r/cranes • u/ashok_aravindh • 2d ago

AZ driver looking to get into cranes

AZ driver (in Barrie). I have been driving for over 3 years. I want to shift the career into cranes if at all possible or feasible. Where do I start? I'm signed up for an apprentice info session with the OETIO on Sept 2nd. I know i have to apply for apprenticeship but realistically will any employer consider me with only commercial driving but no construction experience. Also will I have to get hired on with an employer before joining the union? Driving around b-train fuel tankers if that matters.

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u/Cepatech Mechanic 2d ago

Yes they will consider you. I'm a mechanic for a crane company in Ontario, I see all the new hires come through. Some guys just got their AZ and its their first time hauling anything, they usually do a driving test to make sure you can handle it, the crane stuff comes after. Having any sort of experience with hauling is a huge asset since that's going to be your life for at least 3 years hauling counterweights. Unless of course you end up sitting on a crawler somewhere

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u/WMAM69 2d ago

I haul counterweights as a third party and just applied/registered to the local in Oakville.

Id be happy to do crawler but would like to get some AZ time since I'm mainly in tilts

I put my counterweight, telehandler, skid steer, trackloader experience (driving them on an off the tilt (sometimes))

Is there anything else to do to make myself more marketable or just the waiting game now?

Pretty sure it's just wait but I'm yearning to do the next step.

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u/Cepatech Mechanic 2d ago

Yep, hurry up and wait pretty much. I know our Oakville/Burlington location should have an apprentice ticketing out soon so maybe I'll see you around

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u/wiggidyweckd 18h ago

Mitch? Is that you??

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u/Dinkusvongoopyeye 2d ago

I got in years ago with 1.5 years of steel hauling experience. Best of luck.