August 24, 2010 – Foreign-trained professionals, now have access to information they will need if they are interested in a career as an Alberta Land Surveyor, thanks to a new website www.albertasurveyingcareers.ca
“Over the years many foreign-trained professionals have expressed interest in obtaining a commission as an Alberta Land Surveyor,” says Brian Ross, ALS, President of the Alberta Land Surveyors’ Association. “There is a great deal that a prospective land surveyor needs to know and accomplish prior to being able to work in Alberta. This new website provides the necessary information.”
Carl Larson, ALS, received his first land surveying commission in Namibia, Africa. “I chose Alberta because of the diversity in land surveying. The kind of surveying I could do in other provinces was limited, but in Alberta there was an opportunity to work with large surveying firms engaged in major projects. There was also a great opportunity to become involved in management,” says Larson. “In most other provinces, land surveying is largely carried out by sole proprietors.”
“This is typical of people looking to Alberta for employment—they see it as a land of opportunity, and we welcome them. Their diverse experiences contribute significantly to our Association and our province,” concludes Ross.
The process foreign-trained professionals must follow to obtain an ALS commission is rigorous. Some of their existing credentials may be recognized and will help them along the way; but all will require course work and experience related to Canada’s land measurement system and land-related legal framework. Once they complete the necessary course requirements, examinations and articles they will be able to obtain a commission as an Alberta Land Surveyor.
The new website includes information about educational requirements, a general introduction to land surveying in Alberta and information and links to information about living and working in the province.
About ALSA
The Alberta Land Surveyors’ Association is a self-governing body that regulates the profession of land surveying for the protection of the public and administration of the profession.