Program Overview

Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation Certificate

Overview

The Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation Certificate provides skills in truck and transport mechanics, transport trailer technology, heavy-duty equipment, and diesel engine mechanics. Graduates earn Level 1 technical training and work-based hours, qualifying for entry-level roles in industries such as logging, mining, road building, and commercial repair.

Apprenticeship Opportunities

• Heavy Duty Equipment Technician
• Diesel Engine Mechanic
• Truck and Transport Mechanic
• Transport Trailer Technician

Program Details

Location

• Campbell River

Length

• 36 weeks

Delivery

• In-person
• Full-time

Admission Requirements

• C in English 10 or equivalent or successful English assessment
• C in Math 10 or equivalent or successful Math assessment for Trades
• High School graduation is preferred provided the applicant meets or exceeds the stated prerequisites

Course Requirements

• HMC - 130 Safe Work Practices in the Heavy Mechanical Trades
• HMC - 131 Occupational Skills in the Heavy Mechanical Trades
• HMC - 132 Frames and Suspension
• HMC - 133 Tools and Equipment in the Heavy Mechanical Trades
• HMC - 134 Electrical Applications
• HMC - 135 Powertrain
• HMC - 136 Welding in the Heavy Mechanical Trades
• HMC - 137 Heavy Mechanical Trades Equipment
• HMC - 138 Air Braking Systems
• HMC - 139 Hydraulics
• HMC - 140 Hydraulic Braking Systems
• HMC - 141 Engines and Supporting Systems
• HMC - 142 Electrical Fundamentals in the Heavy Mechanical Trades
• HMC - 143 Cab Structures And Systems
• HMC - 144 Steering And Wheel Systems

Completion Requirements

• Students will be required to achieve a minimum C (Letter Grade Scale 2) in each course to pass the program
• Student will be required to pass all industry certificate courses to achieve program completion requirements

Supplies

• Personal Protection Equipment:
  • Safety Glasses
  • Coveralls
  • Steel Toed Boots - CSA approved
  • Ear Protection
• Classroom Supplies:
  • Padlock or Combination Lock
  • 3 ring binder
  • Loose leaf paper and graph paper
  • Pen/ pencil/ hi-liter
  • Scientific Calculator (optional)

Careers

• After the Foundations Certificate, continue on your apprenticeship path to complete your Red Seal certification in either Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, Diesel Engine Mechanic, Truck and Transport Mechanic, or Transport Trailer Technician
• Annual median estimated earnings for heavy duty equipment mechanics in BC: $88,826

Costs

• Domestic:
  • Tuition: $4,125
  • Lab: $360
  • Student Union: $185
  • Learner Resource: $160
  • Health and Dental: $285
  • Total: $5,115

Foundation vs. Apprenticeship

• Foundation: A certificate program that gives you the basic knowledge and skills to enter a trade. You don't need an employer/sponsor
• Apprenticeship: This pathway combines on-the-job training with classroom learning. Pick this option if you're working and sponsored by a company registered with SkilledTradesBC

Your Path to Red Seal Certification

• Foundation: NIC’s trades foundation programs equip you with the basic knowledge and skills needed to enter a trade without requiring an employer sponsor
• Apprenticeship: Most apprenticeships take four or more years to complete, with 80% of the training at the worksite under the supervision of a certified tradesperson and 20% in-class technical training
• Getting started: Find your trade and become familiar with how many levels of training you need, the number of work-based hours required, and information about your exams
• Supports: During your technical training, you are eligible to apply for financial supports with WorkBC Employment Services and Service Canada. Visit SkilledTradesBC for more info.