Trades & Applied Technology Programs

Power Sports & Marine Technician

• 9–Month Certificate Program (27 credits)
• Offered at the Nanaimo campus
• Program Fees: Domestic Students, International Students
• Apply for Admission: Forms and Information

The Program

This entry-level program is suited to individuals with all levels of mechanical experience and prepares students for careers as inboard/outboard marine technicians or outdoor power equipment technicians. Upon successful completion, students receive an entry-level (Level I Apprentice) certificate in Power Sports and Marine Technician and may apprentice in either the Inboard/Outboard Marine Technician or the Outdoor Power Equipment field. The program encompasses theory, practical knowledge, and techniques essential to maintain and repair modern inboard/outboard marine and other small power products. Hands-on training with customer products is emphasized. Students are required to spend approximately one month on introductory basic mechanical skills prior to servicing customers’ products.

Note: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada may assist students in this program; contact your local Employment Centre regarding eligibility for sponsorship.

A free information session is usually held in February/March. Check with the Advising Centre for more details, toll–free at 1–888–920–2221 local 6410, or visit viu.ca/infosessions.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program may find work as apprentice inboard/outboard marine technicians or outdoor power equipment technicians. Job opportunities exist throughout BC.

Graduates of this program may receive credit towards the technical portion of the first year of the Inboard/Outboard Marine Technician Apprenticeship Program. In order to complete the apprenticeship and become a journey person, graduates would find an employer in the industry to provide on-the-job training, and return to a participating training institution for 4 weeks per year in each of the next three years. 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 Tanya Reiber at Vancouver Island University toll–free at 1–888–920–2221 local 6112.

Admission Requirements

• Grade 12, or equivalent*, or mature student status.
• Mature students without Grade 12 will be required to complete an assessment test.
• Minimum 17 years of age.

* See a VIU Advisor for information on equivalencies.

Notes on Admission

• Good health and not allergic to solvents and lubricants.
• An interview may be required.

Start Date and Application Deadline

The program starts in October and applications are accepted between November 15 and March 31. For further information regarding late applications, program contacts, and scheduled information sessions check the Program Availability List.

Program Outline

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

Updated August 20, 2010