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Trades & Applied Technology Programs

Heavy Equipment Operator Technician

  • 5–Week Certificate Program
  • Offered at the Nanaimo campus
  • Program Fees: Contact the Trades & Applied Technology Department: 1–888–920–2221 local 6227
  • Apply for Admission: Application form

The Program

This is an apprenticeship program that will grant graduates a Vancouver Island University certificate as well as ITA Heavy Equipment Operator Technician certification. The program will be delivered by Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) instructors in current classrooms at our existing HEO site. Instruction will be classroom, lab and shop with experiential components and may use online components. This program provides students with the knowledge and basic skills that will help them to be successful as they continue into the existing Vancouver Island University program or directly into industry.

Career Opportunities

This program is an ITA accredited program designed to provide graduates with the skills they need to become employed as a Heavy Equipment Operator. This program provides students with a theory base along with practical skills required for entrance into operating equipment in the road building and heavy construction industry in BC.

Admission Requirements

General Admission Requirements

  • Assessment testing and Personal Profile may be required
  • Interview may be required
  • Good health, free of vision, hearing, or respiratory ailments

Recommendations for Admission

  • Minimum 18 years of age (exceptions may be allowed)
  • Grade 12 or equivalent (exceptions may be allowed)
  • Class 5 Driver's License that must be maintained throughout the program
  • Physically fit and able to adapt to rugged working conditions

Students should check with the Program Assistant toll–free at 1–888–920–2221 local 6227 for details.

Transfer from other institutions

Students who have taken the Heavy Equipment Operator Foundations program may qualify for advanced placement and should check with the HEO Program Assistant toll–free at 1–888–920–2221 local 6227.

Start Date and Application Deadline

The program starts each April and September. Applications are taken at any time. For further information contact the Trades & Applied Technology Department: toll–free at 1–888–920–2221 local 6227.

Special Expenses

In addition to tuition fees, books will cost approximately $200 and personal attire to meet WCB regulations is required; steel toed boots, hardhat, hearing protection, safety vest and gloves, (personal attire will cost approximately $150). Students are also responsible for transportation costs to worksites.

Note: All fees and other costs are subject to change without prior notice.

Program Outline

Heavy Equipment Operator Technician

HETC 100T - (Safe Work Practices)

HETC 105T - (Trade and Equipment Knowledge)

HETC 110T - (Employability Skills)

HETC 115T - (Basic Engineering)

HETC 120T - (Environmental Practices)

HETC 125T - (Articulated Haul Truck Operation)

HETC 130T - (Loader Operation)

HETC 135T - (Backhoe Operation)

HETC 140T - (Dozer Operation)

HETC 145T - (Excavator Operation)

HETC 150T - (Grader Operation)

Updated: July 27, 2010