MHCA puts future heavy-equipment operators in the ‘driver’s seat’
Fourteen northern Manitoba students got a hands-on introduction to the operation of heavy equipment in November, through MHCA WORKFORCE’s heavy equipment operator workshop in Thompson. The workshop uses simulators, sponsored by Brandt Tractor, that put students in the virtual “driver’s seat” in a classroom setting.
“We’re very excited about the opportunities that this simulator lab opens up for those looking to get into the industry, as equipment operators,” said Don Hurst, MHCA’s Director of WORKSAFELY, Education and Training. “This is really great for taking training directly to the students, especially for reaching those in northern or rural communities, where programs and practical opportunities can be sparse.”
The first sim-lab class was offered by WORKFORCE in partnership with the University College of the North and the Manitoba Construction Sector Council.
“The goal of this program is to build opportunities for workforce development in the North,” said Phil McDaniel, MHCA WORKFORCE program coordinator. “This is done through strategic partnerships and programming that can provide safety and equipment-operator orientation to newcomers to heavy construction.”
The introductory program runs four weeks. Students get one week of safety training and introduction to the heavy construction industry, a week in-class instruction on heavy equipment operation and then two weeks of training on the dozer, grader, loader and excavator simulators.
The introductory program sets up the individual for further training, should they wish to become certified heavy equipment operators.
See related news:
