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Heavy Equipment Operation

A yellow John Deere excavator digs a trench in dry, grassy terrain, with a construction worker in a hard hat and safety vest standing nearby, while a distant building and trees are visible under a clear sky.

Description

This program is designed to align with industry best practices for safety, construction, earthmoving, and excavation. Students learn basic operation techniques of heavy equipment including excavators, skid steers, bulldozers, backhoes and articulated loaders. Participants will learn many essential skills such as site assessment, grading, trenching, and material handling. Upon completion, graduates will be well-prepared to enter the workforce as heavy equipment and contribute to diverse construction projects. 

Application

Applicants must complete a Southern Tech Application for Admission. Additional information and applications are available at the Southern Tech campus and online by visiting our Student Portal (please create an account prior to showing interest or applying by clicking the blue Sign In button in the top right corner). Enrollment for this career program is open to adults and in-district High Schools (juniors/seniors).

Financial Aid and Scholarships

This program is NOT approved for Federal Financial Aid; scholarships may be available for those who qualify.

Financial Aid Information

Courses (480 Hours)

  • Basic Equipment Operational Techniques

Schedule

  • Secondary: 8:00-11:00 AM
  • Post-Secondary: 12:45-3:45 PM

Estimated time to complete: 10 months

Additional Heavy Equipment Operations Information

A close-up of a muddy, orange CASE backhoe with the %22SOUTHERN TECH%22 logo on its side sits on a dirt construction site under a bright sky.

Instructors

Ed Eddington

Heavy Equipment Operation Instructor

Jacob Papini

HEO Instructional Assistant

Targeted Certifications and Credentials

  • OSHA 10 Construction
  • OSHA Forklift Safety Operations Training
  • CPR/First Aid

Certifications may vary by Program and are subject to change without notice.