Resources Drilling and Blasting
Start In:
| Location: | Lindsay |
|---|---|
| Program Status: | Accepting applications |
| Program Code: | RDB |
| Co-ordinator: | Gord Bailey |
| Credential: | Ontario College Diploma |
| Classes Start: | September 7, 2010 |
| Tuition/ Fees: |
$1,597.50 per semester *
* Tuition and fees subject to change. |
When you work in Resources Drilling and Blasting, you'll encounter variety and challenges every day. Every bit of ground you'll drill or blast will be at least slightly different - presenting new challenges in problem solving, analytical and creative thinking. You've got to think on your feet, and use your ingenuity.
Program Highlights
From day one in this two-year program, you will learn hands-on the theory and skills needed to succeed in this exciting field. A full 80 per cent of the program consists of practical learning sessions - most of it taking place in our impressive, on-campus Resources Drilling and Blasting compound and off-campus in the field.
Recent News: Our Resources Drilling and Blasting grads are exempt from taking the mandatory Ontario Ministry of the Environment 10-day Well Constructed Course. Ontario Regulation 903 requires successful completion of mandatory training for new well technicians. 
You'll work on a full range of drilling equipment in our five service bays. Four specially equipped classrooms/labs in the facility will further enhance your drilling education, with everything from a drilling simulator to hands-on drilling activities. Classroom sessions are complemented by hands-on drilling labs, including work in local quarries.
The program will also cover an introduction to the geothermal industry.
Why Choose Fleming?
Fleming's Resources Drilling and Blasting program is the only one of its kind in the world! It offers a rare combination of technical training and hands-on experience. As a graduate, you'll be well prepared to work in the field - from day one. Due to our well-developed connections with the industry, and our geographical location, the program is well positioned to place graduates throughout North America. Employers from around the world seek out graduates of the Resources Drilling and Blasting program. They know grads have a good foundation of theory and practice, and have excellent transferrable skills to draw upon for any challenge in the workplace.
Common First Semester
Students in our School’s diploma programs take the same courses for first semester after choosing and being accepted into one of our programs. This common focus exposes you to a variety of career options and other programs. You will have the freedom to explore and obtain a multidisciplinary perspective, while you acquire a base of knowledge and fundamental skills.
Although students are accepted into a specific program for their first semester, the common first semester allows you to change direction if you find another program or career area is more appealing. Once you have successfully completed the common first semester, you can enter the program of your choice in second semester, subject to enrolment capacity.
Work Experience
Following your first semester, you'll begin to explore specialized training in drilling and blasting. As mentioned, you'll spend most of your time in labs or field classes, putting your education to work and refining your skills in our state-of-the-art Drilling and Blasting training centre. You'll also take part in field assignments in local quarries and job-related activities. Practical experience in semester four is subject to a criminal records check as required by field placement site management. (An alternate placement can be assigned if you do not pass the criminal records check.)
What it Takes to Succeed
First of all, you've got to love working outside, enjoy hands-on work, be willing to operate equipment, and be independently minded. It's a male-dominated industry, but there are more and more women involved, and doing well in their careers - more brains than brawn is required to be a competent Resources Drilling and Blasting Technician. Some of the personality traits and skills essential to your success include:
- good motor skills, physical health
- flexibility (particularly regarding hours of work)
- interpersonal skills
- analytical and creative thinking
- mechanical aptitude
- ability to obtain a commercial driver's license
Career Opportunities
If you decide this is the career for you, be prepared to be in demand - faculty report that the requests for graduates by industry often exceeds the number of people completing the program. Upon graduation you'll find yourself in positions such as driller or helper. You can move up the ladder to own a business, or work in sales, tech support, or management with larger companies. Your potential employment as a Resource Drilling and Blasting Technician is excellent as a graduate of our one-of-a-kind program. Want to make a great wage/salary? The average wage is $40.000.00 - $50,000.00, but you could make much more than that within a few years after graduation. Even as a summer student employee, you can make up to $14.00 per hour, and there's lots of overtime.
