Interested in repairing large machinery and heavy equipment? Do you want to be a Heavy Duty Mechanic? There's never been a better time to build a career in this growing sector
Domestic Availability
Waitlisted
International Availability
Closed
Program Code
MPH
Delivery
Hybrid, Co-op
Credential
Ontario College Certificate
Academic School
Location
Program Contact
Apply Now
Canadian StudentsView Curriculum
Domestic Availability
Accepting Applications
International Availability
Closed
Program Code
MPH
Delivery
Hybrid, Co-op
Credential
Ontario College Certificate
Academic School
Location
Program Contact
Apply Now
Canadian StudentsView Curriculum
Throughout your Heavy Equipment Techniques program, you will study the Theory of Operation, overhaul, maintenance and repair of heavy equipment. Upon successful completion, you will have a comprehensive background in mechanical studies, preventative maintenance, safe shop practices, and equipment management systems.
Please note:In this program, students pay tuition and fees for two semesters. In addition, students will pay a co-op fee (approximately $552.00) for administrative costs associated with the co-op.
Studying Heavy Equipment skills at Fleming College pays off in several ways:
Upon successful completion of the Heavy Equipment Techniques program, you will be eligible for exemption of the in-school training portion for the respective trade. You will be required to take your final Fleming College transcript and course outlines to your local Ministry Training Colleges & Universities office to apply for exemption.
The Toromont CAT THINK BIG Scholarship is available to students who are currently employed by, or who have previously been employed by Toromont CAT as a high school co-op in a skilled trade, and who plan to enrol in this program. Check out your eligibility and application details at the Toromont CAT website.
Here is a full list of available scholarships and bursaries within the Heavy Equipment Techniques Co-op program:
See the Bursaries and Scholarships page for more details.
The mandatory co-op is an integral part of the learning and mentoring process. Starting your first semester in January allows you to participate in a paid co-op from May to August (spring semester). This is the busiest season for this industry, so job placements are readily available. This is an ideal opportunity for students to apply the skills and knowledge gained in semester 1, while demonstrating their abilities to potential, future employers.
There are several opportunities for graduates, particularly for women considering a non-traditional trade. Whether you want to work close to home, or want to try out a new locale and culture, there are many jobs, and the starting wage is about $20.00 per hour. A good licensed technician can make a living in the range of $70,000.00 to $90,000.00 per year, and with overtime, significantly more. The jobs are to be found in repairing earth moving, aggregate extraction, forest harvesting, materials handling, transportation, agriculture, and mining equipment. With experience, you may become a:
Besides hands-on jobs that involve the repair of equipment, there are other career opportunities - such as positions in product support, sales, or parts.
Besides a desire to work with large equipment, it would help if you have the following skills and characteristics:
Previous experience with heavy equipment, machinery, or vehicles would be an asset.
For the first 3 semesters of the Heavy Equipment Technician program you take the same courses as for the Electrical Power Generation Technician diploma. That means when you complete the Heavy Equipment Technician program, you can enter into the fourth semester of the Electrical Power Generation Technician program. With one more semester of study, you can obtain an Ontario College Diploma, expand your skills, and your employment options.
Derek Doyle, from Peterborough, Ontario graduated and was hired to work as a Technician by Toromont CAT. He was one of six students in the program graduating class to be hired by Toromont, along with another six students hired from the Electrical Power Generation program.
I love the program because it's so hands-on. Most people coming in have a general knowledge but we get right to the specifics like hydraulics, powertrains, and how everything works. I find it interesting and even relaxing when I'm working intensely. The key is not to get ahead of yourself.
Derek Doyle
All students entering this program are required to purchase and have available, tools and safety equipment for use in our labs. We ask that you acquire the equipment needed for the program prior to start-up.
You will need a basic hand tool set, hearing protection and safety boots. (If possible, we suggest watching for sales to purchase at stores such as Walmart or Canadian Tire.) Medium quality tools are all that are required at an entry level.
To be admitted into any shop area, each student must wear CSA approved green-patch 8” OHM rated work boots - approx. $200.00. You will also be provided with a digital multi-meter, safety glasses, hard hat and coveralls which will be included in your program tuition. (You will be responsible for cleaning your coveralls.)
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn in labs, the main shop, and on the yard. PPE is required in all areas at all times or you will be removed from the area.
Your hand tools should consist of:
Plan on spending about $1,150 for books, tools and supplies.
Students applying to Heavy Equipment Techniques (Co-op) must meet the following requirements:
Internet Connection: 2.5 Mbps Download and 3.0 Mbps Upload (minimum)
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