Data centers don’t rely on technology alone. Before the servers and networking equipment even arrive, crews must prepare the land, excavate foundations, build roads, grade surfaces, move construction materials, and begin structural work. That means there are plenty of opportunities for skilled heavy equipment operators.

Heavy equipment operation is ideal for people who prefer hands-on work and don’t want to earn a four-year college degree. You don’t have to be a technology expert to contribute to the booming data center construction industry. Instead, play a vital role by becoming a skilled heavy equipment operator trained by PTS.

What Makes Data Center Projects Different

Data center construction projects rely on equipment operators to prepare the site and its infrastructure. With such large footprints, you can expect extensive earthmoving, heavy foundation work, crews working simultaneously, and high safety expectations. Heavy equipment operators may need to excavate, move soil, grade terrain, dig utility trenches, and more before the building itself can go up, making these skilled workers essential.

What heavy equipment should operators learn for data center construction projects? Let’s take a closer look at some equipment types.

Excavators

Excavators are used to dig foundations and trenches. Operators also use these machines for utility excavation and site preparation for data center builds. Underground infrastructure work is particularly important for data centers.

Bulldozers

Bulldozers push materials and move earth during construction projects. In addition to clearing sites, these machines are also used for building pads.

Wheel Loaders

Data center equipment operators use wheel loaders to load trucks and handle critical building materials.

Skid Steers

Skid steers are useful for handling materials in tight spaces, as well as grading and site cleanup at construction sites.

Other equipment includes motor graders and compactors. But the job of a heavy equipment operator involves more than just driving big machines. It’s important to understand equipment controls, site conditions, and basic maintenance. Jobsite communication and adherence to safety procedures are also essential.

That’s why heavy equipment operator training is so critical.

What You’ll Learn in Heavy Equipment Operator Training

Employers expect equipment operators to have a good understanding of safety procedures. This includes knowledge of safe machine operation, emergency protocols, and common jobsite hazards. Operators should be skilled in equipment fundamentals and basic maintenance.

Do you need a college degree to become a heavy equipment operator? The answer is no. A four-year degree isn’t necessary, and employers tend to care more about safety knowledge, practical skills, and hands-on equipment training.

Knowing about a machine is very different from being able to operate it safely and effectively. Hands-on training allows for opportunities to get familiar with operating machines and gain practical experience in a controlled environment.

At PTS, students don’t just learn what the controls can do. They learn what they can do behind the wheel with our hands-on training program, preparing each student for a successful career in data center construction.

PTS Can Help Heavy Equipment Operators Prepare to Build the Future

At PTS, we train people to succeed in a variety of applications, including data center construction. Our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 and 2 courses will prepare students with a variety of transferable skills by teaching them how to operate excavators, skid steers, bulldozers, loaders, and much more. With our help, each student can gain the experience they need to find opportunities on commercial, industrial, infrastructure, and data center projects.

In just 3 weeks, you’ll learn basic operational techniques, as well as critical preventative maintenance and jobsite awareness skills that will leave you ready for a real career. At PTS, our training will help you take the next step. With hands-on equipment experience, safety-first instruction, and career assistance services, you won’t be locked into one path forward. In fact, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to succeed right at your fingertips.

The data center boom isn’t going away anytime soon. And behind every high-tech facility is a massive construction project that depends on people who know how to move earth, prepare sites, and operate machinery to build the infrastructure that makes everything else possible.

Are you ready to build the skills behind the next generation of technology? Explore our heavy equipment operator training and schedule a tour at PTS today to learn how to be a part of the data center construction industry.

Simply put: the U.S. is investing heavily in bringing mineral production back home, and that means more equipment, more sites, and more operators needed to run them.

That investment is showing up in the numbers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady, ongoing demand for construction and heavy equipment operators, with tens of thousands of job openings expected every year through the mid-2030s — most driven by the constant need to replace retiring workers and fill newly created positions as infrastructure and extraction projects ramp up. And the pay reflects the skill and physical demand of the job: heavy equipment operators can earn strong, family-sustaining wages, often exceeding $58,000 a year on average right out of entry-level training, with significant room to grow as operators add equipment types and experience to their resumes.

But you can’t just walk onto a mine site and hop into a 40-ton excavator. Getting there requires real, structured mining equipment training — and that’s where a program like the one offered by PTS comes in.

Heavy Equipment Operator I: Building the Foundation

PTS’s Heavy Equipment Operator I course is a three-week, 120-hour program designed for people with zero prior experience. Students learn to safely operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks — machines used constantly in quarry and open-pit mining operations for moving earth, hauling material, and site prep. The curriculum blends classroom instruction with hands-on seat time, covering basic operating techniques, equipment inspections, preventive maintenance, soil and earthmoving concepts, and jobsite safety.

These are the types of skills developed in mining machine operator courses that employers look for. Graduates leave with mining equipment training and nationally recognized NCCER credentials that open doors to roles like quarry and mining operator, excavation operator, and site development operator.

Heavy Equipment Operator II: Expanding Your Range

For students who want to qualify for a broader set of mining and construction roles, PTS offers a six-week, 240-hour Level II program that builds directly on the first course. Heavy Equipment Operator I is a prerequisite. In Level II, students add bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders to their skill set, along with more advanced concepts like grading, excavation math, and reading civil drawings. This is the equipment most closely tied to large-scale mining and quarry work, making Level II graduates with experience in mining machine operator courses especially competitive for mining industry openings.

Why Mining Equipment Training Matters for a Mining Career

Mining sites demand precision and safety above all else, and formal training in mining machine operator courses is what separates a job candidate from a job offer. PTS’s programs are led by NCCER-certified instructors, keep class sizes small for more individualized seat time, and are built around real equipment rather than simulators. Students also get career assistance after graduation, plus access to funding options — including VA benefits, grants, and financing — that make the path more accessible for veterans, career-changers, and recent graduates alike.

With billions in new mining investment flowing into the U.S. economy and a workforce gap that isn’t closing on its own, there’s rarely been a better window to enter this field. A focused, three-to-six-week training program can be the difference between watching the mining boom from the sidelines and being one of the skilled operators driving it forward.

PTS is ready to get you started in a well-paying career that’s in high demand. Need more information to help you decide? Schedule a tour of our facility today for a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

PTS can get you ready for an in-demand career with our training courses for no-experience heavy equipment operator jobs.

You Don’t Need Experience to Get Started

Most people assume operating a bulldozer, excavator, or crane requires years on a job site working your way up. In reality, dedicated training schools are built specifically for beginners. Programs like those offered by PTS in Ohio are designed to take someone with zero background in construction and turn them into a job-ready operator through weeks of structured, hands-on instruction rather than years of informal apprenticeship.

Entry-level programs typically start with foundational coursework covering equipment basics, safety protocols, and site awareness before moving students into the seat of real machines. There’s no requirement to already know how a hydraulic system works or how to read grade stakes — that’s what the training is for.

Training Is Faster Than You Think

One of the biggest advantages of this career path is speed. While many skilled trades require years of apprenticeship before you’re earning full wages, heavy equipment training programs can be completed in a matter of weeks.

For example, an entry-level operator course can run around three weeks and roughly 120 clock hours, giving students the fundamentals needed to pursue entry-level, no-experience heavy equipment operator jobs. More advanced programs that build on those basics and add additional equipment types typically run another three weeks.

For those interested in crane work specifically, specialized mobile crane programs — also around three weeks — prepare students for NCCCO certification, a nationally recognized credential in the crane industry. That means in a month or two, someone with no prior experience can go from knowing nothing about heavy machinery to holding a credential employers actively look for.

Demand for Operators Is High — and Growing

Heavy equipment operators are in short supply nationwide. Infrastructure spending, an aging workforce nearing retirement, and ongoing construction and energy projects have created a steady stream of job openings that outpaces the number of trained operators available to fill them. Employers aren’t just hiring — they’re actively competing for qualified candidates, which is good news for anyone entering the field.

This demand also translates into solid pay. Many new operators can start at competitive wages, and some testimonials from operators who completed training describe union placements starting in the $30-plus per hour range, with the potential to increase as experience and certifications accumulate.

One Skill Set, Multiple Industries

Perhaps the most underrated benefit of becoming a heavy equipment operator is the flexibility it provides. This isn’t a career limited to a single industry — the skills transfer across several:

• Construction — roadwork, site development, and commercial building projects
• Mining — surface and underground operations
• Energy — pipeline work, utility projects, and renewable energy sites
• Transportation — infrastructure and logistics-related projects
• Municipalities — public works and maintenance departments
• Trades — supporting roles across various specialty trades

Because the certifications operators earn (such as NCCER credentials) are nationally recognized, they aren’t tied to one employer or region. That means an operator trained in Ohio can pursue work across state lines, and someone who starts in construction can later pivot to energy or mining without starting training over from scratch.

Your Path to No-Experience Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs

If you’re weighing a career change or entering the workforce for the first time, heavy equipment operation offers a rare combination: fast training, strong demand, and career flexibility. Programs like those at PTS also offer support for veterans, unemployed workers, and recent high school graduates, along with financing options and career placement assistance to help turn training into an actual job.

For anyone willing to put in a few focused weeks of training, the path to a stable, well-paying career is more accessible than most people realize. Ready to take the next step on your path to no-experience heavy equipment operator jobs? Explore our training for heavy equipment operators.

At PTS, there’s nothing more important than the safety of our students — in our training courses and when they graduate and head out in the field — which is why heavy equipment job site safety is incorporated into every part of our curriculum.

