Look for educational institutions that offer training in the operation of heavy equipment in the form of a certificate program that lasts a year or less. Also, consider a two-year associate degree program in heavy equipment operation, which includes many of the core courses of a certificate program, but also features college education classes such as math, information technology and business communications.
Note that a two-year program, such as that offered through the Pennsylvania College of Technology, provides more coverage of topics such as electronics, construction equipment design and modification/maintenance than a certificate program does.
Contact a local chapter of the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee; industry associations such as the Associated Builders and Contractors; or trade unions including the International Union of Operating Engineers. These organizations sponsor heavy equipment operator apprenticeships, another training alternative in this industry. Be prepared to complete about four years of paid, on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction.
Apply to the training program of your choice, which usually will require you to be at least 18 years old and submit your high school diploma or GED. Be prepared to fill out an application and complete an interview if applying to an apprenticeship.
Take courses on subjects including the use of graders, backhoes and loaders. In addition, study the operation of dump trucks and tractors, and review equipment preventative maintenance as well as basic industry safety and job site health. Learn about soil inspection at schools such as San Diego City College in California.
Study how to read and interpret the various types of markers and signs used on a construction site. In addition, learn about welding and reading blueprints. Also, go over the operation of tractors, trenching equipment, machine electronics and diesel engine systems. Get hands-on experience using a wide range of heavy equipment, including front end loaders and bulldozers.