A Growing Demand for Operators

The demand for skilled heavy equipment operators is strong across Canada, fueled by ongoing infrastructure projects, construction developments, and natural resource extraction. This steady demand creates opportunities for people from all walks of life, including women who may have previously overlooked this career path.

According to the Government of Canada’s Job Bank, employment in this sector is expected to remain stable, with consistent job openings due to retirements and new project requirements. This trend underscores the industry’s need for skilled, diverse talent—making it the perfect time for women to consider a rewarding career in heavy equipment operation.

Women in the Driver’s Seat

While women currently represent less than 5% of heavy equipment operators in Canada, there are signs of change. Our organization is a direct proof of this claim, in 2024 17% of IHE graduates were female. Across the country, programs and initiatives are actively working to address gender disparities in the skilled trades. For example, government-supported initiatives like the Women in the Skilled Trades Initiative are paving the way for more women to enter this field.

In Ontario, women now make up 8% of workers in trades, transport, and equipment operation roles—a modest but encouraging increase compared to years past. Furthermore, all-female training cohorts, such as those launched in British Columbia, demonstrate a growing recognition of the importance of supporting women in these roles.

Pictured: Little Red River Cree: All female IHE HEO graduates

Why Women Should Consider Heavy Equipment Operation

1. High Demand and Competitive Pay: Heavy equipment operators are essential to Canada’s economy, offering stable job prospects and attractive wages.
2. Career Growth Opportunities: Many women make excellent leaders in these roles, as they often bring strong communication skills and a keen attention to detail—both essential qualities for effective supervision, equipment training, and specialized machinery operation.
3. A Supportive Community: More women entering the field means building a stronger network of female operators, helping to foster even greater inclusivity and mentorship.

At IHE, we’ve witnessed firsthand the dedication, skill, and enthusiasm that women bring to heavy equipment training. Our programs are designed to provide hands-on experience, industry-relevant skills, and a supportive environment to help all students succeed. Regardless of race or gender identification.

Empowering Women at IHE

IHE is committed to helping women break into this rewarding industry. We’ve tailored our training programs to ensure that every student has access to the resources, mentorship, and encouragement they need to thrive. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to advance your skills, we’re here to support your journey.

Be Part of the Change

The landscape of the heavy equipment industry is evolving, and women are becoming a more visible and vital part of it. If you’ve ever considered a career that combines hands-on work, technology, and the satisfaction of building the future, now is the time to explore your future potentially in the heavy equipment operation field.

Take the first step toward a rewarding career in construction! Sign up for free at IHE Heavy Equipment Operator School to explore funding assistance and learn more about our programs. A team member will reach out to support you on your journey to success!

The post Breaking Ground: The Rise of Women in Heavy Equipment Operation appeared first on Heavy Equipment Operator School.

Whether you’re managing a busy construction site, a mining operation, or any industrial project, ensuring your team is operating safely and efficiently is critical. That’s where we come in. With IHE’s on-site services, you can reduce risks, improve compliance with industry standards, and build confidence in your team’s skills.

Here’s what our on-site training and competency assessments include:

1. Site Assessment and Hazard Identification

Every site comes with its own set of unique challenges, and identifying hazards is the first step toward creating a safer workplace. Our experienced trainers perform a detailed site assessment, evaluating potential risks and areas for improvement. We look at environmental factors, equipment layout, and operational workflows to ensure your site meets safety standards.

By addressing hazards upfront, you can prevent incidents before they happen and empower your team to recognize and mitigate risks proactively.

2. Pre/Post Trip Inspections and Equipment Maintenance

Heavy equipment reliability starts with thorough inspections. Our training emphasizes the importance of pre- and post-trip inspections, teaching operators how to identify signs of wear, damage, or maintenance needs.

These inspections are essential for avoiding unexpected downtime and costly repairs. More importantly, they ensure that your team is operating safe and functional equipment every day. We provide practical, hands-on guidance to make these inspections second nature for your operators.

3. Knowledge of Equipment Functions and Controls

Understanding the equipment you operate is essential for both safety and efficiency. Our training covers the full spectrum of heavy machinery functions, controls, and capabilities. Whether it’s excavators, dozers, loaders, or other machinery, we ensure your operators know how to use their equipment to its fullest potential.

