MHCA puts future heavy-equipment operators in the ‘driver’s seat’

HEO training group shot

Nine students will be getting a hands-on introduction to the operation of heavy equipment this month, through MHCA WORKFORCE’s heavy equipment operator workshop in Winnipeg.  The workshop uses simulators, sponsored by Brandt Tractor and Toromont Cat, to 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 class, offered in partnership with the Manitoba Metis Federation, is the third sim-lab class delivered by WORKFORCE. The first two were held in northern Manitoba, in partnership with the University College of the North and the Manitoba Construction Sector Council.

“The goal of this program is to develop the workforce for the heavy construction industry,” 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 3 weeks of in-class and simulator training on dozer, loader and excavator operation.

The introductory program sets up the individual for further training, to prepare them to become certified heavy equipment operators.

For more information on this program, please contact Phil McDaniel at 204-947-1379.