- Private: Tractor Trailer Internship
The Tractor Trailer program, curated for individuals aspiring to embark on a career in long-haul or local truck driving, presents a comprehensive 12-week internship program. Initiated and embraced by Commercial Safety College alongside industry partners in 1995, it significantly contributed to the establishment of a training standard for truck driving programs across Nova Scotia by 1997. The program structure encompasses eight weeks of instruction at Commercial Safety College followed by a four-week internship phase. During this internship, participants are ensured a minimum of 100 hours dedicated to "hands-on, behind the wheel" driving experiences, tackling real-life scenarios under the guidance of a fleet coach.
Commercial Safety College boasts collaborations with over 20 companies, offering a robust platform for internships across various sectors, including short haul, long haul, and the construction industry. While employment post-internship is not guaranteed, these partnerships have historically opened doors to job opportunities for many students, highlighting the program's effectiveness in bridging the gap between training and employment in the truck driving sector.
- Straight Truck
If you're aiming to operate a range of vehicles, such as Straight Trucks, Dump Trucks, Waste Management Trucks, Water Trucks, or similar, obtaining a Class 3 license is your initial step. Commercial Safety College offers a program specifically crafted to equip you with the necessary skills for immediate employment in this field. Spanning three weeks, the course structure is comprehensive, covering various critical aspects of driving and vehicle operation. Participants will start with Pre-Operating Inspection techniques, proceed to learn and enhance their Maneuvering Skills, and gain experience in driving in diverse environments, including rural areas, towns, cities, and on the Trans Canada Highway. An integral part of the curriculum is an 8-hour Air Brake Course, further supplemented by a Professional Driver Improvement module. This blend of practical and theoretical training ensures that graduates are well-prepared and qualified to start their careers in the trucking industry with a Class 3 license.
- Heavy Equipment Operator
Commercial Safety College stands out in the field of heavy equipment operation training by adopting a modular teaching approach. This means that the heavy equipment operator program is divided into separate, comprehensive courses for each type of equipment: Excavator, Loader, Backhoe, and Dozer. Uniquely, the instruction takes place in an active aggregate pit, providing students with a realistic working environment that enhances the learning experience.
The program covers all four types of heavy equipment, with the Excavator Operator course lasting four weeks (160 hours), the Dozer and Backhoe Operator courses each spanning three weeks (120 hours), and the Loader Operator course conducted over two weeks (80 hours).
A strong emphasis is placed on "hands-on" learning throughout the program. Students engage in a variety of activities and topics, including Pre-Operating Inspection Procedures, Mechanical Classes, understanding Environmental Concerns & Regulations, Float Loading & Load Security, and mastering the Use of Controls & Operation specific to each piece of equipment. Practical Skills and Exercises tailored to each type of machinery further ensure that participants gain the necessary competencies.
Upon completing the full 12-week program, which amounts to 480 hours, graduates are awarded certification as entry-level operators. This certification is a testament to their preparedness to enter the workforce with the essential skills and knowledge to operate heavy equipment effectively.
- Dozer Operator
The Dozer Operator course, offered over a three-week period, is structured to provide comprehensive training in dozer operation. It encompasses a wide range of essential skills and knowledge areas, starting from Basic Maneuvering, Basic Blade Control, and Basic Digging Techniques & Carrying Grades, to more specialized operations such as Mass Excavations, Digging Basements, and Working Slopes & Inclines. Additionally, the curriculum covers technical aspects like Transmissions - both Power shift and Hydrostatic, Undercarriage & Track System maintenance, as well as practical skills in the Use of Measuring Instruments & Blue Prints, Grade Staking & Markings, and proficient use of the Blade Point & Decelerator Pedal. Special techniques like Slot Dozing, Angle Dozing, and ‘V’ Ditching are also included to ensure a well-rounded proficiency in dozer operations. Upon successfully completing the Dozer Training Program, students are awarded an Entry Level Operator certification, signifying their preparedness to competently operate dozers in a professional setting.
- Backhoe Operator
The Backhoe Course offered spans a duration of three weeks, meticulously designed to cover all fundamental aspects of backhoe operation. The curriculum is comprehensive, encompassing key areas such as Trenching Practices, Maneuvering & Set-Up, Basic Digging, Backfilling, Truck Loading, and Deep Hole Excavations. This array of topics ensures that students are well-versed in the various operations and techniques essential for proficient backhoe use. Upon successfully completing the Backhoe Training Program, participants are awarded an Entry Level Operator certification, marking their readiness to enter the workforce as competent backhoe operators. This certification underscores their acquired skills and knowledge in handling backhoe operations effectively.
- Excavator Operator
The Excavator Operator course is an intensive four-week program designed to equip students with a thorough understanding of excavator operation. The curriculum is carefully structured to include a broad range of critical skills and knowledge areas necessary for proficient operation. Students will learn about Maneuvering & Set-Up, Basic Digging & Mass Excavation, and Trenching & Side Ditching, which are fundamental for effective excavation work. Additionally, the course covers the creation of Ramps & Benches, Digging Basements, and Ditching, providing a comprehensive skill set for various excavation projects. Practical skills such as Truck Loading and Installation of Materials are also included to prepare students for real-world applications. Upon the successful completion of the Excavator Training Program, participants will be awarded an Entry Level Operator certification, acknowledging their preparedness to operate excavators competently in the field.
