Program Overview
Program Sponsor
Northwest Machinists Apprenticeship Committee
Skilled Occupational Objective
Heavy Duty Equipment Mechanic
Total RSI Hours
587
Training Provider
Machinists Institute
Year 1 Curriculum (144 hours)
1
AST Safety and Tools (38 hours)
Overview of shop safety theory, hand tools, lifting basics, and precision measurement and theory. Includes pre- and post-tests in application of safe practices and tool use.
2
Tool Basics (20 hours)
Introduction to common tools (ammeters, gauges, jack stands, torque wrenches, etc.). Math techniques, including measurements/calculations/conversions.
3
Basic Employment Skills (8 hours)
Instruction/overview of acceptable employee standards including timeliness, ability to take direction, task completion, appropriate communication styles, and personal appearance, as well as honesty, integrity and reliability.
4
Basic Communication Skills (8 hours)
Techniques for effective communication in the workplace. Includes lessons that emphasize importance of verbal, written and reading skills in the trades.
5
Introduction to Trade Math (10 hours)
Review of basic math skills related to the trades and demonstration of how they apply in context. Covers multiple systems of measurement, decimals, fractions, and basic geometry.
6
Engine Mechanical Basics (22 hours)
Basic introduction to engines. Topics include engine block, crankcase, pistons, bore/stroke, flywheel, camshaft, timing belts and manifold/exhausts.
7
Fuel Systems (19 hours)
Covers the basics of diesel fuel systems. Topics include tanks, filters, fuel transfer pumps, injection pumps and injection nozzles.
8
Cooling Systems (19 hours)
Covers the essential components of cooling systems including water pumps, thermostats, cooling fans, radiators, hoses and coolants.
Year 2 Curriculum (151 hours)
Electrical (47 hours)
Electrical fundamentals including calculations using Ohm's Law; AC/DC voltage; the use of voltmeters, ohm meters, ammeters and multimeters; electrical components including resistors, coils, capacitors and diodes.
Diesel Mechanical Basics (24 hours)
Introduction to diesel systems including the diesel engine, diesel engine support systems, and the exhaust system. Also includes an overview of the diesel cycle, and a short history of the diesel engine.
Scavenging Systems (8 hours)
Covers two stroke and four stroke cycles. Also discusses the impact on the environment.
Lubrication Systems (12 hours)
Covers types of lubrication and lubricating oil, oil pumps, filters, oil coolers and pressure sensors.
Welding I (30 hours)
Oxy-acetylene welding and cutting; and shielded-metal arc welding.
Welding II (30 hours)
MIG and flux-cored welding.
Year 3 Curriculum (148 hours)
The third year curriculum builds on previous knowledge with advanced welding techniques, computer systems, and various mechanical systems.
Welding III (40 hours)
TIG welding techniques and applications for heavy equipment repair.
Computer Applications (20 hours)
Computer system basics, control fundamentals, sensors, and output devices. Depending upon employer needs, could incorporate proprietary system training (e.g. DiagnosticLink).
Pneumatic Systems (18 hours)
Covers air brakes, compressors, actuators and control valves.
Hydraulics (24 hours)
Basic hydraulic principles, and types of hydraulic fluids and their characteristics. Describes components of hydraulic systems including pumps, motors, valves, seals, cylinders, and filters as well as maintenance procedures.
Equipment Systems (46 hours)
Comprehensive coverage of equipment systems including compressors (10 hours), heavy equipment repair/maintenance (18 hours), and winch and hoist repair/maintenance (18 hours).
Year 4 Curriculum (144 hours)
Year 4 focuses on advanced drivetrain components and systems.
Transmission Service (44 hours)
Preventative maintenance and service procedures for transmissions, including mechanical interfaces, electrical connections, and diagnostic systems.
Driveline Service (30 hours)
Covers drive shafts, axles, U joints and CV joints as well as service and maintenance procedures.
Suspension Systems (30 hours)
Reviews suspension components including linkages, bearings shaft seals, bearings and axles.
Clutch Service (20 hours)
Covers clutch discs, bearings, driveshafts, synchronizers and differentials as well as service and maintenance procedures.
Power Trains & Wheel End Service (20 hours)
Power Trains (10 hours) covers engine block types, mechanical components, pistons/cylinders, crankcase/crankshaft/camshaft, timing systems, belts, and manifolds. Wheel End Service (10 hours) covers wheel positions, inclination, camber/caster, toe/thrust angle and alignment, plus service and maintenance procedures.
Course Progression & Skill Development
Foundation Skills
Year 1 establishes essential knowledge in safety, tools, basic employment skills, communication, trade math, and fundamental mechanical systems including engines, fuel systems, and cooling systems.
Technical Systems
Year 2 builds on the foundation with electrical systems, diesel mechanics, scavenging systems, lubrication systems, and introduces welding techniques including oxy-acetylene, shielded-metal arc, MIG and flux-cored welding.
Advanced Systems
Year 3 expands into TIG welding, computer applications, pneumatic systems, compressors, heavy equipment repair/maintenance, winch and hoist repair/maintenance, and hydraulic systems.
Specialized Drivetrain
Year 4 completes the program with specialized focus on power trains, clutch service, driveline service, transmission service, wheel end service, and suspension systems for comprehensive mechanical expertise.
Training Methods & Facilities
Classroom Instruction
Traditional classroom learning with expert instructors providing theoretical knowledge and industry insights
Hands-on Lab Work
Practical application of skills in fully-equipped workshop facilities with real equipment
Online Learning
Digital resources and modules for flexible learning options and supplemental materials
Self-Study
Independent learning assignments to reinforce classroom concepts and develop research skills
The Heavy Duty Equipment Mechanic Apprenticeship Program utilizes a variety of instructional methods to ensure comprehensive skill development. All training is provided by the Machinists Institute using state-of-the-art facilities designed to simulate real-world working environments.