Town of Banff

Bryan Ruzicka

Heavy Duty Mechanic Bryan Ruzicka Photo: Stephanie Andrews

You might not see our newest face with the Operations team as often as members of other departments who patrol the streets or attend the front counter, but the work of Bryan Ruzicka can be seen in every vehicle in the Town’s fleet. 

A 22-year Bow Valley resident, Bryan brings to the Fleet department 37 years of experience in the auto, small engine, transit and heavy equipment industries. 

Bryan originally headed west from his home town of Limerick, Saskatchewan for some ‘fresh air’ after a stint in the coal mines.  His first job in Alberta was on the fleet team for the 1988 Olympic Games at Nakiska Resort.  Working on 10 snow cats and 65 skidoos during the excitement of the Olympics gave Bryan a great start to the mountain lifestyle, which he’s kept up since by playing hockey, mountain biking, bowling and fishing in the Bow Valley.

What it’s like at work?

• You have an all round knowledge and understanding of equipment operation, maintenance schedules, and how to determine equipment specifications in the most efficient way – to meet user requirements, budget parameters and environmental concerns.
• Even though you and the fleet supervisor have a long-range plan, as well as a weekly and daily emergency repair plan, you are ready to prioritize and change your schedule depending on what ‘injured’ vehicle may arrive at the shop. Although safety is our number one priority, accidents do happen.
• As the go to person for day-to-day operations of the equipment fleet, you answer the constant inquiries that arrive moment by moment from departments and operators.
• You know all about major repairs and daily equipment requirements and issues affecting our fleet. You willingly contribute your expertise and act as a leader for others within your immediate work group, and communicate so that all Town staff are aware of the time required to complete the work.

Role Requirements:

• Alberta Heavy Equipment Technician
• Safety and first aid/ CPR certification
• CVIP certification
• Journeyman mechanic, heavy duty mechanic
• Special endorsements on license – airbrakes, class 3
• Extensive (at least 10 years) experience in a mechanical position in a municipal environment, ideally with some supervisory experience for a diverse group of operational and utility staff
• Experience working in an environment where transparency, accountability and responsiveness are standard expectations

Want more information?
See Bryan, Rob, Kevin or Gary to find out what actually goes on under all of those hoods down at the Fleet shop and get a peek inside their toolboxes!

For more information on becoming a Heavy Duty Mechanic, visit:

• Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training website