If you're interested in a career as a heavy equipment operator, there are several schooling options available. You can earn a certificate, diploma, or associate's degree in heavy equipment operation, which typically takes a year or less to complete.
These programs are usually offered at vocational schools, community colleges, or technical institutes. They provide hands-on training and cover topics such as safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and operation techniques.
You can also gain experience by participating in internships or apprenticeships, which can last from a few months to a year. This is a great way to get a feel for the job and build connections in the industry.
With experience and a strong work ethic, you can advance to supervisory or management roles, or even start your own heavy equipment operation business.
8 Week
The 8-week heavy equipment operator training course is a rigorous, full-time program that requires dedication and focus.
Each class has no more than 12 students, ensuring personal attention and plenty of time with each piece of heavy construction equipment.
Participants receive instruction in the classroom and gain hands-on practical experience, supervised by NCCER Certified Craft Instructors.
The course is held 10 hours a day, for 50 hours per week, over an 8-week period, totaling 400 hours of quality instruction.
Five hours a day, Monday through Thursday, consists of classroom courses, where students will be taught basic civil engineering concepts, workplace safety, applied mathematics, project-layout, and basic surveying.
The remaining five hours will be spent in the field, Monday through Thursday, developing the skills needed to operate heavy machinery safely and efficiently.
Fridays are spent in the training field only, with hands-on supervised instruction in coordinated excavation team operations.
The course prepares graduates for work in heavy construction, surface mining, forestry, industrial, and recycling industries.
Classroom and hands-on practice is provided for the operation of each major type of equipment, giving students exposure to all the machinery they are likely to experience in the field.
WCT is an Accredited Training Unit (ATU) of the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER), providing the necessary coaching and examinations for successful graduates to earn NCCER training credentials.
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Schooling Options
If you're looking to become a heavy equipment operator, there are several schooling options available to you.
Dig This Academy in Nevada offers a Heavy Equipment Operator Ready Certification program, which includes courses on excavators, backhoes, bulldozers, and wheel loaders. Each week-long course costs $3,800, and applicants can choose one equipment-specific course or enroll for all four.
New Castle School of Trades has been offering skilled trade training since 1945, and it's an accredited heavy equipment school that offers job placement assistance services.
To get started with Dig This Academy, you'll need to be at least 18 years old, have a driver's license, a high school diploma or GED, and be mentally and physically capable of safely operating equipment.
Some schools, like Dig This Academy, offer payment plans if you can't afford the total cost upfront. They're also exploring tuition assistance through state, federal, and construction association channels.
If you're considering a career as a heavy equipment operator, it's worth noting that heavy equipment operators are in high demand, and these programs can give you the skills you need to get started.
For your interest: How Long Is Heavy Equipment Operator School
Certification & Programs
Dig This Academy offers a 40 hour course for single equipment types, which covers equipment such as excavators, backhoes, bulldozers, and wheel loaders. This course recognizes successful completion of hands on tasks and theory as outlined in the NCCER certification courses.
The Academy also offers a 3 hour orientation program for those new to heavy equipment operation, which allows them to try out a bulldozer, excavator, and skid steer loader. If they like what they experience, the cost of this program will be deducted from the enrollment fees for their training program.
The cost of a week-long course at Dig This Academy is $3,800.00, with options to enroll in one equipment-specific course or all four courses. Each week-long course includes both class instruction and hands-on experience.
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Accredited Training School
NCST, New Castle School of Trades, has been offering skilled trade training since 1945, making them well-known in the training sector. They offer job placement assistance services, including resume writing and interviewing with recruiters.
Their programs teach important skills like resume writing and how to interview with recruiters. This helps graduates find gainful employment after completing their career training.
NCST is an accredited heavy equipment school, dedicated to seeing students succeed in their chosen careers. They offer extensive job placement assistance services.
Here are some accredited heavy equipment training schools:
West Coast Training also offers professional heavy equipment operator training, which well prepares students for construction work as Heavy Equipment Operators.
Other Programs
Our academy offers a 40 hour course for single equipment types, which covers hands-on tasks and theory as outlined in NCCER certification courses. This course will cover equipment types such as excavators, backhoes, bulldozers, and skid steers.
If you're new to heavy equipment operation, we recommend starting with our 3 hour orientation program on a bulldozer, excavator, and skid steer loader. This is a great way to get a feel for the equipment and see if a career as a heavy equipment operator is right for you.
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The cost of the orientation program is $500, which will be deducted from your enrollment fees if you decide to move forward with our training program. Keep in mind that Dig This Academy cannot guarantee employment, career advancement, or any particular earnings/pay.
The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) offers certification programs that we endorse and recommend for those looking to advance their careers in heavy equipment operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to learn how do you operate heavy equipment?
Heavy equipment training typically takes 4 months to 4 years to complete, depending on the type of equipment and career goals. Learning to operate heavy equipment safely and effectively requires time and dedication, but can lead to a rewarding and in-demand career.
Is becoming a heavy equipment operator hard?
Becoming a heavy equipment operator requires training and certifications, but with the right education and experience, it can be a rewarding and challenging career. If you're interested in learning more, consider enrolling in a skilled trade school program near you.
How much is heavy equipment operator school in California?
The cost of heavy equipment operator training in California can range from $4,000 to $20,000, depending on location and equipment specifics. For a more accurate estimate, consider factors such as program length and type of equipment being used.
What is the best degree for a heavy equipment operator?
The most common degree for a heavy equipment operator is an associate's degree in heavy equipment operation and maintenance, which provides comprehensive training in equipment operation and maintenance skills. This degree is ideal for those seeking a career in heavy equipment operation.
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