ECGP Frequently Asked Questions

Students will earn their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) while also earning an Ontario College Certificate (OCC) in Mohawk College's Advanced Manufacturing Operations program with value-added credentials from the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council's Certified Production Technician Program (MSSC).

In addition to your OCC in Advanced Manufacturing Operations, the AAM program has equipped you with loads of transferable skills that you could apply to further education, apprenticeship and/or the workforce. You now have hands-on experience in the manufacturing industry which is constantly searching for skilled workers. You also saved lots of money in tuition, textbooks and other postsecondary related costs. Now, you may be able to use credits you earned in AAM towards your next postsecondary program.

Here are some examples of transferable skills that you could add to your resume:

• Capable of developing and implementing strategies to enhance quality control and support quality assurance processes, ensuring high standards and continuous improvement within a manufacturing environment
• Applied expertise in selecting, operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining machinery, tools, and equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime
• Skilled in using AutoCAD to design, draft, and modify technical drawings and plans with precision, supporting accurate project execution and visualization
• Proficient in interpreting hydraulic symbols and schematic drawings to support accurate assembly, troubleshooting, and maintenance of hydraulic systems
• Effective in ensuring full compliance with health and safety legislation, trade codes, and industry standards, prioritizing safety and ethical practices in all work
• Able to collaborate effectively within teams to build strong working relationships and achieve shared goals
• Skilled in properly using and maintaining Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to ensure safety and compliance with health regulations
• Reliable to maintain good attendance, punctuality, and a positive work ethic
• Competent in communicating clearly, concisely and correctly in written, spoken and visual form, ensuring effective communication
• Knowledgeable in locating, selecting, organizing and documenting information using appropriate technology and information systems

The world is your oyster! After completing the AAM program, there are three distinct pathways. It is recommended that you connect with your parents, teachers and guidance counsellors to help you determine what path is right for you. Typically, after completing the AAM program, students would go to either pursue further education (college or university), apprenticeship or continue straight to the workforce.

Mohawk College is a great choice for students seeking hands-on, career-focused education with high employability. Known for its strong industry connections and modern facilities, Mohawk College provides practical training in areas like healthcare, skilled trades, engineering, and business, with many programs incorporating co-ops and internships to give students real-world experience. Additionally, the college’s strong support services, affordable tuition, and high graduate employment rates (86% of graduates are employed within 6 months) make it an accessible and effective pathway into the workforce. For those looking to enter in-demand fields with the skills and experience employers seek, Mohawk is a top option in Ontario. Plus, courses within your AAM program may be equivalent to courses in your preferred program which means you may be exempt from retaking them.

Mohawk College offers a wide variety of programs. Some programs that relate to manufacturing and align with the AAM program may include:

• Mechanical Engineering (529)
• Computer Engineering Technology - Mechatronic Systems (562)
• Electrical Engineering Technology (582)
• Electrical Engineering Technician – Power (403/433)
• Manufacturing Engineering Technician – IMM (413/473)
   

Mohawk College offers a wide variety of programs. Some programs that relate to manufacturing and align with the AAM program may include:

• Automotive Service Technician
• Software Development
• Computer Systems Technician
• Practical Nursing
• Police Foundations
• Graphic Design

No. The AAM program is unique and is only offered to high school students at select schools. You should be complete the AAM program at the same time as you complete high school. However, courses you earn during AAM may be equivalent to college courses in other programs.

Amazing! A transcript is a list of courses taken at Mohawk College. Your transcript contains details about all the courses and grades you obtained while in the AAM program. Transcripts must be submitted through your MyMohawk account. Please know transcript requests may take up to 7-10 days to process. You can also request that your transcript be sent directly to another educational institution if you are applying to a college or university other than Mohawk College. If you don’t have access to your MyMohawk Account, you can request your transcript here.

