Heavy Duty Equipment Technician (Apprenticeship)

Please note:

Prospective students must be registered apprentices with the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD). For more information on apprenticeship training contact your local Employment Ontario apprenticeship office.

Program description

This 720-hour program, consisting of three 240-hour levels, is designed to provide the apprentice with theoretical knowledge of all aspects of the heavy duty equipment technician trade. Additionally, the program provides the practical training necessary to complement the apprentice's on-the-job training experience. The curriculum for the first level of this program is identical to Level 1 for apprentices registered in the following trades: Truck and Coach Technician, Agricultural Equipment Technician, and Powered Lift Truck Technician. Upon completion, this program confers the graduate an Ontario College Certificate titled Heavy Equipment Techniques - Apprenticeship.

Program details

Code: 0462
Delivery: Apprenticeship
Length: 720 hours
Start: Varies
Campus: Guelph
Credential: Ontario College Certificate

Program contacts


Academic school

Trades & Apprenticeship

Fees & payment

  • Fees are set by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development as per the Offer of Classroom Training.
  • Books, safety equipment, tools, and parking fees are additional. For details, visit Orientation & support.
  • Applicants are registered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Awards & scholarships

Conestoga College's Student Financial Services administers many awards, bursaries, scholarships and academic grants. Information and application forms for numerous awards, bursaries and scholarships are administered by Student Financial Services.

Many program-specific awards are administered by individual programs. Students should speak to their faculty or program coordinators about additional awards available in their program specific areas.

Courses

Level 1

Course details

Trade Practices
TRCK1010

Description: In this course students will demonstrate a basic working knowledge of recommended trade work practices; construction, operating principles, testing and servicing of tools and equipment, bearings, seals and sealants, fasteners, precision measuring equipment, personal safety and legalities, setup and safety for oxy-acetylene cutting and heating.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Fluid Power Systems
TRCK1020

Description:

In this course, students will demonstrate a basic knowledge of fluid power fundamentals, components, graphic symbols, and operating principles; in addition to fluids, filters, conductors, connectors and creating a proper maintenance schedule.

  • Hours: 21
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Engine Systems
TRCK1030

Description: In this course the student will demonstrate a basic knowledge of the construction, engine types and components, operating principles, testing and servicing of diesel combustion engine assemblies, cylinder heads and valve trains, lubrication systems, cooling systems, intake and exhaust systems.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Electrical Systems
TRCK1040

Description:

In this course the student will demonstrate a fundamental knowledge of the principles of electrical theory and laws, and the use of electrical test equipment. Additionally, the apprentice will trace, test and repair electrical circuits and components; demonstrating knowledge of electromagnetic devices, test and service batteries

  • Hours: 49
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Fuel Systems
TRCK1050

Description: In this course the student will demonstrate a basic knowledge of diesel fuel systems, injection principles, injection sub-systems and hydraulic injection systems.
  • Hours: 21
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Drive Train Systems
TRCK1060

Description: In this course the student will demonstrate a basic knowledge of the construction, operating principles; testing and servicing of power train clutch assemblies, gearing fundamentals, countershaft manual transmissions, driveshafts, PTO's, universal joints and single drive axle assemblies.
  • Hours: 35
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Wheel End Assemblies and Brake Systems
TRCK1075

Description: In this course the student will demonstrate a basic working knowledge of the construction, operating principles, testing and servicing of hydraulic brake and air brake systems, and wheel end assemblies.
  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Level 2

Course details

Trade Practices II
MOTV2110

Description:

This course is designed to enable the student to perform heating and cutting activities following manufacturers’ recommendations, government regulations, and safe work practices. The student is able to describe heating and ventilation system testing and repair procedures following manufacturers’ recommendations, government regulations, and safe work practices. The student is able to describe air conditioning system testing and repair procedures following manufacturers’ recommendations, government regulations, and safe work practices. The student is able to identify unsafe/faulty operator protection devices following manufacturers’ recommended practices and government regulations.

  • Hours: 21
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Fluid Power Systems II
MOTV2125

Description:

This course is designed to enable the student to interpret schematics and perform pressure, force, and area calculations related to hydraulics. The student is able to describe the service procedures of hydraulic fluids, reservoirs, and conditioners following manufacturers’ recommendations. The student is able to replace hydraulic lines and fittings following manufacturers’ recommendations. The student is able to recommend repairs of hydraulic control valves following manufacturers’ recommendations. The student is able to recommend repairs of a hydraulic pump following manufacturers’ recommendations.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Engine Systems II
MOTV2130

Description:

This course is designed to enable the apprentice to describe testing procedures for combustion chamber condition following manufacturers’ recommendations and safe work practices. The apprentice is able to describe the testing and servicing procedures for cylinder heads, valve trains, and related components following manufacturers’ recommendations and safe work practices. The apprentice is able to describe the testing and servicing procedures for cooling systems components and coolants following manufacturers’ recommendations and safe work practices. The apprentice is able to describe the testing and servicing of lubricating system, components, and lubricants following manufacturers’ recommendations and safe work practices. The apprentice is able to describe the testing and servicing procedures for air induction and exhaust systems following manufacturers’ recommendations.

