Heavy Construction Equipment Operation

Program Overview

This one-year, full-time Heavy Construction Equipment Operation Certificate program at Conestoga College provides hands-on training in operating heavy equipment such as excavators, dozers, and dump trucks. Students learn about maintenance, safety, environmental regulations, and site plans. Graduates are eligible for automatic exemption from apprenticeship in-school training for three Heavy Equipment Operator trades.

Program Outline

Outline:

Program Content:

• The program focuses on the safe operation of various heavy construction equipment, including:
• Excavators
• Dozers
• Loader-backhoes
• Dump trucks
• Graders
• Compact equipment
• Pavers
• Students will learn about:
• Basic maintenance procedures
• Operational techniques
• Safety practices
• Environmental regulations
• Soils and concrete
• Surveying and site plans
• Hands-on experience is a significant component of the program.

Program Structure:

• Full-time program
• 1 year in length
• Starts in August

Careers:

• Graduates can pursue careers as:
• Equipment operators
• Heavy equipment technicians
• Construction supervisors
• Project managers
• High demand for skilled equipment operators in Ontario
• Graduates have the opportunity to receive automatic exemption from all the apprenticeship in-school training for the three Heavy Equipment Operator trades (Tractor-Loader-Backhoe, Excavator, Dozer)

Other:

• With the current pace of construction in Ontario, there is a high demand for skilled equipment operators.
• The program includes a significant amount of hands-on experience, safely performing basic maintenance and operating various pieces of large equipment.