Choose Your Path: New vs. Skilled Operator
To best serve your experience level, we offer two distinct training paths.
Skilled Operator
Experience Required:
Minimum 100+ hours of recent experience
20–30 Minutes
New Operator
Experience Required:
Under 100 hours of experience
2 Hours
Course Structure & Delivery Formats:
To ensure comprehensive understanding and job readiness, the training is delivered in three distinct stages: Theory Component, Knowledge Assessment (Written Exam), and Practical Evaluation (Hands-on).
You can complete the Theory portion via one of two convenient formats:
- Blended Online Learning: Complete the half-day theory portion online from your home, office, or site. Once passed, book your in-person practical training at our Edmonton facility at a time that suits your schedule. This is ideal for minimizing operational downtime.
- Instructor-Led Classroom: Complete a half-day in-class theory session directly with a qualified WestPro instructor before moving on to the equipment.
What You Will Learn:
This course covers the complete lifecycle of safe excavator operation, hazard awareness, and risk mitigation. Core topics include:
- Safety regulations, related legislation, and operator responsibilities.
- Job planning, hazard assessments, and pre-operation site inspections.
- Equipment inspections and preventative maintenance protocols.
- Safe start-up, shut down, and emergency actions.
- Excavator control fundamentals, machine orientation, and positioning for stability.
- Safe steering, maneuvering, excavating, and trenching techniques.
- Material handling, proper attachment use, and loading procedures.
- Secure transportation and equipment securement standards.
Training Details:
- Location: 20204 110 Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB.
- Certification: Upon successful completion (80% minimum on both theory and practical components), you’ll receive a certificate.
- Re-certification: Required every three years.
- Prerequisites: All students must bring valid government-issued identification.
- PPE Required: 6″ safety boots, safety gloves, hard hat, safety glasses, and hi-vis vests.
- Cancellations: 24-hour notice is required. Late arrivals or no-shows will forfeit the full course fee. Qualified substitutions are permitted up to the course start date.
Skilled Operator Booking
Blended Online Option
Blended Online Option
Complete the half-day theory training online at your convenience, then schedule your in-person practical training at our Edmonton facility
In-Person Training Option
Please select your preferred training date and time from the available options in the calendar below:
New Operator Booking
Blended Online Option
Complete the half-day theory training online at your convenience, then schedule your in-person practical training at our Edmonton facility
In-Person Training Option
Please select your preferred training date and time from the available options in the calendar below:
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I take the entire excavator course online?
A: No. You can take the classroom theory portion online via our Blended Learning option, but you must complete an in-person practical assessment on an actual excavator at our Edmonton facility to receive your certification.
Q: What qualifies me as a “Skilled Operator”?
A: To qualify for the Skilled Operator track and pricing, you must have at least 100 hours of recent, verifiable experience operating an excavator.
Q: How long does the practical training take?
A: New operators receive approximately 2 hours of dedicated seat time and instruction. Skilled operators complete a shorter 20 to 30-minute practical evaluation to verify their competency.
Q: Does my WestPro certificate expire?
A: Yes, your WestPro Excavator Operator Certificate is valid for three years from the date of issue.
