Utility Locating & Damage Prevention

Find, mark, and map buried utilities. Every safe dig starts with you.

Apply for this program → View the brochure (PDF)

4 weeksin-class + in-field training

Paid3-month employer practicum

$0 tuitionwith employer sponsorship

Markham, ONtraining centre & field sites

What is it & why it matters

Utility locators find underground lines with special equipment. They mark the ground with paint and record each line on digital maps. Their marks protect the lines before any excavation starts.

A good fit if…

You like working outdoors and independently
You want work that protects the public
You notice details other people miss

What you'll learn

Knowledge of utilities
Learn about gas/pipeline, telecom, electrical, water/sewer infrastructure, and more.
Maps & equipment
Properly use mapping applications and industry-standard locating equipment.
Safety & regulations
Occupational health & safety, government safety regulations, codes, and PPE use.
Field experience
Gain real experience through supervised, then unsupervised, in-field practice.

Course curriculum highlights

This 4 weeks program covers, among other topics:

From day one to day-one on the job

W1
In-class learning
Theory and fundamentals, at your own computer station in our facility.
W2
Written exams
Score 80%+ to prove you can safely begin field training.
W3
Supervised field training
Work in the field with a senior trainer. Ends with a pass-fail exam.
W4
Unsupervised field training
Independent field work that determines certification status.
W5+
Paid practicum & job
CUTI arranges a 3-month paid practicum. Then full-time employment at a higher wage.

Career outcomes

Graduates of this program move into roles like:

Exact weeks vary by program and cohort. Contact admissions for the current schedule.

Requirements

No prior work experience required
Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent
Age 18+ and able to work within Canada
Valid driver's licence with a clean abstract
Intermediate computer skills
Able to distinguish utility marking colours and carry up to 15 lbs

Apply in minutes

Seats are limited — cohorts fill on employer demand.

Apply today → Ask admissions

Frequently asked questions

Why this program?

A strike on a buried gas, hydro, or telecom line can cause explosions, flooding, outages, or loss of life. That makes locating one of the most important public-safety roles in pre-engineering.

How much does it cost?

$0 course fee when you complete the sponsored work commitment: the 3-month paid practicum plus 3 months of full-time employment. Prefer no work commitment? Pay for the course yourself and keep every option open.

Who hires graduates of this program?

Utility service companies like Canadian Locators Inc. and Tierra Geomatics, plus safety authorities such as the TSSA.

Do I need a specific licence or diploma?

You need a valid driver's licence with a clean abstract — full G preferred, G2 accepted with a plan to get your G by training's end. You also need an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent, including Grade 12 English or equivalent.

Anything else before the practicum starts?

Some employers request a criminal background check, drug testing, and physical standards before paid practicums begin. If your computer skills are basic, we help you get up to speed during training.

When can I start?

Applications are rolling, with multiple start dates each year. Seats are limited — apply at least 7 days before your preferred start date.