Safety Comes First

Construction and heavy equipment work consistently ranks among the more hazardous fields in the country. Excavators, dozers, loaders, and mobile cranes are powerful machines, and a lapse in attention around them can have serious consequences — not just for the operator, but for everyone working nearby. That’s why reputable training programs don’t treat safety as a single lecture bolted onto the front of a course. Instead, it’s woven into every phase of instruction, from the first day in the classroom to the final hours behind the controls.

Students learn to read a job site the way a seasoned operator does: identifying blind spots, understanding swing radius, recognizing unstable ground, and communicating clearly with spotters, riggers, and other crew members. These aren’t abstract concepts — they’re the daily realities of heavy equipment job site safety for operating machinery around people, structures, and utilities.

Classroom Fundamentals Before the Controls

Good training starts with a solid classroom foundation. Students study OSHA regulations, equipment-specific hazards, load charts, rigging basics, and the standardized hand signals used across the industry. This groundwork matters because awareness on a job site isn’t just about watching the machine in front of you — it’s about understanding the entire environment: overhead power lines, trench stability, other equipment in motion, and the people on foot moving through the area.

Programs built around NCCER and NCCCO standards — like those at PTS — tie this classroom knowledge directly to nationally recognized credentials. That means students aren’t just learning “the PTS way” of doing things; they’re learning the standards that employers across the country expect and trust.

Hands-On Training Reinforces the Habit

Knowledge is only useful when it’s practiced under real conditions. That’s where hands-on training becomes essential for heavy equipment job site safety. Working directly with instructors on actual equipment — whether it’s an excavator, skid steer, dozer, or mobile crane — gives students the chance to build safe habits before they ever step onto a paid job site. Instructors watch for the small things: proper pre-operation inspections, mirror checks, communication with ground crew, and deliberate, controlled movements rather than rushed ones.

This repetition matters. Safe operation isn’t something you can memorize once and forget. It has to become second nature, the same way a driver instinctively checks mirrors before changing lanes. Training environments give operators the space to build that instinct without the pressure and risk of a live commercial site.

Carrying It Into a Career

The habits formed during training don’t stay in the classroom. Employers in construction, energy, mining, and municipal work actively look for operators who’ve been trained to think about the whole job site, not just the machine in front of them. A well-trained operator reduces risk for the crew, protects equipment and infrastructure, and builds a reputation that opens doors to steadier, better-paying work.

For anyone considering a career change into heavy equipment or crane operation, it’s worth remembering that the technical skills — running the machine, reading the load chart, executing a smooth lift — are only half the picture. The other half is awareness: knowing what’s happening around you at all times and making the safe choice automatically, even under pressure.

That combination of hands-on skill and ingrained safety awareness is what turns a student into a job-ready operator, and it’s the standard that quality training programs strive to instill in every class they run.

Ready to see how heavy equipment job site safety factors into operator training? Schedule a tour of our facility today for a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

The good news is that nobody expects you to know any of this walking in the door. Heavy equipment operation is a skill built one basic technique at a time, and that’s exactly the approach used at training schools like PTS. Here, we focus on turning beginners into job-ready operators through structured, hands-on instruction for how to operate heavy equipment.

Starting With the Fundamentals

Before anyone handles heavy equipment controls, training starts in the classroom. Students learn how hydraulic systems work, how to read load charts, how to inspect a machine before startup, and why safety protocols exist in the first place. This groundwork matters because heavy equipment isn’t intuitive. Understanding why a machine behaves the way it does makes the physical controls much easier to pick up once you’re in the seat.

From there, instruction moves to the equipment yard, where trainees begin with the basics: starting the machine correctly, understanding the control layout, and getting a feel for how the equipment responds. Simple exercises like moving forward and backward in a straight line, turning smoothly, and stopping with control build the muscle memory that is the foundation for how to operate heavy equipment.

Mastering Control, One Motion at a Time

Once the basics feel natural, training shifts to precision. Students practice digging trenches to specific depths, moving material without spilling it, and setting loads down gently instead of dropping them. These drills aren’t about speed. They’re about control, because a skilled operator should be able to place material exactly where it needs to be without wasted movement or wasted time.

For those training on cranes specifically, this stage introduces rigging basics, hand signals, and load calculations, since operating a crane safely means understanding the entire lifting system, not just the controls in the cab. Programs like PTS’s crane operations course build toward NCCCO certification, the industry-recognized credential that most employers require before they’ll put someone behind the controls of a crane on a real job site.

Learning to Read the Site, Not Just the Machine

A surprising amount of training on how to operate heavy equipment has nothing to do with the machine itself. Operators need to read the ground they’re working on, anticipate what coworkers on foot are doing, and adjust to weather, visibility, and changing site conditions. Instructors walk students through these scenarios repeatedly until situational awareness becomes automatic, because on a real job site, the machine is only half the equation.

Building Toward Real Credentials

One aspect that separates a structured training program from simply “figuring it out” on the job is the credentialing that comes at the end. Programs at PTS work toward nationally recognized NCCER credentials, giving graduates paperwork that verifies their skills to employers, not just experience they have to describe in an interview. For crane-specific training, NCCCO certification serves the same purpose and is often a hard requirement rather than a preference.

Why the Fundamentals Matter Long After Training Ends

Every experienced operator started with the same basic techniques: proper mounting and dismounting, smooth control inputs, correct pre-shift inspections, and situational awareness. These fundamentals don’t disappear once someone lands a job. They become the foundation that more advanced skills, like operating multiple equipment types or handling complex lifts, are built on.

For anyone considering a career operating heavy equipment or mobile cranes, the takeaway is simple: The fastest path to learning how to operate heavy equipment means working through the fundamentals systematically. At PTS, we structure our curriculum so that by the time you’re on a real job site, the basics are second nature and you can focus on the work in front of you.

Ready to take the next step? Explore our training for heavy equipment operators.

Read on for more about what to expect from heavy machine operator training at PTS.

What the Training Actually Looks Like

PTS courses run on a 120-hour schedule built around the NCCER curriculum, and the program is intentionally accessible — there’s no need for a college background, just basic reading and math skills. Classroom time covers the fundamentals through textbooks, visual presentations, and equipment models, with knowledge checked through straightforward multiple-choice quizzes.

The real differentiator, though, is seat time. More than 70% of heavy machine operator training happens in the field, operating actual machinery rather than simulators. Small class sizes mean more one-on-one attention from instructors, so you’re not just watching someone else run a machine — you’re behind the controls, applying what you learned in the classroom almost immediately. It’s an intensive few weeks (students should expect to be away from family for the duration), but graduates leave with both practical skills and industry-recognized credentials that employers actually look for.

The Equipment You’ll Learn to Run

PTS structures its training around real-world versatility. Rather than mastering a single machine, students rotate through a range of equipment types, including excavators, bulldozers, motor graders, backhoe loaders, wheel loaders, skid steers, compactors, scrapers, and articulated dump trucks. There’s also a dedicated mobile crane operations course for those looking to specialize further.

That breadth matters on the job market. A graduate who can confidently step into the seat of multiple machine types is a far more attractive hire than someone trained on just one — it gives employers flexibility and gives you more entry points into the workforce.

Careers This Training Opens Up

Heavy equipment skills translate across a surprising number of industries. PTS graduates go on to work in construction, mining, energy, transportation, and municipal government, as well as related trades. Whether it’s grading a road, moving earth on an energy infrastructure project, hauling material at a mine site, or maintaining county roads for a local municipality, the core operating skills carry over.

This makes heavy machine operator training a strong fit for a wide range of people: career changers looking for steady, well-paying entry-level work; recent high school graduates who want a direct path into a trade; veterans transitioning to civilian careers; and unemployed or disabled workers seeking a fresh start. PTS structures its support services around exactly these groups, recognizing that a three-week investment can lead to a long-term, family-supporting career rather than just another job.

Pave Your Path to a New Career With PTS

For people who want a tangible skill, a credential employers recognize, and a genuine shot at a stable career without years of schooling or debt, the programs at PTS are hard to beat. If you’re the kind of person who learns best by doing rather than reading, heavy equipment operator training might be the most direct path you’ll find into a trade that’s always in demand.

We’re here for our students, even after the course is complete, with career assistance that provides the connections needed to get careers off the ground. Ready to talk about heavy equipment operator training? Schedule a tour of our facility today for a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Heavy Equipment Operator 1 from Performance Training Solutions (PTS) is the first step to a lasting, rewarding career in multiple industries. Explore the benefits, advantages, and opportunities available to you with this three-week program at our heavy equipment operator school.

Who is Heavy Equipment Operator Training For?

Because heavy equipment operators are always in demand, virtually anyone can enjoy a career backed by our training program. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, a veteran, a disabled worker, or someone who’s simply looking for a new career path, heavy equipment training enables you to build skills, experience, and knowledge that translates across multiple equipment types, industries, projects, and regions. Depending on your specific background and needs, various grants and other resources may be available to help you kickstart your journey with heavy equipment operation.

What You’ll Learn

This entry-level heavy equipment operator course provides you with knowledge and skills to obtain employment in construction, energy, mining, and many other industries as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, and articulated off-road dump truck operator. Our program includes:

• Basic Operating Techniques
• Equipment Inspections
• Preventive Maintenance

• Safety & Jobsite Awareness
• Soil & Earthmoving Concepts
• Real-World Operating Exercises

Ready to Apply?

What Kind of Equipment You’ll Learn

Our Heavy Equipment Operator I training course provides in-depth instruction — both in-the-seat and classroom-based — into some of the most common vehicles and heavy machinery found in job sites nationwide. Learn more about each piece of machinery below.

