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):
- (HEOE 101T) Excavator (8 weeks)
- (HEOB 101T) Backhoe (6 weeks)
- (HEOD 101T) Dozer (6 weeks)
- (HEOG 101T) Grader (6 weeks)
- (HEORL 101T) Articulated Rock Truck/Loader Combo (4 weeks)
- (HEOR 101T) Articulated Rock Truck (3 weeks)
- (HEOF 101T) Front End Loader (3 weeks)
- (HEOK 101T) Skid Steer (Bobcat) (3 weeks)
- (HEOT 101T) Dump Truck & Pup (1 to 2 weeks)
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
Phone: 250.740.6227
Andy Coles
Program Chair
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.”
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