Agricultural Equipment Technician

You will focus on the theory of operation of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and their components. You will diagnose and repair the HVAC systems and associated controls. You will be certified in the Canada’s Ozone Layer Protection Awareness program for air conditioning and refrigeration systems.

You will focus on basic electrical theory, including electron theory, Ohm's Law, Watt's Law and the laws of series and parallel circuits. The course content includes battery operation and servicing. You will use multi-meters to explore electrical circuit operation to perform basic diagnostics.
 

You will learn the fundamental operating principles of the components that make up an electrical system. This includes schematic symbols, circuit control, electromagnetic induction, electric motors, and the wiring harnesses that connect these components, completing an electrical system. You will explore each of these system components and perform diagnostics.

Your studies will focus on the construction and operation of the engine’s internal and external components. You will inspect an operational engine and disassemble the engine in order to assess the internal components for wear and to determine serviceability. You will utilize the appropriate service manuals and specialized tools to support the manufacturer’s inspection and repair process. You will inspect crankshafts, connecting rods and piston assemblies, cylinder liners, engine bearings, engine blocks and related engine accessories.

Your studies will focus on the assembly of the internal and external engine components. You will assemble the engine sub-assemblies and complete the engine assembly process. You will utilize the appropriate service manuals and specialized tools to support the manufacturer’s inspection and assembly process. You will develop a plan to verify the assembly steps while ensuring quality control. You will perform a post-assembly inspection of the engine prior to ignition and perform operational system checks.

You will study the basic physical principles of operation and construction of two-stroke and four-stroke engines. The course content includes cooling systems, components, and coolants. You will also study additives, lubricants, filter systems, oil analysis and safely cleaning components.

You will be introduced to diesel fuel supply systems and how combustion occurs. You will inspect air induction systems, test engine compression, study high and low-pressure fuel injection systems, and inspect and repair diesel fuel injectors.

You will learn the theory of operation for seeding and tillage equipment and an introduction to precision farming applications, variable rate and section control seeding technology. You will explore the pre-delivery inspection process and service precision seeding equipment. You will develop troubleshooting skills by applying the operational theory of precision seeding equipment to practical applications. You will learn how to work safely when exposed to anhydrous ammonia applicators.

You will learn the theory of operation for harvesting equipment and related attachments. You will explore the operation of precision farming applications and how it applies to harvesting equipment. You will explore the practical applications of a combine inspection, assessment, servicing and adjusting harvesting equipment and components.

You will study the operating principles and service and repair processes of hay and forage equipment. You will explore how to perform a complete machine inspection and develop a repair plan. You will learn how to adjust, service and repair forage and haying equipment.

You will study the theory of operation, service, repair and calibration of spray systems and applicator systems. You will explore Precision farming applications and learn to service, repair, and calibrations of these systems.

You will learn the process of the pre-delivery setup and inspection of tractors equipment. You will focus on setting the machine to manufacturer’s specifications, overall appearance, installation of accessories, tractor ballasting, and tractor and engine performance.

You will explore the basic principles of precision farming practices. How this benefits the farmer, Ag technician, consumer, and the environment. We will study the various components that make up precision farming systems. You will learn how the precision farming system is set up for operation and how data is collected and viewed by the producer and the Ag technician.

Your studies will focus on the basic principles of hydraulics, and you will gain an understanding of component construction and operation. You will examine the construction of hydraulic hoses, pumps and actuators. You will perform service procedures on an operational hydraulic system. You will learn how each component contributes to the operation of the basic hydraulic system.

Your studies will focus on the principles of hydraulic flow and the methods used to direct the flow and control the volume. You will examine hydraulic cylinders and motors. You will interpret hydraulic schematic symbols to develop basic problem-solving skills. You will analyze the various methods used in flow control. You will explore the construction and operation of fixed and variable flow controls.

You will develop essential job skills by preparing job search documents and practicing effective interpersonal communication skills for the workplace.

You will learn mathematical concepts commonly used in your trade. After reviewing basic arithmetic and basic equations, you will solve various algebra problems as applied to your trade. You will perform Imperial and Metric conversions, and calculate the perimeter, area and volume of many common shapes, as well as use Pythagorean theorem.

You will develop skills that will help you choose the correct tools for the job at hand. You will develop a work place safety plan and identify hazards in the shop area. You will learn about fasteners and threading procedures, and develop skills in using precision measuring tools as well as basic hand fabrication.

You will learn about machine safety procedures when working around and operating agricultural equipment. You will learn to move tractors, towed equipment, windrowers and combines safely in a shop setting. You will experience the precision farming guidance capabilities. You will become certified in the operation of forklifts and skid steer loaders.

You will learn about basic driveline components and the importance of proper alignment and design. You will perform belt and chain adjustments, explore various bearing types and perform driveline inspections. You will explore agricultural equipment steering axle geometry.

You will learn about various clutch drive systems used in the agricultural equipment industry. You will describe various types of clutch systems and applications for clutch components. You will safely separate a tractor engine from the transmission and inspect the clutch drive system.

You will learn about the principles of gear reduction systems and differentials. You will study hydraulic braking systems used on today’s agricultural equipment. Your focus will be on various gear boxes, axles, and final drives.

You will focus on safety procedures, equipment set-up, and correct operating procedures of oxy-fuel cutting (OFC) and plasma arc cutting (PAC). You will gain experience cutting different types of metal with varying degrees of thickness.

You will focus on safety procedures, equipment set-up and correct operating procedures of shielded metal arc welding (SMAW). You will gain experience through welding various thicknesses of metal in multiple positions.

You will spend two weeks gaining experience in an agricultural equipment dealership. This will allow you to apply the technical skills and knowledge you acquired during the program. You will have the opportunity to select a company where you would like to complete your work experience.

Note: During your two-week work experience, you will experience how an agricultural dealership operates and will be able to start to apply the knowledge and skills you have acquired.