Heavy Equipment Operator

Real-world training

Heavy Equipment Operator training is for those who think big and aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty. At VIU you get intensive, hands-on training in the operation of heavy equipment like bulldozers, graders or excavators. Experienced instructors work with you one-on-one.

We offer a 17-week certificate program where you gain all the foundational skills you need to work with heavy machinery. We also offer courses for working with individual machinery. And we can provide onsite training on request

Heavy Equipment Operator certificate program

In this program you learn the use and maintenance of machinery, and the practical field operations of excavating, land clearing, grading and road building.

This 17-week program includes:

  • (RBHC 101T) Road Builder & Heavy Construction Foundation (4 weeks)
  • (RBHC 201T) Heavy Equipment Operator Technician (5 weeks)
  • Machine Operator Training (1 to 8 weeks, machine dependent, select one or more course codes from the Specialized Machine Operator Training below)
  • Work Experience (4 weeks)

Learn more about the Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate Program

Specialized Machine Operator Training

Interested in only one type of machine? Select one or more course codes from the Specialized Machine Operator Training below (1 to 8 weeks depending on machine):

Learn more about Specialized Machine Operator Training

Specialized industry training

We can do onsite training on request. Learn more about Specialized Industry Training

BC Employer Training Grant

Looking for training for your employees?

The BC Employer training grant can provide funding for employers to train or retrain employees. This program is designed to assist employers in providing skills training to new or current employees that will develop skills and certification, upgrade skills needed due to automation and enhance productivity. Learn more about the BC Employer Training Grant.

Contact Us

For more information about Heavy Equipment Operator program, please contact:

Ashley Faulkner

Admissions & Registration Assistant

Ashley.Faulkner@viu.ca

Phone: 250.740.6227

Andy Coles

Program Chair

Andrew.coles@viu.ca

HEO Student, Taylor McLennan

Taylor McLennan, Heavy Equipment Operator

Taking the HEO training was really rewarding for me. I liked the fact that everything about the course was hands-on. I've always learned better when I get to do something for myself. The instructors were excellent and always right there to give you tips and pointers to help you out. I gained a great deal of confidence in not only myself, but my ability to do whatever I set my mind to.