When it comes to paying for your education, investing in your future can be more affordable than you think. If you are interested in coming to Mohawk College, the Financial Assistance team can answer your questions, help you understand how to apply for our scholarships and bursaries, and show you how to master your finances. Email financialassistance [at] mohawkcollege.ca (Financial Assistance) for more information. Additionally, many students choose to apply for the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP). OSAP is a financial aid program provided by the government of Ontario to help students cover the costs of post-secondary education. OSAP offers a mix of grants (non-repayable) and loans (repayable) to eligible students based on financial need. It’s designed to assist with tuition, books, living expenses, and other education-related costs, helping to make postsecondary more accessible. You must ensure your program is eligible for OSAP; this information is available on the program website. Other things you should consider when applying to OSAP include:

• If you have a mental/physical disability
• If you come from a single-parent family
• If you or your parent(s) are collecting ODSP or OW
   

Always remember to follow the OSAP application deadlines to ensure you receive support in time for your program start.

There are lots of career pathways available in the manufacturing industry. If you are choosing to go directly into the workforce after the AAM program, you will be searching for entry-level positions that may include:

• Vehicle Assembly Technician
• Production Operator
• Manufacturing Operations Team Member

If you intend to pursue further education and/or apprenticeship, you may have additional career options including:

• Maintenance Millwright
• Manufacturing Supervisor
• General Manufacturing Manager
• Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Programmer
• Industrial Automation and Robotics pathways

An apprenticeship is a structured program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction to prepare individuals for careers in skilled trades or technical fields. In an apprenticeship, individuals (known as apprentices) work under the guidance of experienced professionals, known as journeypersons or mentors, to learn the practical skills and knowledge required in their field. There are different opportunities to start an apprenticeship. The typical steps include:

• Step One: Find an employer who is willing to train you in your preferred trade
• Step Two: Enter a Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program
• Step Three: Complete a college diploma that relates to your trade
• Step Four: Register in the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program

Alternatively, you can consider the Integrated Apprenticeship Technician Model. This model combines technical college coursework with structured, on-the-job apprenticeship training. This model is designed to help students gain practical experience while working toward industry-recognized certifications or licenses. The following programs that incorporate this model include:

• Electrical Engineering Technician – Power (403/433)
• Manufacturing Engineering Technician – IMM (413/473

The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) enables grade 11s and 12s to begin their apprenticeship early, allowing them to work toward becoming a certified journeyperson while simultaneously working toward their high school diploma.

Apprentices and skilled-trades people are always in demand. Some current areas include:

• Millwright
• Welding
• General Machinist
• Carpentry
• Metal Fabrication
• Instrumentation and Control Technician
• Automotive Service Technician

Congratulations! Your next steps should include:

• Building or updating your resume to include the Mechanical Techniques Ontario College Certificate from Mohawk College
• Reflecting on all your transferrable skills
• Working on an elevator pitch for employers!
• Talking to your Teachers and Guidance Team about all the pathways we discussed today

You are always welcome to connect with the Early College Initiatives team for more information or support. Please Email dualcredit [at] mohawkcollege.ca (Early College)or visit the Early College Initiatives website.

P-TECH is designed for students who are looking towards the future in what they want to accomplish in their high school career. Students considering P-TECH will have a desire to work in an IT career and are interested in a post-secondary diploma or degree. The P-TECH program will allow in-depth study in computer specialty courses in Grades 9-12 that allow students to focus on Information Technology topic areas at an accelerated pace. This pace will allow students to complete both a Ontario Secondary School Diploma and a College Diploma in Software Engineering, while attending high school. Students who succeed at P-TECH are:

• interested in computers, science and math
• eager to learn the skills needed to succeed in technology industries
• curious, dedicated hands-on learners ready to take on the challenges of school, college, work and life
• committed to a strong attendance record, as evidenced in elementary school
• excited to participate in extended day and/or summer programs

Because of the way the curriculum is structured to allow for acceleration into college courses, students entering their Grade 9 year will have priority placement into the P-TECH program. However, there may be opportunity and consideration given for students in other grades to transition into the P-TECH program. These students are asked to contact their guidance counsellor for more information. Students can elect to leave the program without penalty.

