Motorcycle and Marine Technician
Foundation Program
This 9-month Foundation program is suited to individuals with all levels of mechanical experience and prepares students for careers as inboard/outboard marine technicians or motorcycle/outdoor power equipment technicians. Upon successful completion, students receive a VIU Motorcycle and Marine Technician Certificate. Graduates also receive SkilledTradesBC Level I Apprentice certification in both Motorcycle Mechanic (Motorcycle and Power Equipment Technician) and Inboard/Outboard Mechanic. The program encompasses theory, practical knowledge, and techniques essential to maintain and repair modern inboard/outboard marine, motorcycle, and other power equipment. Hands-on training with customer products is emphasized. Students are required to spend approximately one month on introductory basic mechanical skills prior to servicing customers' products.
Instruction consists of classroom lectures, labs and field training. There is also a two-week practicum with shops in and around Nanaimo.
Full-time program - 4 days per week
The 9-month (under review for potential change to 10 months) program covers the following topics:
- Shop Safety and Tools and Equipment
- Engine Mechanical Systems
- Electrical and Ignition Systems
- Fuel Systems
- Drive Systems
- Service and Maintenance Systems
- Welding
- Personal Management Skills
- Marine and Motorcycle Technician Math
- Business Operations
- The Emerging Workplace
- Employment Strategies and Work Experience
Equipment
- Steel-toed boots
- Safety glasses
- Tools and coveralls provided by VIU
Program Costs
See Program Costs for details regarding current fees.
(All fees are subject to change without prior notice.)
Admission Requirements
See Admission Requirements for details.
Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students receive a VIU Motorcycle and Marine Technician Certificate. Graduates also receive SkilledTradesBC Level I Apprentice certification in both Motorcycle Mechanic (Motorcycle and Power Equipment Technician) and Inboard/Outboard Mechanic.
Graduates of this program may receive credit towards the technical portion of the first year of apprenticeship training. In order to complete the apprenticeship and become a journey person, graduates would find an employer in the industry to provide on-the-job training, and return to a participating training institution for 4 weeks per year in each of the next three years. Learn more about Apprenticeship Programs.
Career Options
Graduates of this program may find work as apprentice inboard/outboard marine technicians or motorcycle/outdoor power equipment technicians. Job opportunities exist throughout BC. Graduates have found employment in small engine, motorcycle and marine shops and fishing lodges as apprentices, mechanics, technicians, shop supervisors, parts persons or manufacturing technical representatives.
Apply
To become a student in the Motorcycle and Marine Technician Program, apply to VIU.
Terence McMahon, Motorcycle and Marine Technician
“It was great to be able to get the hands-on experience working on equipment and mechanical engines, as well as the projects required for the practical portion of the course. Employers were constantly phoning or emailing the instructor during the course to let him know of job opportunities that were available to the students.”