  • Hours: 35
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Electrical Systems II
MOTV2140

Description:

This course is designed to enable the apprentice to describe the principles of electricity following accepted scientific principles. The apprentice is able to trace current flow through circuits with the use of an electrical schematic. In addition, the apprentice is able to recommend repair of a cranking system and also test basic electronic components following manufacturers’ recommendations.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Fuel Systems II
MOTV2150

Description:

This course is designed to enable the apprentice to describe the testing procedures for mechanical governor systems, in addition to the diesel in-line fuel injection pump system service procedures following manufacturers’ recommendations and government policies. The apprentice will also be able to follow the timing procedures for distributor pump systems as per manufacturers’ recommendations, describe the diesel unit injection system repair procedures, along with the testing procedures for pressure time fuel injection systems, and will be able to identify injector replacement precautions all while following manufacturers’ recommendations.

  • Hours: 35
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Drive Train Systems II
MOTV2160

Description: This course is designed to enable the apprentice to describe testing and/or repair procedures for drive train systems and power shift transmissions following manufacturers’ recommendations and using safe work practices.
  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Steering, Tires & Brake Systems
MOTV2170

Description: The apprentice will be able to perform testing and servicing of steering systems, tires, wheels and hubs. This course is designed to enable the apprentice to perform repairs following manufacturers' recommendations and safe work practices of hydraulic brake systems.
  • Hours: 21
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Level 3

Course details

Heavy Duty Equipment Technician Examination Preparation
MOTV0020

Description:

This course is designed to assist apprentices with their preparation to write the Certificate of Qualification (CofQ) exam for the Heavy Duty Equipment Technician trade. It will consist of a review of the materials taught during the three levels of in-school training. Common areas of difficulty will be determined and additional in-depth review of these areas will be provided. This program is sponsored totally by the MLITSD and has no grade assigned.

  • Hours: 30
  • Credits: 0
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Trade Practices III
MOTV3000

Description: In this course, students will demonstrate an understanding and competency in shielded metal arc welding and gas metal arc welding.
  • Hours: 21
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Fluid Power III
MOTV3010

Description: In this course the apprentice will demonstrate an understanding and competency in hydraulic systems. The areas of study will include hydraulic principles, hydraulic actuators, hydraulic accumulators, schematics and diagnostics.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Engine Systems III
MOTV3020

Description: In this course the apprentice will demonstrate an understanding and competency with engine short blocks. The areas of study will include short block assembly, reconditioning and component diagnosis.
  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Electrical/Electronic Systems III
MOTV3035

Description: In this course the apprentice will demonstrate an understanding and competency with electrical and electronic systems. The areas of study will include charging systems, computerized management systems and electrical diagnosis.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Fuel Systems III
MOTV3040

Description:

In this course the apprentice will demonstrate an understanding and competency with fuel systems. The areas of study will include diesel fuel injection partial-authority engine management, diesel fuel injection full-authority engine management and diesel engine emission systems.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Drive Train Systems III
MOTV3050

Description: In this course the apprentice will demonstrate an understanding and competency with drive train systems. The areas of study will include torque converters, fluid couplings and hydraulic retarders and hydrostatic drive systems.
  • Hours: 35
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Suspension and Steering Systems
MOTV3060

Description: In this course the apprentice will demonstrate an understanding and competency with suspension and steering systems. The areas of study will include steering systems, tires, wheels, hubs and track type undercarriages.
  • Hours: 35
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Program outcomes

  1. Identify basic heavy duty equipment power system problems by using critical thinking skills and strategies and by applying fundamental knowledge of heavy duty equipment operation, components and their interrelationships.
  2. Identify, inspect, and test basic heavy duty equipment engine components and systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
  3. Identify, inspect, and test basic heavy duty equipment electrical and electronic components and systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
  4. Identify, inspect and test basic power train components and systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
  5. Identify, inspect, test and maintain basic suspension, steering, and brake components and systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
  6. Disassemble and assemble heavy duty equipment components to required specifications by applying workshop skills and knowledge of basic shop practices.
  7. Use a variety of test equipment and schematics to assess basic heavy duty equipment fuel systems, and subsystems.
  8. Apply basic knowledge of hydraulics and pneumatics to the testing and inspection of basic heavy duty equipment systems and subsystems.
  9. Use information technology and computer skills to access data concerning repair procedures and manufacturers’ updates.
  10. Prepare logs, records, and documentation to appropriate standards.
  11. Apply business practices and communication skills to improve customer service.
  12. Develop and use personal and professional strategies and plans to improve professional growth, job performance, and work relationships.
  13. 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.

Program handbook

Program handbook

Graduate opportunities

Heavy duty equipment technicians perform preventative maintenance, diagnose faults, and repair the systems of heavy equipment.

For more details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities, see the Government of Canada website: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/home


Program device requirements

Program device & software requirements

This program requires you to have a device that meets certain specifications. For most students, this cost is in addition to the tuition & fees listed above.

view device requirements

#ThinkConestoga

Follow us on social media and see what life is like as a Condor.