Minimum Admission Requirements
OSSD with the majority of credits at the College (C) and Open (O) level, including:
- 2 College (C) English courses (Grade 11 or Grade 12)
- 2 College (C) Math courses (Grade 11 or Grade 12)
When (C) is the minimum course level for admission, (U) or (U/C) courses are also accepted.
Mature Students
If you are 19 years of age or older before classes start, and you do not possess an OSSD, you can write the Canadian Adult Achievement Test to assess your eligibility for admission. Additional testing or academic upgrading may be neccessary to meet specific course requirements for this program.
* Students starting in January are required to attend classes over the summer semester.
Related Programs
Other programs to consider at Fleming if you're interested in working with machinery include Motive Power Techniques - Heavy Equipment or Blasting Techniques.
Additional Costs
Plan to spend about $1,300 in the first year and $100 in the second year for books, supplies, safety equipment and camps. Costs for extra courses which are optional but recommended amount to $745.
University Transfer Agreements
| Course | Hours | ||
| Semester 1 | |||
| Environmental Leadership | 45.00 | ||
| Applied Mathematics in Natural Resource Sciences | 45.00 | ||
| College Communications for Environmental Science | 37.00 | ||
| Ecology and Environment | 60.00 | ||
| Ecosystem Skills | 60.00 | ||
| Environmental Leadership | 45.00 | ||
| Geospatial Techniques | 45.00 | ||
Optional Courses:
|
|||
| Semester 2 | |||
| Geotechnical Drilling | 45.00 | ||
| Introductory Computing | 45.00 | ||
| Rig Maintenance and Repair | 45.00 | ||
| Soil StudiesI | 21.00 | ||
| Technical Reporting | 45.00 | ||
| Waterwell Drilling | 45.00 | ||
| General Education Elective | |||
| Semester 3 | |||
| Human Relations | 45.00 | ||
| Drilling Pump Systems | 45.00 | ||
| Environmental Drilling | 45.00 | ||
| Field Operations | 45.00 | ||
| Horizontal Directional Drilling | 45.00 | ||
| Hydraulics | 45.00 | ||
| Rotary Drilling Systems | 60.00 | ||
| General Education Elective | |||
| Semester 4 | |||
| Environmental Issues: The Human Factor | 45.00 | ||
| Advanced Hydraulics and Rig Maintenance | 45.00 | ||
| Blasthole Drilling | 30.00 | ||
| Blasting | 15.00 | ||
| Diamond Core Drilling | 45.00 | ||
| Quarry Camp | 80.00 | ||
| Subsurface Techniques: Rock | 45.00 | ||
Semester 1
Environmental Leadership
Course Number: NATR008
This course will enable students to develop a personal position and direct their career path within the context of the environmental and natural resource industry. A dynamic, interactive case study approach will be used to examine issues arising from environmental disputes and conflicts, and to develop an understanding of ecological sustainability.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Applied Mathematics in Natural Resource Sciences
Course Number: MATH063
This course will enable students to apply specific mathematical concepts and acquire foundation skills important in the Natural Resource and Environmental Sciences. It is designed to complement and reinforce learning within other first semester courses and program areas.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
College Communications for Environmental Science
Course Number: COMM044
This course focuses on the development of fundamental writing and speaking skills, both individually and in teams, within the context of program and work needs in the environmental field. Also, students will be required to apply and to demonstrate fundamental research skills, including an analysis of library and Web resources pertaining to program-related topics. Assessment strategies will be tied closely to other common first semester courses.Units: 37.00
Hours: 37.00
Ecology and Environment
Course Number: ENVR020
Learn how nature works by studying the key components of the ecosystems in the Kawartha Lakes Region. Through field and lab exploration of wild life, landforms, forests, lakes, rivers and wetlands, students will see the connections between themselves, the environment and ecosystems that surround them.Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00
Ecosystem Skills
Course Number: ECOS013
This course will focus on three areas of study: identification, field and lab skills. Students will identify and classify the living and non-living components of the specific ecosystems described in the Ecology and Environment (ENVR 20) course. Field skills to be developed include the ability to navigate through the natural environment and use a variety of ecosystem inventory techniques. Special emphasis will be placed on safe work habits in lab and field.Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00
Environmental Leadership
Course Number: NATR008
This course will enable students to develop a personal position and direct their career path within the context of the environmental and natural resource industry. A dynamic, interactive case study approach will be used to examine issues arising from environmental disputes and conflicts, and to develop an understanding of ecological sustainability.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Geospatial Techniques
Course Number: GEOM036
