Heavy equipment operators provide necessary skills for any project that requires moving and transporting heavy materials, or that demands any kind of earthmoving. Operators will work in a variety of industries such as construction, infrastructure (roads, bridges, ports), mining, timber, etc.
This three-year program will guide apprentices through 176 hours of Related Technical Instruction (RTI) annually, covering theoretical topics, civil blueprint reading, soil properties, paving, and hands-on training with the equipment. Students must also complete 4000-6000 hours of on-the-job learning.
Core: Pre-Apprenticeship for Heavy Equipment
The Core Program is a competency-based, industry-recognized program for career and technical education. Its modules cover topics such as basic safety, communication skills, and introduction to construction drawings. The recently released sixth edition of the Core program features new modules introducing construction careers, performance tests, as well as updates on math, hand tools, power tools, and drawings. This course is a prerequisite for the Heavy Equipment and Construction Apprenticeship Programs.
Heavy Equipment I
The fundamentals of heavy equipment operation will be covered in the first year. Topics include the identification of heavy equipment, safety, and operational techniques. Students will also be introduced to earthmoving, grades, vertical-mast sit-down forklifts, utility tractors, and much more. Students are required to complete the Core: Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program prior to enrolling in the first year.
Heavy Equipment II
The second year will focus on operating a variety of equipment types including rough terrain forklifts, on-road dump trucks, skid steers, loaders, and scrapers. Students will also be introduced to excavation math, interpreting civil drawings, site work, soils, and more.
Heavy Equipment III
The third year will include topics such as the safe operation of compaction equipment, backhoes, dozers, excavators, motor graders, off-road dump trucks, and more. Students will also learn about the finishing and grading process
Registration
Complete the registration form and email to customizedtraining@nic.edu or mail to NIC-WTC at 525 South Clearwater Loop, Post Falls, ID
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