Student Success & The Northern Experience
This program will prepare you to apply your knowledge in analyzing and solving heavy duty equipment system problems. You will learn how to diagnose and repair mechanical, electronic and electrical heavy duty equipment components and systems using a variety of troubleshooting techniques and testing equipment to support heavy equipment operations.
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Course Information
2024-2025 Academic Year
Semester 1
Students learn the fundamentals of DC electrical and electronic systems, using problem solving techniques and circuit board testing. Topics include basic electrical and electronic theory, problem solving using Ohms’s Law and use of Digital Multimeters.
42 Hours
A required course in the first semester of the Mechanical Techniques – Industrial Millwright, Motive Power Technician – Automotive Service, and Heavy Equipment Techniques programs at Northern College, Communication Fundamentals will provide students with an opportunity to reinforce their use of Standard English, develop their abilities to communicate effectively in the workplace and improve their capabilities with computer technology, particularly in using Word, Excel and Alldatapro to produce accurate and professional documents. As well, students will be required to use information technology like Blackboard and their own computing devices to research information online to learn about their trade pathway, find technical information using an industry system like Alldatapro, and to complete course assignments.
28 Hours
This course introduces the student to health and safety in their home, in society and within an occupational setting. Students learn about the social and personal benefits of safe work practices and the methods to best prevent accidents or injuries. Students will review the role, right and responsibilities of an individual in today’s health and safety conscious world. Students also learn how to read and interpret the Occupational Act and Regulations.
Improving your knowledge and understanding of the history of the Indigenous peoples of what we now call Canada is an important step to enable Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, organizations, and communities to work together more respectfully. Throughout this course you will have the opportunity to learn, discuss and reflect about many topics that are relevant in the learning journey towards reconciliation.
42 Hours
This course introduces students to careers in the motive power sector. Students will also use various service information systems required to successfully inspect, test and repair motive power vehicles. Students will access online service information to create work orders, research motive power system operations, identify component locations and electrical diagrams, and locate service information to aid in diagnostics and repairs.
28 Hours
Students will learn the basic mathematics and measuring instruments needed in the repair trade for mechanics and will relate the basic math for measuring and problem solving in repair and maintenance.
28 Hours
Topics include shop safety and safe working habits, proper vehicle lifting practices, hand, shop and power tool identification and selection, use of precision tools, learn about fasteners, torque, bearing and seals. The students will put into practice what they have studied in theory class.
56 Hours
The continual introduction of innovative techniques and more complex equipment is resulting in increasing demands for trades people who are not only skilled in the practical aspects of the trade, but who have a sound theoretical knowledge of all procedures associated with the servicing and repairing drive train systems of motor vehicles. The general aims of this course are to provide the theoretical knowledge, and practical instructions to complement the work experience of Auto Service Technician apprentices.
70 Hours
This course is designed to assist beginning students with the basic principles of welding. The emphasis is placed on practical applications and to assist the student in developing more advanced skills. The course content will be shared between shop and classroom time at the discretion of the professor.
28 Hours
Semester 2
This course is required in the second semester of the Motive Power Technician – Automotive Service, Heavy Equipment Techniques, Motive Power Technician – Heavy Equipment and Mechanical Technician and Techniques – Industrial Millwright and Mechanical Technician – Welding Fitter trades programs at Northern College. The purpose of this course is to give students an opportunity to develop and enhance basic communication skills as required in the workplace. Students will also be required to use a computer to complete assignments and other course work, work independently and collaboratively, follow instructions and complete assigned tasks on time.
28 Hours
Students will be able to explain the fundamentals, rules and laws that govern fluid power systems. Students will perform mathematical calculations to find pressure, force, and area. Students will learn the symbols of components and be able to identify and explain the principles and purpose of the components found in a hydraulic circuit.
42 Hours
This course is designed to introduce students to the diesel fuel system. Students will learn about the properties of diesel and alternative fuels and be able to map the fuel system and explain the purpose of each component of the fuel system. The students will have the opportunity to identify and describe systems, demonstrate the use of diagnostic tools and repair various problems as it relates to the engine fuel system and its component.
56 Hours
The mathematics course for Mechanical Techniques – Industrial Millwright, Motive Power Technician – Automotive Service and the Heavy Equipment Techniques consists of trade related mathematical problems and their solutions.
