Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation

Instructional activities throughout the program include hands-on practice in school and the workplace, student-led group discussions and presentations, interactive lectures, work report projects, case studies, reflective journaling, and role-play.

Red Seal Essential Skills for Success are integrated throughout the program.

The program is delivered in the classroom, VCC shop, online, and in the workplace.

Good physical condition is important because the work often requires considerable standing, bending, crawling, lifting, climbing, pulling and reaching. It is strongly recommended that the applicant take the ITA ‘essential skills’ assessment or equivalent self-assessment. This will help in determining if additional education prior to attending this program is required.

Some important attributes of the Heavy Mechanical Foundation Student are:

• Reliability
• Analytical skills
• Ability to read and understand service manuals
• Mathematical aptitude

They also demonstrate the ability to:

• Communicate effectively
• Work with little or no supervision
• Contribute to a team approach
• Plan and work sequentially
• Adapt to changing technology
• Problem solve

Key attributes for people entering this trade are mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination, stamina and agility. Communication skills and patience are also important. Other assets are good vision, hearing, and sense of smell to diagnose problems. This occupation may require a valid driver’s license with air endorsement and/or a forklift operator’s certificate.