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Communication Reserve Headquarters
613-993-6372
Communication Reserve Vehicle Technicians work as members of a team that is responsible for a complete range of servicing, maintenance, repair and overhaul of all land vehicles and related equipment used by the Canadian Forces. They have the following duties:
Vehicle Technicians should enjoy detailed, methodical work with engines and mechanical equipment. They should be adaptable, able to follow instructions and ensure that their work meets strict standards. Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity are important attributes. Physical strength, resourcefulness and the ability to keep clerical records are also desirable.
The first stage of training for all members of the Communication Reserve is a 4-week Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) course. This course is conducted full-time during the summer at the Communication Reserve School in Shilo Manitoba. This training provides the basic core skills and knowledge common to all trades, and is physically demanding. This course covers the following topics:
On successful completion of BMQ, Communication Reserve soldiers must complete the 4-week Soldier Qualification (SQ) course held at the Communication Reserve School in Shilo Manitoba; the course covers the following topics:
On completion of SQ, Vehicle Technicians attend basic military occupation training at the Canadian Forces School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (CFSEME) in Borden, Ontario. Training takes approximately 63 days and includes a combination of theory instruction, demonstrations and practice work assignments in:
Personnel who demonstrate the required ability and ambition will undertake advanced Vehicle Technician training through formal courses or on-the-job training as they progress in their careers. Speciality training is also available to qualified personnel. Below are examples of Specialty and Advanced training available:
Communication Reserve Vehicle Technicians normally work in enclosed, lighted and heated workshops in garrison. During field operations, duties are performed in the open, in temporary or improvised accommodations, under all types of weather conditions ranging from extreme heat to extreme cold and wet or damp conditions. The working conditions will include noisy and confined quarters, and exposure to heat, dust and fumes. The job has heavy physical demands; a Vehicle Technician must be tolerant of situations requiring stooping, lifting heavy weights, kneeling, crouching and standing for long periods of time. Mental stress is normal in garrison, but increases considerably during exercises or operational conditions.
Communication Reserve Vehicle Technicians work approximately one to two evenings a week and up to two weekends a month at their local unit. Once trained there are opportunities for full time employment with the Canadian Forces, either in Canada or deployed overseas, such as with an United Nations operation.