Skid Steers

Skid steers are versatile machines used for material handling, grading, cleanup, and site preparation on construction and landscaping projects.

Wheel Loaders

Wheel loaders are designed to move large amounts of soil, gravel, and other materials efficiently across construction sites, quarries, and industrial facilities.

Articulated Off-Road Dump Trucks

Off-road dump trucks transport large quantities of earth, rock, and construction materials safely across rugged jobsites and earthmoving operations.

Backhoes

Backhoes combine digging and loading capabilities in one machine, making them valuable for utility work, trenching, excavation, and general construction projects.

Compactors

Compactors compress soil, gravel, and asphalt to create stable surfaces that support roads, foundations, and other construction projects.

What Your Career Path Could Look Like

Once you graduate from PTS, there are many kinds of opportunities available to you! Graduating from Heavy Equipment Operator I provides you with NCCER credentials that you can use to obtain employment in a variety of industries. Here are just some examples of the roles and positions that you can explore.

• Construction Operator
• Site Development Operator
• Road Construction
• Utility Contractor
• Quarry & Mining Operator
• Excavation Operator
• Landscaping / Site Prep Operator

A Day in the Life

Explore student success stories, see our equipment in action, and more below.

Ready to Apply?

About the NCCER Credential

The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) is a nonprofit education organization dedicated to developing standardized, industry-recognized training programs for the skilled trades. Its programs help address workforce needs by providing students with nationally recognized credentials that support career opportunities in the construction industry and related fields. Through its commitment to workforce development, the NCCER promotes safe, productive, and sustainable career pathways across multiple industries. PTS heavy equipment programs are led by instructors who hold NCCER Craft Instructor and/or Master Trainer certifications. Learn more about the credential here.

Grow Your Knowledge With Free Resources

At PTS, we’re committed to helping you understand not only heavy equipment but also the many career opportunities available, salary information, and related trends. Explore and download the free heavy equipment-focused resources below.

A New Path Forward: How Veterans Can Capitalize on HE Operator Training

Coming to grips with a new career after enlistment is challenging for many. Learn how heavy equipment operator training through PTS gives veterans an express lane to rewarding careers in this free ebook.

Breaking Barriers: How Women Can Find Success as Heavy Equipment Operators

As a woman in the construction industry, your possibilities are endless. Learn how becoming a heavy equipment operator can allow you to find a long-lasting career, earn a family-sustaining salary, and discover limitless growth opportunities. Learn more from PTS about how to build a better future for yourself.

The 2025 Guide to Heavy Equipment and Crane Operator Salaries

Becoming a heavy equipment or crane operator can give you a family-sustaining salary, a long-lasting career, and future opportunities for growth. Learn more about the expert training programs at PTS and how we can prepare you to join this rewarding field.

Power Up: A Guide to HEO Training

Heavy equipment operator training can equip you with the skills and knowledge to secure a strong career with a high earning potential in only a few short weeks. Learn more about what you can expect from HEO training and how PTS sets you up for success in this free ebook.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get quick answers to the most commonly asked questions about Heavy Equipment Operator I below. Explore a more in-depth FAQ here.

Do I need experience?

No! Heavy Equipment Operator I is an entry-level program, so experience is not required.

How old do I need to be?

Students must be 18 years of age to attend.

Do I need a CDL?

No. Just a valid driver’s license.

What math skills are required?

Basic math skills are required. If you’ve graduated from high school, you’ve likely taken all the math you’ll need.

Is financing available?

Yes! We provide financing through Ascent. Contact us to learn more.

Where can I work afterward?

Virtually anywhere where construction, earthmoving, and similar work are being performed (so pretty much anywhere!). Heavy equipment operators are always in demand in numerous industries nationwide.

Is housing available?

We do not provide housing as part of our training, but we are happy to provide recommendations for local housing options. Note that you are required to be on-site for this training Monday through Friday, so you will need to make the necessary arrangements.

Can veterans attend?

Absolutely! You can use your VA benefits to pay for training, too. As a Military Friendly® School, we’ll do everything we can to put your hard-earned benefits to work for your training and career journey. And thank you for your service!

How long does it take?

Completing Heavy Equipment Operator I requires three weeks (120 hours) of in-the-seat and classroom instruction.

What equipment will I run?

For Heavy Equipment Operator I, you’ll learn skid steers, compactors, backhoes, wheel loaders, and articulated off-road dump trucks.

Dig in With PTS

Get more insights into heavy equipment operation, equipment types, industry trends, and more in our blog.

By PTS StaffSeptember 18, 2026

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The Importance of Training for Heavy Equipment Job Site Safety

Nothing is more important than a safe job site, which is why heavy equipment job site safety is incorporated into every part of trainingRead More

By PTS StaffJuly 24, 2026

How Hands-On Training at PTS Teaches Beginners How to Operate Heavy Equipment

The fastest path to learning how to operate heavy equipment and getting job-ready is by working through the fundamentals with PTS. Read More

Get Started Now

There are two ways to start your journey with PTS:

1. Schedule an in-person tour

Book a time to meet with our team and see our facility.

Individuals who schedule and complete an in-person tour are eligible for a $500 Tuition Reduction Scholarship.

2. Apply Now

Fill out a complete application, and our team will be in touch to discuss next steps.

¹https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/construction-equipment-operators.htm

Training on a Wide Range of Equipment

One of the biggest advantages of training with PTS is the breadth of machines students get to learn. Rather than specializing narrowly, graduates come away with experience operating excavators, bulldozers, motor graders, backhoes, skid steers, loaders, compactors, scrapers, and articulated dump trucks.

That range matters because most job sites don’t need someone who can run just one machine — they need versatile heavy equipment operators who can move between equipment as the work demands. Training across this many equipment types gives graduates a real edge when they start applying for jobs, since employers can put them to work on more types of projects without paying for additional training down the line.

Hands-On Learning, Not Just Classroom Time

PTS pairs classroom instruction with significant in-the-seat practice time, and that combination is what actually builds operator confidence. Reading about how a scraper or motor grader works is one thing; learning to feel the controls, judge depth and grade, and operate safely under realistic conditions is another. That kind of practical, supervised seat time is what helps new heavy equipment operators walk onto a job site for the first time without feeling lost.

A Faster Path to a New Career

Because the training is condensed into focused, multi-week programs rather than a multi-year degree, students can move from enrollment to job-ready in a matter of weeks rather than years. That speed matters for people who need to start earning sooner, whether they’re switching careers, transitioning out of the military, or just finishing high school. It also means less time and tuition spent before that first paycheck as an operator.

Credentials That Employers Recognize

Training is only as valuable as the trust employers place in it, and PTS structures its programs around nationally recognized credentials so graduates have something concrete to show for their time in the seat. That kind of third-party validation can be the difference between a resume that gets a callback and one that doesn’t, particularly for someone with no prior construction experience.

Built-In Career Support

Beyond the technical training, PTS offers career assistance to help graduates connect with employers, along with financing options, acceptance of military education benefits, and tailored support for groups like veterans, unemployed workers, and recent high school graduates. That kind of structured support after graduation is often what separates a program that hands out certificates from one that actually produces careers.

Start Today with PTS

Put together, equipment variety, real hands-on practice, a condensed timeline, recognized credentials, and post-graduation support make training at PTS a practical investment in a high-demand career. Skilled heavy equipment operators stay in steady demand across construction, energy, mining, and infrastructure work, and that demand isn’t going away anytime soon.

If you’re exploring a hands-on career with real growth potential, PTS offers a structured, supported way to get there — without years of schooling or guesswork about which machines you’ll actually be qualified to run.

More on what to expect from your time at PTS:

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1: This three-week course will give you the skills you need to operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. You’ll also receive an introduction to earthmoving, soils, equipment safety, and preventative maintenance.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2: This follow-up course will teach you how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. In addition, you will learn site work, excavation math, grading, and more, so that you will be qualified for a wide range of jobs.

Ready to take the next step? Explore our training for heavy equipment operators. 

Are you ready to build a path to success? PTS can help. Our heavy equipment training center offers you a fast-track to a new career with our comprehensive three-week courses. Perfect for veterans, recent high school graduates, or career-changers, PTS can help you earn nationally recognized credentials that will open the door to new, high-earning job opportunities.

PTS Can Train You to Operate Big Machines and Earn Bigger Paychecks

Are you ready to build a path to success? PTS can help. Our heavy equipment training center offers you a fast-track to a new career with our comprehensive three-week courses. Perfect for veterans, recent high school graduates, or career-changers, PTS can help you earn nationally recognized credentials that will open the door to new, high-earning job opportunities.

Step Into the Operator’s Seat With Our Courses — No Experience Required

Heavy Equipment Operator – Level 1

This three-week, 120-clock-hour training course will provide you with the foundation necessary to find entry-level employment opportunities as a heavy equipment operator.

Heavy Equipment Operator – Level 2

Build on the knowledge and skills obtained in level 1 in this course that will teach you how to operate additional equipment.

Mobile Crane Operations

In this three-week, 120-clock-hour program, learn the skills you need to find entry-level employment as an NCCCO-certified crane operator.

In-Demand Skills. Premium Pay. Proven Careers.

Want to see our success in action? Take a look at some testimonials from our satisfied students.

If you’re looking for a career with real versatility, scraper operator training at PTS is an excellent place to start. Scrapers are powerful, self-loading machines used to cut, collect, and move large amounts of earth across a job site — and mastering them opens the door to opportunities in a wide range of fields.

