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Ministry-approved title: Construction and Hoisting Techniques
Scholarships Available
Crane operators are highly trained specialists who are in strong demand across the construction and industrial sectors. This program is the only one of its kind offered in Ontario, and it’s designed to give students a distinct advantage in pursuing a career in this increasingly competitive field.
Instruction is delivered by experienced industry professionals who bring real world knowledge, current practices, and workplace expectations directly into the classroom. Students train using state of the art equipment and leading-edge simulation technology that reflects what is used on today’s job sites. The program covers essential skills such as crane operation fundamentals, rigging techniques, load control, and safety procedures.
Through hands-on training, expert instruction, and access to industry equipment, graduates will be well prepared to meet employer expectations.
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The hoisting sector is a critical and highly regulated component of the construction industry, requiring strong technical knowledge, precise operational skills, and a comprehensive understanding of safety and load control principles. In just eight months, this program provides students with the theoretical foundation and hands‑on training required to enter this demanding field with confidence.
As the only program of its kind in Ontario, Crane Operation, Rigging, and Construction Techniques is structured to deliver academically grounded, skills‑based training through small, practice‑focused classes. The curriculum emphasizes industry standards, applied problem‑solving, and best practices in job-site safety to ensure graduates will be fully prepared for real‑world conditions.
The program is organized into five core instructional areas—crane operations, rigging techniques, job‑site safety, equipment maintenance, and tools and components—with focused instruction delivered across two semesters in each area. This structured approach ensures progressive skill development and a deep understanding of hoisting operations from both a technical and safety‑first perspective.
Graduates will enter the workforce with two highly sought‑after credentials: a 0–8 Ton Crane Operator License and Working at Heights Training certification, positioning them as job‑ready professionals in a high‑demand sector.
Durham College (DC) offers pre-admission assessment testing to mature domestic applicants to meet admission requirements in English and/or Math. Domestic applicants who are 19 years of age or older as of the start date of their program, and who do not have the required program credit(s), i.e. Grade 12 English and/or Grade 12 Math are eligible to take an admissions assessment test.
Learn more about how to book Pre-Admission Assessment Testing here.
DC also offers Academic Upgrading. Courses are FREE and designed to help you meet the admissions requirements for this program. Available to individuals 18+, these courses are offered on campus at DC. Boost your qualifications with:
Learn more about Academic Upgrading and connect with our team to get started.
The courses listed below are for incoming students. If you are a current student, please refer to your program of study for the year you began your program. Your program of study can be found on MyDC.
Courses, course descriptions and delivery formats are subject to change.
In person
Students will come to campus to complete in-person learning requirements. Detailed schedules, with course-specific delivery information, will be available after registration. Courses, course descriptions and delivery formats are subject to change.
Learn more about two amazing scholarship opportunities for students enrolled in full-time certificate and diploma programs in some of the most in-demand skilled trades fields:
School is an investment in your future, and financial support is available to help you succeed.
DC's Financial Aid and Awards is here to help you access funding and opportunities that make pursuing your education easier and more achievable:
Visit Financial Aid and Awards to explore all the options to help finance your education.
Durham College also offers degree completion opportunities with a number of Canadian and international institutions.
Please visit our pathways page to learn more about how you can transfer your credits towards a degree.
Looking for more pathway opportunities or to transfer to Durham College? Click here for more information.
To help students have the best learning experience possible, Durham College’s IT Services department has identified technology recommendations for each program based on course needs and software requirements. While not required, students may want to consider these suggestions if they are purchasing a computer or laptop for the upcoming academic year.
Processor: i3 RAM: 4GB Storage: 256GB SSD Operating System: Microsoft Windows 10 Professional or Education x64 SP1 Internet Browser: Internet Explorer 11 or Google Chrome (newest version) or Firefox (newest version) Network Adapter: 802.11ac 2.4/5 GHz wireless adapter Camera: Webcam/built-in camera Internet connection
Questions regarding technology recommendations can be directed to the IT Service Desk or the school office.
Lukasz Buczkowski is a Red Seal Crane Operator with extensive experience who not only excels in operating cranes but also has a passion for teaching. As a professor and program coordinator at Durham College, Lukasz imparts his knowledge to aspiring operators, emphasizing safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and innovative techniques.
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