Safety
You will actively contribute a strong safety culture by:
- adhering to all personal protective equipment protocols
- identifying and assessing potential hazards within the worksite environment
- responding to emergencies through the application of established Emergency Response Plans
- engaging in toolbox discussions
- communicating with instructors to ensure all safety concerns are addressed in accordance with industry standards and institutional policies
Environmental protection
You will apply and uphold all environmental regulations and best-practices:
- to protect water quality, preserve habitats and mitigate any ecological disturbance
- implement appropriate reclamation strategies
- ensure that land and resource use align with regulatory expectations and long-term environmental goals
- conduct daily operational tasks with a clear commitment to sustainability
- demonstrate an understanding of how responsible work practices contribute to broader environmental protection and the conservation of natural ecosystems
Mechanical expertise
You will develop the ability to accurately identify mechanical issues through:
- daily inspections, troubleshooting and machine servicing
- applying appropriate tools, techniques and maintenance procedures to ensure equipment remains in safe and efficient working condition
- demonstrate competency in performing basic repairs and adjustments in accordance with manufacturer specifications and industry standards
- support operational reliability and minimize equipment downtime
Knowledge of industries
You will cultivate an understanding of the main sectors heavy equipment operations work including mining, civil construction, oil and gas, and forestry. You will be able to:
- recognize, classify and evaluate a variety of machinery used within these industries
- demonstrate familiarity with machine design, functional applications and operational limitations
- integrate foundational engineering principles and sector-specific technical knowledge to inform sound operational judgment
- interpret and apply regulatory requirements, industry standards and directives issued by relevant authorities to ensure procedural compliance and promote organizational due diligence
- contribute to safe, efficient and sustainable industrial practices within their chosen field
Professionalism
You will demonstrate a high standard of professional conduct in all aspects of their work, interactions in class and in the field operating heavy machinery. This includes:
- maintaining equipment in a clean, service-ready condition
- engaging with peers, instructors and industry personnel with consistent respect, courtesy, and cultural awareness
- exercising good judgment in both in-person and digital communication, including the appropriate use of social media
- taking responsibility for their actions and decisions
- following established protocols/policies
- completing assigned tasks with competence, diligence, and confidence
- cultivating a reflective mindset by acknowledging areas for improvement, seeking guidance when necessary, and demonstrating humility and openness to learning from colleagues, instructors and personal mistakes.
Through these behaviours, you will contribute to a safe, collaborative and ethically grounded learning and working environment.
Operation of heavy equipment
You will develop the knowledge, technical skills and situational awareness required to competently operate and control a wide range of heavy equipment used in the heavy construction industry. You will achieve this through:
- guided instruction, structured practice and adherence to regulatory and organizational standards
- gaining proficiency in performing start-up, operational and shut-down procedures
- practicing and executing equipment maneuvers to gain precision and efficiency
- responding appropriately to varying job-site conditions and operational challenges
- demonstrating an understanding of fundamental mechanical systems, equipment capabilities and limitations, load management principles and key safety requirements associated with heavy equipment operation
- apply professional judgment, communication strategies, and risk-mitigation practices to ensure safe, responsible, and productive operations
Through this comprehensive skill development, you will be prepared to meet industry expectations and contribute effectively to modern worksites.