About Heavy Equipment Operator Training in Ontario

Heavy equipment is used in construction projects across Ontario.

Heavy equipment operators train to operate equipment such as backhoes, graders, bulldozers and dump trucks. These operators must have a D license.

Requirements

Heavy equipment operation is a regulated trade. Gaining a heavy equipment operator's license requires passing specific medical requirements, and have a current Ontario G license. Training providers may have additional requirements specific to their institution.

Availability

Heavy equipment training institutions are located across Ontario. These private colleges provide on-site training, and will in some cases provide training at an employer's location. Training programs are available often as they are only several weeks in nature.

Funding

The cost of training can be paid by an individual, covered by an employer or by applying for funding through the Employment Ontario Second Career Program. Second Career will fund up to $55 per hour of training to a maximum of $10,000 for heavy equipment training at a private career college.

Employment

Heavy equipment is used in construction and maintenance of public works, roads, surface mining and material handling work. Often some secondary school education is required, which can be combined with apprenticeship activities.

References

• Transport Training Centres of Canada: Heavy Equipment Operator Training
• Commercial Heavy Equipment Training: Applicant Requirements
• Transport Training Centres of Canada: Brochure
• MInistry of Training, Colleges and Universities: Second Career Estimate of Financial Support