The best training options for becoming a driller in Quebec
Do you dream of having a fly-in fly-out job? Of working in the great outdoors in Abitibi? What about working with your hands alongside a great team, and getting paid well to do it? Then you should consider becoming a driller!
If you don’t have your mining credentials or experience in the industry yet, we’ll guide you to find the training program you need!
Prerequisites
Depending on whether you want to be a surface driller or an underground driller, the requirements will be different. For the latter, you’ll need to complete your mining modules and have an explosives permit (to be requested from the Sûreté du Québec).
Here’s a French video that summarizes this important information.
It’s from 2019, but the facts are still current.
You can obtain your mining modules through a Diploma of Vocational Studies (DVS) in mining, or opt for a short training course that focuses solely on the modules.
External training
By following a comprehensive DVS that’s covered by the company, you’ll deepen your knowledge of the industry and acquire the skills you need to practice your future trade. For example, there’s a 45-hour module on occupational health and safety. That shows just how important it is in our line of work!
DVSs give you all the tools you need to work both safely and confidently.
CFP de la Baie-James
There are several types of mining DVSs out there, although they’re all only available in French at the moment. The Centre de formation professionnelle (CFP) de la Baie-James offers four programs, so you can tailor your knowledge to your future work environment. You can choose between drilling and blasting, diamond drilling, ore extraction, or the operation of ore processing equipment. You’re sure to find what you’re looking for! What’s more, by training in Chibougamau, you have access to an exceptional environment, where outdoor activities abound. From fishing to golfing, there’s plenty to do!
CFP Val-d’Or
The CFP Val-d’Or is also known for its mining training. Located on the edge of the Cadillac Fault, the region is home to a range of mining projects. That’s why several training programs are available in the area, including the four specialized DVSs offered at the CFP Val d’Or. They also offer modular training for mine workers. This training is mandatory in mining companies in Quebec for anyone who does not have a mining DVS. It condenses the essentials into 76 hours. This is a great option if you’re looking for a short training time and want to join a mining operation as a third man as soon as possible.
CFP de l’Estuaire
Interested in these courses but want to stay close to home for now? Then the CFP de l’Estuaire is for you! They offer a DVS in diamond drilling in Forestville, in Côte-Nord! A good way to stay close to your family before jumping into field work.
In-house training
If you’re interested in surface drilling, you don’t need to have your credentials. However, even if it’s not mandatory, a DVS can still give you useful insights and expertise on the mining industry. In all cases, we strongly recommend you have a driver’s license, as most companies require it upon hiring.
So, without training, you can join our surface drilling teams as a third man trainee. To better understand this role, you need to know that on a drill rig, there are two employees: the driller and the helper. The third man assists the helper in all their daily tasks, with the goal of becoming a helper one day. After all, the best way to learn is through experience! This internship also comes with intro courses to give you everything you need to start off on the right foot.
At Rouillier Drilling, we also have an in-house Je deviens foreur (Becoming a driller) program. It allows us to identify driller helpers who have the potential to become drillers, which in turn can lead to interesting career perspectives for you.
You now have all the tools you need to choose the training program best suited to help you get your dream job, whether that’s as a blaster, a driller helper, or a driller. We have no doubt that you will find the perfect place for you in the mining industry, and maybe even at Rouillier Drilling, where we care deeply!
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