Heavy Duty Equipment Technicians are a vital part of today’s economy and the job opportunities and wages offered today reflect this demand.
The program involves the development of many technical skills that are needed to succeed in this ever changing field of technology. This training which is a combination of in class theory as well as live hands on repair work and shop time will allow students to take advantage of many job opportunities in the future.
The program consists of eight courses offered over two semesters. It will focus on Safety Training related to work in the shop as well as proper use of hand tools, Rebuilding and diagnosing Engines, Transmissions, differentials and clutches, as well as some basic electrical and touching on Computer Diagnostics. In addition, students will learn other skills in related areas such as Forklift operation, Basic Welding, and Operating Heavy Equipment.
There are three main areas that are covered in the Heavy Duty Equipment Technology program. They are Agricultural Equipment Technician, Truck and Transport Mechanic, and Heavy Duty Equipment Technician. After completing the course students have found employment at truck and transport dealerships, trucking firms, repair centers, Ag Dealerships, Farm machinery retail and service shops as well as working for Heavy construction companies, railways, companies involved in forestry, farming, oil and gas, material handling, landscaping and land clearing all employ heavy duty equipment technicians as well as a variety of other jobs relating to mechanical, manufacturing and engineering occupations.
The Heavy Duty Equipment Technology program courses include:
Section A
8673 Introduction to Heavy Duty Equipment Technician 20S
8674 Diesel Engines Fundamentals and Service 30S
8675 Chassis, Frame and Undercarriage System 30S
8676 Welding Processes and Fuels 30S
Section B
8677 Standard Transmissions, Drivelines, Transfer Cases and Power Takeoffs 40S
8678 Tires, Wheels and Brake Assemblies 40S
8679 Electrical Fundamentals, Computers, and Diagnostic Equipment 40S
8704 Applied Heavy Duty Equipment Technician 40S
The Heavy-Duty Equipment Technology program is accredited with Apprenticeship Manitoba. To qualify for accreditation, a student must achieve an overall average of 70% or higher across all eight credits, they will receive recognition for level one technical (in-class) training in the Heavy-Duty Equipment trades: 1) Agricultural Equipment Technician, 2) Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, and 3) Truck and Transport Mechanic. A student must then become a registered apprentice with an employer and complete the remaining required practical hours.
Practical (on-the-job) training hours can be acquired through the High School Apprenticeship Program (HSAP) – a high school work practicum recognized by Apprenticeship Manitoba. These hours can be earned during evenings, weekends, or school breaks.
The Heavy Duty Equipment Technician program is offered in a bright, clean well equipped shop with quality tools and current diagnostic equipment at the Garden Valley Collegiate Technical Education Centre.