We tailor this training to your specific equipment, providing a hands-on, practical approach that builds both skill and confidence.

4. Safe Equipment Operations in Accordance with WorkSafeBC and Industry Standards

Safety is non-negotiable. Our on-site training focuses on operating heavy equipment in compliance with WorkSafeBC regulations and broader industry standards. We provide clear, actionable guidance on safe operation techniques, communication protocols, and emergency procedures.

By ensuring your operators are trained to these standards, you can reduce accidents, improve workplace morale, and meet regulatory requirements.

Additional Benefits of Certification

One of the biggest advantages of certifying already experienced operators is protecting companies from liabilities. If an incident occurs, having operators recognized by a third party as competent and “certified” to operate the equipment can significantly reduce legal risks.

Other reasons to get employees certified include:

• Enhancing Skills, Confidence, and Knowledge: Certification programs help operators improve their abilities, boosting their confidence and knowledge.
• Improving Business Reputation: Companies known for having certified operators are seen as more professional and reliable, avoiding the image of having untrained “cowboys” on-site.
• Meeting Higher Standards and Increasing Productivity/Efficiency: Certified operators can meet higher operational standards, leading to increased productivity and efficiency.
• Ensuring Safer Operations: Certified operators are trained to perform their jobs safely, having been evaluated by a third-party trainer with no obligation to sign them off unless deemed competent and safe.
• Prolonging Equipment Life: Operators trained alongside our trainers learn to maintain equipment properly and recognize signs of potential issues, such as unusual symbols, noises, smells, and sounds.
• Cost Savings: Proper training helps operators perform specific jobs safely and accurately, reducing unnecessary wear and tear on equipment and avoiding excessive fuel consumption.

Why Choose IHE for On-Site Training?

• Customized Solutions: We adapt our training to fit the specific needs of your site and team.
• Convenience: Training on your site minimizes downtime and keeps your team productive.
• Industry Expertise: With years of experience in heavy equipment training, we bring industry-leading knowledge to your operation.

Investing in your team’s skills and safety is an investment in the future of your operation. If you’re ready to enhance your team’s competency, streamline your operations, and meet industry standards, contact us today to schedule your on-site assessment and training.

At IHE, we’re committed to helping your team excel in every aspect of heavy equipment operation.

The post On-Site Competency Assessments and Training with IHE – Did you Know? appeared first on Heavy Equipment Operator School.

If you’re considering a career as a heavy equipment operator, here’s a look at some of the industries you can work in after completing your training at Canada’s largest heavy equipment training school.

1. Construction

One of the most common industries for heavy equipment operators is construction. Whether it’s residential, commercial, or infrastructure projects, construction sites rely heavily on operators to handle equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, and cranes.

• Residential Construction: From new housing developments to apartment complexes, heavy equipment operators are responsible for site preparation, excavation, grading, and foundation work.
• Commercial Construction: Large-scale office buildings, shopping centers, and industrial facilities all require skilled operators to move materials, level ground, and ensure structural integrity.
• Infrastructure Projects: Highways, bridges, airports, and tunnels are just a few of the public works projects that depend on experienced heavy equipment operators.

2. Mining

Mining is another industry where heavy equipment operators are in high demand. Mining operations, whether for coal, minerals, or metals, require the use of massive machines to excavate and transport materials. Working in the mining sector often means operating in remote locations, but the rewards can be significant, with opportunities for career advancement and competitive pay.

Heavy equipment operators in mining typically handle large haul trucks, loaders, and drills, playing a crucial role in ensuring that mining operations run smoothly and efficiently.

3. Oil and Gas

The oil and gas industry is a critical part of Canada’s economy, and heavy equipment operators are an integral part of the workforce in this sector. From the oil sands in Alberta to pipelines across the country, skilled operators are needed to move earth, transport materials, and assist in the extraction and transportation of oil and gas.

As an operator, you may find yourself working on pipeline installation, site preparation for oil rigs, or maintaining the infrastructure that supports the industry.

4. Forestry

Forestry operations, especially in regions like British Columbia and Alberta, also rely on heavy equipment operators to manage the landscape and support logging activities. Operators use specialized equipment like feller bunchers, skidders, and forwarders to cut down, transport, and process trees in a safe and efficient manner.

The forestry industry is an excellent option for those who enjoy working outdoors in natural environments and are passionate about sustainability and environmental stewardship.

