About the Program
Métis Employment & Training has partnered with the Operating Engineers Training Institute of Manitoba (OETIM) to offer a hands-on training opportunity for Red River Métis Citizens to build skills for careers in construction, mining, forestry, and more.
What you will train on
What the Program Covers
Training combines classroom instruction, online safety courses, simulator practice and supervised operation of seven equipment types.
Classroom and Safety Training
Learn equipment fundamentals, personal and job-site safety, inspections, hand signals, basic earthmoving, equipment systems and maintenance.
Hands-On Training
Practice basic operating techniques on seven equipment types at OETIM's outdoor training site. Participants rotate between equipment operation, simulator exercises, observation, hand-signal practice and course work.
Certificates and Credentials
Participants who successfully complete all program requirements will receive the OETIM Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate, along with First Aid/CPR Level C, CSTS 2020, WHMIS, Ground Disturbance 201, Transportation of Dangerous Goods and Basic Rigging.
Who Should Apply
This full-time program is intended for Red River Métis Citizens who are interested in preparing for entry-level heavy equipment employment and can meet the program's attendance, safety and participation requirements.
Eligibility and Availability
- Unemployed or underemployed Red River Métis Citizen (MMF Citizenship # required) aged 18+
- Minimum Grade 10 (or Mature Student)
- Physically able to perform basic mechanical repairs and maintenance
- Class 5 Driver's Licence and reliable transportation to attend full-time training is required
- Be committed to attending the full-time training at the OETIM Training Center in Sunnyside, MB (located near Winnipeg, MB).
Safety and Participation Requirements
Training takes place both indoors and outdoors. Participants must be able to safely access and operate heavy equipment and complete basic operator maintenance activities.
- Climb equipment access steps and enter and exit equipment unassisted
- Walk on uneven, unsealed or muddy terrain
- Remain at the controls for extended periods
Reliable transportation is required. The OETIM Training Center is not served by public transit. Applicants must have transportation to the mandatory September 2 information session and to every day of training.
How to Apply
Complete the application form and be prepared to participate in the required assessment process.
Submit Your Application
Complete the application and assessment process before the September 4, 2026 deadline.
To begin the application process, please complete the form below.
If you have any questions about the program or require assistance with your application, please contact METRecruitment@mmf.mb.ca
Attend the Mandatory Assessment Session
Applicants invited to continue will be required to attend an in-person information session, assessment testing and interview at the OETIM Training Center in Sunnyside, MB.
Morning and afternoon sessions will be available, and each session will take approximately two hours. Invited applicants will receive their scheduled time and instructions by email.
Receive Your Application Decision
MET will contact applicants after the assessments and interviews have been completed.
Accepted participants will receive registration information and access to the required online courses before training begins.
Start Your Application
Complete the form below to begin the application process. Applications close September 4, 2026 and seats are limited!
Contact Métis Employment & Training (MET)
Questions about eligibility or the application process?
Email: METRecruitment@mmf.mb.ca
Delivered in partnership with
Operating Engineers Training Institute of Manitoba (OETIM)
