Heavy Equipment Operator

Program Overview

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The Heavy Equipment Operator program at Piedmont Virginia Community College prepares students for entry-level careers in the construction industry. The program consists of three levels, each building upon the previous level to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to operate a variety of heavy equipment. Graduates are eligible for immediate employment in the construction industry, with potential career opportunities including operating bulldozers, excavators, loaders, cranes, and other heavy equipment.

Program Outline

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Heavy Equipment Operator Program at Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC)

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Degree Overview:

• Program Type: FastForward Credential Program
• Career Pathway: Advanced Manufacturing, Skilled Trades, & Transportation
• Credential: Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) - Level 1, Level 2, Level 3
• G3 Program: Students may be eligible for free tuition, fees, and books.
• Program Objective: Prepare students for an entry-level career as a heavy equipment operator.

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Program Description:

The Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) program at PVCC is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled operators in the construction industry. The program consists of three levels, each building upon the previous level to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to operate a variety of heavy equipment.

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Outline:

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Level 1 (88 Contact Hours):

• Introduction to Heavy Equipment
• Safe operation of heavy equipment
• Basic earthmoving and grading
• Counterbalance forklifts
• Skills development with simulators and equipment in the field
• Prerequisite: Earned credential from Introduction to Construction

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Level 2 (88 Contact Hours):

• Rough terrain forklifts
• Dump trucks
• Interpreting civil drawings
• Excavation math
• Site work and soils
• Skid steers, loaders and scrapers
• Skills development with simulators and equipment in the field
• Prerequisite: Earned credential from Heavy Equipment Operator - Level 1

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Level 3 (88 Contact Hours):

• Equipment and instruments for finish grading
• Soil stabilization and erosion control
• Maintenance, startup and shutdown procedures
• Advanced and team operating techniques
• Skills development with simulators and equipment in the field
• Prerequisite: Earned credential from Heavy Equipment Operator – Level 2

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Assessment:

• Students are assessed through a combination of written exams, practical skills demonstrations, and participation in class activities.
• Upon successful completion of each level, students are eligible to sit for the corresponding Heavy Equipment Operator credential exam offered by the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER).

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Teaching:

• The program is taught by experienced instructors who are experts in their field.
• A variety of teaching methods are used, including lectures, hands-on training, and simulations.
• The program utilizes a state-of-the-art training facility with the latest equipment and technology.

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Careers:

• Graduates of the HEO program are prepared for entry-level positions as heavy equipment operators in the construction industry.
• Potential career opportunities include operating bulldozers, excavators, loaders, cranes, and other heavy equipment.
• The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 4% growth in employment for heavy equipment operators between 2020 and 2030.

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Other:

• The program is offered at PVCC's main campus in Charlottesville, Virginia.
• Students who successfully complete the program are eligible for immediate employment in the construction industry.
• The program is also a great option for individuals who are looking to change careers or upgrade their skills.

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Admissions Requirements:

• Be at least 18 years of age on the first day of class.
• Meet minimum essential functions and standards for the program.
• Attend a coaching appointment and/or information session prior to enrollment.
• Complete all funding assistance paperwork (if applicable) prior to enrollment.
• English Language Learners (ELL/ESL): If English is not the first language, prospective students must complete a CASAS assessment with an acceptable score prior to program admission.

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Contact:

• Donald Davis (link sends email)
• Thomas Eanes (link sends email)