28 Hours
This course is designed to provide students with a fundamental understanding of the operating principles, types, and designs of the modern internal combustion engine. Students will be able to explain how the engine produces torque and identify short block and cylinder head components. Students will have the opportunity to practice the skills learned using special tools and measuring instruments in the practical section of the course.
70 Hours
This course continues the development of knowledge and skills required to maintain and diagnose motive power electrical systems. The subjects of study include the following systems: electromagnetic devices, wiring and wire repairs, advanced circuit diagnosis, electrical schematics, flooded batteries, and starter motors. The students will have the opportunity to identify and describe systems, demonstrate the use of diagnostic tools, and recognize and solve problems using a strategy-based approach.
42 Hours
Students are introduced to motive power type steering, suspension, and braking systems. The subjects of study include the fundamentals of steering systems and components, tires, wheels, hubs, and hydraulic braking systems. Students will have the opportunity to practice the skills learned in the practical section of the course.
70 Hours
This course is designed to assist beginning students with the basic principles of welding. The emphasis is placed on practical applications and to assist the student in developing more advanced skills. The course content will be shared between shop and classroom time at the discretion of the professor.
28 Hours
Semester 3
This course will develop a more advanced level of hydraulics related to graphic symbols, calculations, fluids, conditioners, control valves and hydraulic pumps.
42 Hours
Students are introduced to the basic construction of internal combustion engines, and will learn the proper maintenance, cleaning, inspection and overhaul procedures of gasoline engines and components. Topics will include the construction and repair of valve trains and camshafts, cylinder heads, engine testing and start-up procedures and engine component failure analysis.
70 Hours
In this course, students will be introduced to the tools and strategies required to diagnose motive power electronic circuits, lighting, driver information and power accessory systems. Students will also learn the fundamentals of operation and diagnostic testing procedures for charging systems.
42 Hours
This course is designed to provide the student with practical experience in diagnosis and repair of heating and air conditioning systems.
56 Hours
This course is designed to develop more advanced skills in Arc Welding by building on past skills of oxygen acetylene, arc welding and by progressing to the horizontal and vertical position. The emphasis is placed on practical applications. The course content will be shared between shop and classroom time at the discretion of the professor.
28 Hours
General Education Courses are selected online each semester by the student from a list provided and exposes students to a related area of study outside of their immediate academic discipline. Certain programs have predetermined electives.
42 Hours
Semester 4
This course introduces students to the nature of business and entrepreneurship. Students will obtain an overview of entrepreneurship and the entrepreneurial process then expand into key concepts including business types, customers, marketing, financials and human resources. The options of franchising and purchasing existing businesses are also covered in this course. Students will outline and assess the components of a Business Plan.
42 Hours
The Heavy Equipment Techniques Practical Lab allows students supplementary hands on learning in a trades shop environment. Students practice, and master practical skills required to be successful in the motive power industry. Practical elements include mechanical systems competencies such as: engine, fuel, brakes, steering, suspension, electrical, driveline, welding, and fabrication.
56 Hours
Students will learn the operating principles, component design, function, diagnosis and repair procedures of electronically managed diesel fuel injection systems and emission systems. Also, students will learn computer principles and demonstrate scan tool diagnosis.
70 Hours
Students will learn the basic fundamentals of hydraulic systems and their components, as well as testing procedures and design differences.
28 Hours
Students will gain fundamental knowledge of Suspension, Steering and Brake systems specific to Heavy Equipment, as well as proper service procedures for these systems.
56 Hours
Students will gain fundamental knowledge of Heavy Equipment Power-train design and function as well as hands-on practice of proper service procedures. Proper use of service manuals and other published service information will be stressed.
84 Hours
General Education Courses are selected online each semester by the student from a list provided and exposes students to a related area of study outside of their immediate academic discipline. Certain programs have predetermined electives.
42 Hours
Career Ready Graduates
Articulation Agreements
A number of articulation agreements have been negotiated with universities and other institutions across Canada, North America and internationally. These agreements are assessed, revised and updated on a regular basis. Please contact the program coordinator for specific details if you are interested in pursuing such an option.
