Are you interested in pursuing a career as a diesel or heavy-duty mechanic in Alberta?
With it’s robust industrial and transportation sectors, skilled diesel mechanics are in high demand.
This comprehensive guide explores the top diesel mechanic schools in Alberta offering the best diesel programs and other details such as costs and admission requirements.
Choosing the Right School
These factors are crucial when selecting a program:
- Location and proximity to job markets
- Program cost and available financial aid
- Institution’s industry connections
- Facilities and equipment quality
- Graduate employment rates
- Program schedule flexibility
- Additional certifications offered
Best Diesel Mechanic Schools in Alberta
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT)—Edmonton
NAIT stands as one of Alberta’s premier institutions for heavy equipment technician training.
Program Details:
- Program: Heavy Equipment Technician Diploma
- Duration: 4-year apprenticeship program
- Cost: Approximately $1,000 per 8-week technical training period
- Requirements: High school diploma with a minimum of 55% in English 10-2 and Math 10-3
- Location: Main Campus, Edmonton
- Website: https://www.nait.ca
NAIT’s program is Red Seal certified and includes comprehensive training in hydraulics, electrical systems, and engine diagnostics.
The apprenticeship program combines classroom learning with paid work experience.
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)—Calgary
SAIT offers multiple pathways for aspiring diesel mechanics.
Program Details:
- Program: Transport and Heavy Equipment Technology Diploma
- Duration: 2 years (diploma) or 12-week pre-employment program
- Cost: Approximately $7,500 per year for the diploma program
- Requirements: High school diploma with Math 30-1 or Pure Math 30, English 30-1 or 30-2
- Location: Main Campus, Calgary
- Website: https://www.sait.ca/
SAIT’s program is known for its state-of-the-art facilities and strong industry connections.
Lethbridge College, Lethbridge
Lethbridge College offers specialized training in heavy equipment maintenance.
Program Details:
- Program: Heavy Equipment Technician Apprenticeship
- Duration: 4-year apprenticeship with 8-week technical training periods
- Cost: Approximately $900 per technical training period
- Requirements: Grade 12 or equivalent with passing grades in English and Math
- Location: Lethbridge Main Campus
- Website: https://lethpolytech.ca/
Keyano College, Fort McMurray
Situated in Alberta’s oil sands region, Keyano College provides valuable industry exposure.
Program Details:
- Program: Heavy Equipment Technician Certificate
- Duration: 32 weeks (pre-employment)
- Cost: Approximately $6,500 for the program
- Requirements: High school diploma with Math 20-3 and English 20-2
- Location: Fort McMurray Campus
- Website: https://www.keyano.ca/
Red Deer Polytechnic—Red Deer
Red Deer Polytechnic offers comprehensive heavy equipment training.
Program Details:
- Program: Heavy Equipment Technician Apprenticeship
- Duration: 4-year apprenticeship program
- Cost: Approximately $950 per technical training period
- Requirements: High school diploma with Math 10C and English 10-1 or 10-2
- Location: Red Deer Main Campus
- Website: https://rdpolytech.ca/
Lakeland College, Vermilion
Lakeland College provides hands-on training in a rural setting.
Program Details:
- Program: Heavy Equipment Technician
- Duration: 4-year apprenticeship program
- Cost: Approximately $850 per technical training period
- Requirements: High school diploma with Math 20-3 and English 20-2
- Location: Vermilion Campus
- Website: https://www.lakelandcollege.ca/
Medicine Hat College—Medicine Hat
Medicine Hat College offers specialized diesel mechanic training.
Program Details:
- Program: Heavy Equipment Technician Apprenticeship
- Duration: 4-year apprenticeship program
- Cost: Approximately $900 per technical training period
- Requirements: High school diploma with Math 10C and English 10-2
- Location: Medicine Hat Campus
- Website: https://www.mhc.ab.ca/
Grande Prairie Regional College, Grande Prairie
GPRC serves northern Alberta’s growing industrial sector.
Program Details:
- Program: Heavy Equipment Technician Certificate
- Duration: 36 weeks
- Cost: Approximately $6,800 for the program
- Requirements: High school diploma with Math 20-3 and English 20-2
- Location: Grande Prairie Campus
- Website: https://www.nwpolytech.ca/
Northern Lakes College
Northern Lakes College offers flexible training options across northern Alberta.
Program Details:
- Program: Heavy Equipment Technician Pre-Employment
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Cost: Approximately $5,500 for the program
- Requirements: High school diploma with Math 20-3 and English 20-2
- Location: Multiple campuses across northern Alberta
- Website: https://www.northernlakescollege.ca/
Olds College—Olds
Olds College specializes in agricultural and heavy equipment training.
Program Details:
- Program: Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Cost: Approximately $5,800 for the program
- Requirements: High school diploma with Math 20-3 and English 20-2
- Location: Olds Campus
- Website: https://www.oldscollege.ca/
Admission Requirements Overview
Most heavy-duty mechanic programs in Alberta require:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum grade requirements in Math and English
- Some programs may require Science 20 or Physics
- Valid driver’s license (Class 5)
- Good physical condition and manual dexterity
Career Prospects
Graduates of these programs can expect:
- Average starting salary: $50,000 – $65,000
- Experienced technicians: $70,000 – $100,000+
- Strong job prospects in transportation, construction, and oil & gas sectors
- Red Seal certification opportunities
- Potential for advancement to supervisory or shop owner positions
Financial Aid Options
Related: 10 Common Financial Aid Mistakes And How to Avoid Them
Students can access various funding sources:
- Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) grants
- Student Aid Alberta loans
- Canada Student Grants
- Indigenous funding programs
- Institution-specific scholarships and bursaries
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