One of the biggest advantages of scraper training is just how many industries rely on these machines. In construction, scrapers are essential for site preparation — leveling ground, moving soil, and shaping terrain before a project can break ground. In agriculture, they’re used for land grading, irrigation channel work, and maintaining the flat, even surfaces that productive farmland requires. Scrapers also play an important role in mining, energy infrastructure, and transportation projects like road building, where large-scale earthmoving is a core part of the job.

Our Scraper Operator Training Program Requirements

At PTS, we have experience working with a variety of individuals, including veterans, disabled workers, recent high school graduates, and more. With our help, our students are well on their way to being credentialed, employed, and earning a rewarding salary.

Here’s what you need to know about our heavy equipment operator courses:

• 3-week-long course (120 hours)
• Must remain local for duration
• Lodging and meals are not included

With small classes, you’ll receive the personalized attention you deserve so you can learn the skills you need to become a scraper operator. At PTS, scraper training is designed to give students genuine, hands-on experience from day one. Rather than simply reading about how these machines work, you’ll get time in the seat, learning how to operate scrapers in real-world conditions. That practical foundation is what sets PTS graduates apart when they enter the workforce. And, our team works hard to ensure you find success once you graduate from our program.

Learn More About Getting Started With PTS

PTS offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends classroom instruction with in-seat practical training, preparing you to operate confidently across all these environments. You’ll graduate with a well-rounded skill set that makes you an attractive candidate to employers in many industries.

Whether you’re starting fresh, changing careers, or looking to formalize skills you’ve picked up on the job, PTS scraper training gives you the experience and credentials to hit the ground running. Now is a great time to take that next step.

Explore how PTS can help with our scraper operator training. Schedule a tour of our facility today and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

If you’re looking to break into the heavy equipment industry, learning to operate an articulated off-road dump truck is one of the most valuable skills you can develop. PTS will train you to operate this large, heavy-duty piece of equipment that is used in various job sites to move large quantities of materials from one place to another. Whether you’re hauling dirt on a construction site, transporting rock through a mining operation, or moving materials across rugged terrain, the articulated dump truck is an essential machine that skilled operators are always in demand to run.

Articulated dump trucks are uniquely designed for challenging environments. This flexibility makes them indispensable across industries like construction, mining, energy, and infrastructure development. But with great capability comes the need for proper training — these machines require a confident, knowledgeable operator to be used safely and efficiently.

Our Articulated Dump Truck Training Program Requirements

At PTS, our training will prepare you for a long-lasting career as a motor grader operator. Here’s what you should expect from our program:

• 3-week-long course (120 hours)
• Must remain local for duration
• Lodging and meals are not included

Our curriculum only requires a basic 9th-grade understanding of reading and math, and our skilled instructors have helped individuals from all backgrounds. From veterans to unemployed workers to recent high school graduates and more, PTS is the dump truck training school that can help you figure out your next step.

Explore How to Get Started With PTS

At PTS, you’ll receive a mix of classroom instruction and in-the-seat practical experience, giving you the training you need to operate various equipment types with confidence. Our hands-on approach ensures you don’t just learn the theory — you get real time behind the controls, building the skills that employers look for.

With articulated dump truck training from PTS, you’ll be ready to step onto any job site and get to work from day one. We also offer career assistance services so that even after you graduate, you can count on PTS to help you succeed. If you want to change your life, PTS is here for you. Learn more about articulated dump truck training today.

If you’re looking to build a career in heavy equipment operation, PTS is one of the top training schools in the nation — and our compactor training is a prime example of the hands-on, career-ready education we provide. PTS’s compactor training will give you the tools you need to operate various machines, including smooth wheel rollers, sheep-foot rollers, and pneumatic-tired rollers.

Each of these compactor types plays a distinct role on the job site: finishing asphalt and grading surfaces, compacting cohesive soils like clay, or applying uniform pressure across surfaces, making them highly versatile for both soil and asphalt compaction tasks.

Understanding which machine to use — and how to use it safely and efficiently — requires more than reading a manual. That’s why PTS combines classroom instruction with real, in-the-seat practical experience. With our program mix, students receive the training they need to operate various equipment types with confidence.

Our Compactor Training Program Requirements

At PTS, we work with individuals at various life stages: veterans, disabled workers, recent high school graduates, and more. With our help, our students receive credentials, attain in-demand skills, and start well-paying careers.

Here’s what you need to know about our heavy equipment operator courses:

• 3-week-long course (120 hours)
• Must remain local for duration
• Lodging and meals are not included

Compactor training fits within our broader heavy equipment curriculum, which also covers excavators, bulldozers, motor graders, loaders, and more. When you graduate from one of our comprehensive heavy equipment training programs, you’ll be well-qualified to operate a variety of different equipment types, making you the perfect choice for an employer looking for a skilled worker.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your skill set, PTS’s compactor training is a smart investment in a long-lasting, in-demand career.

Get Your New Career Started With PTS

With small classes, you’ll receive the personalized attention you deserve so you can learn the skills you need to succeed. And our team works hard to guide you even after completing our program. Between your hard work and commitment and our expert compactor training, you’ll be on your way to a long-lasting career.

Explore how PTS can help with our compactor training course. Schedule a tour of our facility today and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

When it comes to heavy equipment operation, few machines are as essential to daily job site productivity as the loader. At PTS, loader training is designed to give you the hands-on skills and foundational knowledge needed to handle one of the most versatile pieces of equipment in the industry.

Loaders are workhorses. From the earliest stages of a construction project to the final cleanup, they play a critical role in keeping operations moving efficiently. PTS loader training prepares students to confidently move or load a wide range of materials, including asphalt, demolition debris, dirt, snow, gravel, and much more. Whether the job calls for clearing a freshly demolished site, spreading gravel for a new road base, or hauling snow from a municipal parking lot after a winter storm, a trained loader operator is ready for the task.

PTS combines classroom instruction with real, in-the-seat practical experience — the kind that actually prepares you for the demands of a real job site. Students learn proper operating techniques, safe loading and dumping procedures, machine inspection protocols, and how to work efficiently across varying terrain and material types. This well-rounded approach means graduates don’t just know how a loader works in theory — they know how to operate one with confidence when it counts.

The versatility of loader skills opens doors across multiple industries, including construction, landscaping, road maintenance, municipalities, and more. Employers actively seek operators who can jump into the seat and get to work safely and productively from day one, and PTS training is built to produce exactly that.

Our Loader Operator Training Program Requirements

At PTS, our training will prepare you for a long-lasting career as a loader operator. Here’s what you should expect from our program:

• 3-week-long course (120 hours)
• Must remain local for duration
• Lodging and meals are not included

Our curriculum only requires a basic 9th-grade understanding of reading and math. Our skilled instructors have helped individuals from all backgrounds, from veterans to recent high school graduates and more.

Explore How to Get Started With PTS

With PTS’s comprehensive loader training, students gain the practical experience and professional credentials to launch a rewarding, long-lasting career in heavy equipment operation.

Are you looking for a fresh start? With our comprehensive loader operator training, you’ll learn the skills you need to find a successful career. PTS also offers career assistance services so that even after you graduate, you can count on PTS to help you succeed. If you want to change your life, PTS is here to provide the skills and guidance you need. Learn more about our loader operator training today.

When it comes to heavy equipment, few machines are as versatile and in-demand as the skid steer. Compact, powerful, and incredibly maneuverable, skid steers are a staple on job sites across a wide range of industries — and knowing how to operate one can open the door to a rewarding, well-paying career.

At Performance Training Solutions (PTS), one of the top heavy equipment training schools in the nation, students receive the comprehensive instruction they need to confidently get behind the controls.

Skid steers are ideal for maneuvering within tight spaces where larger equipment simply can’t go. In construction, they’re used to clear debris, move materials, and prepare sites with precision. In landscaping, operators rely on them to grade terrain, haul soil, and complete detailed earthwork that demands a light touch in confined areas. Agricultural operations count on skid steers for tasks like moving feed, clearing land, and maintaining farm infrastructure. Their adaptability across attachments — from buckets and augers to forks and brush cutters — makes skilled skid steer operators valuable across virtually every outdoor industry.

Skid Steer Training Program Requirements

At PTS, we have experience serving a variety of individuals from all walks of life: veterans, disabled workers, recent high school graduates, and more. With our help, our students are well on their way to being credentialed, employed, and earning a rewarding salary.

Here’s what you need to know about our heavy equipment operator courses:

• 3-week-long course (120 hours)
• Must remain local for duration
• Lodging and meals are not included

PTS prepares students through a proven blend of classroom instruction and hands-on, in-the-seat practical experience. Students get real time on real machines, building skills that employers look for. Our three-week training courses are designed to get students job-ready quickly, without sacrificing quality.

Get Started With PTS

At PTS, we’re committed to helping you succeed, even after you’ve graduated. Whether you’re starting a new career, transitioning from another field, or adding to your existing skill set, PTS gives you the tools to succeed. With skid steer training from PTS, you’ll be ready to put your skills to work from day one. Schedule a tour of our facility today and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

As the demand for crane operators increases because of the aging workforce, and infrastructure and construction growth, many career-changers, returning veterans, or recent high school graduates are choosing to become crane operators. At PTS, we train beginners from the ground up, providing hands-on instruction and helping students to earn certifications that assist with finding entry level crane operator jobs. Let’s explore how PTS helps complete beginners move into this strong career path.

Can You Really Get Crane Operator Jobs With No Experience?