Students will begin taking college classes upon entering Grade 9 and will continue to take additional classes as they progress through high school. In Grade 9, the emphasis will be on team taught (see below explanation) courses, with both the college and high school teacher. The majority of the college classes in Grades 9-12 will be dual credit (see below explanation).

Students are enrolled in a course that covers the content of both a secondary course and a college course. The college instructor delivers the portion of the course from the college curriculum and the secondary teacher delivers the portion of the course contained in the Ontario curriculum. Students’ achievement is evaluated by the college instructor and the high school teacher. Successful completion of the secondary course is recorded on the students’ secondary school transcript. Credit for completion of the college course is recognized on the students’ college transcript.

Dual credit programs allow high school students to enroll in college courses for credit while still in high school. During the program, students are taught by both a high school teacher and a college instructor. Upon successful completion of the credit, two credits are earned by the student – one at the high school level, and one at the college level. College credits earned through dual credit can be applied toward high school and college graduation and can be transferred to other colleges or universities. A dual credit program benefits the student in a number of ways:

• Provides a head start on postsecondary core requirements
• Lowers the cost of college
• Expands the variety of classes available to high school students
• Allows access to college facilities/activities–such as fine arts performances, career development services, computer labs, college libraries, and learning skills/tutoring services
• Provides greater opportunities for a coordinated, seamless education
• Serves as a “controlled” introduction to college life
• Allows for an easier transition to college
• Builds students’ confidence and self-esteem

The tuition for college courses is covered. Any required textbooks or materials will also be covered in the program.

The P-TECH Early College Graduation program enables students to enjoy the following benefits:

• Earn a college diploma in Software Engineering Technician - tuition free, while in high school
• Develop workplace skills through mentorships and internships with industry partners
• Enter the job market with a front-of-line/priority interview selection process with our Industry partners in the growing field of Information Technology with an in-demand skill set

Yes! Students will be able to participate in all high school activities along with their classmates. When students enter year 5 and are at the college full-time, they will be able to participate in Mohawk College student athletics and extracurricular activities.

Yes, students will be able to participate along with their peers during graduation, provided they fulfill the requirements of their Ontario Secondary School Graduation Diploma.

Business partners will serve as mentors by providing students with work site visits, job shadowing, field experiences and more.

Tuition and textbooks for year 5 will be covered for any students who decide to continue with the P-TECH program. Students will be responsible for getting to the campus and will be able to get a HSR Presto Pass from the Mohawk Students Association.

P-TECH students will be able to apply to Mohawk College post-secondary programming via OCAS (Ontario College Application Service) as a “returning student” with their 9-digit Mohawk ID they were assigned during their P-TECH program. If students continue with the 5th year of the program and successfully complete the diploma, they will be able to apply to other colleges and universities as an adult student and their Ontario College transcript will show all the credits they earned during P-TECH. Student can then use this transcript to apply for course exemptions in similar classes at the college-level.

Not at this time. Mohawk College has many agreements with various universities but nothing directly involving the 649 Software Engineering Technician program. Please see https://www.mohawkcollege.ca/pathways-and-credit-transfer/credit-transf… for transfer agreements that Mohawk College has with universities and colleges in Ontario, Canada, the United States and abroad.

No, you will not return to high school. If there are prerequisite courses for a high school student to enter university after grade 12 these will not apply as P-TECH graduates of the 649 Software Engineering Technician diploma program will now have different entrance requirements versus those who enter direct from-high school. Students would be applying as adult students.

If students decide that they would like to participate in high school sports, they can stay for grade 13 at the high school and continue with P-TECH programming with the next cohort of students.

No. If students decide to continue with the 5th year of P-TECH, as a full-time Mohawk student the Mohawk Student Association will offer a PRESTO bus pass to use for the Hamilton Street Railway for the duration of the school year. If you do not live on a bus route you will need to make your own arrangements to get to campus.

Yes. If students log into MyMohawk they will be able to view their college credits that they have collected during their time in the P-TECH program.

