Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation Certificate

Program overview

The Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation Certificate program at Northern Lights College is designed to provide students with essential skills in the heavy mechanical trades. This program includes comprehensive training in various mechanical trades and a mandatory two-week work experience placement. Students will explore four key mechanical trades paths: Truck and Transport Mechanics, Heavy Duty Equipment Technicians, Diesel Engine Mechanics, and Transport Trailer Technicians. Each path equips students with the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to diagnose, repair, and service a wide range of vehicles and equipment, preparing them for a successful career in the industry.

Program structure

The Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation Certificate program is structured to provide a thorough foundation in heavy mechanical trades over a period of approximately 38 weeks, totaling around 970 hours of training. The program includes:

• SkilledTrades – Heavy Mechanical Trades – Foundation training
• A mandatory two-week work experience placement
• A reading week typically at the end of February

Students will engage in both theoretical and practical learning experiences, ensuring they are well-prepared for the workforce. The program is offered at two locations: Dawson Creek and Fort St. John, with intakes starting in September. This structure allows students to gain hands-on experience while learning the necessary skills to excel in their chosen mechanical trade.

Featured Experiences

• Mandatory two-week work experience placement to gain real-world skills.
• Hands-on training in four mechanical trades paths: Truck and Transport Mechanics, Heavy Duty Equipment Technicians, Diesel Engine Mechanics, and Transport Trailer Technicians.
• Access to experienced instructors and industry professionals.
• Reading week to enhance learning and provide a break for students.
• Affiliation with SkilledTradesBC and local school districts for enhanced learning opportunities.

Career Options

Graduates of the Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation Certificate program can pursue various career paths in Canada, including:

• Truck and Transport Mechanic: Diagnose and repair highway buses and trucks, working for commercial transport vehicle dealers and garages.
• Heavy Duty Equipment Technician: Overhaul and repair heavy machinery such as graders, loaders, and construction vehicles.
• Diesel Engine Mechanic: Install, repair, and maintain diesel engines used in transport and construction industries.
• Transport Trailer Technician: Maintain and repair commercial truck trailers, ensuring they are safe and operational.
• Parts or Sales Manager: Manage parts inventory and sales operations in automotive or heavy equipment dealerships.

These roles offer a variety of opportunities for skilled technicians in the growing mechanical trades sector, providing a solid foundation for a successful career.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.