Crane operators use equipment to move heavy materials on construction sites, ports, manufacturing plants, industrial sites, and more. In addition to operating controls safely and moving materials, crane operators are expected to inspect equipment, follow important site protocols, read life plans, and communicate with ground crews.

With competitive starting wages and plenty of overtime opportunities, crane operators are always in demand due to ongoing infrastructure projects and commercial construction growth. There are plenty of advancement opportunities, and no four-year degree is required to jump into this career, making it a good fit for a variety of individuals, such as career changers, recent high school graduates wanting alternatives to college, veterans, or construction workers looking for job growth.

Crane operators have a lot of responsibilities, but it truly is a beginner-friendly career option. Many employers hire entry-level candidates who have completed professional training programs because these programs teach students about important safety regulations and operating procedures.

While employers may accept no work experience, they value formal training and certifications. Construction companies need reliable workers, and employers are struggling to fill skilled trade positions. That’s why graduates with the right training stand out.

How PTS Helps Beginners Succeed

At PTS, we offer beginner-friendly training for students wanting to find entry level crane operator jobs. No prior experience is required, and students are taught the basics, such as crane safety, rigging basics, site communication, and equipment inspection and maintenance. In our Mobile Crane Operations course, students can expect a mixture of classroom instruction and hands-on equipment training. That includes real crane operation practice so students can build confidence safely and develop skills faster.

We also help with NCCCO certification preparation, which is the industry-recognized standard that proves safety and operational knowledge. We assist with written exam prep, practical exam prep, practice testing, and more, so students can increase their confidence and find greater job opportunities. We also provide career assistance services, helping students build their resumes and search for entry level openings.

PTS offers a student-focused environment, with small class sizes, personalized support, and career guidance. We have a robust employer network that can easily support students with finding entry level frame operator jobs once they graduate.

You don’t need previous crane operating experience to start building a successful career. Take the first step and invest in a stable, skilled trade career with equipment training from PTS. Schedule a tour of our facility today for a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

A quality heavy equipment training school for veteran spouses can provide hands-on experience and career placement assistance. With expert heavy equipment training, veteran spouses can create long-term financial stability and career flexibility. Learn how PTS is designed to support veteran families every step of the way.

Why Veteran Spouses Are Turning to Skilled Trades Careers

Military spouses can face many employment challenges. With frequent PCS moves, employment gaps, or difficulty transferring licenses between states, they have a real need for flexible, practical training programs.

The skilled trades are a viable alternative for veteran spouses. With faster training compared to traditional college degrees and a variety of opportunities for advancement, skilled trades are in high demand across the country and provide portable skills that can easily transfer between states.

Heavy equipment stands out as a top training option. When you train to operate excavators, bulldozers, backhoes, loaders, and more, you gain great earning potential and plenty of career growth opportunities. Growing infrastructure projects are increasing demand for heavy equipment operators, and many veteran spouses enjoy the hands-on, outdoor work environment.

Employers want real experience, which is why seat time on real equipment is so important. Hands-on training matters in helping students understand valuable safety procedures, gain jobsite awareness skills, and build confidence in real-world situations before entering the workforce.

Veteran education benefits may help fund heavy equipment training school for veteran spouses. The Post-9/11 GI BillⓇ can be transferred to spouses and family members, and these benefits can help fund tuition, materials, fees, and more. Veteran spouses can use these benefits whether military members are on active duty or have separated from service. Requirements include:

• If separated from active duty before January 1, 2013, spouses can use these benefits for up to 15 years after separation from active duty.
• If separated from active duty on or after January 1, 2013, spouses can use these benefits at any time.

It’s clear that heavy equipment training school for veteran spouses is a great first step for many. Let’s see how PTS can facilitate success on this new journey.

How PTS Supports Veteran Spouses

PTS is proud to be a Military FriendlyⓇ school, which means we are committed to helping the military community succeed. We are eager to assist both veterans and their spouses with our heavy equipment operator training, and we offer comprehensive support services directed specifically to them.

Our team can also assist with navigating veteran benefits in order to ensure each student is able to maximize their funding opportunities. We offer an exciting real-world training environment with modern equipment and experienced instructors that will help prepare students for successful careers.

With our help, veteran spouses can pursue flexible career paths, with skills that are transferable across the nation, and with the ability to continue job advancement. In addition to mobile crane operation, our heavy equipment operator training courses include:

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1: This three-week course will give you the skills you need to operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. You’ll also receive an introduction to earthmoving, soils, equipment safety, and preventative maintenance.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2: This follow-up course will teach you how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. In addition, you will learn site work, excavation math, grading, and more, so that you will be qualified for a wide range of jobs.

Heavy equipment careers can offer stability, strong earning potential, and nationwide demand, and training is much faster compared to many other traditional paths. These hands-on careers can provide veteran spouses with financial independence and long-term growth. Ready to take the next step? Explore our heavy equipment training school for veteran spouses and schedule a tour of our facility today. 

This career is perfect for recent high school graduates, veterans transitioning to civilian life, or career changers looking for new opportunities, but finding the right training program is key. Let’s break down the top careers you can find once you complete earthmoving equipment training with PTS.

A Closer Look at Earthmoving Equipment Careers

The recent infrastructure boom requires equipment operators, and with so many new projects available, expect long-term job stability. With an aging workforce retiring and employers increasing wages to attract workers, there are plenty of career opportunities for skilled operators.

Many of these roles don’t require a 4-year degree, so they are well-suited for recent high school graduates who are unsure about college and want a faster entry into the workforce. Veterans who are transitioning to civilian careers can also find success with earthmoving equipment operation, especially since training has plenty of GI Bill funding options. Career changers can find higher earning potential and a more flexible schedule with earthmoving equipment operation as well.

With demand outpacing supply, increasing wages, and strong job security, now is the perfect time to start down this career path. Now, let’s take a look at some of the actual jobs you can find after earthmoving equipment training.

Top Careers to Pursue After Equipment Training

Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy equipment operators are responsible for operating bulldozers, excavators, loaders, graders, and more, and work in construction, roadwork, utilities, and other key sectors. According to the 2026 NCCER Construction Craft Salary Survey Results, heavy equipment operators make an average of $68,044 per year, with overtime and union job opportunities making this number potentially higher.

Excavator Operator Specialist

In this role, excavation operator specialists will dig trenches, foundations, and pipelines and perform other precision work. With specialized skills, expect higher pay potential and more job security for various infrastructure projects.

Grader Operator

Grader operators level surfaces for roads and construction, and require both fine control and accuracy. This is one of the more skilled operator roles and can often be paid more due to the difficulty. Grader operators work in construction, mining, and general site development.

Heavy Equipment Technician

In this role, workers repair and maintain equipment, as well as diagnose mechanical issues. With a nationwide technician shortage and more advanced technical skills required, heavy equipment technicians have high earning potential, with an average of $60,000 to $70,000, with opportunities to earn more.

How PTS Can Help You Succeed

PTS provides hands-on training with a mixture of in-the-seat practical experience and classroom instruction. This gives students the experience that employers actually want, even for entry-level positions. With industry-experienced instructors, students will learn from professionals, not from theory, and only need a basic understanding of 9th-grade reading and math comprehension.

We offer career assistance and support so that you can fast-track your career and start earning sooner. Our courses include Heavy Equipment Operator 1, where you’ll learn how to operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes or articulated off-road dump trucks. In Heavy Equipment Operator 2, you’ll learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. PTS can also teach you about preventative maintenance, basic safety protocols, excavation math, finishing and grading, and more.

The demand for qualified earthmoving equipment operators is real, and the opportunities are yours for the taking. If you’re ready to start your new career today, reach out to PTS to learn about our earthmoving equipment training and schedule a tour of our facility today.

Digital demand is exploding with the increased reliance on cloud services, streaming, and AI for remote work and digital ecosystems. Major tech companies are investing in digital infrastructure and expanding into new geographic regions. These massive projects have tight timelines and need highly skilled, trained workers. Let’s explore the growing demand for data center construction jobs and how PTS can help prepare workers for these opportunities.

The Role of Heavy Equipment Operators in Data Center Construction

In data center construction, heavy equipment operators must prepare the site, clear land, and perform excavation and grading duties. Key pieces of equipment here include excavators, bulldozers, loaders, graders, compactors, and more. Skilled heavy equipment operators are critical for these projects. Data centers require precision, and these high-value projects need safe and efficient construction teams that can minimize delays and costly errors.

Employers are looking for a variety of skills from workers, such as equipment operation proficiency and the ability to read blueprints. Safety knowledge is key, too, and workers should be skilled in hazard awareness and prevention, as well as equipment maintenance. This career path is perfect for career changers looking for stable, hands-on work, recent graduates not pursuing college, or veterans transitioning to civilian careers.

Data center construction jobs offer growth opportunities over time with experience, and there are plenty of nationwide openings. With projects across multiple regions, workers have the flexibility to travel if they desire or to work locally. Expect long-term industry growth as data center infrastructure continues to expand, giving workers a lot of job security compared to other sectors.

Of course, your success depends on the quality of your training. If you want to be qualified for a number of lucrative data center construction jobs, turn to the team at PTS to help.

How PTS Prepares You for Success

At PTS, we utilize a hands-on training approach that gives students instructor-guided practice and time spent operating actual machinery, so you’ll be prepared in real-world environments. We expose students to modern technology and current construction requirements so that they are ready for data center project demands.

Fast-track your way into a high-demand career with PTS. Our three-week programs are designed to get you job-ready quickly, and we help you search for employment opportunities after graduation. With our realistic training environments and access to a variety of machinery, students will be able to quickly build their careers in a booming industry.