- Analyze, diagnose, and solve various motive power system problems by using problem-solving and critical thinking skills and strategies and by applying fundamental knowledge of motor vehicle operation, components, and their interrelationships.
- Diagnose and repair climate control systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
- Diagnose and repair engine systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
- Diagnose and repair electrical, electronic, personal safety, and emission components and systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
- Diagnose and repair drive train components and systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
- Diagnose and repair suspension, steering, and brake components and systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
- Disassemble and assemble components to required specifications by applying workshop skills and knowledge of basic shop practices.
- Select and use a variety of troubleshooting techniques and test equipment to assess electronic circuits, vehicle systems, and subsystems.
- Apply knowledge of hydraulics and pneumatics to the testing and analysis of motive power systems and subsystems.
- Communicate information effectively, credibly, and accurately by producing supporting documentation to appropriate standards.
- Use information technology and computer skills to support work in a motive power environment.
- Prepare, support, maintain, and communicate data from log, record, and documentation systems.
- Apply business practices, project management skills, and communication skills to improve customer service.
- Assist in quality-control and quality-assurance programs and procedures.
- Develop and use personal and professional strategies and plans to improve professional growth, job performance, and work relationships.
- Complete all assigned work in compliance with occupational, health, safety, and environmental law; established policies and procedures; codes and regulations; and in accordance with ethical principles.
Career Opportunities
Graduates may work in dealerships, service and repair shops, or retails stores. They may also work within the forestry, mining and construction industries or for insurance companies.
Heavy-Duty Equipment Technicians are employed by companies that own and operate heavy equipment, heavy equipment dealers, rental and service establishments, railway transport companies, and urban transit systems.
Explore labour market information for related careers and employment trend data from the Government of Canada Job Bank.
Admissions Information & Requirements
Admission Requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- Grade 12 English (C, U)
- Grade 11 Math (C, M, U)
Or equivalent
Academic prerequisites for this program may be obtained free of charge through Academic Upgrading.
Applicants who do not have a high school diploma or equivalent and will have reached the age of 19 years on or before the start of the program must undergo academic testing and may be required to complete Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR) process to demonstrate equivalency of admission requirements prior to admission into a program.
For more details, please contact the Admissions Office at 705-235-7222 or admissions@northern.on.ca.
Additional Requirements for International Students
In addition to the admission requirements, international students must have proof of English Proficiency and meet the requirements below.
1. Proof of Senior High School Diploma/Certificate
2. English Proficiency (we will require one of the following):
- IELTS Academic International English Language Testing System: a minimum overall score of 6.0 must be achieved with no individual band score under 6.0; however, we will accept one band at 5.5.
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) – Internet Based Test (iBT) overall minimum score of 79
- PTE (Pearson Test of English) Academic – Graduate Diploma: 58+
If your country of citizenship has English as its official language, we may accept alternate proof of English Proficiency.
All educational documents must be submitted in English and will be dependent on the country of citizenship.
For more information, please contact admissions@northern.on.ca.
Program Specific Requirements & Additional Information
Students will need to purchase the following items:
- five-finger leather gloves
- safety glasses
- 8″ steel toe safety boots (green patch)
- Calculator with fractions key (recommended for Mathematics and Precision Measurement I courses and tests)
Tuition, Fees & Payments
The tuition and fees information is typically updated yearly for the upcoming Academic Year in May. The amounts are for the full academic year.
Amounts may be based on last years tuition and fees and are subject to change.
If you are a current student, please refer to your Student Account or see a Student Services Clerk for the most up-to-date information.
Tuition
Domestic: $2,720.56
International: $14,813.46
Program Specific Fees
Ozone Depletion Prevention (ODP) Certification: $50.00The ODP designation conveys skills in environmentally-correct equipment design, proper handling of refrigerants, and will prepare participants for complying with Federal and Provincial Regulations covering refrigeration and air conditioning systems.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees are paid in full for the entire academic year in the first semester.
The Convocation and Official Documentation Fee (GRA) of $100.00 only applies for the first year of each program.
Please see Detailed Ancillary Fees for more information.
| Ancillary Fees by Campus | Domestic | International |
| Timmins (PC) | $945.50 | $1,558.00 |
Find Your True North.
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