To address the need for work ready Heavy Equipment Operators (HEO), the Government of Manitoba has implemented an initiative to develop a field test to assess a person’s overall suitability to work in the Heavy Construction industry. This field test, developed and validated by subject matter experts in the industry, reflects the 2004 industry-defined occupational standards of this occupation. It evaluates many aspects of HEO including health and safety requirements, required tools and equipment. The field test is primarily a demonstration of the person’s knowledge, skills and attitudes when working in the industry.
Competency is defined as a person’s ability to demonstrate the skills and attitudes required for a particular job. The purpose of an HEO assessment is to identify where an individual’s skills are compared to what is needed for an entry-level HEO. Not all applicants will be ready to work and there are a few instances when applicants fail completely. The assessment will also result in a clear understanding of any training that may be required. The assessment is intended to point the way to employers and employment or for referrals to further training, employment counselling, upgrading opportunities, or work experience.
Competency based assessment is not an isolated activity and usually form part of a pathway to a goal. Not all of the applicants will be successful; this ought not to be seen as a failure but as opportunities for further training or development. When assessments are undertaken in a fair and unbiased manner, there are very few instances when applicants fail completely. It is important that all applicants know in advance how this field assessment for an entry level HEO is structured.
The goal of this field assessment is to gather sufficient, current and valid evidence of the applicant’s ability to perform to the competencies expected of an entry level HEO. The process to conduct this field assessment in an ethical manner is as follows: