With the current pace of construction in Ontario, there is a high demand for skilled equipment operators to support this industry. Completion of the Heavy Construction Equipment Operation program will position students for success in the industry.

This program includes a significant amount of hands-on experience, safely performing basic maintenance and operating various pieces of large equipment at one of Conestoga College's two program locations (South Guelph or Brantford Airport). Students will also be exposed to compact equipment and paving operations. This practical experience is complemented with related theory including environmental practices, soils, concrete and asphalt, surveying and site plans. By the end of the program, students will be well-prepared for success as they enter employment in the heavy construction and paving industries as an equipment operator.

Graduates of the program will have the opportunity to receive automatic exemption from all of the apprenticeship in-school training for the three Heavy Equipment Operator trades (Tractor-Loader-Backhoe, Excavator, Dozer) should they choose to pursue that career pathway.