If you want to work in the commercial trucking industry in New Brunswick, you need proper training. But for students enrolled at Transport Training Centres of Canada, that education came to an abrupt halt.

Training Transport Centres of Canada Moncton campus. Image provided by Paige Morgan via Penticton Herald

The Department of Justice and Public Safety revoked the operating license for the school over the holidays. The company operates campuses in Moncton, Fredericton, and Saint John. This sudden closure left many students in the dark.

Woodstock resident Jonathan Laforest enrolled at the Moncton campus to get his Class One license. He completed his heavy equipment operating course and needed the Mandatory Entry Level Training program to move equipment on job sites. After the holidays, he reached out to find out when his driving classes would start. He received no response.

“When it came time for us to do our drive time, they just completely cut ties with us,” Jonathan said. “I would call and call and call and no answer.”

His father Mitch Laforest shared the frustration. He noted that public safety officials should have a backup plan for students to finish their training quickly.

What the Training Requires

The Mandatory Entry Level Training program is a national initiative. It ensures transport truck drivers receive standardized instruction across Canada. The program requires at least 112 hours of training. This includes 70 hours of driving time, classroom instruction, yard training, and an air brake component.

Government and School Responses

The Department of Justice and Public Safety refused to comment on the revoked license due to privacy concerns. However, the Department of Post Secondary Education, Training and Labour stepped in to help.

Communications officer Rebecca Howland stated the department is working with impacted students. Officials sent letters in April with compensation request forms. The department is coordinating with funding partners and alternative training schools to ensure students get compensated or receive equivalent training. Students can contact Post Secondary Relations directly for assistance.

Transport Training Centres of Canada CEO John Beaudry offered a different perspective. He claimed his company never had issues with the government until recently. He alleged a Fredericton examiner disliked his trainers and the school. Beaudry also claimed the tone changed when officials learned he is native.

Beaudry contested complaints about poor vehicle maintenance. He stated the school keeps excellent records. He also defended his use of Ontario trainers, noting this practice is legal under the Labour Mobility Act.

The company is currently undergoing a judicial review of its license. Beaudry plans to pursue damages in court.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to Transport Training Centres of Canada?

The New Brunswick Department of Justice and Public Safety revoked the operating license for the school over the holidays. This stopped all Mandatory Entry Level Training classes.

How does this impact students?

Students cannot complete their required driving hours to get a Class One license. Many are waiting for compensation or placement in alternative training programs.

What should affected students do?

Impacted students should complete the compensation form sent to them in April. You can also contact Post Secondary Relations for further assistance.

Why did the government revoke the license?

The government cited privacy concerns and refused to comment on the specific reasons. The school CEO claims it stems from unfair complaints by a provincial examiner.