Bachelor of Applied Science - Agribusiness
The Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc) in Agribusiness at Olds...
Certificate in Agricultural and Heavy Equipment
Olds, Alberta
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The Certificate in Agricultural and Heavy Equipment at Olds College of Agriculture & Technology in Olds, Alberta, is an intensive, hands-on program designed to prepare students for technical careers in the agricultural and heavy equipment industries. This program focuses on developing mechanical, diagnostic, and repair skills for a wide range of machinery used in modern farming, construction, and transportation. With state-of-the-art facilities and a strong emphasis on practical learning, students gain real-world experience in engine systems, hydraulics, transmissions, and electrical systems. The program’s applied approach ensures that graduates are job-ready and capable of maintaining and servicing complex machinery essential to Canada’s agricultural and industrial operations.
Curriculum: The Certificate in Agricultural and Heavy Equipment curriculum integrates foundational theory with applied shop training. Students learn essential mechanical concepts such as engine fundamentals, powertrains, hydraulic and electrical systems, fuel systems, and preventive maintenance. Advanced coursework includes computer diagnostics, equipment calibration, and safety protocols for handling large machinery. Students work directly on agricultural tractors, combines, loaders, and construction machinery to develop hands-on troubleshooting and repair expertise. The curriculum also includes business and communication components to enhance professionalism and workplace readiness. By the end of the program, graduates possess the technical and problem-solving skills required for successful employment in the agri-equipment and heavy equipment sectors.
Research Focus: While primarily a technical training program, the Agricultural and Heavy Equipment Certificate at Olds College emphasizes applied research and innovation through exposure to emerging machinery technologies. Students engage in learning about precision agriculture systems, telematics, and smart diagnostic tools that are transforming the industry. Olds College’s Smart Farm provides a research-based learning environment where students explore how technology integration—such as autonomous machinery, digital monitoring, and data analytics—enhances operational efficiency and equipment performance. This exposure to applied research ensures that graduates stay aligned with current and future industry standards.
Industry Engagement: Industry collaboration is central to the success of this program. Olds College maintains strong partnerships with agricultural equipment manufacturers, dealerships, and service companies across Canada. These partnerships influence curriculum design and provide students with valuable networking and work-integrated learning opportunities. Guest lectures, workshops, and on-site demonstrations from leading industry experts help students understand current equipment technologies and maintenance best practices. Employers frequently recruit graduates directly from Olds College, recognizing the institution’s reputation for producing skilled and job-ready technicians. The program’s industry engagement ensures that students graduate with a clear pathway to employment and advancement within the agricultural and heavy equipment sector.
Global Perspective: The Certificate in Agricultural and Heavy Equipment provides students with a global understanding of machinery technology and agricultural mechanization. As agricultural operations worldwide increasingly adopt automation, precision equipment, and sustainability practices, the program emphasizes international equipment standards and maintenance strategies. Students gain awareness of how technology-driven innovations are shaping global agriculture and infrastructure development. This global perspective equips graduates to work not only in Canada’s thriving agricultural and industrial sectors but also in international markets where the demand for skilled technicians and equipment specialists continues to grow.
Location
Olds, Alberta
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
CAD 16500
Undergraduate Diploma Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate diploma programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 53% or above in their Grade 12 from a recognized institution.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 55 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Olds College of Agriculture & Technology is dedicated to recognizing and rewarding the hard work, academic excellence, and community involvement of its international students. To make education more accessible and to encourage global talent, the college offers a variety of scholarships, bursaries, and awards designed to support international learners financially throughout their studies.
Olds College International Student Entrance Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to newly admitted international students who have demonstrated strong academic performance prior to joining Olds College. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic transcripts, leadership experience, and extracurricular achievements. The award not only helps reduce tuition costs but also motivates students to continue striving for excellence throughout their studies.
Continuing International Student Scholarship: For students who have successfully completed at least one semester at Olds College, the Continuing International Student Scholarship recognizes consistent academic achievement and active participation in campus life. This award encourages students to maintain high academic standards and remain engaged with the college community.
Financial Need Bursaries: To assist international students facing financial challenges, Olds College provides need-based bursaries that help cover tuition, books, and living expenses. Applicants are required to provide a short personal statement outlining their financial situation, academic goals, and how the bursary will support their success. These bursaries ensure that financial hardship does not limit access to quality education.
Graduates of the Certificate in Agricultural and Heavy Equipment program at Olds College of Agriculture & Technology, Alberta, are well-prepared for diverse technical and mechanical careers in the agricultural, construction, and industrial machinery sectors. This program equips students with specialized knowledge in diagnostics, maintenance, and repair of modern heavy and agricultural equipment, making them valuable assets to employers in Canada and abroad.
Agricultural Equipment Technician: Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair tractors, combines, seeders, and other farm machinery used in crop production and livestock operations.
Heavy Equipment Technician: Service and repair heavy machinery such as loaders, bulldozers, graders, and excavators used in construction, forestry, and industrial sectors.
Farm Equipment Mechanic: Specialize in diagnosing mechanical issues, performing preventive maintenance, and ensuring optimal performance of machinery used in modern farming operations.
Service Advisor (Agricultural or Heavy Equipment): Act as the link between customers and service departments by assessing equipment issues, preparing estimates, and coordinating repair work efficiently.
Equipment Sales Representative: Work for dealerships or manufacturers to market, demonstrate, and sell agricultural or heavy machinery, leveraging technical expertise to assist clients with product selection.
Field Service Technician: Provide on-site diagnostic and repair services for clients, often traveling to farms, industrial sites, or remote locations to maintain essential equipment.
Equipment Parts and Inventory Specialist: Manage inventory, order parts, and assist customers and technicians in sourcing correct components for repairs and machinery upgrades.
Maintenance Supervisor: Oversee maintenance operations within large agricultural enterprises, equipment dealerships, or industrial facilities, ensuring machinery reliability and compliance with safety standards.
Technical Trainer or Instructor: Share expertise by training apprentices, dealership staff, or students on agricultural and heavy equipment operation, maintenance, and emerging technologies.
Equipment Fleet Manager: Manage a fleet of agricultural or construction machinery, scheduling maintenance, monitoring performance, and optimizing operational efficiency to reduce downtime and costs.
