Class 1 Truck Driver Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT) program (theory only)

Great Plains College offers the theory portion for the Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) program legislated by SGI via distance learning. The distance learning option provides the same curriculum standard that is available for students attending the in-classroom theory training. The course is instructor-led by an experienced, approved, SGI instructor/trainer examiner and is delivered via Zoom over 8 days (47 hours). Course dates can be negotiated to suit organizations that book a private course for their employees.

Students register for a specific start and end date, which is required to obtain government funding (if applicable) or to schedule the driving portion of the course.

The following computer system requirements are needed to be able to participate in the class in the distance learning format:

• Internet connection - broadband wired or wireless
• Speakers and a microphone - built in, USB plug-in, or wireless Bluetooth
• Webcam - built in, or USB plug-in

For full steps on how to obtain your Class 1A Driver's License in Saskatchewan, follow the roadmap below.

ROADMAP to your Class 1A Driver’s License

 In order to obtain your Class 1A license, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Hold a valid, Class 5 Drivers License that is no longer a graduated license

It is recommended that students obtain their SGI COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S MEDICAL and their CLASS 1 LEARNER’S ENDORSEMENT prior to the classroom training; however, these two components are not mandatory for entry into the classroom portion of the MELT program. The Driver's Medical and Learner's Endorsement MUST BE COMPLETED prior to your in-truck training.

Please visit the SGI website for the most up-to-date information on the MELT program : Information about mandatory Class 1 driver training      

STEP 1

Contact Great Plains College to register for the 47-hour classroom portion of SGI’s Mandatory Entry Level Training(MELT) program. There is a mandatory orientation for the distance learning program to be held prior to the course start date. Students will be contacted via email with the details and a Zoom link. This is to ensure that there is an opportunity to troubleshoot any technical issues, and will allow  a final opportunity to withdraw from the class in the event of severe connectivity issues or technical difficulties that cannot be resolved. We have dates scheduled but can also work with you to customize training dates if you have larger groups of 5 or more students to send. 

STEP 2

Attend and successfully complete the MELT classroom program at Great Plains College. The cost of the theory portion of this training is $1,195. The course is facilitated by an approved SGI instructor/trainer examiner with distinct start and end dates. Opportunities to ask questions and interact with other students are available. Exams are given after each chapter – there is no final exam or additional fees to write the exams.

STEP 3 

Book and successfully complete your Commercial Driver’s Medical Exam as well as your Class 1 Learner’s Exam during the time in between your classroom training and your practical training.   If you experience any of the below conditions, you may find it wise to complete your medical exam PRIOR to registration into the MELT program to identify any issues that would prevent you from obtaining your Class 1A License:

• seizure disorders
• certain heart or insulin dependent diabetic conditions
• physical disabilities (paralysis, disability, arthritis, amputation)
• blackouts, dizziness or fainting spells
• head injuries
• vision problems or hearing loss

The medical can be completed by a physician, nurse practitioner or an occupational health and safety nurse. Click the link above for direct access to the SGI website medical forms and Class 1 Learner’s Information.

STEP 4*

Obtain your 74.5 hours of in-yard and in-truck practical training through the Truck Driver Training provider of your choice. We can provide the names of Trainers that come to your area that you can contact for the practical portion of your training. You may choose to book this once you have booked your classroom training to ensure a spot with them.

*There will be a gap between your classroom training and your practical training due to the demand for practical training regardless of where you obtain your classroom training.

POTENTIAL FUNDING:

Canada-Saskatchewan Job Grant:

If you are an Employer paying for your current or incumbent employee’s training, you may apply for the Canada-Saskatchewan Job Grant. If you qualify, you can potentially receive a reimbursement of up to 2/3 of the total cost of training, with a per person maximum of $10,000.  Please allow one month from the time of your application to receive funding approval.  For more information regarding funding, visit saskatchewan.ca. 

Training Voucher Program:

This program is targeted to workers affected by changes in their industry including those related to recent economic impacts.  Eligible clients may be able to access funding for training to re-enter the labour market.  Clients must:

• Be unemployed or under employed, working 16 hours per week or less.
• Be legally entitled to work in Saskatchewan
• Be at least 16 years of age
• Be facing skills-related barriers to obtaining employment
• Demonstrate that you have a strong history of previous employment and job readiness.
• Demonstrate the ability to financially support ones self while in undertaking the training

To schedule an appointment to discuss Training Voucher Program options, please contact 1-833-613-0485 or email careerservices@gov.sk.ca

For more information or to register for the Class 1 Truck Driver MELT course at Great Plains College, please contact:

Kindersley Campus
Lana Rhodes
(306) 463-1351
lanar@greatplainscollege.ca

Swift Current Campus
Angela Kazakoff                                                 
(306) 778-5461  
angelak@greatplainscollege.ca

Custom training locations may be arranged. To find out more about this option, contact the campus nearest you.