Heavy Equipment Technician Apprenticeship

Open for Applications

Apply Now Upcoming Intakes

Credential

Journeyperson Certificate + Advanced Diploma

Length

3 years for Off-road Journeyperson or 4 years for On-Road Journeyperson

Delivery

In-person

Work Integrated Learning

Yes

International Student

Not Accepted

Work hands-on with the heavy machinery that powers Alberta’s construction, energy, and transportation sectors. The Heavy Equipment Technician Apprenticeship Program at Keyano College trains you to maintain, repair, and overhaul a wide range of equipment, from diesel engines and tracked vehicles to hydraulics and powertrains. Over four years, you’ll combine classroom learning with real-world experience, gaining the expertise needed to earn your Journeyperson Certificate and Red Seal designation.

For Heavy Equipment Technicians, the apprenticeship spans four 12-month periods, each requiring:

  • A minimum of 1,500 hours of on-the-job training, provided by an employer who acts as your sponsor
  • 8 weeks of technical classroom instruction, delivered at Keyano College by qualified instructors

Minimum Requirements:

Successful completion of the following courses:

  • English 20-2, Math 20-3, and Science 10 OR
  • A pass mark in all five Canadian General Educational Development (GED) or Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) tests OR
  • Entrance Exam

Recommended Path:

You must have an Alberta High School Diploma (or equivalent) with:

  • English 30-2
  • Math 30-3
  • Physics 30 or Chemistry 30 or Science 30
  • Related Career and Technology Studies (CTS) courses

For more information, please consult Alberta’s TradeSecrets Entrance Requirements for the Trades.

N/A

Tuition & Fees (2025–26)
Term Domestic Tuition & Fees
8-week term $2,881.00

Please note

  • These estimates are based on 100% enrolment for all semesters and do not include mandatory laboratory fees. Laboratory fees can range from $35-$135 for 2025-2026.
  • *Students will be charged a medical/dental benefit fee unless they opt out by demonstrating alternative coverage - deadlines can be found at StudentCare website.
    ** Tuition is due 10 business days before the start of each semester.

For more information view the Keyano College Credit Calendar.

Refunds, Withdrawals, and Deposits

For information about withdrawals, tuition refunds, program cancellations, and deposit policies, please refer to the Refund Policy page.

Apprenticeships combine technical classroom training with paid, on-the-job learning under the guidance of a qualified journeyperson.

  • Program Duration: 4 periods over 4 years
  • In-Class Training: 8 weeks per year (per period)
  • Workplace Training: Minimum 1,560 hours per year
  • Credential Earned: Journeyperson Certificate and Advanced Diploma
  • Red Seal Option: Available during the final period (Interprovincial Exam)

Apprentices must show progress within 18 months by completing training milestones. In the final period, apprentices may challenge the Interprovincial Red Seal Exam. Upon successful completion, graduates receive a Journeyperson Certificate and an Advanced Diploma.

What You'll Learn As A Heavy Equipment Technician Apprentice

Throughout the program, you will develop essential business skills and gain knowledge in:

A screwdriver and a wrench

Diagnostics & Repair

Inspect and repair heavy machinery to ensure safe, efficient operation.

2 gear icons

Mechanical Systems

Maintain engines, hydraulics, and powertrain systems on a variety of equipment.

 

Technical & Safety Standards

Follow schematics, manuals, and safety regulations while working on equipment.

Career Opportunities


Graduates of the Heavy Equipment Technician Apprenticeship are prepared for a wide range of roles across diverse industries. Example career paths include:

  • Heavy equipment technician or field service technician
  • Truck and transport mechanic
  • Equipment technician in mining, forestry, construction, or energy sectors

Frequently Asked Questions

You can begin the classroom instruction without a sponsor. However, you must secure an employer to log your required on-the-job training hours and complete your certification.

Yes. The program includes training on diagnostic software and electronic systems used in modern heavy equipment.

You will work on diesel engines, tracked machines, trailers, power shift transmissions, hydraulics, and other components used in industries such as construction, transportation, and oil and gas.

An apprentice is a learner in the trade, completing both job-site hours and classroom training. A journeyperson is fully certified and qualified to perform all restricted activities in the trade.

You’ll earn a Journeyperson Certificate and an Advanced Diploma. You may also qualify for Red Seal endorsement, allowing you to work across Canada.

Yes, Keyano College and Alberta Apprenticeship programs recognize some out-of-province training. Contact Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) for transfer eligibility.

Yes. Apprentices typically earn a percentage of the journeyperson wage, which increases as they progress through their training levels.

Keyano offers academic support, career advising, and help connecting with potential employers and sponsors through job boards and career services.

You will need steel-toe boots (Canadian Standards Association (CSA) approved) and safety gear. A full list is provided at the start of the program.

Related Programs You Might Be Interested In

More Ways To Get In Touch

What’s Happening at Keyano

Discover upcoming events and information sessions happening at Keyano College. These events are a great way to learn more about programs, campus life, and student supports.

Sign Up for More Information

Want to learn more about this program or studying at Keyano? Sign up to receive program updates, important dates, and helpful resources straight to your inbox.

About Our Campus

Keyano College offers a welcoming campus with modern facilities, student supports, and learning spaces designed to help you succeed. Discover what it’s like to study, connect, and grow at Keyano.

Life After Keyano

A Keyano education prepares you for the next stage of your journey, whether that’s entering the workforce or continuing your studies. Learn how our programs support career readiness and open doors to future opportunities.

Ready To Apply?

Start your application and take the next step toward your program

Apply Now