Year 4 continues to leverage Dual Credit models, with greater emphasis on College Delivered Dual Credits to best prepare students for college and university academic environments following secondary school completion. In College Delivered Dual Credits, curriculum is taught solely by college faculty, and secondary school teachers are present to support students and the classroom as needed to be successful. College courses scheduled for Year 4/Grade 12 include:

• COMP 10259 Client-side Web Programming (College Delivered IBL4T High School Course Code
• MATH 10064 Discrete Math and Statistics (College Delivered MIJ4T High School Course Code)
• COMM 11000 Essentials of Communications (Team Taught alongside ENG4C/U)
• COMP 10064 Computer Training and Technical Writing (Team Taught alongside IDC4U Interdisciplinary Studies)

In Year 5, students become full-time college students, starting in Semester 3 of the Software Engineering Technician Ontario College Diploma (649) program. Students will receive support from Mohawk’s P-TECH team in registering for Year 5 and can access support from the P-TECH team any time throughout this year. Semester 3 is from September to December following the students’ completion of their OSSDs, and consists of academic courses:

• COMP 10260 Server-side Web Programming
• COMP 10204 Programming in .NET
• COMP 10066 Software Quality and Testing (those who completed ELEC 10118 Computer Hardware and Software in their earlier P-TECH years may receive an exemption from this course)
• COMP CO859 Database Theory
• A general elective General Education Electives

Every program has its own admission requirements to get accepted into the program. We have three programs in Aviation, which are Aircraft Maintenance - 269, Aircraft Structures - 289 and Avionic Maintenance - 299. Visit the program's website for the admission requirements.

If P-TECH students apply and are accepted to a program at Mohawk, they can use the elective credits that they obtained during the P-TECH program and apply for an exemption when they are in an Aviation program.

During the final program semester (typically January to April), students will participate in a Work Placement, as well as two companion courses: the Work Placement Seminar and the Software Engineering Project. For the Work Placement, students participate in a 420-hour placement in a computer science or information technology position. Placements typically run for 30 hours per week for 14 weeks. An example work schedule would be Monday to Thursday, 7.5 hours per day. The Work Placement Seminar runs concurrently at 2 hours per week or 28 total hours. In this course, students will reflect on their Work Placements while preparing for the personal and professional skills needed to enter the workforce. For the Software Engineering Project, also referred to as the Capstone Project, students work closely with a faculty advisor to propose and complete a summative project that applies several skills learned throughout the P-TECH program. Students have the option of applying the duties and environments of their Work Placements to this Capstone Project.

The requirement to stay in the course is students need to pass the courses to continue into the next semesters, and if a student is at risk of failing, we will meet with the student to see what supports we can put in place to help them pass.

We don’t want to see any students be unsuccessful in the P-TECH program. Mohawk College, working alongside the student’s high school, will be able to offer different supports during the length of the course. The objective is to identify that a student is struggling earlier on versus the failing mark at the end of the course, and we rely on both the high school teacher and Mohawk College faculty member to intervene. Students will be coached to request and access such Mohawk College supports as peer tutoring, P-TECH peer study sessions, accommodations with our Accessible Learning Services department, etc.

If students are still unable to pass a college course, opportunities to retake the course will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Students who subsequently choose to leave the P-TECH program will have any failing marks removed from their college transcripts, with the express approval of HWCDSB, to avoid creating potential barriers to future college enrolment.

Placement Specialists/Coordinators at Mohawk College work very hard to ensure eligible students find a placement. This internship is not related to a high school co-op if they had chosen to take one.

No. However, a high school coop is required for those wishing to participate in the Specialist High Skilled Majors (SHSM) program. Students wishing to graduate with a red seal diploma are required to complete a secondary school co-op to earn their SHSM certification. Students are encouraged to speak with their guidance department and SHSM teachers to confirm their co-op requirements.

The secondary school co-op placement is not required for the Software Engineering Technician Ontario College Diploma, provided that students participate in the Year 5 Semester 2 internship.