Heavy Equipment Vehicle Operator

Become a Heavy Equipment Operator Today!

Are you ready to take your career to the next level by operating powerful machinery and contributing to major construction projects? At Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College, our Heavy Equipment Vehicle Operator program is designed to provide you with the skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to excel in this dynamic field. Learn more about becoming a heavy equipment vehicle operator in Minden, LA, today!

What Is the Heavy Equipment Vehicle Operator Program?

The Heavy Equipment Vehicle Operator (HEVO) program is a short-term program designed to prepare individuals for employment as professional heavy equipment operators and
tractor-trailer drivers.  Program content includes instruction in general construction site safety, operation of diesel-powered heavy equipment and tractor trailer rigs, identification of common equipment/vehicle components, defensive driving skills, actual driving on rural, urban and interstate highways, cargo handling, tractor trailer backing and maneuvering, and equipment/vehicle inspections and logging.  Students are eligible to test for a CDL license upon successful completion of the program.

What Makes Our Program Different?

Our Heavy Equipment Vehicle Operator program stands out for several reasons. We want to ensure our prospective students choose the right program for them. Explore what makes this program different:

• Comprehensive Training: Our curriculum covers everything from basic safety protocols to advanced operating techniques, ensuring you're well-prepared for real-world challenges.
• Hands-On Experience: You'll get plenty of hands-on practice with state-of-the-art equipment, guided by instructors who are seasoned professionals in the industry.
• Small Class Sizes: We keep our class sizes small to ensure personalized attention, making your learning experience more effective and enjoyable.
• Certification Preparation: Our program prepares you for industry-recognized certifications, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

Who Would Benefit From This Program?

This program is perfect for various types of students. Whether you’re looking for a career change or just starting out, this program is a great choice for you. Learn whether or not it’s the right fit:

• Aspiring Operators who are new to the field and want to start a rewarding career in heavy equipment operation.
• Current Operators looking to enhance their skills and gain certification for career advancement.
• Transitioning Military Personnel seeking a civilian career that makes use of their mechanical skills and discipline.
• Career Changers who are ready for a hands-on, high-demand job in the construction industry.

What Are the Benefits of Going Through This Program?

Why choose our Heavy Equipment Vehicle Operator program? There are various benefits and opportunities for growth. Here are some compelling benefits:

• High Demand for Operators: With the construction industry booming, skilled operators are in high demand, offering excellent job stability and opportunities for growth.
• Competitive Salaries: According to recent data, the average salary for heavy equipment operators is very competitive, making this a financially rewarding career choice.
• Versatility: The skills you acquire are transferable across various sectors, including construction, mining, forestry, and more.
• Career Advancement: Specialized training and certifications can open doors to supervisory and managerial roles.

What Are the Program Objectives?

As a heavy equipment vehicle operator, one must learn certain objectives. Our program aims to equip you with the following competencies:

• Demonstrate work safety when dealing with all professional heavy equipment and tractor-trailer rigs.
• Demonstrate general construction site safety.
• Demonstrate ability to operate diesel-powered heavy equipment and tractor-trailer rigs.
• Demonstrate ability to identify common equipment/vehicle components.
• Demonstrate defensive driving skills on rural, urban, and interstate highways.
• Demonstrate ability to handle cargo.
• Demonstrate ability to back and maneuver tractor-trailer rigs.
• Demonstrate ability to document and verify loads and grades.
• Demonstrate ability to inspect vehicles/equipment.
• Demonstrate ability to log hours according to laws and regulations.

How Does the Program Work?

Each program at our community college works differently. This includes the heavy equipment operator program. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect during your time in the program:

Classroom Instruction:

• Learn basic civil engineering concepts, workplace safety, applied mathematics, project layout, and basic surveying.
• Understand the proper use of laser levels, transits, chain and rod, plumb bobs, and hand-sight levels.

Hands-On Training:

• Spend significant time in the field developing the skills needed to operate heavy machinery safely and efficiently.
• Engage in coordinated excavation team operations to bring your skills together in real-world scenarios.

Certification and Assessment:

• Prepare for and complete examinations to earn industry-recognized certifications through NCCER (National Center for Construction Education & Research).

What Careers Might I Have After This Program?

Graduates of our program are well-prepared for a variety of roles, including:

• Heavy Equipment Operator: Operate machinery like bulldozers, excavators, and backhoes.
• Crane Operator: Manage cranes for lifting and moving materials on construction sites.
• Tractor-Trailer Driver: Transport goods across rural, urban, and interstate highways.
• Construction Supervisor: Oversee construction projects and manage teams of operators.

Ready to Get Started?

If you're ready to take the first step towards a rewarding career, this comprehensive guide gives you a glimpse into the exciting opportunities that await you in the Heavy Equipment Vehicle Operator program at Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College. We invite you to join us and turn your passion for machinery into a fulfilling career. If you're interested in a career in heavy equipment operation, we encourage you to apply to our program today.