Motive Power Technician

The Motive Power Technician at Algonquin College in the Ottawa Valley allows students to complete all three levels of the Apprenticeship Training curriculum, earn a college diploma, and gain invaluable working experience through a paid cooperative placement in the automotive industry in only 16 months!

  • Ontario College Diploma
  • 45 Weeks
Program Code:
0557C08FPM
Academic Year:
2012/2013

Our Program

This two-year Ontario College Diploma program delivered in a compressed format over 45 weeks provides students with the skills and experience to start a career in the automotive mechanical industry. Students gain valuable work experience through a paid cooperative education placement in the Summer term.

While on campus, students learn the fundamentals of automotive mechanics including fuel and electrical systems, vehicle chassis, internal combustion engines and fuel management systems. In addition, students receive training in communication skills, technology, health and safety and small business. This training, coupled with the practical experience gained through the cooperative placement, provides students with the skills to launch their automotive technician careers.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

. Are curious, well-organized and have an analytical nature. . Want to work in challenging environments and pay attention to detail. . Like analyzing and solving problems.
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Your Career

Graduates may find employment as apprentice mechanics, technical advisors, parts or service management trainees, mechanical supervisors and warranty claims processors. A wide range of employment opportunities may exist, from small garages to large dealerships.

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Courses

Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with online learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Level: 01 Hours
DAT7210Computerized Shop Systems
Students apply electronic processing to production control and technical information retrieval as experienced in an automotive service environment. Learning is applied to the development of simulations designed to replicate the day-to-day operation of a typical automotive repair facility.
45.0
ENL7777Communications I
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information, and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments.
45.0
MAT7520Mathematics and Related Science I
Students develop the basic physical skills that aid in the understanding of the scientific principles pertaining to the trade. They are able to analyze basic problems in physics in general and how to relate these applications to the motive power technician field.
60.0
MVM7402Chassis and Drivelines I
Students acquire introductory information related to the driveline and suspension, steering and braking systems of motor vehicles. Students are able to perform minor service operations under the supervision of a certified technician.

Co-requisites: MVM7403 and MVM7463
120.0
MVM7403Fuel and Electrical Systems I
Students are exposed to the principles of electricity, electronics and fuel systems as used in modern automobiles. Students study DC circuitry, fuel principles, and fuel delivery systems. Students are able to identify fuel and electrical systems and their components. Students are able to complete minor repairs and adjustments under the supervision of a certified technician.

Co-requisites: MVM7402 and MVM7463
105.0
MVM7409Safety and Shop Techniques
Students study Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) and safe work practices. Information on procedures related to fasteners, bearings, seals, sealants, and oxy-acetylene heating and cutting are also covered. This course also prepares students for practical skills they experience during their co-op semester.
60.0
MVM7463Internal Combustion Engines I
Students are introduced to the construction and operating principles of the internal combustion engine. Students study 4-stroke and 2-stroke cycles as applied to diesel and gasoline engines and minor service of lubrication and cooling systems. On completion of the course, students perform minor service operations related to the lubrication and cooling systems of internal combustion engines under the supervision of a certified technician.

Co-requisites: MVM7402 and MVM7403
60.0
WKT7100Employment Preparation
Students prepare for employment in their field of study. Resume preparation, cover letters, job search techniques and interview skills are covered. Students learn the proper etiquette, conduct and attitude necessary to be successful in their employment search. The work term and co-op components are also introduced. In addition to the introduction of the co-op and work term, an introduction to the professional development components of the program, conference attendance and a digital portfolio is undertaken.
12.0
Level: 02 Hours
MAT7521Mathematics and Related Science II
Topics covered include line/bar graphs, planar geometry, trigonometry, static force problems, properties of fluids, heat transfer and thermodynamics.

Prerequisites: MAT7520
60.0
MGT7402Science, Technology and Society
Students enhance their awareness of technical, social and ethical problems that arise with the implementation of new technologies. The relationship between science and technology is explored in areas, such as genetic engineering, alternate fuels, environmental issues and medical advances.
45.0
MVM7404Chassis and Drivelines II
Students study automotive brake, steering and suspension systems servicing procedures. Fault-finding and an introduction to air conditioning, automatic transmissions and alignments are included.

Prerequisites: MVM7402

Co-requisites: MVM7435 and MVM7436
135.0
MVM7435Fuel and Electrical Systems II
Students further develop skills in electrical and electronics diagnosis and repair, and are introduced to internal combustion engine fuels used in modern automobiles. The study of construction, operation, and diagnostic routine used in assessment of starter systems and charging systems is included. Other topics covered are fuel injected fuel supply systems, engine management and ignition systems.

Prerequisites: MVM7403

Co-requisites: MVM7404 and MVM7436
105.0
MVM7436Internal Combustion Engines II
Students develop the practical skills and theoretical knowledge to conduct inspections and perform service to cylinder blocks, rotating shafts and bearings, connecting rods and piston assemblies, as well as cam drives and lash adjusters.

