Heavy Equipment and Tractor Training Programs
Would you like to learn to operate a crane, bulldozer, tractor or backhoe? You can complete a certificate in heavy equipment operations, an associate's degree program in heavy equipment technology or individual courses related to this field. Some programs pertain specifically to equipment maintenance and repair. If this interests you, continue reading for more information. Schools offering Supply Chain Management degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
What Will I Learn in Heavy Equipment Training Programs?
In a heavy equipment operations certificate program, which usually takes less than two years to complete, you may learn to safely operate heavy construction equipment. In addition to studying operations, you may learn to prepare excavation and construction sites. You may need to demonstrate that you can meet performance standards affirming your driving skills and that you know how equipment is used. The program also includes practical, hands-on training.
In a 2-year Associate of Applied Science in Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology, you may study methods for servicing heavy operations and construction equipment. This includes running diagnostics to identify problems, repair procedures and rebuilding parts you don't have on hand. You may learn to test batteries, fix electrical systems and improve overall performance. Some classes pertain to tractors and other farm equipment, including their hydraulics and transmissions systems. You may also study:
- Preventative maintenance techniques
- Automotive welding
- Equipment operations
- Safety in mechanics
How Do Programs Work?
Both program types are very hands-on. In heavy equipment operation certificates and classes, you get behind the wheel and operate construction equipment. In many cases, you must to log a certain number of program hours, demonstrating that you know how to operate the equipment. You may also need to meet the requirements for safety measures and learn to check your equipment. In diesel and heavy equipment technology, your instructors place you in a workshop, running tests and making repairs.
How Can I Use This Training?
With heavy equipment operation training, you can become a construction equipment operator and clear or grade land or roads to construct buildings or update highways. You could find a job operating specific equipment, such as a crane, dredge or excavation machine. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), construction equipment operators made a median annual salary of $39,770 as of May 2009. Dredge operators made $34,590, crane operators made $44,140 and excavators made $35,930.
With your associate's degree in diesel and heavy equipment technology, you may be prepared for a career as a heavy equipment service technician. This could involve working on farm equipment or construction equipment. According to the BLS, heavy equipment technicians made a median annual salary of $44,120 as of May 2009 (www.bls.gov). You could also become a diesel service technician, which involves providing mechanical services to semi trucks, buses and pickups. As of May 2009, these professionals made a median annual salary of $40,250.
To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:
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