This course is designed around the four pillars of Geomatics: Remote Sensing, Cartography, Surveying and GIS. Students will develop entry-level skills in data capture, surveying, (computer) drafting, principles of remote sensing, air photo interpretation, and in usage of representative Geomatics-related software.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Communications Plus
Course Number: COMM012
Communications Plus will provide individualized help in language and writing skills for students enrolled in Common First Semester Communicating Technical Information. This is a one-hour timetabled class in addition to the Communicating Technical Information course. Students who are recommended and/or elect to take Communications Plus will work on computer-based modules, and may receive assistance on seminar and lab writing assignments from all courses. No additional work is required other than the one class hour per week.Units: 15.00
Hours: 15.00
Semester 2
Geotechnical Drilling
Course Number: GEOL016
This course introduces students to the soil testing and site investigation industry. Drill rig components, operation, servicing, maintenance and repair, drilling practices, and solving down-hole problems will be discussed. Standard procedures and safe work practices required to conduct the various sampling and testing techniques will be gained through hands-on experience in operating labs.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Introductory Computing
Course Number: COMP345
Working in the Windows XP environment, this computer course introduces the student to computer basics (computer terminology, e-mail, file management) and the application and use of word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software using Microsoft Office 2007. Through the extensive use of hands-on activities, students will gain sufficient knowledge and experience to make productive use of computers as a tool in both college and workplace environments. Students will have the opportunity to attain the International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL) Start Certification if they attain 75% or more on each of the four ICDL Start Certification tests.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Rig Maintenance and Repair
Course Number: MECH050
This course introduces students to the operating characteristics, maintenance schedules, and repair of the many types of gasoline and diesel engines, pumps and air compressors found on drilling and accessory equipment. Particular emphasis will be placed on safety when working around equipment, and the proper selection and safe use of hand tools. Documentation of labs is encouraged through the use of a daily log or notebook.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Soil StudiesI
Course Number: NATR041
The Common Lecture/Lab portion of the Soil Studies course provides an introduction to the physical and chemical properties of soils. Students develop skills in the identification and classification of soil, physical and index properties, textures, soil moisture, soil porosity, and other aspects of soil science using a variety of field and laboratory methods.Units: 21.00
Hours: 21.00
Technical Reporting
Course Number: COMM034
This course is an introduction to technical writing and speaking for students in the School of Environmental & Natural Resource Sciences. Students will write a formal technical report by applying research skills in the library and on the Internet, writing an outline and an introduction, documenting their sources of information in the CSE name-year style, editing and revising drafts of their reports, writing formal elements of the report, and integrating graphic presentations with text. In addition, they will present their reports orally, using appropriate audiovisual media, write a set of instructions in memo format, and be able to identify several common types of reports.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Waterwell Drilling
Course Number: GEOL040
This course is designed to teach water well drilling methods, applications, and techniques. Well design, development, hole advancement, and casing installation technology will be discussed and demonstrated. Strict compliance with the Ontario Water Resources Act R.S.O. 1990 is expected as well as safety.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Semester 3
Human Relations
Course Number: MGMT005
This course examines self-awareness, interpersonal relations, motivation, stress, small group dynamics, and organizational behaviour. Particular attention will be paid to leadership and conflict management in employment situations. Contemporary developments reshaping human relations will be introduced for study and discussion.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Drilling Pump Systems
Course Number: MECH009
This course introduces students to centrifugal and displacement pump theories, applications, selection, and sizing. Emphasis will be placed on pumps used for directional drilling and related drilling industries. Safe work habits, effective communication, and the proper use of hand and power tools and personal protective equipment are always stressed.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Environmental Drilling
