Region 5: Heavy Equipment Operator Pre-Apprenticeship Program

Background and Rationale

The International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 793 see the Indigenous population as a sustainable solution to help meet the growing demand for qualified crane, heavy equipment, and concrete pump operators in Ontario. One of the goals within their Indigenous Engagement Strategy is to provide training opportunities for Indigenous people who show the dedication and commitment necessary to build successful careers as heavy equipment operators. The Operating Engineers Training Institute of Ontario (OETIO), in cooperation with the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development of Ontario created the Indigenous Heavy Equipment Operator Pre-Apprenticeship Program for this sole purpose. 

The Métis Nation of Ontario’s (MNO) commitment to enhancing the employability and economic self-sufficiency of its citizens includes supporting and partnering with training facilities and employers to create meaningful opportunities for skills development, training, employment, and career advancement. Through these partnerships, MNO works to strengthen pathways from training to employment while helping employers access a skilled and diverse Métis workforce.

*Completion of application does not guarantee acceptance in to the Indigenous Heavy Equipment Operator Pre-Apprenticeship Program. Interviews and acceptance will be determined and offered by the Operating Engineers Training Institute of Ontario (OETIO).

Program Overview
The Heavy Equipment Operator Pre-Apprenticeship Program supports MNO citizens by securing 6 seats in their next Indigenous Heavy Equipment Operator  Pre-Apprenticeship Program, start date expected end of April beginning of May 2027 at their Morrisburg campus. Training length is 11-Weeks with the following format:

1. 1 week online learning - 15 e-learning courses to be completed prior to hands on training
2. 10 weeks in person training Mon-Fri at Morrisburg
3. 8 week work placement - work location(s) to be determined

Eligibility Criteria

1. Applicant must be a verified MNO citizen within Region 5, be between 18 and 31 years of age and have a valid SIN.
2. Applicant must have Grade 12 or equivalent.
3. Applicant must have G2 driver's licence or higher.
4. Applicant must clearly identify their career goal and demonstrate how successfully completing the pre-apprenticeship training will directly support entry into the heavy equipment operators field and progression toward their chosen career.
5. Applicant must complete 15-e-learning courses prior to training start date.
6. Applicant must be able to secure transportation to Morrisburg.
7. Applicant must be able to be away from home for 10 week training at Morrisburg; Monday 7am thru Friday weekly.
8. Applicant must be able to commit to 8 week work placement - location to be determined. 
9. Applicant does not currently hold any Heavy Equipment Operator equipment certificates.
10. Applicant must successfully complete a Trade Entrance Exam. 
11. Applicant must obtain Driver's abstract - 3 year unrestricted within 1 week of completing application.

How to Apply
To apply for funding, applicants must submit the following:

• A completed on-line application form.
• Cover Letter specific to this training opportunity
• Resume

MNO Funding Details

• Support for training allowance may by considered
• Support to travel may be considered (one time round-trip)
• Support for required safety equipment may be considered
• Reimbursement for drivers abstract may be considered 

Program Impact
By partnering with the Operating Engineers Training Institute of Ontario (OETIO) the MNO aims to:

• Increase access to employment opportunities for Métis citizens.
• Enhance the overall economic mobility of Métis communities across Ontario.
• Support targeted training in partnership with the Operating Engineers Training Institute of Ontario (OETIO) within an industry with an identified shortage 

Contact Information
For more information or assistance with your application, please contact training@metisnation.org.