Transport and Heavy Equipment Technology

Traits, skills and aptitudes

Those in transport and heavy equipment technology tend to be objective, methodical and innovative. 

You need:

• good vision, hearing and sense of smell to diagnose problems 
• strength and stamina for working with heavy equipment in cramped or awkward positions 
• mechanical ability 
• the ability to work alone or as part of a team 
• the ability to think logically 
• an interest in all types of machinery and engines, electronics and precision equipment.

You should enjoy doing precision work, solving problems and working with your hands. 

Academic path

This program aligns with Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) curriculum for Heavy Equipment Technicians periods one through four.

Graduates are eligible to challenge the technical training exams. 

Upon passing, you can register as an apprentice and complete the on-the-job training hours to earn your journeyperson designation.

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities

You can complete a voluntary, 15-week work term between your second and third semesters, where you can work in industry and become registered as an apprentice.

Credential

After successfully completing this program, you’ll be awarded a SAIT Transport and Heavy Equipment Technology diploma. 

Program length

2 years

Accepts international applicants - not-PGWP eligible

This program is open to international applicants; however, program availability may be limited. This program does not meet the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program. 

Not eligible for CAJG

This program is not eligible for the Canada Alberta Job Grant. 

Related careers

Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.

Potential careers (NOC):

• Contractors and supervisors, mechanic trades (72020)
• Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers (72410)
• Auto body collision, refinishing and glass technicians and damage repair estimators (72411)
• Electrical mechanics (72422)
• Engineer officers, water transport (72603)
• Water transport deck and engine room crew (74201)
• Automotive and heavy truck and equipment parts installers and servicers (74203)

Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada

Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of the following courses or equivalents:

• at least 50% in Math 20-1 or Math 20-2 or 60% in Math 20-3, and
• at least 50% in English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2 , and
• at least 50% in one Grade 11 Science.

If you have graduated from SAIT’s Diesel Equipment Technician certificate within the last five years, you may be given advanced standing into year two of the program, depending on seat availability.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside of Alberta.

Admission requirements - Applicants educated outside of Canada

All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find accepted educational documents and assessment options. 

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

Program outline

The Transport and Heavy Equipment diploma requires 60 credits (19 courses) to complete.

The program spans two years, with two to three semesters in year one (depending on if you choose to complete the optional work term) and two semesters in the second year.

Required courses

• COMM 267 - Professional Communication Skills 1.5 Credits
• HDMC 223 - Basic Hydraulics 3 Credits
• HDMC 224 - Braking Systems 3 Credits
• HDMC 227 - Electrical and Electronics 3 Credits
• HDMC 228 - Mechanical Skills 3 Credits
• HDMC 229 - Suspension, Wheels and Systems 3 Credits
• HDMC 250 - Cranking and Charging 1.5 Credits
• HDMC 251 - Diesel Injection Systems 1.5 Credits
• HDMC 252 - Electronic Fuel Management 3 Credits
• HDMC 254 - Engine Fundamentals 6 Credits
• HDMC 262 - Engine Systems 1.5 Credits
• HDMC 300 - Advanced Hydraulics 6 Credits
• HDMC 301 - Off-Road Powertrain 6 Credits
• HDMC 302 - Steering and Suspension Systems 3 Credits
• HDMC 350 - Air Conditioning 3 Credits
• HDMC 351 - Auxiliary Systems and Emerging Technologies 1.5 Credits
• HDMC 352 - On-road Powertrain 6 Credits
• HDMC 353 - Steering and Antilock Brake Systems 3 Credits
• HDMC 354 - Trailer Systems 1.5 Credits

Optional courses

• CPWK 252 - Cooperative Work Term 0 Credits

Suggested schedule of study

Progression

You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.

To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure > 

Books and supplies

Books and supplies are approximately $2,000 per full-time year.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.

Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore’s website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date. Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn’t receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you’re in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term.

Transportation program advising

For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our School of Transportation.

Phone: 403.284.8471
Email: transportation.info@sait.ca 

Program outcomes

After completing the Transport and Heavy Equipment Technology program, you’ll be able to:

• demonstrate leadership in adhering to industry workplace safety standards
• demonstrate effective written and verbal communication skills and familiarity with trade terminology when interacting with internal and external stakeholders
• exercise professional judgment when completing work orders, selecting tools and using troubleshooting techniques
• use current and emerging technologies, techniques, and materials to diagnose, install, and repair systems and components  in the transport and heavy equipment industry
• operate shop equipment and power tools to safely diagnose, install, and repair transport and heavy equipment according to specifications
• exhibit an understanding of the fundamentals of operating a small business
• perform assigned tasks following quality and production standards required by SAIT and industry.