5. Road Maintenance and Snow Removal

Another essential industry for heavy equipment operators is road maintenance and snow removal. In areas that experience harsh winters, operators are needed to clear snow from highways, roads, and parking lots, often using equipment like graders and snowplows. This work is critical for public safety and keeping transportation routes open during severe weather conditions.

In warmer months, road maintenance crews rely on operators to grade roads, repair potholes, and handle materials like asphalt and gravel for paving projects.

Conclusion

As a heavy equipment operator, your skills will be in high demand across multiple industries, from construction and mining to energy and forestry. Each industry offers unique challenges and opportunities, allowing you to build a rewarding career while working with some of the most powerful machines in the world.

At Interior Heavy Equipment Operator School, we provide the training you need to succeed in these industries. Whether you’re looking to break into construction or explore opportunities in oil and gas, we can help you get there. Ready to start your career? Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how you can become a certified heavy equipment operator.

The post Industries You Can Work in as a Heavy Equipment Operator appeared first on Heavy Equipment Operator School.

1. Be Ready for Spring’s Job Surge

Winter training positions you perfectly for the busy construction season that begins in spring. As soon as the weather warms up, companies ramp up their projects, and the demand for skilled operators increases. By completing your training during the colder months, you’ll be job-ready when employers start hiring in the spring, giving you a head start over those who wait for warmer weather to train. This proactive approach can put you at the front of the line for job opportunities.

2. Gain Real-World Experience in Challenging Conditions

In Canada, winter conditions are an unavoidable reality in the heavy equipment industry. Training during winter provides a unique opportunity to learn how to operate machinery in snow, ice, and low-visibility conditions, a skill that is invaluable in the field. Developing the ability to handle equipment in harsh weather not only prepares you for real-world job sites but also makes you a more versatile and highly sought-after operator. Employers value workers who can confidently perform in all seasons, especially when winter presents its unique challenges.

As an operator, you’ll often work in the dark, whether it’s early morning or late afternoon during winter. Experiencing these conditions for the first time on a job site can be overwhelming, as the atmosphere is vastly different. At IHE, we ensure our students get hands-on practice in these scenarios, so they’re ready to tackle any environment with confidence.

3. Improve Your Skills with More Hands-On Training Time

At IHE, winter training allows you to maximize your hands-on practice. Our courses are designed to ensure you get significant time operating the machinery in a range of conditions. This focus on practical experience helps you build confidence in your skills and ensures you’re fully prepared to take on any job. Plus, with our expert instructors providing guidance every step of the way, you’ll leave our program with the knowledge and experience needed to excel in your career.

4. Showcase Your Dedication and Commitment

Choosing to train in winter demonstrates a level of dedication that stands out to employers. It’s not just about learning how to operate equipment—it’s about showing that you’re willing to face tough conditions to achieve your goals. Winter training highlights your resilience and determination, traits that are highly valued in the heavy equipment industry. When companies are looking to hire, they’re seeking people who can handle the challenges of the job, no matter the season.

5. Stay Competitive All Year Long

Many construction and resource-based industries don’t slow down in winter, and neither should you. Training in the winter months allows you to keep your career momentum going year-round. By completing your certification before spring, you’re showing employers that you’re always ready to move forward, even when conditions are less than ideal. This kind of mindset can set you apart and make you a top choice for employers who need dependable, well-trained operators for year-round work.

Conclusion

Training in winter isn’t just about learning how to operate heavy equipment—it’s about positioning yourself for success in a competitive industry. At IHE, we prepare you for the real-world demands of the job, no matter the season. By the time the snow melts, you’ll have the skills, experience, and confidence to step into the workforce and take your career to the next level.

So why wait for spring? Embrace the cold and start your heavy equipment training this winter at IHE. You’ll be ahead of the curve, ready to tackle whatever comes next.

Register This Winter.

The post 5 Reasons To Train in Winter appeared first on Heavy Equipment Operator School.

Evaluate the Quality of Training

When choosing a heavy equipment school, the quality of training should be your top priority. Look for a school that offers extensive hands-on training with a variety of machines. At IHE Heavy Equipment School, we provide training on Excavators, Loaders, Dozers, Graders, Articulated Rock Trucks, and Rubber Tire Backhoes. Our courses are a perfect blend of on-machine training and classroom/field theory, ensuring you gain both practical skills and theoretical knowledge.

