on June 13th, 2023

In this concise journey, we’ll explore the remarkable history that has shaped the Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT) into a leading institution. From pioneering online learning platforms to fully accredited courses, we will discover the transformative impact of EIT on engineering education.

We embrace cutting-edge technologies and emerging trends, ensuring that our programs stay ahead of the curve. Through our dynamic and interactive online learning platforms, students from around the globe can access our courses. So, let us dive into the history of EIT.

1986:

Boston Technology is the first company that Steve Mackay started, selling communication and industrial automation products in Australia and New Zealand mainly.

Boston Technology’s logo

1991:

IDC Technologies was established to offer short courses and workshops for engineers and technicians, typically lasting two days and delivered face-to-face.

These workshops covered a wide range of engineering disciplines; they were offered publicly in cities worldwide and on work sites for companies such as NASA, Rio Tinto, Rolls Royce, and many others.

IDC Technologies’ logo

2008:

IDC Technologies became an Australian Registered Training Organization (RTO).

2009:

The Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT) was born and the IDC RTO status was transferred to EIT to offer accredited vocational qualifications, including diplomas and advanced diplomas.

The learning platform used by EIT is an innovative live, online model where students interact with their instructors in real-time, and access remote labs and simulation software for their practical applications. Dedicated Learning Support Officers guide students from onboarding through to graduation.

2013:

The first Advanced Diploma of Industrial Automation was accredited by Engineers Australia and therefore gained recognition under the Dublin Accord by the International Engineering Alliance. This accreditation acknowledged the high quality and relevance of EIT’s engineering education programs in Australia and abroad.

2014:

This dedication to quality engineering education was rewarded when EIT became registered as an Australian Higher Education Provider and launched its first master’s degree, the Master of Engineering (Industrial Automation). Four bachelor’s degrees followed as did further master’s programs.

2015:

IRIS Invigilation, initially developed as a joint venture between EIT and Curtin University, was introduced in 2015 as an innovative solution to monitor and ensure the integrity of online exams.

IRIS Invigilation’s logo

2018:

EIT obtained CRICOS status, allowing the institute to provide higher education engineering programs to international students on campus, in Australia. In February 2018, EIT welcomed its first cohort of international students to the Perth campus.

A group photo of some staff and students taken at the Perth campus

2019:

Due to increasing demand for quality education in engineering and technology, EIT opened a second campus in Melbourne, offering postgraduate degrees in Industrial Automation, Electrical Systems, Mechanical, and Civil and Structural Engineering.

EIT also took over the development and management of IRIS Invigilation and has since been implemented in several large academic institutions, one notable user is a mega-university University of South Africa (UNISA) with over 420,000 students.

A photo taken near the entrance of the Melbourne campus

2020:

EIT’s Doctor of Engineering program received accreditation from the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA), further cementing the institution’s commitment to offering students a seamless tertiary pathway of learning.

2021:

EIT won the state and national International Education and Training Award at the 59th Australian Export Awards.

EIT’s framed International Education and Training Award

In 2021 EIT ranked #1 for overall undergraduate student experience, and #2 for overall postgraduate student experience, in the Australian Government’s annual QILT Student Experience Surveys (based on aggregated data 2020/2021).

EIT’s QILT Survey results

2023 (Present):

EIT has more than 1800 part-time and full-time students from 140 countries, with students enrolled in professional development courses and qualifications, all of which focus on engineering and technology.

As of May 2023, 16 qualifications have full accreditation.

With a strong commitment to practical, industry-focused training, EIT equips students and professionals with the skills needed to succeed in the ever-evolving engineering landscape. As a family and a unit of excellence, we are beyond thrilled about what the future has in store!

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