Motive Power Technician

The two-year Motive Power Technician Ontario College Diploma program, delivered in a compressed format over 42 weeks, provides you with the skill-set to find an entry-level position in the transportation service industry.

Through a series of classroom-based courses and extensive practical labs, you acquire skills specific to becoming an Automotive Service Technician. Begin by learning the operational principles of systems used on vehicles, with hands-on projects to reinforce your knowledge. As you progress in the program, you focus on the advancement of technical fundamentals, advanced diagnostics, and troubleshooting procedures. You also study mathematics and related sciences, ethics, communications and marketing.

Algonquin College delivers this program in its state-of-the-art Transportation Technology Centre that is outfitted with modern equipment, allowing you to learn using the full range of advanced technology used in today’s motive industry.

Graduates from the program are prepared to enter the workforce immediately. You may find employment as an apprentice technician, a technical advisor, or a parts or service management trainee. You may also become an apprentice warranty claims processor, or a product salesperson in the field.

What You’ll Learn

• Analyze, diagnose, and solve various motive power system problems, by using problem-solving and critical thinking skills and strategies and by applying fundamental knowledge of motor vehicle operation, components, and their interrelationships.
• Diagnose and repair climate control systems in compliance with manufacturers` recommendations.
• Diagnose and repair engine systems in compliance with manufacturers` recommendations.
• Diagnose and repair electrical, electronic, personal safety, and emission components and systems in compliance with manufacturers` recommendations.
• Diagnose and repair drive train components and systems in compliance with manufacturers` recommendations.
• Diagnose and repair suspension, steering, and brake components and systems in compliance with manufacturers` recommendations.
• Disassemble and assemble components to required specifications by applying workshop skills and knowledge of basic shop practices.
• Select and use a variety of troubleshooting techniques and test equipment to assess electronic circuits, vehicle systems, and subsystems.
• Apply knowledge of hydraulics and pneumatics to the testing and analysis of motive power systems and subsystems.
• Communicate information effectively, credibly, and accurately by producing supporting documentation to appropriate standards.
• Use information technology and computer skills to support work in a motive power environment.
• Prepare, support, maintain, and communicate data from log, record, and documentation systems.
• Apply business practices, project management skills, and communication skills to improve customer service.
• Assist in quality-control and quality-assurance programs and procedures.
• Develop and use personal and professional strategies and plans to improve professional growth, job performance, and work relationships.
• Complete all assigned work in compliance with occupational, health, safety, and environmental law; established policies and procedures; codes and regulations; and in accordance with ethical principles.
• Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.