Check for Comprehensive Machine Hours

The amount of time you spend operating heavy machinery during your training is critical. Adequate machine hours ensure you develop the proficiency and confidence needed to excel in the field. IHE School ensures ample machine hours for each student, allowing you to become adept at handling various equipment under different conditions.

Look for Employment Assistance

Starting a career in heavy equipment operation can be challenging without proper employment support. A good school should offer assistance in job placement and career development. At IHE Heavy Equipment School, we provide lifelong employment assistance to all our alumni. You’ll receive access to weekly job lead postings for the rest of your career. Our training also includes resume building, mock job interviews, and a career exploration assignment to ensure you are job-ready upon graduation.

Ensure Availability of Modern Equipment

Training on outdated or poorly maintained equipment can hinder your learning experience. Ensure the school you choose has modern, well-maintained machinery. IHE Heavy Equipment School prides itself on offering top-of-the-line equipment that mirrors what you will encounter in the field, giving you a realistic and valuable training experience.

Assess the Instructor Expertise

Experienced instructors are essential for effective learning. They should have extensive field experience and the ability to teach complex concepts clearly. Our instructors at IHE School are seasoned professionals with years of industry experience, dedicated to providing you with the best education and guidance.

Evaluate the Curriculum

A well-rounded curriculum that covers both practical and theoretical aspects is vital. IHE Heavy Equipment School offers a balanced curriculum that includes on-machine training and classroom/field theory. This approach ensures you understand not just how to operate the equipment, but also the underlying principles and safety practices.

Consider Class Size and Student Support

Smaller class sizes typically mean more personalized attention and better learning outcomes. At IHE School, we maintain small class sizes to ensure each student receives the support and attention they need. Our instructors are committed to your success and are always available to provide additional help and guidance.

Research Alumni Success Stories

A school’s track record can provide insight into the quality of its programs. Look for testimonials and success stories from alumni. IHE Heavy Equipment School has a long history of successful graduates who have gone on to have prosperous careers in the heavy equipment industry. Our alumni network is a testament to the quality of education and support we provide.

Evaluate Location and Facilities

The location of the school and the quality of its facilities are also important considerations. Each site for IHE Heavy Equipment School is strategically located to provide an excellent learning environment. Our training grounds are designed to simulate real-world conditions, preparing you for the challenges you’ll face in the field. Learn to earn at one of three sites in Lake Country, Edmonton, or Innisfail.

Conclusion

Choosing the right heavy equipment school is a significant decision that will impact your career. By considering factors such as training quality, machine hours, employment assistance, equipment availability, instructor expertise, curriculum, class size, alumni success, and facilities, you can make an informed choice.

IHE Heavy Equipment School excels in all these areas, making it the ideal choice for aspiring heavy equipment operators. Enroll today and take the first step towards a successful and rewarding career in the heavy equipment industry.

Are you ready for your next chapter? Click here to get started!

The post How to Choose the Right Heavy Equipment School for You appeared first on Heavy Equipment Operator School.

Megan Evans’ journey to becoming a heavy equipment operator started in an unexpected place – a car rental agency.

“I never really saw myself as a heavy equipment operator for the longest time. But I was working at a car rental agency, and we rented out a lot of pickup trucks to people who were working on the gas projects,” says Evans. “They would all be coming in for their two weeks on and picking up their vehicles and they were always happy or excited to be going to work.”

Evans comes from a family of construction workers, and her father has always tried to get her to consider heavy equipment operating as a career too. But it wasn’t until she started talking to these operators that she started to see herself behind the wheel of one of the mighty machines.

“I started talking with these guys and asking them about themselves and about what they did,” says Evans. “They just had the best stories about their jobs, which really made me want to get into the heavy equipment operating.”

Choosing a heavy equipment school

Earlier this year, Evans decided to make the important decision to invest in her future and set herself up for success in the industry by enrolling in IHE Heavy Equipment College’s 10-week training course.  In this course, students learn the safe and effective operation of various sizes of excavators, the loader, the dozer, the grader, the articulated rock truck, and the rubber tire backhoe.

Evans says she loved her time at the school, especially the positive learning environment the instructors fostered.