Our heavy equipment training facility offers comprehensive training courses, including:

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1: In just three weeks, this entry-level course will give you the skills required to operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, or articulated off-road dump trucks. You’ll also learn heavy equipment safety and preventative maintenance.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2: This follow-up course will teach students how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. It will also share insight about site work, excavation math, and finishing and grading.
• Mobile Crane Operations: Here, students will learn how to operate mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab cranes. In addition, students will learn crane safety, wire rope and basic rigging practices, and much more.

With a mixture of in-the-seat experience and classroom instruction, PTS can prepare students for a variety of opportunities in data center construction. There will be plenty of jobs near PTS’s Thornville, Ohio, facility as well. Recently, federal officials announced plans for a 10-gigawatt natural gas power facility at the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Park Plant in Pike County to support large-scale data center development. This is expected to create about 4,700 construction jobs in the area, giving PTS graduates plenty of opportunities for success.

PTS is here to help you take advantage of these opportunities. Train with us today to prepare for data center construction jobs. Schedule a tour of our facility and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. 

Why High School Graduates are Perfect For Heavy Equipment Operation

Heavy equipment careers are growing fast due to demand for major infrastructure investments, increased housing needs, commercial construction growth, and a skilled labor shortage. Equipment operators are essential and can earn high-paying salaries with no four-year degree required.

High school graduates are the perfect candidates for a heavy equipment training center. With fewer financial responsibilities, recent graduates have the ability to relocate or travel for work, and can expect a fast career launch. Heavy equipment training is also the perfect alternative to the debt of a four-year degree.

At a heavy equipment training center, you’ll learn important safety standards, as well as gain valuable communication skills and jobsite awareness. Hands-on training will give you the experience you need to stand out in the job market, and training can prepare students for operator credentials and entry-level job requirements.

Instead of learning randomly on the job, a dedicated training center provides structured learning and safety-focused training, reducing risk while actually allowing students to spend time operating equipment. Graduate confident and prepared for a long-lasting career with a top heavy equipment training center like PTS.

Why PTS Stands Out for Heavy Equipment Operation

At PTS, our experienced instructors share real jobsite knowledge and practical expertise so students are fully prepared to find work after they complete our program. In addition, our students train on multiple machines instead of just one, giving them the hands-on knowledge they need.

Our career-focused curriculum is designed to help students get hired and be confident on day one. With small class sizes and a step-by-step training approach, PTS is perfect for recent high school graduates looking for their next step.

Our courses include:

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1: Students will learn how to operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, or articulated off-road dump trucks. Additionally, students will learn about earthmoving, soils, safety procedures, and preventative maintenance.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2: Learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders, while also gaining experience with site work, excavation math, grades, and more.
• Mobile Crane Operations: Here, students will learn how to operate a mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab crane. They’ll also learn crane safety, preventative maintenance, wire rope, and basic rigging practices.

If you know someone who is graduating with you and might be a good fit for PTS, sign up together and start your careers side-by-side. Starting something new is easier when you know someone, and you could save money by sharing lodging with a friend. Ask our team about nearby lodging options that are perfect for students traveling together.

Instead of spending years in a classroom, you could be operating real equipment and starting your career sooner than you think. Take the first step today and schedule a tour of our facility now. 

Forestry careers are growing, along with a continued demand for lumber and wood products and sustainable forestry practices. There is a real need for trained operators, especially as many experienced logging operators are nearing retirement. Forestry machinery training can lead to opportunities for higher wages, job security, and satisfying hands-on outdoor work.

Forestry machinery training is the bridge between experience and new opportunities. Let’s explore how PTS can help prepare you for a rewarding career as a logging operator.

Exploring Who Benefits the Most from Forestry Machinery Training

Career changers, like construction workers, military veterans, truck drivers, and others, can easily transition to forestry machinery operation because of their familiarity with heavy machinery and safety awareness.

Experienced equipment operators who are already comfortable operating excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and more can also transition seamlessly into the forestry industry. This shift can provide higher pay potential and more job opportunities.

Additionally, outdoor workers like landscaping professionals and agricultural equipment operators are already familiar with terrain and outdoor working conditions, so they would adapt to forestry well.

There are various transferable skills that provide an advantage in forestry machinery. Hand-eye coordination and machine control help with equipment operation. Jobsite awareness and knowledge of valuable safety protocols are also key. Workers who have basic maintenance skills and mechanical knowledge are vital. Forestry machinery training can build on these skills.

Forestry Equipment You Can Learn to Operate

Common forestry machines include feller bunchers, which cut and gather trees quickly, and skidders, which transport those cut trees to different locations. Harvesters cut and process trees, and log loaders load timber onto trucks for transport.

Trained operators are needed for each of these machines, and many career opportunities are available once they complete forestry machinery training. Forestry equipment operators operate logging equipment, while land clearing operators use machines for development projects. Timber harvesting operators work for companies that supply lumber mills.

With so many opportunities available, it’s important to invest in quality forestry machinery training. You’ll learn equipment operation, including terrain navigation and precision cutting and handling. Additionally, you’ll become familiar with safety procedures and equipment maintenance, as well as forestry industry knowledge, like logging processes and environmental considerations.

The right training can prepare students for real job conditions, and this is where PTS comes in.

Forestry Training at PTS Helps Experienced Workers Advance Faster

Starting over can be overwhelming, but career changers don’t need to worry with PTS by their side. Investing in forestry machinery training is a smart move, as many experienced workers are already familiar with heavy equipment, leading to a shorter learning curve. Employers also value workers with experience and formal training, resulting in stronger hiring potential.

At PTS, we offer hands-on learning so students can train on real machines, giving them the confidence to perform on job sites. Our curriculum is designed for real careers, so you’ll learn the foundational skills that will help you in the field. And our career assistance program will leave you prepared to find work immediately after graduating.

In addition to our mobile crane training, we offer two comprehensive, three-week heavy equipment training courses designed to transform your experience into specialized forestry machinery expertise. In our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 course, students will learn how to operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. Students will also learn earthmoving, soils, critical safety protocols, and preventative maintenance. This course will leave you qualified to operate several types of common equipment used in the forestry industry.

Our follow-up Heavy Equipment Operator 2 course will give students the skills they need to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. Students will also learn about grades, site work, excavation math, and more, leaving them ready to find a variety of job opportunities in the forestry industry.

PTS understands that career change doesn’t mean starting from zero. Plenty of workers have existing skills that are valuable in the forestry industry. With the right training, your experience can open the door to a new career in forestry machinery operation. If you’re ready to get started, connect with PTS today. Schedule a tour and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Heavy equipment operators continue to fill a needed and desired role in the workforce. Nearly every construction project — from bridges to power plants to homes and airports and everything in between — relies on the skilled labor and expertise of the heavy equipment operator to get the project up and running. Is the life of a heavy equipment operator right for you?

The life of a heavy equipment operator is one where the demand for your services is expected to remain high. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated that jobs for heavy equipment operators would grow by 3 percent between 2022 and 2032. That rate is consistent with the average rate of other occupations.

How to Build a Base for a New Future

Heavy equipment operators maneuver heavy machinery safely, ensure the proper maintenance of their machinery, as well as display aptitude for following blueprints and calculating appropriate loads. Heavy equipment operators use bulldozers, cranes, excavators and other machinery to transport and/or move earth and materials, install construction materials, and lay down roadbeds.

Heavy equipment operators should have good hand-eye (and foot) coordination, be proficient in the safe operation of various equipment, possess good reaction time and stamina, and be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma.

Beyond those base requirements, heavy equipment operators will also need training on the use of the equipment, instruction on the safety protocols used on a job site, and will need to be credentialed and/or certified. Both the NCCER and the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) offer credentials and/or certification once the requisite instruction (with an accredited institution such as PTS) is completed.

What to Expect with the Life of a Heavy Equipment Operator

There are many options to pursue as a heavy equipment operator. One can choose to follow the work by following construction and road building trends, or you can choose a more individualized path with work in the mining industry. You can even become self-employed.

Heavy equipment operators can specialize in one particular piece of equipment, or be a general operator with knowledge of a wide range of machines. Operators will also be working outdoors on virtually every job site and will have the ability to find potential employment anywhere in the country and in many places around the world.

Heavy equipment operators can also expect pay comparable to or higher than their college-degree-holding peers when first entering the workforce. The Bureau of Labor Statistics listed the median pay for heavy equipment operators at $55,270 ($26,57/hour) as of May 2023.

Unlock Your Future with Performance Training Solutions

At Performance Training Solutions, we offer hands-on training and education to get you started on your life as a heavy equipment operator.

Our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 course​ will provide the necessary knowledge and skills needed in order to obtain employment in the construction industry as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator. Participants in the three-week, 120-hour course will also receive an introduction to earthmoving, soils, heavy equipment safety, and basic operational techniques.

Once complete, individuals can then elect to take part in Performance Training Solutions’ Heavy Equipment Operator 2 course. Like the entry-level course, this course will also consist of three weeks of instruction. Completing Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is a prerequisite to taking HE Operator 2. During this second course, students will learn to work with bulldozers, excavators, scrapers, and motor graders in addition to instruction on excavation math, finishing, and grading.

In addition to the two heavy equipment courses, Performance Training Solutions also offers a Mobile Crane Operations Course. This three-week, 120-hour program will provide you with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to gain entry-level employment as an NCCCO certified crane operator.

