Individuals who want to become heavy equipment operators can complete certificate programs at trade schools. Certificate programs typically last less than three months and combine classroom instruction with hands-on training. Students at schools, such as West Coast Training in Washington, are not allowed to share heavy equipment after four days of instruction and must learn how to use machinery quickly. Although formal training is not required in the heavy equipment operation industry, employers generally prefer job applicants with post-secondary training.
To get into a trade school for heavy equipment operators, students usually need a high school diploma or GED. High school courses in subjects such as mechanical drawing, science and automobile mechanics can prepare students for training at a trade school for heavy equipment operators. Trade schools, such as Associated Training Services, also require prospective heavy equipment operator students to complete an admissions application and participate in an interview with an admissions representative as part of the enrollment process.
Classes at trade schools for heavy equipment operators cover topics such as math, arc welding, workplace health, emergencies and communications. Students also learn about diagnostic techniques, basic machine operation and equipment terminology. In addition, classes cover preventative maintenance, volume computations, surveying and grade checking. Students can usually choose the type of heavy equipment they want to work with, such as an excavator, backhoe, dump truck, wheel loader, crane or grader. Some trade schools also require students to complete an internship to gain hands-on experience in this field.
Trade schools for a heavy equipment operator prepare students to earn their state commercial driver's license (CDL) which is necessary to use many types of heavy equipment. Receiving this license involves passing an examination on areas such as rigging, start-up/shutdown procedures, math and maintenance. In addition, heavy equipment operator trade school graduates can receive voluntary certification through the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), by passing an assessment test. Certification can make students more attractive to employers and increase their job opportunities in this industry.