“I had a great time, and the school environment was really positive,” she says. “Steve Mill is an absolutely fantastic instructor. He was always there to encourage me and give me lots and lots of tips and special little tasks. I really appreciated all the instructors and all of their help through the schooling process.”

Her favourite part about her time at IHE? Learning to operate an excavator.

“It was super great to learn,” says Evans. “It was really fun to do all the different trenches and stuff and every day there would be a new challenge.”

Upon graduating from IHE in September 2021, Evans landed a job with a civil construction company in Northern British Columbia. She says her training from IHE has helped her stand out among her colleagues and allowed her to even help some of them out when they needed it.

“I was able to just jump right on and knew exactly how to dump, what was the best way to dump and understanding the paperwork behind it,” says Evans. “Whereas for some of [my colleagues], they needed some extra help.”

Though she’s only officially been in the workforce for several months, Evans says she loves working as a heavy equipment operator and encourages anyone considering heavy equipment operator training to take the plunge.

“It’s a really rewarding, really fun industry to work in. Every single day, your work site’s gonna look different and you’re gonna be able to see progress being made. I find having that in a job is just really awesome,” she says.

“So for anyone who is considering coming into heavy equipment, I would say whatever is holding you back, it’s not out of the way and just do it.”

Ready to start your training as a heavy equipment operator?

Investing in the right training is a big life-changing decision. IHE Heavy Equipment College is here to help.

Every person’s journey is unique. Starting from the first contact between a prospective student and the School, IHE’s team of student advisors identify courses that will help you and your career goals. They will even help you explore the different funding options available to you.

Call 1-866-399-3853 to speak with one of their student advisors today.

The post How Megan Evans Became a Heavy Equipment Operator appeared first on Heavy Equipment Operator School.

“It’s your first,” she says.

When you know the reasoning, it makes complete sense. The only way to become a smooth operator of heavy equipment is to get hundreds, even thousands of hours of experience. Most employers are looking for operators who are experienced, so they’re taking a risk by hiring someone new to the trade.

“Your first job is your hardest one to get because you’re not going to get a job unless someone pays you to learn,” says Bay. “And we really drill that into our students because it switches their psyche.”

Yet, you need someone to employ you to get experience. It’s a catch-22 that a lot of workers face.

But there’s good news.

As the current heavy equipment workforce ages and operators retire, employers need to find people to take their place. But in an industry where experience is highly valuable, how can a young or newer heavy equipment operator best set themselves up for success.

The answer is simple: Get the right heavy equipment training.

Across its three campuses in Alberta and British Columbia, IHE Heavy Equipment College offers courses covering single machines to more comprehensive training where a student learns how to operate a variety of machines.

Which heavy equipment operator training is right for you?

When it comes to choosing the right heavy equipment operator training, the more comprehensive, the better.

IHE offers several comprehensive heavy equipment operator courses. All of them vary in length and price, including:

Heavy Equipment Operator Training

In this 10-week course, students learn the safe and effective operation of various sizes of excavators, the loader, the dozer, the grader, the articulated rock truck, and the rubber tire backhoe.

In this course, students will receive 235 hours of machine operation shifts, safety ticket training as well as daily classroom theory, too.

IHE typically recommends this course for everyone.

“Ideally, everybody should take the 10-week course, without a doubt, because that’s going to give you seat time on all six pieces,” says Bay. Once you start working, it can be difficult to break away from employment to come back to school. So, if you can take the 10-week course, you get all six machines.”

Full Equipment Training

In this 8-week course, students learn various sizes of excavators, the loader, the dozer, and the grader.

Students receive 190 hours of machine operation shifts as well as safety tickets and classroom training.

Combination Training

In this 6-week course, students will learn the safe and effective operation of various sizes of excavators, the articulated rock truck, & the loader. 

In this course, as with any course at IHE, students receive 145 hours of machine operation shifts as well as safety tickets and classroom time to learn field-associated theory like slopes, hazards, soil types, job site safety and communication skills just to name a few.

Classroom theory normally occurs on site in-person, but the school pivoted during Covid-19 and can, if necessary, now run information and classes online as well.

Bay says the Combo course is one of IHE’s most popular courses as students can get trained and get working in a relative short time offering an employer some flexibility in their operating skills. 

“If someone can’t do the 10-week course, then instead we promote the six-week combination course,” she says. “That would be our most popular entry-level course, because it’s still going to give you time on the excavator, time on a loader, and time on a rock truck.”

