Heavy Equipment Operator

Introduction to Construction
Begin your career in the skilled trades with a strong foundation! Previously known as “core craft skills,” this entry-level course is the recommended first course for all trades students and a prerequisite to most specialty courses. Topics include basic safety, construction math, introduction to hand and power tools, construction drawings, basic rigging, communication skills, employability skills and material handling. Upon completion, students are eligible to sit for the Introduction to Construction credential exam offered by the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER).

Contact Hours: 40

Heavy Equipment Operator - Level 1
The Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) program meets the growing demands for equipment operators. Topics include identification of heavy equipment, safe operations, basic operations, earth moving and grading, and counter-balance forklifts. Learn proper skills with simulators and equipment in the field. Upon successful completion of this course, students are eligible to sit for the Heavy Equipment Operator - Level 1 credential exam offered by the National Center for Constructions Education & Research (NCCER).

Prerequisite: Earned credential from Introduction to Construction.

Contact Hours: 88

Heavy Equipment Operator - Level 2
Continue to expand your knowledge and skill with advanced HEO training! Topics include rough terrain forklifts, dump trucks, interpreting civil drawings, excavation math, site work and soils, skid steers, loaders and scrapers. Learn proper skills with simulators and equipment in the field. Upon successful completion of this course, students are eligible to sit for the Heavy Equipment Operator – Level 2 credential exam offered by the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER).

Prerequisite: Earned credential from Heavy Equipment Operator - Level 1.

Contact Hours: 88

Heavy Equipment Operator - Level 3
Continue to expand your knowledge and skill with advanced training. Topics include equipment and instruments used for finish grading, materials and methods to stabilize soils and control soil erosion.  The course also covers the maintenance, startup and shutdown procedures, advanced and team operating techniques, and safety procedures involved with operating compaction equipment and rollers, backhoes, off-road dump trucks, dozers, excavators, and motor graders. Learn proper skills with simulators and equipment in the field. Upon successful completion, students are eligible to sit for the Heavy Equipment Operator – Level 3 credential exam offered by the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER). 

Prerequisite: Earned credential from Heavy Equipment Operator – Level 2. 

Contact Hours: 88

Admissions Requirements

• Be at least 18 years of age on the first day of class.
• Meet minimum essential functions and standards for 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 acceptable score prior to program admission. CASAS assessments can be scheduled by emailing at tjace@pvcc.edu or calling 961-434-5461. Include your first and last name, program of interest, and program start date in your email. Assessment should be completed at least one week prior to program start date. CASAS assessment is also recommended, but not required, for prospective students who feel their reading comprehension needs improvement.

Take the Next Steps

Complete the Workforce Services Student Questionnaire.

Meet with a coach and/or attend a FastForward Funding Session.

Check the schedule page to see when this FastForward program is next offered.