Heavy Equipment
Operator

General description

What the program
covers

For Entry-Level students, instruction is offered on how to operate ALL of the following machines: Backhoe (Backhoe Loader), Bulldozer, Excavator, Front-End Loader (Payloader), & Skid-Steer. The curriculum consists of 21 hours of comprehensive training and 280 hours of practical training. There are two kinds of classes at The LEARN Center: practical and comprehensive. The practical classes are the “hands on” operations that are tailored to the machine of interest.

All practical classes will be conducted in a functioning heavy equipment excavation yard where the student will be immersed into the operation of the machine within a construction setting environment. Some machine exercises are weather dependent (i.e., loading and unloading of machines and materials) and will not be performed in inclement conditions due to safety considerations.

Entrance requirements

Heavy Equipment Operator students who desire to take courses at The LEARN Center are required to have a HS Diploma or GED or pass an admissions exam (Ability to Benefit) for a $150.00 fee. In addition, individuals must be able to speak and understand basic English, lift 25 pounds, have the level of dexterity and coordination to climb a ladder, and a minimum of 20/40 vision. Students that are taking medications or are under the care of a physician must notify the office prior to registering.