Diesel Equipment Technician

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Program Description

This 30-week program has been designed by industry representatives to meet the specific needs of today’s large and diverse heavy equipment industry. After completing the program, you will be a highly trained entry-level tradesperson ready to enter the work force as a Heavy Equipment Technician apprentice. As a graduate of the program you may be credited with up to 600 hours worth of work experience towards your apprenticeship, as well as the opportunity to write your first and second period apprenticeship exams.

Program Overview

Fast Facts

Your Career

This program will prepare you for a mechanical repair career in light and heavy construction, oil field support, forestry, mining, marine, on-highway transportation trucks, public utilities, gas compression, agriculture or any other industry that relies on heavy equipment or diesel engines. Career progression may include shop foreman, service manager, manufacturer district service representative, technical training instructor, factory quality control inspector, regional service manager or fleet maintenance manager.

Graduates of the Diesel Equipment Technician program have a high employment rate

Student Success

Students with higher secondary or post-secondary marks usually experience greater success in SAIT’s programs.
Students who have taken automotive mechanics in high school experience greater success in the Diesel Equipment Technician program.

Credentials

After successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT certificate as a Diesel Equipment Technician.

Accreditation

Students achieving a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 will be allowed to challenge the Heavy Equipment Technician 1st and 2nd year technical exams from Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training. A Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) form and a fee will be required by Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training. Successful students may also be granted up to 600 hours of work credit towards their apprenticeship hours.

Progression

Students must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better in each semester and pass the necessary prerequisite courses to progress through the program. To qualify for graduation, students must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Admission Requirements

A minimum of 70 Alberta High School credits (Grade 11) with at least 50% in the following courses or equivalents:

Math 20-1 or Math 20-2 or Math 20-3 or Pure Math 20 or Applied Math 20, AND,
Grade 11 English, AND,
One Grade 11 Science
All applicants must demonstrate English Language Proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.