Joseph Janssen, Director

The mission of the Heavy Equipment Operation Program is to provide the regional workforce with credentialed, skilled and competent heavy equipment operators and to be responsive to emerging workforce needs. The Heavy Equipment Operation Program provides students with a basic understanding of fundamental machine functions and is designed to develop apprentice-level skills in the operation of heavy equipment.

Students are trained to safely and properly operate and maintain a variety of heavy equipment, including crawler-tractors, graders, scrapers, front-end loaders, excavators, backhoes, and dump trucks. Students develop an understanding of basic surveying techniques, receive extensive training in safety regulations and procedures, and learn how to handle controls precisely and judge distances accurately. The program also promotes an awareness of potential job site difficulties and allows students to gain knowledge of the work ethic expected by employers in the construction industry.

A Certificate of Applied Science is awarded upon successful completion of the program.

This is an Autumn Semester entry program, and enrollment is limited. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early. Contact Joseph Janssen, Program Director, at 406-243-7643 or email for more information.