Traits, skills and aptitudes
Those working as heavy equipment technicians need:
- good vision, hearing and sense of smell to diagnose problems
- strength and stamina for working with heavy equipment and 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 the first period of Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training’s (AIT) Heavy Equipment Technician curriculum.
Graduates are eligible to register as apprentices and challenge the first-period exam.
Once you pass the exam and complete the necessary training hours with an employer, you may register for SAIT’s Heavy Equipment Technician apprenticeship program beginning in period two.
Graduates may also receive course credit towards classes in our two-year Transport and Heavy Equipment Technology diploma program.
Credential
After successfully completing this program, you’ll receive a SAIT Pre-employment Heavy Equipment Technician certificate.
Not open to international applicants
This program is not available to international applicants at this time.
Related careers
Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.
Potential careers (NOC):
- Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics (22312)
- Contractors and supervisors, mechanic trades (72020)
- Contractors and supervisors, heavy equipment operator crews (72021)
- Heavy-duty equipment mechanics (72401)
- Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers (72410)
- Electrical mechanics (72422)
- Motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle and other related mechanics (72423)
- 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.
SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside of Alberta.
Program outline
The Pre-employment Heavy Equipment Technology certificate requires 15 credits (five courses) to complete.
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 $1,000 - $1,500 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
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
- apply industry workplace safety and quality standards required by SAIT and industry when performing assigned tasks
- communicate using trade terminology when interacting with customers and others in the trade
- read and interpret work orders and relevant technical manuals
- demonstrate skills in diagnosing, installing, and repairing the basic systems and components used in the transport and heavy equipment industry
- demonstrate skills in identifying and correctly operating the tools used in the transport and heavy equipment industry.