- Loader Operator
The Loader Operator course is designed as a concise, two-week program aimed at providing participants with foundational skills and knowledge for operating loaders efficiently. The course content is comprehensive, starting with Basic Maneuvering and Basic Bucket Operation to ensure students are well-versed in the core functionalities of loaders. It further delves into specialized techniques such as Ramping & Stockpiling Using the Tier Method, which is essential for effective material handling. Additionally, students will learn about Loading Hopper & Screener Plant, Traveling With Loads, and the critical skills of Cleaning Up & Leveling Work Areas to maintain operational efficiency. Truck Loading is also covered, rounding out the skills needed for a complete understanding of loader operations. Upon successfully completing the Loader Training Program, students will be awarded an Entry Level Operator certification, signifying their competency and readiness to operate loaders in a professional environment.
- School Bus Driver
The School Bus Driver program, offered by our institution, equips individuals with the necessary skills to embark on a new career path as a School Bus Driver. In a strategic move to ensure the successful employment of our students, we have established partnerships with school boards across Nova Scotia. One such partnership includes an employment agreement with the Chignecto Central Regional Centre for Education, which guarantees jobs for approved applicants. It is important for applicants to note that they must complete an application for employment with their local school board as a prerequisite for acceptance into this program. The course duration is set at three weeks, providing a comprehensive overview that includes Pre-Operating Inspection, Maneuvering Skills, and driving in various environments such as rural areas, towns, and on the Trans Canada highway. Additionally, the program focuses on Professional Driver Improvement, ensuring that graduates are not only skilled in driving but also in maintaining the highest standards of professionalism on the road.
- Skid Steer Loader Operator
The Skid Steer Loader Operator program at our institution is a concise, one-week course designed to provide participants with essential skills and knowledge for operating skid steer loaders safely and efficiently. The course curriculum covers a variety of critical topics, including Safe Operating Procedures to ensure participants understand the fundamental safety practices required in operating such equipment. It delves into the specifics of Controls & Operation, Basic Hydraulics, and the importance of Safety Around Mobile Equipment to provide a well-rounded understanding of the machinery. Additionally, the course emphasizes the significance of Pre-operating Inspection and the proficient Use of Controls, ensuring that students are equipped to assess and manage the equipment before operation. Practical skills such as Maneuvering and the Use of Special Attachments are also taught, enabling students to handle a wide range of tasks efficiently. Upon the successful completion of this program, participants will be awarded an Entry Level Operator certification, signifying their readiness to operate skid steer loaders in various professional settings.
- Forklift Operator
At Commercial Safety College, we understand the significant responsibility that comes with operating a forklift. That's why our Forklift Operator program is meticulously designed to equip participants with the skills needed to become safe, responsible, and efficient operators. This program is ideal for individuals currently working in warehousing or those aspiring to enter this field, serving as a critical step towards achieving their career goals.
Spanning three days, or approximately 25 hours, the course offers a comprehensive overview that includes both theory and practical components. Participants will learn Safe Operating Procedures, engage in Pre-Operating Inspections, and become proficient in the Use of All Controls, all aimed at enhancing their maneuvering skills. The curriculum also covers Warehousing Procedures, Propane Tank Changes, Basic Hydraulics, and Preventative Maintenance, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.
A significant emphasis is placed on "hands-on" learning, with the majority of the course conducted in a warehouse-type environment to simulate real-world scenarios. Upon successfully completing the program, students will receive a wallet card certification, signifying their competency as forklift operators and marking a key milestone in their professional development.
- Boom Truck (Class IV Articulated Crane) Training
Commercial Safety College is proud to extend its Boom Truck (Class IV) Operator Training program to the public, a comprehensive course recognized and accredited by the Nova Scotia Department of Labour and Advanced Education. This program aligns with the latest legislative standards, offering students an in-depth understanding and hands-on experience in operating boom trucks. Upon successful completion, participants are credited with 250 hours towards the 500-hour requirement for provincial licensing, marking a significant step towards becoming a licensed operator.
The one-week course covers a broad spectrum of essential topics, including Class IV Crane Theory and Practical knowledge, Pre-Operating Inspection, and proficient Use of Controls. Students will learn Set-Up Procedures and develop Maneuvering Skills, alongside Basic Lifting Procedures. The curriculum also delves into the Use of Capacity Charts and Calculating Load Weights, crucial for safe and efficient operation. Additionally, Material Handling and Rigging Loads are taught, ensuring students are well-prepared for a variety of lifting operations.
Notably, successful graduates of the program are entitled to sit for the provincial hoisting exam, conveniently held on-site, further facilitating their path to certification and recognition as competent boom truck operators.
- Road Building Labourer
Commercial Safety College is excited to introduce the Road Building Labourer program, the newest addition to our range of offerings. This program has been developed as part of the "Developing the Next Generation of Road Builders in Nova Scotia" project, in collaboration with the Nova Scotia Road Builder Association (NSRBA). We are delighted to announce that the program will be available again in February & March 2024. For those interested in applying, we encourage you to complete the application form below and submit it along with the required documents. Given the expansion of the program with additional seats for 2024, we have decided to extend the application period, providing more opportunities for prospective students to apply.