Prerequisites: MVM7463

Co-requisites: MVM7404 and MVM7435
60.0
Choose one from equivalencies:Hours
GED1557CGeneral Education Elective
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following four theme requirements: Arts in Society, Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, and Personal Understanding.

Equivalencies: ARC9001 or ENL7643 or ENV0002 or FAM1218 or FIN2300 or GED1896 or GED5200 or GED6022 or GEN1001 or GEN1957 or GEN2003 or GEN2007 or HIS2000 or HOS2228 or LIB1982 or PSI1702 or RAD2001 or SOC2003 or PSI0003
45.0
Co-op: 01Hours
WKT7557Co-Op Education Work Placement
Students complete a cooperative work term, and submit a written report which documents the location of employment and the duties performed. Students must successfully complete practical skills testing specifically designed to ready them for co-op. In addition, they must possess a valid driver's licence as required by employers at time of co-op.
0.0
Level: 03 Hours
ENL7666Communication Skills for Automotive Service
Students develop technical communication skills. Topics include writing skills, technical writing style, summarizing technical information, written and oral short technical reports and other communication skills required in the automotive service industry.

Prerequisites: ENL7777
45.0
MKT7300Marketing and Customer Service
Students explore and analyze various components of the marketing discipline including market research, product pricing and costing, service as a primary product, advertising methods, target marketing, factors in consumer preference and assessment of guest satisfaction. Sustainability (economic, social and environmental) as a marketing concept is studied as are marketing and providing customer service to and for an international/global market/clientelle.
45.0
MVM7405Chassis and Drivelines III
Students diagnose faults within brakes, suspension and air-conditioning systems. They also expand their knowledge of automatic transmission systems and are introduced to the operation and servicing of anti-lock brake and traction control systems. Hybrid and alternative drivelines, electronic braking, suspension and tire pressure systems are introduced.

Prerequisites: MVM7404
120.0
MVM7406Fuel and Electrical Systems III
Students expand their knowledge base and improve their diagnostic skills in computerized engine management and selected chassis electrical/electronic systems. Topics covered include ignition, gasoline fuel injection and emission control. Students also study topics, such as supplemental inflatable restraint, power accessories, electronic options and theory of hybrid systems.

Prerequisites: MVM7435
120.0
MVM7407Internal Combustion Engines III
Students gain the practical skills and theoretical knowledge to conduct performance testing and carry out repairs to valve trains of internal combustion engines. Topics include compression testing, cooling service, removal and installation of cylinder heads, camshaft and valve train components.

Prerequisites: MVM7436
60.0
MVM7410Automotive Technology Driving Change in Manufacturing
Developments in automotive technology and manufacturing processes have driven changes across the economy. From the assembly line to global positioning systems, automotive companies have led the way in the application of new technologies. The history of automotive manufacturing, today's manufacturing process, and the new technologies under development in car design and production are examined. The car emerges as a model for global technological development.
45.0

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Fees & Expenses

Tuition Fees: $1,684.96 per term.

Information Technology Fee: $62 per term. *

Student Activity/Sports Fee: $200.50 per term.

Student Commons/Auditorium Fee: $22 per term.

Student Centre Building Fee: $17.50 per term.

Health Service Fee: $20 per term.

Health Plan Fee: $117.02 paid once annually. **

A $40 graduation fee is payable in the final term.

A $25 transcript fee is payable in the first term a student attends Algonquin College.

International Students pay all relevant Canadian fees plus an International Premium of $4,400 per term.

Students pay $40 to the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities on their co-op work term, but are exempt from the College co-op fee.

* Students paying the Information Technology fee are provided with a network account, an email address, and Internet access. For more information please visit our website at algonquincollege.com/its/support/IT-Fee/index-it-fee.htm

** Students who have coverage with another plan can request a refund by supplying the Students' Association with documentation supporting the request. This request will have to be made annually.

Books and supplies cost approximately $1,000 for the program duration and can be purchased in the campus bookstore. In addition, students are required to supply their own protective equipment as required at a cost of approximately $160, including safety footwear and safety glasses.

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Admission Requirements  

College Eligibility

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
  • Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
  • General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
  • Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee of $40 (subject to change) will be charged.
Program Eligibility
  • English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
  • Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent).
Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English and mathematics.

Students must have a valid driver's license as required by employers at time of co-op.


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Application Information

Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:

ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario
N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228

Applications are available online at www.ontariocolleges.ca A $95 fee applies.

Applications for Fall Term, Winter Term and Spring Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.

International applicants applying from out-of-country can obtain the International Student Application Form at https://xweb.algonquincollege.com/FormIE/index.aspx or by contacting the Registrar's Office.

For further information on the admissions process, contact:

Registrar's Office
Algonquin College in the Ottawa Valley
315 Pembroke Street East
Pembroke, ON K8A 3K2
Telephone: 613-735-4700 ext. 2708
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723

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Additional Information

For more information, please contact Mark Stevens, Program Coordinator, at 613-735-4700 ext. 2738 or stevenm@algonquincollege.com.
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Every attempt is made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication. The College reserves the right to modify or cancel any course, program, fee, timetable, or campus location at any time