Trailer, Container and Van Repair Mechanic
Apprenticeship Program
A comprehensive 4-year apprenticeship program equipping students in their career journey as a Trailer Mechanic / Technician, Container Repair Technician, Diesel Systems Technician, Refrigeration Technician (Reefer), Welding & Fabrication Technician, Fleet Maintenance Technician, Specialist Technician, Mobile Technician, and Fleet Supervisor.
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Program Overview
Program Sponsor
Northwest Machinists Apprenticeship Committee
Skilled Occupational Objective
Trailer, Container and Van Repair Mechanic
Term/OJT Hours
8000
Total RSI Hours
578
Training Provider
Machinists Institute
Year 1 Training (144 hours)
1
AST Safety and Tools (38 hours)
An overview of shop safety theory, hand tools, lifting basics, and precision measurement and theory. Includes pre- and post-tests in application of safe practices and tool use.
2
Tool Basics (20 hours)
Introduction to common tools (ammeter, gauges, jack stands, torque wrenches, etc.). Math techniques, including measurements/calculations/conversions.
3
Basic Employment Skills (10 hours)
Instruction/overview of acceptable employee standards including timeliness, ability to take direction, task completion, appropriate communication styles, and personal appearance, as well as honesty, integrity and reliability.
4
Basic Communication Skills (8 hours)
Techniques for effective communication in the workplace. Includes lessons that emphasize the importance of verbal, written and reading skills in the trades.
5
Introduction to Trade Math (8 hours)
Review of basic math skills related to the trades and demonstration of how they apply in context. Covers multiple systems of measurement, decimals, fractions, and basic geometry.
6
Welding I (30 hours)
Oxy-acetylene welding and cutting; and shielded-metal arc welding.
7
Welding II (30 hours)
MIG and flux-cored welding.
Year 2 Training (145 hours)
Welding III (60 hours)
TIG welding
WABO Welding Certification Review and Test Prep (20 hours)
Review and practice for the WABO welding certification exam.
Engine Mechanical Basics (18 hours)
An introduction to the basic components of an engine including engine block, crankcase, pistons, flywheel, camshaft, timing belts, manifolds and exhaust.
Electrical (47 hours)
Overview of electrical and electronics fundamentals including DC/AC voltage, duty cycles, capacitors, diodes, coils, etc.
Year 3 Training (144 hours)
Diesel Mechanical Basics (24 hours)
Introduction to diesel systems, including diagnosing, repairing, and rebuilding components of diesel-powered vehicles. Instruction/lessons on parts, exhaust systems, GPS/software systems.
Diesel Powertrain Systems (50 hours)
Types of diesel engines and their components including injectors, camshafts, valves, glow plugs, pistons, rods and crankshafts.
Transport Refrigeration Repair and Maintenance (50 hours)
Refrigerated container inspection basics, including terminology, processes, tolerances and acceptable damage. Includes review of refrigeration transport unit components, refrigeration system servicing/maintenance, electrical circuits/diagrams and electrical systems and microprocessor controls.
Air Brakes (20 hours)
Brake basics and repair, concepts of movement, friction, pressure and torque; symbols and calculations. Review of the operating principles of pneumatic brakes, ABS systems, roll stability, compressors, storage, treadle valves and expansion pipes/cooling pipes.
Year 4 Training (145 hours)
Diesel Chassis/Suspension (40 hours)
Overview of chassis types and components; common measurements; chassis repair and damage codes; mudflap repairs; chassis lock repairs; landing lock repairs; slider assembly/repairs; bomb cart repairs.
Hydraulics (35 hours)
Covers basic hydraulic principles, including maintenance, types of hydraulic fluids and characteristics. Describes components of hydraulic systems including pumps, motors, valves, seals, cylinders and filters as well as maintenance procedures.
Diesel Generators (45 hours)
Overview of procedures including pre-trip, PM services, fuel system inspection/troubleshooting; maintenance and repair of filters, fuel lines, gauges, solenoids, injector pumps, hoses, thermostats, etc.; maintenance and repair of control systems and motor parts.
Forklift/Scissor Lift (25 hours)
OSHA compliant forklift and scissor lift training and test.
Training Methods and Instruction
Classroom
Traditional instructor-led classroom sessions for theoretical knowledge
Lab
Hands-on practical training in workshop environments
Online
Digital learning resources and virtual instruction
Self-Study
Independent learning materials and assignments
Program Assurances and Quality Standards
RSI Consistency with Industry Standards
The program sponsor agrees to provide RSI that is consistent with the latest occupational practices, improvements, and technical advances, and that the RSI is coordinated with on-the-job work experience and provided in safe and healthful work practices.
Instructor Qualifications
The training provider assures that the RSI will be conducted by instructors who meet specific qualifications, including having demonstrated satisfactory employment performance, meeting State Board requirements for instructors or being a subject matter expert, and having training in teaching techniques and adult learning styles.