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In 2025, AutoCAD and project management are the most in-demand engineering skills in 2025. With the number of construction activities at an all-time high, civil engineering has made it to the top three must-have skills this year. Companies also want candidates who are well-versed in health and safety.
Mastering the right skills will put you on the fast track to success. Technical expertise, along with practical know-how, is a must to tackle modern challenges.
The demand for skilled engineers is at an all-time high, from designing with precision to managing complex projects to ensuring workplace safety.
Let's dive into the top skills you'll need to thrive in Canada's engineering job market in 2025 and see why they matter.
AutoCAD
AutoCAD remains as a must-have engineering skill in 2025. It is used by nearly every engineering professional, regardless of specialty. It is a go-to tool for turning ideas into plans.
This software enables engineers to create accurate blueprints and project plans and make adjustments with accuracy and efficiency.
Along with experience using AutoCAD, staying up-to-date with AutoCAD's latest features is a must for any professional engineer.
civil engineering
Whether you are managing site operations or creating municipal plans, civil engineering skills will shape communities for decades to come.
Canada's infrastructure projects need skilled civil engineers to bring them to life. Civil engineering skills are necessary in every field, from roads to bridges and sustainable housing to urban planning.
The demand is exceptionally high for professionals who can balance environmental impact as well as functional design. Employers value expertise in structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, and construction materials.
project management
Engineers with project management skills are in high demand. From budgeting to timelines, project management is all about keeping operations moving in the right direction.
Candidates with leadership and problem-solving abilities, experience overseeing projects, leading ross-functional teams, managing budgets, conducting risk management assessments, and supervising workers are in high demand in today’s job market.
Skills in tools like MS Project or Primavera and certifications like PMP can set you apart.
instrumentation
Instrumentation skills are essential for monitoring and controlling systems in industries such as energy, manufacturing, and process automation.
Engineers in this field know how to configure sensors, calibrate devices, and fine-tune control systems to ensure precision in operation. They’re the go-to experts for troubleshooting equipment and solving system issues before they cause downtime.
Familiarity with systems like SCADA or PLCs is often a must. In a world focused on optimizing processes, this skill keeps operations running like clockwork.
automation
Whether it's in manufacturing or smart cities, automation is everywhere.
Engineers who can design and implement automated systems are helping businesses reduce labour costs, increase efficiency and boost safety.
Candidates interested in automation should acquire practical skills and updated knowledge in telemetry, control systems, sensor design, and systems integration.
Advanced knowledge of robotics, AI-driven systems, and IoT platforms is also essential to staying relevant in 2025.
health & safety standards
Safety isn’t optional—it’s essential which is why it stands out as one of the top engineering skills in 2025. Engineers who are well-versed in health and safety standards are critical to every industry.
Understanding regulations like CSA standards or OHSA guidelines ensures workplaces remain safe and compliant, especially on construction sites and production floors.
Employers want engineers who can identify risks, implement preventative measures, and promote a culture of safety. In 2025, this skill is about more than compliance—it’s about protecting people and building trust.
engineering certifications to consider pursuing in 2025
Engineering certifications can set you apart in a competitive job market and the top engineering certification options continue to remain the same this year.
Most of these certifications, such as SE, PE and EIT certifications, are standard credentials for professionals in the engineering industry.
Candidates seeking to advance their engineering careers should take steps to gain the professional certifications that most closely match their overall career goals.
1. professional engineer (PE)
Obtaining your Professional Engineer (PE) certification is the minimal requirement many employers have when hiring engineers.
This certification proves that you have the skills and technical knowledge to design, construct, and maintain structures that comply with all governmental regulations.
2. engineer in training (EIT)
Before officially becoming PE certified, you must work as an Engineer in Training (EIT) for at least four years.
Many employers will hire EIT-certified workers and provide the supervisory experience needed for their PE certification.
3. project management professional certification (PMP)
To earn the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, candidates typically need to accumulate a specified amount of experience, around 4,500 to 7,500 hours, depending on their educational background.
Many employers actively seek PMP-certified individuals and support their journey to fulfill these experience requirements.
4. certified engineer technologist (CET)
Certified Engineering Technologists (CET) and Certified Technicians (C. Tech) are in high demand today.
Both certifications show that engineers can combine applied science, engineering, and information systems and have experience incorporating technology into their engineering roles.
5. computer-aided design and drafting (CADD)
Experience working with Computer-Aided Design and Draft (CADD) systems is essential for all engineers.
Candidates wishing to pursue a career in engineering should know how to use CADD systems for drafting, modelling, and creating blueprints.
6. electronic systems technicians (EST)
Certified Electronic Systems Technicians (EST) have the skills to install, maintain, and upgrade residential and commercial-grade electrical systems.
This type of certification is essential for electrical and mechanical engineers.
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