Purpose
“Heavy Equipment Operator" technicians operate heavy machinery such as heavy articulating rock trucks, loaders, excavators, backhoes, dozers and graders. These machines are used universally for all manner of heavy construction, earth moving, road building, mining, forestry, and mega projects. Technicians may also be responsible for the basic maintenance of equipment, safety around equipment and the compliance of markers, grades and stakes.
Goals
The Heavy Equipment Operator Foundation program gives an overview of the industry including: safe work practices, environmental requirements, orientations to equipment and tools, and introduction to principles of civil engineering.
Activities and Design
The Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate Program includes the Road Builder & Heavy Construction Foundation, the Heavy Equipment Operator Technician, and Machine Operator Training. Students will be granted a Foundation and Technician Certificate as well as the opportunity to obtain machine specialty certificates. Graduates should gain knowledge and skills in both a classroom and hands-on setting that will enhance their success in the industry.
Program Duration
• Road Builder & Heavy Construction Foundation: 4-weeks (120 hours) • Heavy Equipment Operator Technician: 5-weeks (150 hours) • Machine Operator Training (1-8 weeks, machine dependent) for a total of 10 to 17 weeks of instruction
Evaluation
Theoretical concepts may be evaluated by written exams, assignments, case studies, presentations, and/or completion of a journal. Practical performance is assessed by instructor observations of students in work experience and field situations, and is based on mid-term and/or final evaluations. All evaluations are consistent with the NVIT Grading System. The passing grade for all technical training and in-class assessments for each component is 70%. If a component is not completed satisfactorily, a student may apply to repeat the course the next time it is offered, provided there is space available.
Credential
Students will be granted a Foundation and Technician Certificate inclusive of machine specialty certificates. Graduates will gain knowledge and skills in both a classroom and hands-on setting that will enhance their success within the industry. Graduates will also receive the HEO Foundation – Certificate of Completion from the Industry Training Authority.
Program Description
The Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate Program includes the following 3 programs:
Road Builder & Heavy Construction Foundation (4 weeks)
This 4-week course has been developed with the support of the BC Road Builders & Heavy Construction Association as a pre-employment program. The Foundation program will satisfy the pre-requisite requirements for the ITA HEO Technician (Apprenticeship) program. The following certifications may be provided:
Heavy Equipment Operator Technician (5 weeks)(/h5)
This is an Industry Training Authority apprenticeship program for those pursuing a Certificate of Qualification for the operation of one or more types of heavy equipment. Graduates will be registered apprentices and can then begin 'logging' the operating hours and competencies required for endorsement. Hours may be obtained through our HEO Machine Training or through immediate employment in the industry. This 5-week course builds on the general heavy construction content of the Foundation Program with additional training specific to heavy equipment including:
Specialized Machine Operator Training
1-8 weeks, machine dependant, specialized machine operator training may also available (individual machine training is available):
Dump Truck & Pup (1 to 2 weeks)