Get Started on the Path to a New Career with PTS

Performance Training Solutions is a heavy equipment operator school located in Columbus, Ohio. As one of the top training schools in the country, we assist those who wish to pursue a life as a heavy equipment operator or crane operator. Our team of experienced trainers, admissions personnel, and career representatives are committed to helping our students succeed — as evidenced by our 90 percent placement rate for course graduates.

If you’re interested in taking one of our Heavy Equipment Operator courses or exploring any of the other opportunities we have to offer, here’s what you can expect.

If you’d like to learn more about Performance Training Solutions and the potential life of a heavy equipment operator, feel free to contact us today. And don’t forget to ask us how you can earn $500 off your tuition by scheduling a tour!

Because of these rising costs, there has been a growing demand for skilled trades, which is why many parents and students are left wondering if they can utilize their 529 plan for trade school. People often assume that 529 plans are only for universities, but they are perfect for funding heavy equipment training. Let’s investigate exactly how to use a 529 plan for heavy equipment training from PTS.

A Closer Look at 529 Plans

A 529 plan is a state-sponsored, tax-advantaged education savings plan that is designed to encourage parents and students to save for educational expenses, like college tuition and student-loan repayments.

Benefits of these plans include state income tax deductions or even credits for contributions, and withdrawals are also tax-free if used for specific, qualified education expenses. These qualified expenses include:

• Tuition
• Required safety gear and supplies, like boots and clothes
• Transportation
• Lodging

Many of the students at PTS utilize their funds for lodging and tuition costs.

Now, the important question: Can you use a 529 plan for trade school? The answer is yes, as long as you follow the proper steps.

Using a 529 Plan for Trade School

In addition to traditional 4-year colleges, 529 plans can be used for trade schools, vocational programs, technical colleges, and apprenticeship programs. Once you complete the program application and secure class acceptance, contact your 529 plan administrator and request a withdrawal.

It’s important to keep documentation. This means receipts, enrollment forms, and proof of required equipment. Don’t forget to file your taxes correctly as well, and consult a tax professional if unsure of what to do.

Why More Families Are Using 529 Plans to Fund Trade Careers

Trade programs are becoming more popular because they typically cost a fraction of a traditional 4-year degree, lowering total educational costs. Because many programs can be completed in weeks or months, students can expect faster entry into the workforce as well.

Trade programs typically offer less student loan debt, reducing overall borrowing costs and expense burdens. In addition, skilled operators are in high demand because of continuing infrastructure and construction growth, leading to stronger earning potential and plenty of career development opportunities.

Using a 529 plan for trade school is a smart career move, but it’s important to partner with the right training center. That’s where PTS can help.

How PTS Helps Families Maximize Their 529 Investment

At PTS, we are dedicated to our students’ success. Our expert admissions team will help you confirm eligibility and provide assistance verifying your qualified education status, as well as other documentation needed for your 529 withdrawal.

Additionally, our accelerated training programs will lead to quick completion and fast-track into employment, so you can start earning more, faster. With minimal debt and high earning potential, you can expect a quicker return on your investment and an education that will truly pay off.

Heavy equipment operators can follow several high-demand career paths in construction, infrastructure, mining, transportation, and much more, and the team at PTS will be here every step of the way to support you with our career assistance support.

Now that you know how PTS can help you use a 529 plan for trade school, you need to know what PTS will be teaching you while you’re there. In as little as three weeks, you can be trained to operate a variety of key equipment that will leave you qualified for different job opportunities.

Our courses include:

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1: In this entry-level course, you’ll learn how to operate a variety of equipment types, including skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. This three-week class will give students an introduction to earthmoving, soils, heavy equipment safety, and preventative maintenance, leaving them qualified to find employment in a variety of industries.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2: Level up your knowledge with our follow-up course, where you’ll learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. Students will learn about finishing and grading, site work, excavation math, and more, giving them the skills that will be attractive to plenty of employers.
• Mobile Crane Operations: Here, you’ll spend three weeks gaining the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to find entry-level employment as an NCCCO-certified crane operator. Students will learn how to operate mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cabs and telescopic boom fixed-cab cranes.

If you’re worried about going back to school, don’t be. The courses at PTS include a combination of classroom and in-the-seat instruction, so you’ll feel prepared with the practical experience you need to succeed on the job site. Designed to fuel success, our courses require only a 9th-grade reading and math comprehension level, so you can feel confident completing our program.

At PTS, we serve a variety of individuals. In addition to recent high school graduates, we serve career changers, disabled workers, veterans, and more, and we work with all those individuals to find the best path forward for them.

For over a decade, the team at PTS has provided students with the expert training they need to be credentialed heavy equipment and crane operators. In just three weeks, you can start your career search and find a high-paying job that will help you and your family thrive.

With over 5,400 square feet of space for classroom training and over 15 acres of training grounds, our facility is the perfect place for highly effective heavy equipment and crane operator training. Our team of experienced instructors and admissions professionals are ready to help you start living your best life now.

If you’re looking to start a high-demand career, start with PTS. Our team can help you confirm eligibility, so you can use your 529 plan for trade school and begin your journey towards a better future. Are you ready to verify your 529 eligibility? Speak with an admissions advisor at PTS or schedule a tour of our facility to earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. 

Mobile crane operation is a high-demand, practical skill with in-demand job outcomes and good salaries. Let’s take a closer look at why choosing the right training provider matters more than ever.

Why Mobile Crane Skills Are in High Demand Right Now

A variety of key industries rely on mobile crane operations, including construction, infrastructure, mining, energy, transportation, and much more.

With an aging workforce, increased infrastructure spending, and a shortage of skilled laborers, employers are looking for certified, job-ready operators, leading to stability and long-term demand when compared to many other careers.

Mobile crane training is perfect for career changers looking for new job opportunities. It’s ideal for those who like hands-on work and have a good sense of safety awareness, reliability, and teamwork.

Unemployed or recently laid-off workers can also find success in mobile crane operation training, offering foundational learning and quick re-entry into the workforce.

For skilled workers looking to upgrade, adding a mobile crane certification can lead to higher pay rates and greater job flexibility.

How PTS Gets You Job-Ready Faster

At PTS, we offer practical, hands-on learning from day one, with a mixture of classroom instruction and in-the-seat experience. We have a team of instructors who have worked in the field, giving each student real insight into job sites, expectations, and safety protocols.

In our mobile crane operations course, you will learn the foundational skills to help you find entry-level employment as an NCCCO-certified crane operator.

We will train you to operate mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab cranes and telescopic boom fixed-cab cranes. With our help, you will learn crane safety protocols, preventative maintenance, wire rope and basic rigging practices, and much more.

In just three weeks, you’ll learn the skills you need to succeed on the job. Our mobile crane training program also supports job outcomes with resume and interview guidance, as well as industry connections. With strong financial stability and growth opportunities, mobile crane operation at PTS is the perfect choice for career changers or unemployed workers.

At PTS, we don’t just offer expert training. We offer comprehensive support and help you find a life-long career that will bring you new opportunities and a family-sustaining wage. We provide the real experience that employers want, giving you a faster route to a skilled, in-demand career.

Are you ready to take control of your future and transform your career with our mobile crane training? Schedule a tour at PTS today to get started.

PTS offers hands-on, industry-ready training that makes this transition easier. Let’s explore the benefits of joining the construction sector and how PTS can help prepare you for it.

A Closer Look at the Construction Industry

Despite other economic slowdowns, the construction industry continues to grow, driven by the demand for more homes, offices, and other infrastructure projects.

In addition, with the expansion of renewable energy, the increasing need for data centers, and expanding electric vehicle infrastructure, the construction industry is projected to grow 4.7% from 2023 to 2033, resulting in over 380,000 new jobs.

This industry demand is leading to a need for skilled heavy machinery operators, with employers willing to pay good wages for qualified workers. In addition, construction is less likely to be outsourced compared to other industries, leading to more long-term job security.

Construction machinery training is a smart career move. With the chance for overtime and union opportunities, the construction industry offers high pay and comprehensive benefits, as well as career advancement options.

When you enter this industry without the proper training, however, you might experience a higher chance of accidents and slower job progression due to lack of skills. Employers trust candidates with proven skills and certifications, and the right construction machinery training can make all the difference.

How PTS Can Help You Earn More, Faster

PTS offers hands-on training programs for students looking to break into the construction industry. We provide real equipment experience that will prepare you for the job site in as little as three weeks. Our heavy equipment training courses include:

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1: Here, you’ll learn how to operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. In addition, you’ll learn equipment safety, basic operational techniques, preventative maintenance, and more, giving you important foundational skills that will help you find employment.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2: In this course, we will teach you how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. You’ll also learn site work, grades, excavation math, and much more.

Our experienced instructors offer mentorship and career guidance, and our team can help assist with direct connections with employers once you graduate. With our expert construction machinery training, you’ll be on your way to an in-demand career with competitive pay, job security, and hands-on experience.

Now is the time to invest in a career that will help build the future. Connect with PTS or schedule a tour of our facility to earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship now.

Why Heavy Equipment Careers Are Perfect for Military Veterans

With heavy equipment operation, veterans can easily transfer skills they already have, such as discipline, reliability, and accountability. They are often able to work under pressure, and have experience working in team-based, focused environments. Additionally, they are used to adhering to important safety procedures, and can handle both structured schedules and clear expectations.

Heavy equipment operation offers long-term career stability and strong job demand. With a nationwide demand for skilled operators, you can expect to find employment in a variety of essential industries, including construction, transportation, and infrastructure. With an aging workforce and a recession-resistant industry, there are plenty of public and private sector job opportunities for veterans looking to get started with heavy equipment operation.

