What to expect from a career as a Truck and Coach Technician or Apprentice
Mechanics is a well-known trade, but many people don’t realize you can have a mechanical career in truck and coach maintenance and repair. The combination of theory and workshop courses in truck and coach programs at Ontario colleges leads to hands-on careers in the transportation industry.
If you have a strong aptitude for mechanics, love working with your hands and want a career working on large vehicles such as trucks and coaches, here’s what you need to know.
Truck and Coach Courses
Truck and coach programs are offered as one-year certificate and two-year diploma programs, where students learn to inspect, diagnose and repair trucks and coaches. Depending on the program, courses can be used as part (or all) of the in-school component of truck and coach apprenticeships. Co-ops and work placements may also be counted towards the required apprentice hours.
Ontario college truck and coach technician programs offer courses in engine technology, combustion and fuel systems, operating principles and more, giving students a thorough understanding of the machines they will be servicing. Repair and maintenance techniques along with practical skills such as welding and drafting, are taught and practiced through shop work and field placements.
Motive power programs with a coach and truck specialization are also available. In these programs, students will take similar base courses as other truck and coach programs, but will gain more in-depth electrical and electronics skills, as well as knowledge of heavy equipment maintenance.
Note: In order to work as a truck and coach technician, you have to be certified or registered as an apprentice through the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development.
General Truck and Coach Program Requirements
Truck and coach programs typically require an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, which includes a grade 12 English credit. A grade 11 or 12 math credit may also be required.
Additional non-academic requirements will vary by program, but may include an interview, resume submission and demonstrated mechanical skills or experience. Check program application details carefully.
Truck and Coach Jobs and Salaries
Working in truck and coach maintenance, graduates of truck and coach programs at Ontario colleges will find positions with a fleet, dealership, truck and coach manufacturer, transit bus operator or manufacturer, and more. Aside from mechanic and technician roles, there are also opportunities for other work in the industry, including (but not limited to):
- Service Advisor
- Service Manager
- High School or College Teacher
- Part Sales or Sales Representative
The average starting salary in the field is between $30,000 and $35,000 per year. Salaries typically increase with experience and once apprenticeship certification is completed.
Ontario Colleges Offering Truck and Coach Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of truck and coach programs at Ontario colleges.
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