This nine-month program prepares students for entry level positions as apprentices in four trades: Truck and Transport Mechanic, Diesel Engine Mechanic, Transport Trailer Technician and Heavy Duty Equipment Technician. Students engage in a variety of classroom and shop activities. They learn theoretical principles of vehicle mechanics in the classroom. They apply their knowledge in the shop where they perform numerous diagnostic procedures, preventative maintenance procedures, removals, repairs, and installations of components on trucks, commercial transport vehicles and heavy equipment.

Graduates of the Heavy Mechanical Foundation program at Selkirk College typically find employment with service garages or industrial firms as apprentices engaged in the maintenance and repair of motor vehicles and associated equipment.

Practical Training: • Air, alternate and hydraulic braking systems • Diesel and gasoline engines • Electrical and electronic systems • Employment preparation • Heavy duty wheeled equipment and attachments • Hydraulic systems • Power train components • Safe hoisting procedures • Safe work practices and procedures • Track machines and attachments • Welding principles • Winches and attachments

The theory component of the program is delivered in a classroom setting employing lecture mode along with self-directed activities, while the hands-on component is conducted in the College's mechanical shop. The ratio of shop time to classroom time is approximately 60:40 and based on a 4-day week. Upon completion of the program, graduates, possess the skills, knowledge and attitudes necessary to gain employment in one of the four aforementioned trades as a Level 1 apprentice.

All Heavy Mechanical Foundation students are encouraged to acquire additional certification including an Air Brake Endorsement on their driver's license, a Forklift Operator’s Certificate, Occupational First Aid Level 1 and WHMIS through the College’s Continuing Education department.