Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate at Olds College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-10

Program overview

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Program overview

The Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate program at Olds College is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the heavy equipment industry. This comprehensive program is developed in collaboration with industry professionals to ensure that it meets the current workforce demands. Students will engage in a mix of classroom theory and practical skills, providing a balanced learning experience. The program emphasizes hands-on training, allowing students to operate various types of heavy machinery in real-life scenarios, preparing them for successful careers in this field.

Program structure

The Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate program is a 12-week full-time course approved by Alberta Advanced Education. The program structure includes:

Combination of classroom instruction and practical, hands-on training.
Two-week practicum to apply skills in an industry-related work site.
Maximized seat time with two groups scheduled to enhance equipment operation experience.
Online instruction to supplement real-life scenarios.
Program intakes available in September, November, March, and May.

This program is designed to ensure that entry-level operators achieve a professional standard, preparing them for employment in various industries that require heavy equipment operators.

Featured Experiences

The Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate program offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience:

Hands-on training with a variety of heavy machinery, including skid steers, compactors, loaders, dozers, graders, and excavators.
Field training conducted in a real-world environment, simulating job site conditions.
Access to experienced instructors with diverse industry backgrounds.
Mandatory safety training in the first week, covering essential certifications such as WHMIS and First Aid.
Opportunity to work on industry-standard projects to apply operating skills effectively.

Career Options

Graduates of the Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate program can pursue various career opportunities in Canada, including:

Heavy Equipment Operator: Operate and manage heavy machinery on construction sites, ensuring safety and efficiency.
Landscaping Technician: Design and maintain landscapes, utilizing heavy equipment for grading and planting.
Road Maintenance Worker: Perform maintenance and repairs on municipal roads, using heavy machinery for grading and paving.
Demolition Worker: Safely operate heavy equipment to dismantle structures and clear debris.
Utility Installer: Install and maintain utility lines, including water, gas, and electricity, using heavy machinery.

These roles are essential in various sectors, including construction, forestry, and municipal services, providing graduates with a wide range of employment opportunities.

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

Visit Olds College official website

Last updated on 2025-07-10

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate program has specific Academic Requirements that prospective students must meet to be considered for enrollment. Below are the key requirements:

High School Diploma or its equivalent.
Minimum Age: Students must be at least 18 years of age upon completion of the program.
Personal Profile Submission: Applicants are required to submit a personal profile that includes answers to three questions regarding their experience, attributes beneficial for employment, and research related to the program.
Class 5 Driver’s License: A copy of a Class 5 Driver’s License must be submitted. GDL licenses are accepted, but a full Class 5 License is recommended for better employability.
Driver’s Abstract: A recent copy of the Driver's Abstract, dated within three months of the program start date, is required.
Academic Upgrading and High School Applicants: Those currently in high school or completing academic upgrading must provide proof of enrollment and interim/midterm marks. Final marks must be submitted within one month following course completion.
Alternate Admission Option: Applicants who do not meet the academic requirements may be considered for Alternate Admission Status by providing transcripts, a letter of introduction and intent, a resume, and optional letters of reference.

It is important to note that “Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.” Additionally, successful candidates should possess attributes such as mathematical ability, excellent vision, and a high degree of physical coordination.

For any clarification or support regarding the admission process, please feel free to contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

The language of instruction at Olds College is English. Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate that they have completed at least three years of academic study conducted entirely in English.

Applicants who do not meet this requirement must demonstrate language proficiency through successful completion of an accepted English Language proficiency assessment dated within two years of application submission. All English Language Proficiency Assessments will be verified online by an Admission Officer.

Accepted English Language Proficiency Assessments include:

Duolingo English Test - score of at least 110
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) IBT - overall score of no less than 80 with no academic section below 18
International English Language Testing System (IELTS - Academic Stream) - a score of 6.0 or higher in each band
Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL) Online - overall score of no less than 60, with no band below 50
Pearson Test of English (PTE) - score of at least 55 with no skill profile below 55
Oxford English Language Level Test (ELLT) - no band below 5, with an overall score of no less than 6

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2025-07-16

Program overview

Intake	Status	Open date to apply	Deadline to apply	Campus
January 2026	Likely Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available
May 2026	Likely Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available
September 2026	Likely Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available