in July 2015. CTS works with our provincial partners to design, construct, and finance an integrated transit system consisting of 25 stations and stops, tracks, signals, communications system, as well as a maintenance and storage facility. Following the Crosstown’s completion, CTS will maintain the line for 30 years.

Metrolinx

Metrolinx, an agency of the Government of Ontario under the Metrolinx Act, 2006, was created to improve the coordination and integration of all modes of transportation in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area.

Utilities / Power

Ontario Energy Association | Electricity Distributors association

Electricity Distributors Association

The Electricity Distributors Association is the trusted and vital source for advocacy, insight and information for Ontario's local electricity distributors, the municipally and privately owned companies that safely and reliably deliver electricity to millions of Ontario homes, businesses and public institutions. We provide analysis, networking opportunities, and a collective voice on issues vital to our members' business success.

Ontario Energy Association

The Ontario Energy Association (OEA) is the credible and trusted voice of the energy sector. We earn our reputation by being an integral and influential part of energy policy development and decision making in Ontario. We represent Ontario’s energy leaders that span the full diversity of the energy industry.

The OEA takes a grassroots approach to policy development by combining thorough evidence based research with executive interviews and member polling. This unique approach ensures our policies are not only grounded in rigorous research, but represent the views of the majority of our members. This sound policy foundation allows us to advocate directly with government decision makers to tackle issues of strategic importance to our members.

Water

Ontario Municipal Water Association | Ontario Water Works Association

Ontario Municipal Water Association

To act as the voice of Ontario’s public water authorities through actions which sustain and protect the life cycle of water.

Ontario Water Works Association

The Ontario Water Works Association (OWWA) is a voluntary, not-for-profit organization representing more than 1,500 dedicated water professionals across the province. Our members reflect the full spectrum of roles and responsibilities involved in ensuring the delivery of safe, reliable drinking water—from source to tap.

OWWA is widely recognized as the authoritative voice of Ontario’s water industry. The Association is governed by an annually elected President and a Board of Directors, who oversee the organization’s strategic direction and responsibilities.

OWWA is committed to advancing water management through leadership in education, innovation, and continuous improvement in science, technology, and customer service. Our members also contribute to the development of public policy and regulatory frameworks that support safe and sustainable water systems.