Consider your budget and time

Though Bay recommends the 10-week course to almost everyone, it also depends on the student’s financial situation.

“It all comes down to their budget and plan on where to work after. It really depends on each person’s individual need and life situation,” says Bay. “We really pride ourselves on listening to the needs of our customers and students, and then adapting our program, delivery and plan for them to meet their needs.”

IHE also offers single-machine courses, but these are only recommended for people in certain circumstances. For example, if a person is already employed and their company requires them to get training on a specific machine. Or, a person already has a job offer on the condition that they get training on a particular machine.

“We find that sometimes those students are already working in the industry, or they have some experience but they want to get some seat-time so they can keep growing at their company,” says Bay.

“If you’re brand new to the industry and brand new to equipment, we search for any funding support options available to aid with costs so we can enroll you in a longer course with more seat hours like the 10-week or even 12-week Earthmover course.”

In addition, all IHE alumni also receive a resume career package to jumpstart their transition from training to employment.

But Bay says the true key to graduate’s success is a good attitude, a willingness to learn, and to take advantage of any work opportunities offered to them.

“Having a can-do attitude, being respectful to others and being willing to learn and start where your peers are willing to work with you is the best way to get a great job reference as a newer operator on a job site,” says Bay.

Still not sure what heavy equipment operator training is right for you?

Investing in the right training is a big life-changing decision. If you still have questions or want more information, IHE Heavy Equipment College is here to help.

Every person’s journey is unique. Starting from the first contact between a prospective student and the School, IHE’s team of student advisors identify courses that will help you and your career goals. They will even help you explore the different funding options available to you.

Call 1-866-399-3853 to speak with one of their student advisors today.

The post Find the right Heavy Equipment Operator Training for you appeared first on Heavy Equipment Operator School.

Today, 16 years later, the college has expanded significantly, now instructing between 20 and 50 students across its three sites every day with a fleet of over 60 machines.  

To keep up with demand, the college recently added a new 2021 Hitachi 200 excavator to its Winfield, B.C. location.  

Excavators are the most common machine found on worksites across the industry and are used for a variety of different jobs.  

“You could find it loading any kind of auxiliary equipment, like crushing of asphalt, loading trucks, digging any kind of trench, reclamation work and the removal of overburden materials,” said Steven Mill, Team Lead and Instructor at IHE Heavy Equipment College.  

IHE’s Comprehensive Excavator and Heavy Equipment Operator Training  

Excavator training is one of the many courses IHE Heavy Equipment College offers. Through the five-week course, students learn the safe and effective operation of various sizes of excavators.  

Students receive 115 hours of machine operation shifts as well as online instructional theory. They also take part each day in live online meetings with instructors and students utilizing Microsoft Teams. As students progress through the field portion of the course, the tasks required on the machines become more involved and challenging to ensure that they have the required skills to operate the machine in a real work situation. 

Excavator training is also included in IHE’s Earth Mover, Heavy Equipment Operator, Full Equipment and Combination training courses.  

The new bright orange excavator is part of the college’s commitment to ensure each student learns on their own machine. The 1:1 ratio ensures all IHE Heavy Equipment School’s students get the hands-on training they need to get straight to work and excel after graduation. 

Students Excited About Using New State of the Art Equipment  

Mill says current IHE students are excited about the new excavator. 

“It’s a novelty,” he says. “Everybody wants to ask questions. Everybody is excited about it. Everybody hovers around and checks it out.” 

He says instructors are also excited about the new machine too, but they’re also a little nervous. 

Just like when you get a new car, they want to keep the new excavator in the best shape possible.  

“Keeping it brand new is a top priority. Not scratching it, denting it, or damaging it in any way,” says Mill. “We’re screening the students that we put on it and the tasks that we do with it.” 

This means that if students want to use the brand-new excavator, they need to earn it. Students will need to prove they can care for it, maintain it, do required operational checks, and have excelled at basic skills first.  

“We use it as a reward for students that are excelling. For those that aren’t excelling, we use it as encouragement,” says Mill. “So, if they’re like ‘oh, it’s a brand-new machine, can I get on it?’ We can say ‘you know what? Let’s work on this for a little bit on this other machine, and when we get there, we absolutely can.” 

