In this concise journey, we will explore the history and remarkable milestones that have shaped the Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT). From the pioneering online learning platform to fully accredited qualifications, and burgeoning professional development, we will discover the transformative impact of EIT on engineering education.
EIT has always been at the forefront of 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, and those in Australia can study on-campus. Let us dive into the history of EIT.
1986
Boston Technology is founded by Dr. Steve Mackay – his first company – established to sell data communication and industrial automation products internationally. It continues to tick over.
1991
IDC Technologies is then registered, with the aim of providing short courses and workshops for engineers and technicians, typically lasting two to five 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 like NASA, Rio Tinto, Rolls Royce, and many others. IDC continues today, but in a slightly different guise.
2008
IDC Technologies becomes an Australian Registered Training Organisation (RTO).
2009
The Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT) is born, and the RTO is moved under the EIT umbrella to offer accredited vocational qualifications, including diplomas and advanced diplomas.
An innovative online learning platform is established, with a live and interactive virtual classroom, where students meet their teachers and fellow students in real-time. The learners access remote and virtual labs for their practical applications, and dedicated Learning Support Officers guide students from onboarding through to graduation.
2013
The first advanced diploma, the Advanced Diploma of Industrial Automation is accredited by Engineers Australia it gains recognition under the Dublin Accord – the required educational base for ‘Engineering Technician’. This is a key foundation for practice in each of the countries or territories covered by the Accord. In each of the countries or territories covered by the Accord.
2014
This dedication to quality engineering education is rewarded; EIT is registered as an Australian Higher Education Provider and launches its first Master’s degree, the Master of Engineering (Industrial Automation). Four Bachelor’s degrees follow and further Master of Engineering programs.
2015
Iris Invigilation, initially developed as a joint venture between EIT and Curtin University, is an innovative solution to monitor and ensure the integrity of EIT’s online exams.
2018
EIT obtains CRICOS status, allowing the institute to provide its higher education programs to international students oncampus, in Australia. In February 2018, EIT welcomes its first cohort of international students to the Perth Campus.
2019
Due to increasing demand for quality education in engineering and technology, EIT opens a second campus in Melbourne, offering postgraduate degrees in Industrial Automation, Electrical Systems, Mechanical, and Civil and Structural Engineering.
EIT takes over the development and management of IRIS Invigilation. It is commercialised and is now being used by several large academic institutions; one notable user is a mega-university, the University of South Africa (UNISA), with over
420,000 students.
2021
EIT wins the national International Education and Training Award at the 59th Australian Export Awards.
EIT wins the national International Education and Training Award at the 59th Australian Export Awards. And in the annual Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT) Student Experience Survey (an Australian Government endorsed survey of current higher education students in Australia). EIT is ranked #1 for overall undergraduate student experience and #2 for overall postgraduate student experience (based on aggregated data 2020/2021).
2023
EIT has more than 1800 part-time and full-time students from over 140 countries. Students are enrolled in microcredentials for professional development and in qualifications – diplomas and degrees – all of which focus on engineering and technology.
EIT offers globally-based students a life-long learning journey. Look at our study pathways for more.
You can view our accredited qualifications here: https://www.eit.edu.au/why-eit/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. At EIT we are very excited about the future of engineering education and training and we look forward to what comes next.
2024
2024 was a landmark year of growth and recognition for EIT. We expanded our footprint in Australia by growing the Melbourne campus and opening a brand-new campus in Brisbane, increasing opportunities for students and improving access to engineering education nationwide. At the same time, all Perth staff relocated to a new, modern campus in West Perth, a move that reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence and further strengthens our global reputation.
It was also a year of outstanding recognition.
EIT won the Western Australian Export Award in the International Education and Training category, a prestigious honor that acknowledged our dedication to delivering accessible, world-class engineering programs and our growing impact on international education.
Building on this success, we went on to achieve national acclaim at the 62nd Australian Export Awards, where we were named the national winner of the Australian International Education and Training Award.
Together, these milestones highlight EIT’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and student success, cementing our role as a driving force in advancing engineering education for learners in more than 160 countries.
2025
2025 has been a milestone year in our evolution. Early in the year, we proudly launched our new support office in Gaborone, Botswana, extending our footprint further into Southern Africa and creating greater opportunities for regional students.
Another highlight of this year was receiving the formal outcome of the Engineers Australia (EA) General Review conducted in late 2024. We successfully gained full accreditation for a range of courses, in both our Higher Education (HE) and Vocational Education and Training (VET) programs under the Dublin, Sydney and Washington accords, across select modes and campuses. This achievement is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and passion of our team in delivering high-quality, accessible engineering education to students in over 160 countries.
We also proudly celebrated another historic achievement this year, the graduation of our first cohort of doctoral students. This moment marks a significant step forward in EIT’s academic journey, reflecting our commitment to promoting advanced research, innovation, and leadership in engineering education worldwide.
In South Africa, we hosted our first BXX002 Mechanical and Civil Workshop which forms part of our Bachelor of Science and Master of Engineering programs. It was an interactive and practical experience that brought together students, lecturers, and industry experts.
EIT broadened its academic offering by introducing a range of new engineering courses designed to meet industry demand and provide students with greater study options. These programs further strengthen EIT’s commitment to delivering practical, industry-relevant education, ensuring graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving engineering landscape.
Affiliated Colleges
Earlier this year, EIT proudly launched its sister institution, the Engineering College of Technology (ECT), based in Stevenage, UK. This marked the beginning of our Bachelor’s and Master’s programs under newly acquired UK degree-awarding powers; a landmark achievement in advancing our academic independence and global recognition.
Soon after, another historic milestone was reached in South Africa, with sister college the Engineering College of Science (ECST) receiving Council on Higher Education (CHE) approval for one of their engineering degrees at sister college, along with Provisional Accreditation.
Our efforts are also expanding in the United States, where we are actively working towards establishing a new sister college.
Looking ahead, our ambitions continue to grow as we shape the future of engineering education worldwide, building opportunities for the next generation of innovators across borders.
