Heavy Duty Technician Program

FPDI in partnership with Assiniboine College, have created a seven-month Heavy Duty Technician certificate pre-apprenticeship program for Indigenous People. The program gives students the training they need to service agricultural, heavy equipment, and transport trucks. They will learn the theory of diagnosing and repairing, then get in the shop and put that theory to work operating and fixing the machines. Students are trained on diesel engines, power trains, and electrical systems, along with learning related shop skills, not to mention important shop and workplace safety. Students will also explore the different types of systems that are responsible for electronic and computerized control, monitoring, diesel and gasoline fuel, air-conditioning, hydraulics, steering, suspension, and advanced braking, plus equipment service and operation.

It starts with a two-week Essential Skills component from Workplace Education Manitoba (WEM), which offers assessments tailored to specific groups focused on careers and future training.

Students who complete the accredited certificate program with an accumulative average of 70% or better in the trade subjects and level for which the program was accredited, gain employment and register as an apprentice within two years of graduating, will receive credit for Level 1 in-school technical training and 900 hours in Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, Agricultural Equipment Technician or Truck and Transport Mechanic apprenticeship program.

An exciting feature of the Heavy Equipment Technician program at ACC is the practical component, which provides the opportunity for students to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in their courses to enhance their employability. The goal is to provide easier access for all students to the available job market upon graduation.