Foundation Programs
Foundation Programs are a type of pre-apprenticeship program that provides trainees with the basic knowledge and skills needed for entry into a particular occupation. In most cases, trainees receive technical credit toward level one of the apprentice program. A minimal amount of work-based hours is earned as these programs are mainly delivered in a classroom or shop setting.
Diesel Engine Mechanic Foundation
Diesel Engine Mechanics work in sectors such as marine, construction and transport installing, repairing and maintaining all internal combustion diesel engines and components. Individuals who complete the Foundation program earn technical training credit toward level 1 and some work-based credit toward completion of the apprentice program.
Heavy Duty Equipment Technician Foundation (Heavy Duty Equipment Mechanic)
The Heavy Duty Equipment Technician Foundation program is a pre-requisite to the apprenticeship program. The Foundation Program consists of Module 1 technical training and essential and practical skills related to the apprentice program. Individuals who complete the Foundation program earn technical training credit toward Module 1 and some work-based credit toward completion of the apprentice program. Heavy Duty Technicians must have the skills, knowledge and ability to diagnose, repair, adjust, overhaul, operate and test off-road equipment. Heavy Duty Technicians are employed in many sectors such as mining, forestry, construction, marine, and oil and gas. Good physical condition and important attributes such as mechanical and mathematical aptitude are required. The ability to adapt to a variety of environmental conditions is an asset as working conditions may range from cold remote outdoor sites to comfortable indoor shops.
Road Builder and Heavy Construction Foundation
The program is intended to serve as a pre-employment program for individuals who wish to enter the road building and heavy construction industry.
The program covers areas such as orientation to road construction and heavy construction, worksite health & safety practices, environmental requirements, use of equipment and tools , basic soil mechanics/geology, asphalt pavement, concrete, principles of excavation and shoring
Truck and Transport Mechanic Foundation (Commercial Transport Vehicle Mechanic)
The Truck and Transport Mechanic Foundation Program is a pre-requisite to the apprenticeship program. The Foundation program consists of Module 1 technical training and essential and practical skills related to the apprentice program. Individuals who complete the Foundation program earn technical training credit toward Module 1 and some work-based credit toward completion of the apprentice program. Truck and Transport Mechanics inspect, repair and maintain commercial trucks, emergency vehicles, buses and road transport vehicles. They work on the structural, mechanical, electrical and electronic vehicle systems and components such as engines, cab, chassis and frames, brakes, steering, suspension, drive train, HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning), fuel systems and hydraulic systems. Maintenance and diagnosis of vehicles is also required. Truck and Transport Mechanics are employed in the agricultural, construction, mining, forestry, petrochemical and transportation sectors as well as small repair shops and motor vehicle dealers. Mechanics perform a large variety of tasks such as engine and fuel systems, transmission systems, HVAC systems, steering, alignment, brakes, drive lines, suspension, hydraulics, electrical and electronic systems, truck-trailer repair or diagnostic services.