Certificate of Business Technology Management (BTM) addresses labour market needs

The recently-launched Certificate of Business Technology Management (BTM) – a program that enhances academic and career opportunities for business undergraduates immersed in the realms of technology and innovation – continues to garner significant student body interest at SFU’s Beedie School of Business.

The Canadian Coalition for Tomorrow’s ICT Skills (CCICT) and the academic community have designed the BTM certificate to provide individuals with the opportunity to learn about innovation, leadership, and implementation of change in organizations, especially in the information and communications technology area. With completion of the certificate, SFU graduates from the program will join an elite group of business professionals supported by a national coalition of employers.

Along with developing interpersonal communications, collaboration, and leadership skills, BTM students learn to analyze business processes, design appropriate technology-based solutions and lead projects.

“This is a certificate that employers will recognize as evidence of having the skills necessary for understanding technology and its implementation,” said Dr. Dianne Cyr, Professor in Management Information Systems at SFU’s Beedie School of Business and BTM local academic leader.

BTM students will experience academic courses in combination with relevant extracurricular activities and work experiences. In addition, employers will play a significant role in BTM activities – serving on advisory councils, offering co-ops and internships, participating in competitions and conferences, and facilitating graduate employment.

“The BTM certificate is a reflection of Canada’s dynamic and fast-changing labour market, with its growing demand for employees who understand both business and technology to support and lead innovation,” said Dr. Blaize Reich, RBC Professor of Technology and Innovation at SFU and BTM national representative.

The program encourages students to participate in information and communication technology (ICT) industry initiatives, increase their exposure to the ICT industry, and prepare themselves for further development through professional designations within the industry such as those offered by the Project Management Institute (www.pmi.org), or the International Institute of Business Analysts (www.theiiba.org).

To watch an informational interview about the BTM Certificate, click here.