What do i have to do if i want to operate heavy machinery?

I am a grade 11 student in Manitoba, Canada and what i want to do for a career in my future is to be a heavy machinery operator. My teacher adviser told me to meet with my guidance counselor that specifies in post secondary schools and what not, but i missed the scheduled appointment i had. so, what i am wondering is, what do i have to do when it comes to school wise. im almost certain i am going to want to get my class 1, i am not sure if it is mandatory but i am going to get it anyways just in case i have to be able to transport the machinery. I am not sure on any other courses though, i am going to be taking my metals shops for the remainder of my high school years and might take up welding in university. i am not able to take any auto mechanics at the moment because i do not have any previous class experience on any vehicles although i have worked on them before on the farm i worked at, with family and the one time with a friend. So basically, what do i need to be able to drive heavy machinery. The job i want is to be a logger, miner, construction, stuff like that. any suggestions are appreciated, thanks!