Heavy Equipment Operation

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What is Heavy Equipment Operation?

This program is designed to instruct you in the safe operation of heavy equipment, including bulldozers, backhoes, front-end loaders, hydraulic excavators, and graders. Instruction in digging, ditching, sloping, stripping, grading, back filling, clearing trees and rubble, and foundation excavating is provided as well as instruction in the proper care and maintenance of equipment.

Due to the shortage of heavy equipment operators and the growing technology, heavy equipment operation has become a financially rewarding career with unlimited opportunities.

What are my career choices?

A growing need for heavy equipment operators creates opportunities for the trained operator. Due to the shortage of heavy equipment operators and the growing technology, heavy equipment operation is an in-demand field. Use your training to become a backhoe operator, excavator operator, loader, crane operator, grader operator or a forklift operator.

What classes do I have to take?

Some of the courses you will take include Heavy Equipment Operating, Industrial Safety, Bulldozer Operator, and Hydraulic Excavator Operator.

What are my degree, diploma, or certificate options?

Diploma

• Operating Engineer

Certificate

• Backhoe Operator
• Bulldozer Operator
• Front End Loader Operator
• Hydraulic Excavator Operator
• Motor Grader Operator

Length of Program

You can earn an associate in applied science degree in two years if you maintain full-time status.

This information should not be considered a substitute for the KCTCS Catalog. You should always choose classes in cooperation with your faculty advisor to ensure that you meet all degree requirements.