Trades & Applied Technology Programs

Heavy Duty/Commercial Transport Mechanics

• 10-month Entry-Level Certificate program (30 credits)
• Offered at the Nanaimo campus
• Program Fees: Domestic Students, International Students
• Apply for Admission: Forms and Information

The Program

This entry-level mechanical trades program, considered one of the best in British Columbia, provides basic training in preparation for employment and apprenticeships in both heavy duty and commercial transport mechanics. Through technical and practical training on actual equipment used in industry, students learn safety, tools, computers, as well as the service and maintenance of on- and off-highway trucks and buses, and heavy equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, graders and loaders. Job search, communication and resume writing skills are covered, and students also participate in on-the-job work experience.

This program is suited to individuals with all levels of mechanical experience who meet the listed admission requirements. Upon successful completion of the program students receive an entry-level certificate in heavy duty mechanics and commercial transport mechanics, allowing them a choice of two apprenticeships to pursue.

Students have an opportunity during the program to obtain airbrake endorsement, forklift certification, and driver training up to Class 1 at a special student rate.

Visit the Heavy Duty/Commercial Transport Mechanics home page for more detailed information.

A free information session is usually held in February/March. Check with the Advising Centre for more details, 250-740-6410, or visit viu.ca/infosessions.

Career Opportunities

Graduates have found employment as heavy duty or commercial transport mechanic apprentices, marine apprentice mechanics, forklift apprentice mechanics, agricultural apprentice mechanics, apprentice diesel mechanics, parts persons in parts supply stores, and other related mechanical occupations.

Apprenticeship/Journeyperson Information

Graduates of the certificate program receive credit towards the entry-level technical training of the Heavy Duty Mechanic or the Commercial Transport Mechanic Apprenticeship Programs. VIU offers apprenticeship training in the Heavy Duty Mechanic Trade.

To achieve journeyperson status, graduates of the certificate program must find employment as an apprentice in one of the two trades and complete a four-year apprenticeship to be eligible to write the Interprovincial Exam to become a certified heavy-duty mechanic or a commercial transport mechanic. Having the option to choose between the two careers provides flexibility when entering the job market.

Demand for apprentices in the two trades can vary with the economy; one or the other could provide better job opportunities during different economic conditions. With both certificates in hand, graduates have a broader field of opportunity. Employers look for students with a good attitude towards their work, who are reliable, and who have achieved good marks.

Both the Heavy Duty Mechanic and the Commercial Transport Mechanic Apprenticeship programs consist of 4 years of on-the-job experience combined with in-school technical training in order to become eligible to write the Interprovincial (Red Seal) Examination for journeyperson certification.

For more information on apprenticeship training, please visit the website at www.itabc.ca, contact the Industry Training Centre at 1-866-660-6011, or call VIU’s Apprenticeship Coordinator at 250-740-6255. Visit VIU's Trades and Applied Technology Apprenticeship page for more information and schedules.

Admission Requirements

• Grade 12, or equivalent, or mature student status.
• Min. 17 years of age.
• Successful completion of assessment testing.
• Personal profile.
• Valid driver’s license.
• See also Trades general admission requirements.

Notes on Admission

• Good health and not allergic to solvents and lubricants.
• Those with good reading and comprehension skills, basic science, mathematics, study skills, and a mechanical aptitude experience the most success in the program.
• Computer skills, Physics 12, Math 12 and English 12 are required by some employers
• An interview may be required.

Start Date and Application Deadline

The program starts in September, and applications are accepted from November 15 to March 31. Assessment test results and all documentation must be submitted by April 15. Applications received after March 31 will be considered late and will be processed as space permits.

Program Outline

All program courses must be successfully completed before certificates will be issued.

Updated December 16, 2009