IUOE News - Winter 2012

Training Association
BC Certificate of Qualification or Equivalency
In order to receive a Certificate of Qualification (C of Q),
those operators deemed to have sufficient time in the trade
must successfully complete the program examination, invigilated
by the ITA. Even though the operator may be applying
for only one or two equipment endorsements, the examination
covers all six pieces of equipment. An examination study
guide is available through the Training Association. Exams
may be written in Vancouver, Maple Ridge, Chilliwack,
Prince George, Vernon and Victoria. The C of Q is required
for all operators wishing to teach the HEO apprenticeship
program. For more information and assistance please contact
the Training Association at 604-299-7764.
Tool Allowance
The Operating Engineers Tool Allowance provides reimbursements
for tool expenditures for Heavy Duty Mechanics,
Servicemen, Millwrights and Welders. To qualify, you must
be a member in good standing, dispatched in the trade in
which you are applying for, and have worked a minimum of
250 hours between September 1, 2011 and August 31, 2012
for an employer who contributed to this fund. Applications
were sent out to qualifying members in the first week of
October and the deadline for submissions is December 31,
2012. If you qualify for this allowance but have not received
your application, or have any questions, please contact the
Training Association at 604-299-7764.
Annual Pensioners Banquet
As a Trustee of both the Pension and Benefits Plans, I
had the pleasure of attending the recent Annual Pensioners
Banquet. This year it was held at the Italian Cultural Centre
in Vancouver. It was great to see the retirees, who have con
ThinkSafety L
22 News December 2012
tributed so much to the organization over the years, now
enjoying their hard-earned pensions, getting together with
old work mates and reminiscing about past jobs. Once again
the staff did a great job organizing this event.
On behalf of the Training Association staff and your
Board of Trustees, I would like to wish all of the membership
and their families a very Merry Christmas and a healthy, safe
and prosperous New Year.
Work safely.
Brothers Chris Gilburg, Chris Jorimann, Gary Christian, Oliver
Cordts, Daniel Mireau, Bryan Klassen, Roger Mongeau, Pierre
Lanoue, , Mike Jabs, Paul Nociar, Rick House and Tom Kinnear
(Training Coordinator). The members just finished writing
their Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) challenge exam at
the training site. Brother Robyn Bishop (Instructor) provided
a refresher course for the members the week before to help
prepare them for the exam. Picture taken by Brother Al Cooper
(Executive Board member).
O C A L 1 1 5
It’s not just a slogan. It’s a way of life.