Unfortunately, at this point in time, this program is not available to international students. Please click the link to view all of our international students programs.
The Apprentice Heavy Equipment Technician program at Portage College is designed to provide students with the essential skills and knowledge required to work with and maintain heavy equipment, including machinery used in construction, mining, forestry, and agriculture. This hands-on, trade-based program combines classroom learning with practical, on-the-job training to develop a strong foundation in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining a wide range of heavy machinery.
Upon completion, students will attain the technical training required to progress through their apprenticeship and towards their Journeyperson status and begin a rewarding career. Successful graduates are well-prepared to pursue a career as a Heavy Equipment Technician, with opportunities in various industries such as construction, mining, and agriculture.
This program is ideal for individuals who have an interest in working with heavy machinery and are seeking a career that combines technical expertise with hands-on problem-solving. With experienced instructors and access to industry-standard equipment, the program offers a comprehensive learning environment that sets students up for long-term success in the field.
Note: Period 1 is a common pathway for students interested in becoming Transport-Trailer Mechanics. While Periods 1 and 2 of Apprentice Heavy Equipment Technician is also a common pathway for students interested in becoming Off Road Heavy Duty Equipment Mechanics or Truck and Transport Mechanics.
Domestic Apply
Use this process to apply to Portage College if you are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident (landed immigrant) or a protected person (refugee).
Domestic Funding Options
Browse through funding options available to students at Portage College to see what may be available to you.
Domestic Information Request
If you would like to receive more information about this program please use the Info Request Form linked here.
Career Potential
Employment as an Apprentice Heavy Equipment Technician. Higher levels of apprenticeship create opportunities such as advancement in the field, enhanced skills and responsibilities, higher pay and increased job opportunities. Each level is another step to fulfilling the requirements to obtain a journeyperson ticket.
Admission Requirements
Period 1
Students must be a registered apprentice with Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) and be eligible for identified period training.
Period 2
Successful completion of Period 1
Transferability
The technical training is the standard through the Province; therefore apprentices may take their training at Portage College or any college or technical institute in Alberta offering Heavy Equipment Technician Apprenticeship training.
Program Start Dates
Period 1: August 18, 2025
Period 2: October 20, 2025
Application Deadlines
Period 1: Until all seats are filled
Period 2: Until all seats are filled
Location
Lac La Biche Campus
Application Fee $53.50
Tuition to be updated at a future date.
Apprenticeship Heavy Equipment Technician
We acknowledge that Portage College’s service region is on the traditional lands of First Nation Peoples, the owners of Treaty 6, 8 and 10, which are also homelands to the Métis people. We honour the history and culture of all people who first lived and gathered in these lands.