Until 1992, airports in Canada were operated and maintained by Transport Canada. Since then, airport operations have fallen within the domain of advisory boards comprised of individuals from municipalities and private enterprise. This change has resulted in a need for airports to have professionally-trained personnel. As well, the Asia Pacific airports are moving into a growth phase, with regional governments realizing the increasing need to both build world class airports and upgrade the existing ones to international standards. Governments in the region are looking to fast track privatization. These airports by themselves promise opportunities as none of them meet the latest international quality standards. The award-winning BCIT diploma program in Airport Operations is designed to meet the demands of today's unique and dynamic global airport operation environment. In the next 10 years, this exciting industry is expected to see a major increase in capacity and many opportunities for skilled entry level airport operation personnel world-wide are becoming available. Explore career ideas from the Saskatchewan Aviation Council3 and view a career video.4 The Program The 16-month BCIT diploma program in Airport Operations, supported and approved by the aviation industry, provides students with a comprehensive, interdisciplinary program of study. This is the only program of its type in Western Canada. To maintain a current, high-calibre standard, the program has an industry Advisory Committee made up of airport and airline managers, airport field staff from Canada's local regional and national airports, and Transport Canada representatives. BCIT also offers an online Airport Operations Part-time studies Associate Certificate5.

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of entry-level positions in aviation businesses, suppliers and airports. This could include positions such as: Ground Transportation Coordinator; Baggage/Gate Scheduler; Airside Operations Project Coordinator; Communications Coordinator; Administrative Assistant; Airfield Operations Specialist; Emergency Response Specialist; Airport Operations Officer; Security Officer; Project Specialist; Pre-screening Security Supervisor; Airport Duty Officer, Noise Information Officer and Terminal Operations (airline). For more career ideas, check out the Saskatchewan Aviation Council.1