UCN Launches Heavy Equipment Training Program in Support of Northern Industry and Communities

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 2, 2023

(Thompson, MB) – A Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate Program will be offered from March 25th – May 3rd, 2024, in Thompson, Manitoba as part of University College of the North’s (UCN) strategy to support the growth of the mining industry in northern Manitoba.

“The mining industry is expanding in northern Manitoba and Heavy Equipment Operators are critical to successful mining activity,” said Doug Lauvstad, President and Vice-Chancellor at UCN. “Mining companies have been asking UCN to deliver this training to support their activities.”

“Similarly, many northern communities, the transportation and heavy construction sectors desperately need trained operators,” Lauvstad continued. “The north needs these skills to build our communities and grow our economy.”

The Heavy Equipment Operator certificate program is offered by UCN in partnership with the Operating Engineers Training Institute of Manitoba (OETIM), Inc.

Lauvstad also explained the UCN/ OETIM partnership ensures that students receive high quality training. “OETIM is a great partner for UCN and the north. Their training is recognized as the best with highly qualified instructors.”

The program offered in March 2024 will provide 80 hours of Heavy Equipment Operator theory, 160 hours of practical equipment training experience on various pieces of equipment, and safety and cultural awareness training. This is the third time that UCN has offered this program in the last 18 months, and it is expected that there will be additional program offerings in the future.

​
University College of the North provides learning opportunities to northern communities while respecting diverse Indigenous and northern values.

Apply to the Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate by clicking this link.

#

CONTACT: Monte Koshel
UCN Director of Marketing, Communications & Recruitment
communications@ucn.ca | 204.627.8244