Heavy equipment operators need to know how to operate machines, service and maintain them, as well as following directional coordinates with a GPS. There are multiple heavy equipment operating training options available in Pennsylvania. I recommend researching a 2 year associates program in your area. I listed some below.
Another great option is to receive training from a local branch of International Union of Operating Engineers. This union covers the United States and Canada and offer paid internships where you pay on the job. After your apprenticeship is completed, you become certified and receive higher pay.
Below are some universities and colleges that offers heavy equipment operator training in Pennsylvania
Central Pennsylvania Institute of Science and Technology
Pleasant Gap, Pennsylvania
(814) 359-2793
www.cpi.edu
Construction/Heavy Equipment/Earthmoving Equipment Operation
Type: < 2-year, Public
Awards offered: Less than one year certificate
Community College of Allegheny County
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
(412) 323-2323
www.ccac.edu
Construction/Heavy Equipment/Earthmoving Equipment Operation
Type: 2-year, Public
Awards offered: Associate’s degree
Greater Johnstown Career and Technology Center
Johnstown, Pennsylvania
(814) 266-6073
www.gjctc.org
Construction/Heavy Equipment/Earthmoving Equipment Operation
Type: < 2-year, Public
Awards offered: Less than one year certificate
Lancaster County Career and Technology Center
Willow Street, Pennsylvania
(717) 464-7050
www.lcctc.org
Construction/Heavy Equipment/Earthmoving Equipment Operation
Type: < 2-year, Public
Awards offered: Less than one year certificate
New Castle School of Trades
New Castle, Pennsylvania
(724) 964-8811
www.ncstrades.edu
Construction/Heavy Equipment/Earthmoving Equipment Operation
Type: 2-year, Private for-profit
Awards offered: Associate’s degree
Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics
West Mifflin, Pennsylvania
(412) 346-2100
www.pia.edu
Construction/Heavy Equipment/Earthmoving Equipment Operation
Type: 2-year, Private not-for-profit
Awards offered: Associate’s degree
Schuylkill Technology Center
Frackville, Pennsylvania
(570) 874-1034 x4880
www.stcenters.org
Construction/Heavy Equipment/Earthmoving Equipment Operation
Type: < 2-year, Public
Awards offered: Less than one year certificate
Heavy equipment training by an International Union of Operating Engineers in Pennsylvania
Another great option would be to receive training from a operators union. Here you will earn quality training as well as build a network of relationships to support you throughout your career.
Local 095
300 Saline Street
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15207-1032
(412) 422-4702
http://www.iuoelocal95.org/
Local 835
1064 Pontiac Road
Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania 19026
(610) 853-6061
http://www.local835pa.org
Local 066
111 Zeta Drive
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15238-2811
(412) 968-9120
http://www.iuoe66.org
Local 542
1375 Virginia Drive Suite 206
Fort Washington, Pennsylvania 19034
(215) 542-7500
http://www.iuoe542.com
Heavy equipment apprenticeships and public training options in Pennsylvania
Tack Operator Training, LLC
(724) 285-7232
[email protected]
They offer heavy equipment operator programs for individuals that are interested in becoming entry level heavy equipment operators. They offer the following six programs:
- Program I – Heavy Construction
- Program II – Municipal and Residential Construction
- Program III – Utility Line Construction
- Program IV – Heavy, Utility and Residential Construction
- Program V – Loader and Dozer Construction
- Program VI – Compact Equipment Program