Course Number: GEOL008
This course provides the technical skills required to work in the environmental drilling industry. Working practices at hazardous sites, monitoring well installations, and common soil sampling and testing procedures will be presented with hands-on practical training. Grout types and procedures for grouting and hole abandonment will also presented.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Field Operations
Course Number: APST026
This course is designed to allow students to obtain program-related experience while working off-campus in the public or private sectors of the workforce. It also provides students with an opportunity to apply existing knowledge and gain new insights in the drilling industry.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Horizontal Directional Drilling
Course Number: GEOL018
This course introduces students to the horizontal directional drilling industry. Topics will include safety, planning, tracking electronics, and drill fluids. Techniques to maximize boring and back-reaming will be presented in both theoretical and practical learning situations.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Hydraulics
Course Number: MECH032
This one-semester lecture and laboratory course provides students with a basic understanding of drilling hydraulic systems. Topics will include open and closed centre hydraulic systems, gear, vane and piston pumps, motors, directional control valves, lines, hose assemblies and fittings, cylinders, packing and seals, reservoirs, and filtering devices. Students will also be introduced to preventative maintenance and troubleshooting procedures.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Rotary Drilling Systems
Course Number: GEOL041
This course covers applications and the operation of rotary air and fluid drilling systems in overburden and rock conditions. All theory and applications will be reinforced in actual hands-on drilling labs, with a strong emphasis on safety and efficient drilling practices.Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00
Semester 4
Environmental Issues: The Human Factor
Course Number: GNED015
This course introduces students to the non-technical aspects of environmental issues: historical, cultural, ethical, political, and economic. It is concerned with how environmental issues enter public consciousness and how they are subsequently dealt with in the Canadian and global communities. Students will be encouraged to adopt a balanced, analytical approach as the basis for developing and expressing their own viewpoints as informed citizens and technicians/technologists.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Advanced Hydraulics and Rig Maintenance
Course Number: MECH003
This is an advanced course consisting of hands-on applications of maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of industry-related engines, hydraulic, electrical and drive systems.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Blasthole Drilling
Course Number: GEOL046
This course introduces students to various applications, operating theories, and working principles of rock drills and air compressors. Safe work habits, cleanliness, organization, documentation, effective communication, and personal protective equipment will be stressed.Units: 30.00
Hours: 30.00
Blasting
Course Number: GEOL047
This course stresses the safety, hazards, security, and responsibilities concerning the use of commercial explosives, blasting agents, and initiating systems. Topics will include: * Properties of explosives; * An introduction to nitroglycerine explosives, blasting agents, watergels and emulsions (packaged and bulk); * An introduction to initiation systems, detonators, detonating cords; * The fundamentals of rock breakage; * Basic blast design for surface mining and construction projects; * Blast Area security, blasting practices and safety; * Transportation, storage, handling, record keeping and regulations.Units: 15.00
Hours: 15.00
Diamond Core Drilling
Course Number: GEOL006
The objective of this course is to instruct students in core drilling as applied to any one of the drilling industries. Topics will include operation, servicing, preventive maintenance, and repair of core drilling equipment and pumps. Techniques to maximize footage, core recovery, and bit performance will be presented in both theoretical and practical learning situations.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Quarry Camp
Course Number: APST065
This hands-on course will provide the student with an opportunity to operate various blasthole drilling equipment in an off-campus active quarry. Safe work habits, equipment, organization, documentation, and effective communication skills will be exercised and stressed.Units: 80.00
Hours: 80.00
Subsurface Techniques: Rock
Course Number: GEOL037
This course expands on the identification of rocks and minerals. Engineering properties of rock will be taught, along with their association with blasting and drilling. Rock drillability and various geological classifications will be stressed for the purpose of keeping accurate logs.Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00