Deaf heavy equipment operator fulfils a dream

Never say can't.

That is Robert Nepinak's motto and his approach to life, work and everyday situations.

The 31-year-old heavy equipment operator (HEO) from Winnipeg recently graduated from the Interior Heavy Equipment Operator School in Innisfail and became a certified HEO.

Nepinak was born deaf. He currently lives in St. Albert with his common-law wife and two young children, ages three and eight. He completed the 10-week training program on Aug. 21, at the Innisfail school.

“The instructors are super cool. You're always learning different things from each one so your experiences are going to be different,” said Nepinak. “All of the instructors here are very patient.

“They have a lot to add to my learning, and that's been great,” he added through Debbie Walker, an on-site interpreter.

The certified HEO course involved learning about six different machines including a backhoe, loader, excavator, grader, bulldozer and a rock truck. Throughout the course, Nepinak learned how to operate the machines, and exercise proper care and maintenance and rules pertaining to each machine. His favourite machine to use is the excavator, with the bulldozer a close second.

“I don't like the smaller machines,” he said. “I like the excavator. It's bigger, and it's smoother.”

His co-workers and fellow students have also been great to work with, he noted, and much like those in the real world outside of school.

“You want to create those relationships, the same here as you do when you're out in the real world,” said Nepinak. “For example, I have these students up here that I know really well, and I'm able to communicate with them and tell them exactly where I want to put things. We're teaching each other all the time.”

Like most people, Nepinak works through challenges on the job but has never considered his deafness to be an obstacle.

“I don't need to hear the machines. I use my eyes,” he said. “When you're far away you can't hear people talking but can see things going on.”

Completing the course and becoming a certified HEO has not only helped Nepinak fulfil his dream but has helped him realize his potential and a possible career path.

“I feel that I'm more confident now, more determined,” he said. “It doesn't matter where I'm going to be working, I feel more inspired now that I have more possibilities. My abilities are shining.”

Newly graduated, Nepinak is focused and has his sights set on future goals.

“I'm hoping to work up north. I have many opportunities out there,” said Nepinak. “I'm up for any challenge at this point and want to find some work.”

The Interior Heavy Equipment Operator School was a great learning opportunity, said Nepinak. He added that there is one important lesson he will take away from his training and from the experience.

“Never give up,” he said. “Follow your dreams and always know you can, no matter what.”