Dec 13, 2024  
2024-2025 Academic Calendar 
    
2024-2025 Academic Calendar [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Learn more about Coastal Forest Technology Diploma


Developed with the input of industry leaders and with a focus on applied and experiential learning, the 2-year Coastal Forestry Technology Diploma program prepares graduates to keep pace with the latest practices and technologies required by the BC Forestry Sector. You’ll gain a comprehensive foundation in ecology, silviculture, forest measurements, forest operations, sustainable resource management, cultural resource management, communication skills and occupational safety.

Program Outcomes include, but are not limited to:

  • Identify, explain and demonstrate forest technologists’ skills, competencies and functions inclusive of forest measurements, silviculture, forest operations and forest protection.
  • Demonstrate an ability to integrate Indigenous knowledge, values and objectives in operational planning and management practices.
  • Identify and describe forest ecosystems.
  • Describe the components of forest ecosystems and their complex interactions.
  • Conduct forest inventory surveys and field measurements to determine forest resource values.
  • Identify, assess and mitigate the impacts of a wide range of forest health factors.
  • Contribute to all phases of forest management.
  • Demonstrate working knowledge of relevant legislation and regulatory requirements.
  • Demonstrate respectful stakeholder engagement.
  • Demonstrate ethical and professional conduct.
  • Demonstrate project management and coordination skills with health, safety and environmental considerations as per Forest Technologist practice and requirements.
  • Communicate effectively in all areas of resource management using appropriate terms and concepts.
  • Apply mensuration principles and standards when collecting field data.
  • Use leading edge software and technology in the collection, analysis, interpretation and presentation of field data to accurately represent resource inventories
  • Apply principles of wildfire prevention and protection.
  • Identify, select, operate, and maintain tools and equipment as appropriate in a variety of environmental conditions.
  • Demonstrate ability to work in accordance with safety and operating standards.
  • Demonstrate ability to work independently and in a collaborative environment while applying effective teamwork, leadership and interpersonal skills.

Career Opportunities

Graduates will have the opportunity to apply through the ABCFP to become a Trainee Forest Technologist (TFT) on the pathway to becoming a Registered Forest Technologist (RFT) upon completion.

Potential employment options include:

  • Timber Cruiser
  • Forest Engineer
  • Wildfire Specialist
  • Operations Technologist
  • Riparian Assessor
  • Forest Health Surveyor
  • Silvicultural Technician
  • GIS Analyst
  • Timber Appraisal Specialist
  • Forest Protection Officer

Supply List

You are responsible for obtaining the following supplies and field tools.

Field Equipment (please see the downloadable PDF below the list for equipment specifications and examples

  • caulk boots
  • Hiking boots
  • high-vis rain gear
  • high visibility vest
  • hard hat with visor and ear protectors
  • safety glasses
  • compass
  • field book (waterproof)
  • rite-in-rain note paper
  • 3” binder & note paper
  • flash drive
  • pens, pencils, highlighters and eraser iPad & environmental case


iPad and environmental case tech specs:

  • iPad mini or iPad Air (mini is often preferred for field work)
  • 64 GB or higher
  • MUST be Wi-fi + Cellular and GPS enabled (must be able to take a SIM card, but you do not need a data plan)
  • Android tablet alternatives are available but please confirm with the program lead

Download the Supply List PDF