How to Obtain Heavy Equipment Training in Pennsylvania

A heavy equipment operator makes an average of $40,000 per year.

If you are an agile and strong person with good math skills and a desire to succeed, learning the heavy equipment trade may be for you. While advanced development of technical skills is accomplished on the job, a heavy equipment operator starting out with formal coursework will have better options for productive entry-level employment and career advancement. In Pennsylvania, students can start a heavy equipment career as early as their sophomore year in high school. In-state postsecondary education and job placement assistance also is available for high school graduates.

Things You'll Need

• Basic math skills
• Physical health and coordination

Instructions

1. Evaluate your career goals. It is never too early to begin thinking about how to earn a living. Well- planned career goals considered in middle school can direct high school coursework and make teenage years both fun and productive. If you have already graduated from high school, you are now ready to make concrete plans for a successful career. Heavy equipment operators are well paid and their work is essential to building safe roads, long-lasting building foundations and attractive landscapes nationwide. Physical health and math skills, or the willingness to improve math knowledge, are all that is required.

2. Review your training options. The Lehigh Career and Technical Institute (LCTI) offers students in nine public school districts the opportunity to start a heavy equipment career as early as their sophomore year in high school. If you attend public school in Lehigh County, you may be able to add LCTI coursework to your curriculum. A postsecondary associate degree in heavy construction equipment technology can be obtained through the Department of Natural Resources Management at the Pennsylvania College of Technology. Students must be able to attend classes at the college, which is located in Williamsport. Both of these programs include access to internships and apprenticeships for on-the-job training and career entry.

   Pennsylvania College of Technology

   One College Avenue

   Williamsport, PA 17701-5799

   570-326-3761 or 570-320-2400

   pct.edu

   Lehigh Career & Technical Institute

   4500 Education Park Drive

   Schnecksville, PA 18078

   610-799-2300

   lcti.org

3. Complete all entry requirements. Math skills are required for success in the heavy equipment construction field. High school students outside of Lehigh County should be sure that they focus on math proficiency and receive any necessary tutoring if math is a challenge for them. The Pennsylvania College of Technology will admit students to the Heavy Construction Equipment program if they either prove math ability, or complete remedial coursework to improve their skills. A successful candidate for heavy equipment employment must be physically fit and able to lift and carry at least 100 pounds.

References

• Pennsylvania Institute of Technology Heavy Construction Equipment Technology
• Education Portal - General Heavy Equipment Training Requirements
• Lehigh Career & Technical Institute