The heavy equipment operation course at the North Country Heavy Equipment School is hands-on, with 5 percent of the three-week course spent in the classroom and the other 95 percent spent in actual operation of equipment in the field. Classes are limited to 12 students to ensure quality instruction and enough in-field experience and are taught by three instructors at all times. Students will become proficient in with excavators, backhoes, dump trucks, front-end loaders and motor graders, along with maintenance, Excavation Competent Person Training (ECPT) and safety rules and regulation.
For 2010, the Heavy Equipment Operation Course costs around $3,590, and includes ECPT certification. Classes are five days a week with more than 120 hours of instruction.
North Country Heavy Equipment School
2929 16th Ave. N.
Escanaba, MI 49829
906-789-3123
runmonstermachines.com?
Ferris State University offers degrees in heavy equipment service engineering and heavy equipment technology. Students will learn how to diagnose malfunctions and repair engines, electrical systems, brakes, steering systems and power transmission systems.
Graduation requires a minimum 2.50 GPA, along with proficiency in all general education requirements. For those wanting to continue their education, completion of the heavy equipment technology program leads to an associate degree in applied science.
College of Technology
Ferris State University
1009 Campus Drive
Big Rapids, MI 49307-2280
231-591-2890
ferris.edu
The eight-week Heavy Equipment Operator Program at Lansing Community College, which partners with AIS Construction Equipment, will teach you how to safely operate and maintain bulldozers, back hoes, wheel loaders, skid steers and forklifts. Courses are taught depending on demand, so availability may go quickly. Upon completion of course, graduates have the education to immediately go into the work force, and according to Lansing Community College records, graduates in 2009 started at a pay rate anywhere from $10 to $25 an hour.
Lansing Community College
3428 W. Hangar Drive
Lansing, MI 48906-2136
517-267-5880
lcc.edu