Motive Power Techniques - Heavy Equipment

Credential

Ontario College Certificate

Area Of Interest

Skilled Trades

Duration

34 weeks

Program Code

0372

Location

Thunder Bay

Overview

Start Dates & Ontario Colleges Program Codes:

  • Fall Start (September): 0372

CIP Code: 47.0302 (PGWP eligible)

Think Bigger

Pursue a career in heavy equipment maintenance and repair with Confederation College’s Motive Power Techniques – Heavy Equipment certificate program. This comprehensive program covers all aspects of the heavy-duty service industry, providing hands-on experience in maintaining and repairing heavy-duty systems such as gear trains, electrical/electronics, diesel fuel systems, air brakes, hydraulics, steering, and suspensions. You’ll work on heavy-duty trucks, off-road construction, and forestry equipment including front-end loaders, bulldozers, excavators, skidders, trucks, and tractors. In addition to practical training, the program comprises in-class learning modules to equip you with the mechanical knowledge and workplace skills needed to excel in today’s job market. While focused on heavy equipment, this program prepares you for diverse career opportunities in various mechanical fields.

Top Highlights

  • Field Placement: The program includes a two-week field placement, providing on-the-job training in a real shop setting.
  • Industry-Standard Training: Courses follow industry standards and practices, ensuring you are job-ready upon graduation.
  • Cutting-Edge Technology: Learn today’s technologies and how to adapt to future advancements.
  • Diverse Career Pathways: Although focused on heavy equipment, this program opens doors to various mechanical fields.

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. identify basic motive power system problems by using critical thinking skills and strategies and by applying fundamental knowledge of motor vehicle operation, components, and their interrelationships.
  2. identify, inspect, and test basic engine components and systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
  3. identify, inspect, and test basic electrical, electronic, and emission components and systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
  4. identify, inspect, and test basic drive train components and systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations
  5. identify, inspect, and test basic suspension, steering, and brake components and systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
  6. disassemble and assemble components to required specifications by applying workshop skills and knowledge of basic shop practices.
  7. use a variety of test equipment to assess basic electronic circuits, vehicle systems, and subsystems.
  8. apply basic knowledge of hydraulics and pneumatics to the testing and inspection of basic motive power systems and subsystems.
  9. communicate information effectively, credibly, and accurately by producing supporting documentation to appropriate standards.
  10. use information technology and computer skills to access data concerning repair procedures and manufacturers' update.
  11. develop and use personal and professional strategies and plans to improve professional growth, job performance, and work relationships.
  12. complete all assigned work in compliance with occupational, health, safety, and environmental law; established policies and procedures; codes and regulations; and in accordance with ethical principles.
  13. perform soldering operations; welding and cutting using oxyfuel; and welding using SMAW.
  14. use hoisting and rigging techniques to safely support, move and extract heavy duty equipment components in accordance with industry standards.
     

Ideal Candidate Profile

Succeed in the Motive Power Techniques – Heavy Equipment program if you are:

  • Mechanically Inclined: Naturally drawn to working with heavy machinery and mechanical systems.
  • Problem Solver: Possess strong analytical skills to troubleshoot and repair heavy equipment.
  • Team Player: Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
  • Physically Fit: Capable of handling the demanding physical tasks associated with heavy equipment maintenance.
  • Detail-Oriented: Appreciate the importance of precision and safety in mechanical practices.
     

Employment Opportunities

Graduates of the Motive Power Techniques – Heavy Equipment program will have the skills to secure employment in a variety of industries, including:

  • Heavy Equipment Technician
  • Truck/Coach Technician
  • Fork-Lift Technician
  • Farm Equipment Technician
  • Heavy Equipment Parts and Sales

These opportunities span diverse sectors such as forestry, construction, mining, agriculture, transportation, government, automotive dealerships, service stations, specialty shops, and virtually any business or industry employing heavy equipment mechanics.
 

CLICK ... to explore Careers in this field

Explore careers, current wages, employment stats, job postings, and associated education & training.

Confederation College Logo sqr

Barry Travolo

Professor, Coordinator