AZ AND HEO worth it in Ontario?

Hey all!

New poster here. If my editing didn't work then please note I'm up in Bancroft, Ontario.

I've already passed my MTO Medical and both A and Z written tests. Working on the next step.

My "plan" is to get both AZ and some Heavy Equipment Operator training. I already know how to operate a backhoe, loader and skid steer. I want to add a couple of pieces to the list for sake of versatility (excavator for sure, open to other suggestions!). Doing this through a school obviously gets me some little piece of paper that says "it's legit". My idea was this would leave me with great versatility and flexibility. Question is ... is it realistic?

I know my demographic doesn't put me in a good position for much in terms of "local" trucking, but I can say that my best bets locally are logging truck (usually need experience ... and someone to leave a position to make room for you), fuel delivery (see previous) and construction (ah ha!).

I figure my best bet is to point myself towards construction IF I want to work locally ("locally" ... but you never know where you wind up in construction, right?). At the very least if the AZ doesn't land me a job the HEO might get me in. The ability to float equipment with a trailer on the back of a dump is, from what I've come to understand, a valuable asset.

I've talked with truckers in various fields of the industry for a couple of years now. I now know O/O isn't for me, at least certainly not as a newcomer. A couple of guys even stated, when I mentioned the HEO, to "just go with that, screw the trucks". lol (kinda) I've even had it suggested to go North up around the mines in North Bay and Sudbury areas by a few guys (not married, hi kids, own my home).

Figured now that I found this place I would put the question up here. The question isn't about time or money. Those are questions for myself alone. I'm asking more about if it's worth it as a plan or am I wasting time and energy with the HEO. Thoughts?

Thanks.

 

Ok cool. Thanks man. Appreciate it.

 

I hear that. I can ask all I want but the ultimate truth is no one knows how it's gonna go, right?!?!

I figure since I have the luxury of time (and honestly, at my age, any desire to continue learning) on my side I might as well "train up the wazoo" and then take my chances.

As much as I like to tout flexibility and versatility I know my attitude is key. Flexibility and versatility gets my foot in the door ... positive attitude keeps me employed.

... or maybe it's the other way around? Hmmmm ...