Kudos to ICBA members Hall Constructors, Jacob Bros Construction & Tybo Contracting for loaning vital equipment to Abbotsford School District’s Heavy Equipment Operator career program. You’re making a real difference in young people’s lives — and drawing more quality people into the trades!

Over the past 13 years, Abbotsford Career Programs has delivered the Road Builders Foundation and Heavy Equipment foundation course to high school students. This is the only Heavy Equipment Operator high school program in Canada.

In 2020-21, the program partnered with Thompson Rivers University for instructor and curricular support. Their qualified staff is ITA certified and experienced in the delivery of this course throughout BC. Companies donated equipment for training purposes over two weeks of pit operation.

ITA requires the following equipment:

  • 2 Excavators
  • 2 Dozers
  • 2 Loaders
  • 2 Articulated Rock trucks
  • Skid Steer
  • Backhoe (If possible)

The cohort consisted of 16 high school aged students, both male and female. Each student rotated through the various equipment over the 2-week period in the gravel pit. Students obtained up to 8 hours on each piece.

Career programs provide:

  • All required insurance coverage, up to $2,000,000 for commercial liability and $5,000,000 for equipment coverage.
  • Low Bed transportation
  • Fuel
  • Daily grease
  • ITA Certified Instructor
  • 2nd Pit Boss: Tech Teacher with 10 yrs HEO experience.

All students are in grade 12 and look for work placements at the conclusion of the program.

With the support of our local businesses, Abbotsford has been able to provide young adults this training opportunity so they are prepared to safely enter the workforce as future Heavy Equipment operators.

More at https://careers.abbyschools.ca/programs/trades-programs/heavy-equipment-operator