Courses are delivered on a rotating basis according to the number of apprentices in each level.
Please find details about this program on the Skilled Trades Ontario Website.
Level 1
The Commercial Vehicle and Equipment Level 1 curriculum at Confederation College includes a comprehensive range of subjects designed to provide apprentices with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in various aspects of heavy-duty equipment technician trade. The program covers several core areas:
Trade Practices:
- Total of 40 hours, with 24 hours dedicated to theory and 16 hours to practical exercises.
- Subjects covered include Occupational Health and Safety, Precision Measuring Tools, Fastening Devices and Torquing Procedures, Bearings Seals and Sealants, and Oxy-Fuel Processes.
Occupational Health and Safety:
- 10 hours in total, comprising 8 hours of theory and 2 hours of practical learning.
- This subject includes learning about workplace safety, use of protective equipment, fire prevention, environmental protection, and legal responsibilities under various safety acts and regulations.
Precision Measuring Tools:
- 6 hours duration, evenly divided between theory and practical application.
- It covers the use of precision and non-precision measuring tools, including micrometers, gauges, callipers, and torque wrenches, along with their maintenance and calibration.
Fastening Devices and Torquing Procedures:
- An 8-hour module, split equally between theory and practical.
- Topics include fastener types and applications, torque procedures, and the impact of various factors on torque and tension.
Bearings, Seals, and Sealants:
- 8 hours long, with 5 hours of theory and 3 hours of practical exercises.
- This subject covers the fundamentals, types, operation, inspection, and maintenance of bearings, seals, and sealants.
Oxy-Fuel Processes:
- Also an 8-hour subject, with equal emphasis on theory and practical skills.
- It includes training on the operation, safety, and maintenance of oxyacetylene heating and cutting equipment, as well as practical skills for using this equipment in various tasks.
Level 2
The Commercial Vehicle and Equipment Level 2 program at Confederation College is designed to provide apprentices with an advanced level of theoretical knowledge and practical skills in various aspects of heavy-duty equipment and agricultural equipment technician trades. The curriculum is developed in accordance with the Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities (MTCU) Training Standards and is intended to complement on-the-job work experiences. The curriculum includes a balance of theory and practical application, with specific time allocations for each subject area to ensure a comprehensive learning experience.
The Level 2 curriculum covers the following subjects:
Trade Practices:
- Total of 24 hours, with 11.5 hours dedicated to theory and 12.5 hours to practical exercises.
Fluid Power Systems:
- Total of 56 hours, with 38 hours for theory and 18 hours for practical exercises.
Engine Systems:
- Total of 32 hours, with 19 hours for theory and 13 hours for practical exercises.
Electrical Systems:
- Total of 40 hours, with 29 hours for theory and 11 hours for practical exercises.
Fuel Systems:
- Total of 32 hours, with 19 hours for theory and 13 hours for practical exercises.
Drive Train Systems:
- Total of 32 hours, with 18 hours for theory and 14 hours for practical exercises.
Steering, Tires, and Brake Systems:
- Total of 24 hours, with 17 hours for theory and 7 hours for practical exercises.
Overall, the Level 2 program focuses on enhancing the apprentices' skills and knowledge in a variety of critical areas, including trade practices, fluid power systems, engine systems, electrical systems, fuel systems, drive train systems, and steering, tires, and brake systems. The program's structure ensures that apprentices receive a well-rounded education, combining theoretical learning with practical applications to prepare them for the complexities of the trade.
Each subject area is designed to align with the Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities Apprenticeship Training Standards, and they incorporate both in-class learning outcomes and practical applications. The program also emphasizes safety precautions across all subjects, including the handling of hazardous materials and protective equipment use.
Level 3
The Commercial Vehicle and Equipment Level 3 program at Confederation College is designed to provide apprentices with advanced training in the heavy-duty equipment technician trade. This curriculum, developed in line with the Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities (MTCU) Training Standards, aims to prepare apprentices with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for inspecting, diagnosing, repairing, and servicing increasingly complex equipment.
The Level 3 curriculum covers the following subjects:
Trade Practice:
- Total of 24 hours, with 8 hours for theory and 16 hours for practical exercises.
Fluid Power Systems:
- Total of 48 hours, with 30 hours for theory and 18 hours for practical exercises.
Engine Systems:
- Total of 24 hours, with 16 hours for theory and 8 hours for practical exercises.
Electrical/Electronic Systems:
- Total of 40 hours, with 23 hours for theory and 17 hours for practical exercises.
Fuel Systems:
- Total of 40 hours, with 26 hours for theory and 14 hours for practical exercises.
Drive Train Systems:
- Total of 32 hours, with 16 hours for theory and 16 hours for practical exercises.
Brakes, Track, and Suspension Systems:
- Total of 32 hours, with 18 hours for theory and 14 hours for practical exercises.
The curriculum is designed to provide flexibility and innovation in teaching while adhering to the subject requirements set by the Industry Committees and Regulations for the Trades. Regular evaluations in both theory and practical applications ensure that apprentices are achieving the expected learning outcomes. The curriculum also emphasizes the importance of safety in all practical activities, aligning with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and other relevant regulations.
Developed in collaboration with industry representatives and several colleges of applied arts and technology, the Level 3 program aims to meet the evolving demands of the trade by reinforcing fundamental skills, enhancing problem-solving abilities, and fostering a sense of craftsmanship and pride in the trade.
