Heavy Equipment Operator simulators delivers community-based training

ACC offers community-based simulator training in Heavy Equipment Operator Program. Simulator-based training significantly reduces the risk of injury when operating heavy equipment.

Assiniboine Community College (ACC) offers Heavy Equipment Operator Training in a variety of communities.

The Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) program provides students with a combination of training in fundamental heavy equipment operator skills as well as related training in surveying, safety and equipment servicing.

Students train on simulators representing heavy equipment such as loaders, excavators, and dozers.

Until recently, the only way to train heavy equipment operators was on real machines in real work environments. “The simulators used in the program is an inexpensive way of improving traditional operator training programs,” said Gerald Cathcart, the Business Development Coordinator at Assiniboine Community College. Simulator-based training offers a safe, inexpensive way of training individuals while teaching core skills.

Students can practice on the simulators first. If they make a mistake they simply try again without risking a mishap on a costly piece of equipment. They gain confidence in their skills quicker and in a much safer environment. These simulators are designed for training in a modular format allowing students to start at their appropriate skill level.

This simulator training is mobile and can be delivered in any community across Manitoba.

The simulators used at ACC provides performance tracking that allows students to work without the need for trainer supervision. This greatly reduces the cost with little to no supervision required in addition to lowering the risk of injury before actual in-seat training begins.

ACC’s program provides training on how to operate heavy equipment in a safe manner, carry out preventative maintenance, complete pre- and post- inspections, remove and install attachments, load and unload equipment, and read and interpret legislation, site plans, and manufacturer manuals. Graduates of this program will receive a Certificate of Achievement from Assiniboine Community College.

If you are seeking training of this nature in your community, contact our Centre of Continuing Studies for more details.