Introduction to Surface Mining Operations/Heavy Equipment Operations (not accepting applications)

Can you imagine the thrill of operating heavy equipment?

This hands-on program provides an opportunity to develop the skills needed to work in the surface mining industry—in just two intensive weeks!

Program description

This program offers students an opportunity to prepare for entry-level employment as surface miners through a combination of theory and practical experience.

Students will spend approximately 140 hours in an intensive, hands-on training program at the University of Alaska at the Delta Mine Training Centre, a world-class training and research facility located in Delta Junction, Alaska. The program is structured as a unique two-week program that will expose students to what a work cycle at an operating mine actually feels like.

In order to participate in the program all students must attend a career planning program with Yukon Mine Training Association (YMTA), pass a mandatory drug and alcohol test and possess a valid Class five driver’s license, as well as a passport or a status card.

At the end of this program, students will:

  • Master the fundamentals of the Core Competencies required for an entry-level miner.
  • Know the basic safety procedures in an surface setting and know the reasons these procedures are required.
Admission requirements
  • age 18+
  • alcohol and drug free (must pass an alcohol and drug test prior to acceptance into program)
  • Yukon class five driver’s license with a clean drivers abstract is preferred
  • good health and physically fit
  • ability to lift up to 50 lbs
  • good vision and hearing
  • passport or Status Card
  • references (work or personal)

It is recommended that students also take additional training courses in Standard First Aid / CPR-C, Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) and Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems (WHMIS).

Other requirements

Successful candidates must pass an industry-led job readiness and aptitude interview to determine if they:

  • have a desire to work in the mining industry for the long term
  • take direction well
  • are willing to work 12 hour days in extreme environments
  • are safety conscious
Graduation requirements

In order to graduate, students must successfully complete all courses in the program.

Graduates of the program will receive a Yukon University certificate and a University of Alaska certificate.

Money matters

Fees

Tuition for this program: $3,000

Additional costs:

  • Students will be responsible for transportation to, and from, Whitehorse.
  • Transportation to and from the Delta Mine Training Centre in Delta Junction, Alaska will be provided.
  • Students need to provide steel-toed boots, a jacket that is warm to -50 and a face mask to protect against cold weather. Specific packing lists will be provided to students accepted to the program.
  • Students must be eligible to cross the border to Alaska in order to complete the practical training at the Delta Junction Facility.

Student financial awards

Education is an investment in your future, your family and your community. Yukon University is pleased to support that investment by offering some of the most competitive tuition rates in the country, as well as several student financial awards to help offset your educational and living costs.


Financial assistance

There are government programs, scholarships, bursaries, awards and First Nation funding available to financially support you throughout your academic career.

See money matters for more information, or talk to our financial advising staff in the Student Services Centre. Email or call 867 668 5209 to make an appointment.