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Earthmoving Frequently Asked Questions

Heavy Equipment Operator and Earthmoving Equipment Operation FAQs

What are the admission requirements for HEO and EEO?

Students must be mentally and physically capable of safely operating equipment on a daily basis in order to be admitted to the program. Any medication, dependency or mental or physical limitation that may interfere with one’s ability to safely operate equipment may prevent a student from obtaining admission to the program.

A small class with a high ratio of instructors to students promotes quality education; therefore applicants will be carefully selected and acceptance will be based on the approval of the Admission’s Office.

Standard Admission:

  • Application Form
  • High School Diploma or its equivalent
  • Proof of age (18 years or older)
  • Copy of an unrestricted class 5 Driver’s License
  • Recent copy of a Driver’s Abstract
  • Submit a completed Olds College Earthmoving Equipment Operations Personal Profile

OR

Alternate Admissions Status - General Requirements:

If you do not meet the Alberta high school diploma or its equivalent requirements, please submit the following:

  • Application Form
  • High school transcript of completed courses
  • Proof of age (18 years or older)
  • Copy of an unrestricted class 5 Driver’s License
  • Recent copy of a Driver’s Abstract
  • Letter of introduction and interest in Olds College and this program. The applicant should also address why they feel they will be successful in this program without having completed the high school diploma admission requirement
  • Submit a completed Olds College Earthmoving Equipment Operations Personal Profile
  • The language of instruction at Olds College is English. Applicants whose previous academic study was in a language other than English must provide proof of English language capabilities.

Admission will be offered to students who fully meet program requirements and qualifications. Students will be considered for admission when all application materials have been received and reviewed by the Admissions office.

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Can I just take training on just one or two of the pieces of equipment in the Program?

All areas of the program must be successfully completed.  There is not an option to take only part of the program.

How long does the program take?

Depending on the program you take; HEO is 12 weeks with a work practicum; students are required to secure the work practicum for themselves. EEO Level 1 is 3 weeks, Level 2 is 4 weeks and Level 3 is 4 weeks.

Is there residence available?

For the HEO program held off-campus, it is the responsibility of the student to obtain accommodations or lodging.  If the program is within driving distance of the College, you may request accommodations in residence but it is your responsibility to get to the worksite each morning. If you are taking EEO on campus, you may apply to residence for accommodations.

How many HEO programs are offered each year?

The 12 week HEO program is typically offered two times per year.  Once in the fall session (late August/September), and once in the winter session (late February/March).  The EEO Levels will be offered various times throughout the year.

What are these other offerings of equipment operation that I hear about?

Other offerings of the HEO program are delivered through an industry services contract.  These are private contracts written with an organization that request their own programs.

Where does the hands-on training take place?

Hands-on training for off-campus programming takes place at a land location that has been secured for use by Olds College.   For the on-campus training EEO 1, 2, and 3, Olds College has a training site on campus.  On occasion we will go off campus to complete specific projects.

Will the college find a work practicum for me?

You are responsible to secure your own work practicum. Olds College has numerous heavy equipment industry partners that the student can apply for employment. Students will be given contact names and numbers of these companies, as well as a list of active websites that are looking for operators to assist in their search for employment after the course.

What if I get a job right after the twelve weeks?

If you find employment immediately after completing the 12 week HEO program, Olds College will work with you to use your work hours as credit toward your work practicum hours.  You must let the staff know the name and the contact information to ensure that the proper paper work is complete.  A work practicum information package will be provided to students.

If I get a job right away do I still have to do my work practicum?

Yes, the work practicum is a requirement of graduation. We will work with your employer to ensure you are evaluated - qualifying hours will be credited towards the practicum.

Does my work practicum have to be in Olds?

No, your work practicum can be wherever you secure it.

I have a hearing and/or sight problem can I still apply?

Operating heavy equipment can be a dangerous job – you will require corrected vision and hearing.  Depending on the severity of your disability you may or may not be suitable for this type of work. 

If I have the safety tickets already do I have to retake them in the course?

Yes, the safety tickets are part of the HEO program, and are a good refresher for you.  In addition, industry will often have employees recertify to ensure safety standards.

What is the difference between HEO and EEO?

HEO (Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate program)

This is an entry-level program designed for the individual who has little or no experience in heavy equipment operation. It is a 12 week program (plus the an additional 2 week work  practicum) that provides theory and practical training on various pieces of heavy equipment such as compactor, loader, excavator, dozer, and grader. This program also covers soil structure, grades and staking, preventative maintenance, excavation math, blueprint reading, and construction site fundamentals. Numerous safety tickets are included. The program requires a 12 week commitment to both the in classroom portion of the program as well as the hands-on training.

EEO (Earthmoving Equipment Operations – Levels I, II, III)

The EEO courses were developed for the individuals that could not commit (due to various reasons such as financial or time restraints) to the HEO program. The three levels can be taken back-to-back or over a length of time – this allows the student to seek employment in- between courses, gain valuable information through working within industry, and further develop their skills.

Students must successfully complete the previous level prior to enrolling in the next level.

  • Level I is an introduction to equipment operation along with basic preventative maintenance procedures. Emphasis is placed on safety requirements and safety tickets.
  • Levels II and III do not require a work practicum
  • Levels II and III provides additional hands-on
  • Levels I, II, and III can be taken in time blocks at the students convenience, rather than 12 continuous weeks
  • Level II & III provides equipment operation allowing for seat time on selected pieces of equipment.


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