How to Choose a Heavy Equipment Training Course

Heavy equipment training can last for a few hours or for a few days or months.  A full-fledged course from a recognized and accredited apprenticeship can take 2 to 4 years to complete.

Heavy Equipment Training Do Not Need a Formal Degree

You do not need a formal degree to enroll in such a course; normally a high school diploma or GED is required, however.  Eligible candidates may have to pass a writing test and a math test to enroll in the course. It may be helpful to have completed a few years of apprenticeship as an oiler or other related position as well.

Certificate Programs for Heavy Equipment Training

Many vocational training schools and community colleges in the United States offer short certificate programs in heavy equipment training. These certificate programs are targeted at those applying for entry level positions.

Such a course will teach you how to handle and safely operate motor graders, bull dozers, back hoes, dump trucks, cranes, overhead hoist equipment, wheel loaders, excavators and other such heavy machinery.

Courses may cover topics like heavy equipment operation, maintenance, arc welding, soil types, behavioral emergencies, workplace health, communications and math.  Instruction may be followed by an internship program.

Whether or not a community college or vocational school offers internship opportunities depends upon the credentials of that institute.  A certificate course like this should not take more than a few months to complete.

Sometimes companies will sponsor such training and certification for their employees.

Associate Degree Program for Heavy Equipment Training

This is a full-fledged two year degree course covering a wide range of topics including, but not limited to, quarry operation, trenching equipment operation, hydraulics for operators, equipment maintenance management, and track type tractor operation.

The final semester is usually reserved for internship and field experience. Many vocational schools and community colleges also offer three- to four-year apprenticeship courses.

It is always wise to choose a heavy equipment training institute that offers internship as well as field experience opportunities. The practice you can get with various kinds of heavy equipment during a field experience course or internship will enhance your job prospects. You may also consider selecting an institute that will help you obtain your commercial driver’s license, know as a CDL. Heavy Equipment Training.