The five students who are part of the first heavy equipment operator (HEO) course at the Southeast College’s Estevan campus have finished their first session in the classroom, and now they’re in the midst of spending six weeks learning on equipment outdoors. 

The tasks the students carry out each day are highly visible, because of the equipment they’re using, and have created a lot of interest. 

And it’s more than just a class where students pick up a valuable skill; it’s also going to leave a legacy for the city’s transportation.

As part of the class, the students are building the King Street Connector Road, as part of an agreement between the Southeast College and the City of Estevan, that will connect King to Nesbitt. The agreement between the college and the city calls for it to be completed in two years.  

“We started the road the last time we had an HEO program, which was a few years ago,” said Sheena Onrait, the manager of marketing and communications for the college.  

They didn’t get very far, but they only had one class. Now the college has decided to develop its own curriculum and program.

“We’re very appreciative that we get to finish the project we started. The city’s a great partner to have, especially for a job like this,” said Onrait.

The location is perfect as well, because it is close to the college, and the students who are currently part of the classroom cohort can drive by the site every day to see what the students are learning.

Lead instructor Shane Dawson said the city is providing the fuel for the project. And the city understands that the HEO program isn’t just about building a road. It’s also a training ground for the students. 

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