The new excavator has already gotten lots of use since it arrived last week.  

“We’re running pretty full right now, so we acquired that machine because we need to fulfill our commitments to the students for seat time,” says Mill. “You don’t share machines at IHE and ever since it got here earlier last week, it has been busy every shift.” 

Want to learn more about IHE’s heavy equipment training? Check out our full list of course offerings or call 1-866-399-3853 to speak with one of our student advisors who will help you get set up with the right training program. 

The post IHE Heavy Equipment Operator College Adds New Machine to Fleet to Boost Excavator Training appeared first on Heavy Equipment Operator School.

On April 20, 2020, with classroom curriculum moved online, training at IHE resumed, guided by a thick pandemic policy binder. To date, we have been COVID free at all three of our training facilities and our corporate offices.   

The fear lingers today, but we move forward still together.  Construction, infrastructure, highway, and energy projects continue and so does the demand for skilled operators.  With our dedicated field and administrative teams in tandem, our students dedicated to living our safety pledges, guests abiding by our symptom free training zones and everyone monitoring with daily health check forms, IHE continues to supply entry and experienced heavy equipment operators to industry job sites across Western Canada. Select grads are receiving multiple job offers prior to and immediately following program graduation.   

I want to share some incredibly inspiring stories. It really hits home when someone shows up at one our training sites because they had no job to go back to after the shut-down. It was gone.   

Some of those people are training right now, re-inventing and re-investing in themselves in order to start a new career with years of work experience in their tool belt.  

We have seen mechanics, welders, builders, problem solvers, teachers and leaders of all ages, races and backgrounds and they all refused to be casualties of COVID.  

Their spirit – broken and dismal at first, is lifted, teased and coaxed along during their course. New-found passion and joy returned for a bright new future upon graduation.  

At IHE is we teach equipment operation and model best practices. Attitude or work ethic come from within. The shining 2021 IHE Alumni are beacons of hope in a continued uncharted existence. The big picture is overwhelming indeed, but broken down into small, achievable steps, makes it manageable. We know we can’t help everyone, but the folks that show up on our sites, putting the effort in, we are rolling the red carpet out for! 

To continue supporting students in any way we can, it is my pleasure to announce that we have partnered with Mark’s.  The full details are included in this newsletter.  

To our partners-in-training who have trusted us with their clients, thank you.    

 To our employers –contractors, municipalities and industry project partners that continue to trust our HEO advisory and Field subject matter eyes, thank you.    

To close, if you would like to be mentioned or appear in this ongoing publication, kindly contact us by email at: [email protected]  

The post IHE – Building a robust post-pandemic workforce appeared first on Heavy Equipment Operator School.

Meet Rodney, originally from Thunder Bay, Ontario and now living in Ottawa. As a long time member of the oil field work force with major companies like Encana, working in Northern most parts of Alberta and British Columbia, Rodney decided it was time for a change.  

“I didn’t want to do oil anymore so I thought I would get into heavy machinery operation,” said Banning. “I looked into training in Ottawa but the school there was not as organized as IHE, and I used to live in the Okanagan so I could stay with friends, so I drove 4,000 kilometres to be here because I could start right away and thought they were the best school with the best options.” 

Upon reviewing his options for training, and considering his existing work experience, Banning decided his best bet would be to learn the excavator, rock truck and loader.  

We caught up to him the day he had been tasked to build a rock wall with an excavator. “First time ever building a rock wall,” said Banning. “It’s a little different working with the thumb on the excavator but if you take your time you get the feel of it. You have to be delicate when placing the rocks so you learn precision operation,” he added. 

Instructor Bruno joined in, “Rock walls are built for retaining banks. Rodney is starting with the bigger rocks at the bottom, and then lessening the size as he builds up. The task is designed to teach the student how to work with the rock thumb in the excavator. Rodney is a great student, always willing to learn and we really love that he drove all the way across Canada just to come and train with us.” 

Upon completion of his training, Banning returned to the East with a detour to a new job first! 

He may have left the energy sector of the oil patch behind, but he did not lose his fondness of the North. After graduation, Banning landed himself a job in Baffin Island working at a rock quarry. We wish him the best in his HEO career now and ahead.

The post Cross-Country Journey – From the Oil Fields to Baffin Island appeared first on Heavy Equipment Operator School.