COURSE CURRICULUM

The Heavy Equipment and Truck and Transport Technician program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic is a one-year certificate designed to provide hands-on training in two high-demand mechanical trades simultaneously. Over the course of the program, students acquire the knowledge and skills needed to service, maintain, diagnose, and repair a wide range of heavy equipment, trucks, buses, and transport vehicles used in construction, mining, forestry, and transportation industries. The curriculum covers critical technical areas, including air and hydraulic brake systems, drivetrain theory and shop practices, electrical systems, starting and charging systems, diesel engine theory and repair, environmental control systems, advanced hydraulics, steering systems, structural components, tracks and undercarriage, truck and trailer systems, HVAC and auxiliary power systems, and basic tools usage. Students also receive training in oxy-fuel cutting, plasma arc cutting, and shielded metal arc welding. Trade mathematics, essential job skills, and introduction to Indigenous studies are integrated to develop well-rounded technicians. The program emphasizes hands-on, practical learning through fully equipped labs and workshops, allowing students to apply theory to real-world mechanical problems. A work experience component provides exposure to industry practices and prepares graduates to confidently enter the workforce, equipped to handle complex mechanical challenges, maintain equipment safely and efficiently, and contribute effectively to operations that rely on reliable heavy equipment and transport vehicles.