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Apprenticeship

Truck and Coach Technician Apprenticeship

In the Truck and Coach Technician Apprenticeship program, you will learn how to diagnose and repair heavy vehicle systems through hands-on shop training that prepares you to keep commercial and public transport fleets safely on the road.

Program Start Options

IntakeDurationFormatCampusDomesticInternational
310T
Any Time
2–5 years (varies by trade)
Part-Time
In-Person
Thunder Bay
Domestic students accepted
International students not accepted

The Truck and Coach Technician Apprenticeship Program is a specialized training course designed for individuals seeking a career in the maintenance, repair, and overall upkeep of commercial trucks, emergency vehicles, buses, and road transport vehicles. This program equips apprentices with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in a trade that is essential for the smooth operation of transportation and logistics in modern society.

Key Features of the Program:

  1. Comprehensive Training: The apprenticeship combines theoretical classroom learning with practical, hands-on experience. This blended approach ensures apprentices not only understand the concepts but also can apply them effectively in real-world situations.
  2. Diverse Skill Set: Apprentices will gain proficiency in a wide range of areas, including engine systems, electrical and electronic systems, drive train systems, steering and suspension systems, and advanced electronic fuel systems. This diverse skill set is crucial for the maintenance and repair of modern vehicles, which are becoming increasingly complex and technologically advanced.
  3. Industry-Relevant Curriculum: The program's curriculum is continuously updated to reflect the latest trends and technologies in the truck and coach industry. This ensures that apprentices are learning current practices and are well-prepared for the future demands of the trade.
  4. Career Opportunities: Upon completion, apprentices will be ready to step into various roles within the industry. Employment opportunities span across public transportation, commercial transport, fleet maintenance, emergency vehicle services, and more, offering a wide range of career paths.
  5. Certification and Advancement: Successful completion of the apprenticeship can lead to certification as a skilled Truck and Coach Technician. This certification is highly respected in the industry and can open doors to further career advancement and specialization.
  6. Safety and Standards Compliance: A significant focus is given to safety practices and compliance with industry standards. Apprentices learn to maintain high safety standards, ensuring both personal and vehicle safety.

The Truck and Coach Technician Apprenticeship Program is ideal for those who are technically inclined, enjoy problem-solving, and are interested in a hands-on career in the automotive industry. With its comprehensive training and diverse skill development, the program promises a rewarding and fulfilling career path in truck and coach maintenance and repair.

A Truck and Coach Apprenticeship is generally trained in areas such as:

  • Wheel End Assemblies
  • Drive Train Systems
  • Engine Systems
  • Electrical Systems
  • Steering and Suspension systems
  • Advanced Electronic Fuel Systems
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Contact Information

Admission Requirements

Any Time

Any Time (310T)

Admission Requirements for Domestic Students

  1. To be eligible for an apprenticeship, you must:
    • Be at least 18 years of age (16 years of age in limited cases)
    • Have legal permission to work in Canada (i.e., have a valid social insurance number)
    • Meet the educational requirements of the trade.
      Grade 12 or equivalent is the generally accepted standard, however, grade 10 or equivalent may be accepted by some sponsors.
    • Have a sponsor located in Ontario. This can be a private employer, association or union.
  2. Apply for an apprenticeship through Skilled Trades Ontario(opens in new window). This step is usually completed when you have received an offer of employment from a sponsor.
  3. After completing the apprenticeship application, a Registered Training Agreement will be drafted by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD). The apprentice and their sponsor will both sign this document, officially recognizing the apprentice to begin the training process through their employer.

Admission Requirements for International Students

This program is not currently available for international students.
To enroll in an apprenticeship program, international students must meet specific criteria, including possessing a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN) and securing a sponsor.

Prerequisites

People who want to become apprentices must apply directly to employers, unions or joint apprenticeship training committees for the trade they are interested in. Most trades require between two and five years of work and training to become certified. During that time apprentices will be notified of offers to attend in-class training at the closest available training facility.

Apprentices are permitted to attend other training facilities within Ontario if they choose by making arrangements with their local Ministry office in advance

Tuition & Fees

Note

Please note that fees are estimated and are subject to change.

Fees shown on this page are for full-time students attending the main Thunder Bay campus for Fall 2026.

Costing for Regional Campuses & Distance Education Students:

If this program is available at Regional Campuses, or to Distance Education students, see the following links for costing information.

Textbooks

Find Your Textbook Costs

Courses

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(opens in new window).

The apprenticeship program consists of a series of courses and hands-on training sessions designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical skills. Key course areas include:

  1. Fundamentals of Truck and Coach Systems: An introductory course covering the basics of various vehicle systems, safety protocols, and tool usage.
  2. Engine Systems and Components: In-depth study of different types of engines, focusing on diagnostics, repair, and maintenance techniques.
  3. Electrical and Electronic Systems: Training in the intricacies of vehicle electrical systems, including diagnostics and repair of electronic components.
  4. Drive Train Systems: Courses focusing on transmission systems, clutches, drive shafts, and axles, covering both manual and automatic systems.
  5. Wheel End Assembly and Suspension: Detailed study of wheel assemblies, steering mechanisms, and suspension systems, emphasizing safety and performance.
  6. Braking Systems: Comprehensive training on various braking systems, including hydraulic and air supply systems, with a focus on troubleshooting and repairs.
  7. Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning (HVAC), and Refrigeration Systems: Specialized courses on vehicle climate control and refrigeration systems, crucial for certain types of transport vehicles.
  8. Advanced Electronic Fuel Systems: Advanced courses on modern fuel systems, particularly in diesel engines, covering diagnostics and repair methodologies.
  9. Workplace Safety and Ethics: Emphasizing the importance of safety in the workplace and ethical practices within the trade.

By completing these courses and the accompanying hands-on training, apprentices are well-prepared to enter the workforce as skilled Truck and Coach Technicians, equipped with the latest knowledge and techniques in this evolving field.

Meet the Program Staff

1 staff member

Careers

Graduates of the Truck and Coach Technician Apprenticeship program can expect a diverse range of employment opportunities in various sectors. The skills and knowledge acquired through this program are highly valued in several industries, including:

  1. Commercial Transportation: Opportunities in maintaining and repairing commercial trucks and trailers used in transport and logistics.
  2. Public Transportation: Roles in city bus fleets, school buses, and other public transportation systems, focusing on the upkeep and functionality of these vehicles.
  3. Emergency Vehicle Maintenance: Specialized roles in maintaining and repairing emergency vehicles such as ambulances, fire trucks, and other response vehicles.
  4. Fleet Maintenance: Positions in companies with large vehicle fleets, overseeing the maintenance and repair of these vehicles to ensure operational efficiency and safety.
  5. Specialty Vehicle Repair: Jobs in companies that handle specialized vehicles such as refrigerated transport, hydraulic systems, and custom-built coaches.
  6. Dealerships and Repair Shops: Roles in truck and coach dealerships and independent repair shops, providing repair and maintenance services.
  7. Government and Municipal Services: Employment with government agencies responsible for maintaining their vehicle fleets, including road inspection and maintenance vehicles.

Pathways

Confederation College offers a variety of articulation agreements designed to help you advance your education and career. Whether you're coming to us from another institution or planning your next steps after completing your program, our pathways make your transition seamless and effective.

Learn more about articulation agreements and educational pathways
Students at Confederation College

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