Here, there is no four-year degree required, so after completing a comprehensive heavy equipment class like the kind PTS offers, you can expect a faster return on investment compared to college, lower student debt, and the ability to start earning more quickly. Employers prefer formally trained operators because they operate more safely and efficiently. That’s why finding the right heavy equipment training school, particularly one that supports veterans, is so essential.

A Closer Look at How PTS Supports Veterans

We offer hands-on, practical instruction paired with in-the-seat experience that leaves you feeling prepared and confident for the real world. With small class sizes for more personalized instruction and experienced instructors, some of whom have military backgrounds, our three-week heavy equipment class will leave you ready to tackle the job search.

Our course offerings include:

• Heavy equipment operator 1: Here, you will learn how to operate a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, and articulated off-road dump truck, as well as gain an introduction to earthmoving, soils, safety protocols, and more.
• Heavy equipment operator 2: In this follow-up class, you will learn how to operate a bulldozer, scraper, excavator, and motor grader. You’ll also be exposed to grades, site work, excavation math, and more.

PTS understands the unique challenges veterans can face when returning to civilian life. As a Military FriendlyⓇ institution, we have helped countless veterans find their footing after completing their service, and we can help them understand how to use their Post-9/11 GI BillⓇ benefits for our heavy equipment class.

One of our recent program participants, Shea, finished up the Heavy Equipment Operator 2 course and had this to say about his experience: “All the instructors are a wealth of knowledge and there’s tons to learn here.” As a veteran who was ready to make a career change, Shea highly recommends PTS. “This school is very GI BillⓇ-friendly and they work very proficiently and effectively on getting that process taken care of,” Shea says. “So if it’s something you’re looking into as a veteran, I highly recommend it.” We have a large number of student success stories here that you can check out to see how we’ve helped build careers that last.

Completing a heavy equipment class at PTS is a smart investment for veterans and can be a fast path to employment and long-term growth. PTS is a trusted partner in the transition process from military service to civilian life, and we’re here to help you figure out your next step. Schedule a tour of our facility to earn a $500 tuition scholarship and see how PTS can help you make smart career moves. 

An Overview of Quarry Work for Heavy Equipment Operators

Quarry operations require precision and safety, and typical environments include open-pit, rock quarries, and aggregate operations. Quarries rely on skilled heavy equipment operators for productivity, and they play a key role in material extraction, processing, and transportation.

There are several high-demand positions for heavy equipment operators in quarry operations. Front-end loader operators handle crushed stone, sand, and more, and must be able to control various loads and manage stockpiles. Excavator operators work in material extraction and precision digging, and must be skilled in advanced machine control. Dozer operators push materials, prepare sites, and maintain roads, and must have high terrain awareness.

In the quarry industry, heavy equipment operators must have a keen understanding of safety protocols, and must be able to communicate in high-traffic environments. Untrained or inexperienced operators can increase downtime, accidents, and equipment damage, which is why employers typically prefer formally trained operators for quarry jobs. That’s where PTS can help.

How PTS Prepares You for Quarry Work

At PTS, we provide our students with hands-on experience with real machinery paired with comprehensive classroom instruction that will give you the training you need to impress potential employers and stay safe on the job. With our heavy equipment operator 1 course, you will learn how to operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. Our three-week course will also introduce you to earthmoving, soils, heavy equipment safety, and basic operational techniques, making you more appealing to potential employers.

In our follow-up heavy equipment operator 2 course, you’ll learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. We’ll also teach you how to interpret civil drawings, perform site work and excavation math, and much more. With our assistance, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle a number of heavy equipment quarry jobs.

We prioritize hands-on learning so that when you’re on the job, there’s no guesswork. By practicing in a controlled training environment, you can build confidence before entering the workforce and reduce your learning curve. If you are interested in long-term careers in the quarry industry, PTS can help get you started.

We offer a job-ready training approach that will help you build a high-demand quarry career. If you’re looking for a new path in life, PTS is here to help. Schedule a tour of our facility today to learn more about us and earn a $500 tuition reduction discount.

Rewarding Crane Operation Roles for Veterans

Marine Corps veterans excel in crane operation because they have a number of valuable transferable skills that they’ve gained from their military service. In addition to leadership and teamwork skills, veterans can communicate well under pressure and have good situational awareness.

The crane operation industry is growing day by day, with more infrastructure projects driving job growth. There are many different sectors that are hiring crane operators, including construction, energy, manufacturing, mining, ports, and more. With opportunities for overtime, union benefits, and travel pay, crane operation is a perfect job option for Marine Corps veterans. According to the National Center for Construction Education and Research, mobile crane operators made an average of $80,674 per year, which is one of the highest-paying construction jobs.

Even better is that there are plenty of career advancement opportunities as a crane operator. Workers can advance from operator to site supervisor or even crane inspector, leading to better job growth and salary options. In addition to mobile crane operation, veterans can go into tower crane operation, bridge crane operation, or offshore crane operation. There are plenty of opportunities to choose from.

How PTS Supports Marine Corps Veterans

PTS offers small class sizes and hands-on crane operation training, giving you the experience you need to find employment. Our team will also prepare you to test for your NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) credential, which is vital for finding a job.

As a Military FriendlyⓇ school, we do all we can to help veterans find their footing after their service. Veterans can use their GI BillⓇ for tuition and other costs, and we also have dedicated staff who are here to support veterans throughout the program.

What should you expect during your time at PTS? We offer a comprehensive mobile crane operations course, where in just three weeks you will learn how to operate both the mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab cranes. You’ll learn crane safety, preventative maintenance, wire rope and basic rigging practices, and much more.

If you’re looking for jobs for Marine Corps veterans, crane operation is the perfect fit. This career track offers stability, high pay, and growth opportunities. Connect with the team at PTS today to learn more or schedule a tour of our facility to get started.

Want to see our success in action? Check out some student testimonials here! 

Exploring the Role of a Mining Operator

Mining operators work in surface mining, underground mining, or specialty mining, and use earth-moving equipment, like dozers, excavators, and graders. They must also maintain important safety protocols and monitor equipment. In addition to assisting in blasting operations, mining operators must also transport material throughout a work site.

The average salary for a mining operator is $62,000 per year, although there are plenty of opportunities for career advancement. Entry-level operators can eventually rise to become senior operators, supervisors, or even site managers.

Mining operation is a wise career choice, and training is a game-changer for finding the best job opportunities out there. This training will give candidates a competitive edge and help to reduce workplace-related accidents. By providing hands-on experience with real-world equipment and realistic job-site conditions, mining operators who undergo the right training can look more attractive to potential employers.

The right training program will teach you how to operate various types of heavy equipment and help you understand important mine planning and safety procedures. You’ll learn how to handle emergencies, preventative maintenance, and more to give you the edge you need to succeed. At PTS, nothing matters more to us than your success. Let’s take a closer look at our mining operator training program.

How the Training at PTS Stands Out

PTS is committed to hands-on, safety-first instruction that will give you the practical experience you need to find employment after you graduate. Our experienced instructors have real-world mining experience, and our training environment mirrors real job sites. In as little as three weeks, you’ll gain the knowledge you need to jumpstart your new career.

At PTS, we offer several courses that will prepare you for a career in mining operations, including:

• Our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 course will teach you how to operate a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck. You’ll also receive an introduction to earthmoving, soils, heavy equipment safety, preventative maintenance, and much more, giving you the skills you need to find entry-level employment.
• In our follow-up course, Heavy Equipment Operator 2, you will learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. In addition, you will gain an understanding of site work, grades, excavation math, finishing and grading, and more. This course will leave you qualified for a number of jobs in the mining industry.

The entire team at PTS is dedicated to helping you achieve career success, and our mining operator training will give you the leg up you need to start a long-lasting career in an in-demand industry, with 88% of companies having job openings according to the NCCER 2025 Workforce Survey. With an 85% job placement rate after graduation, PTS knows what it takes to help you succeed and are ready to help however we can.

Expert mining operator training from PTS will prepare you for an in-demand career that will give you plenty of opportunities to thrive. Take the first step to success today and schedule a tour of our training facility to earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. Get started with PTS today.

PTS is here to prepare you for a variety of heavy equipment operator jobs with our comprehensive bulldozer operator training. Stay competitive as you begin your job search and wow potential employers with the basic operational techniques, safety protocols, and preventative maintenance that you’ll learn with PTS.

Our three-week courses are designed to give you the practical experience you need to be a successful bulldozer operator. Staffed by expert instructors, each course includes a mixture of classroom instruction and in-the-seat experience. In addition to learning how to operate a bulldozer, you’ll also learn earthmoving, soils, finishing and grading, site work, excavation math, and more. Our premium bulldozer operator training will leave you qualified to find work in a variety of industries, including construction, mining, logging, and more.

Our Bulldozer Operator Training Program Requirements

At PTS, we have experience serving a variety of individuals from all walks of life: veterans, disabled workers, recent high school graduates, and more. With our help, our students are well on their way to being credentialed, employed, and earning a rewarding salary.

Here’s what you need to know about our heavy equipment operator courses:

• 3-week-long course (120 hours)
• Must remain local for duration
• Lodging and meals are not included

With small classes, you’ll receive the personalized attention you deserve so you can learn the skills you need to become a bulldozer operator. All you’ll need to succeed with our curriculum is a basic understanding of 9th-grade level reading and math. Our team works hard to ensure you find success once you graduate from our program.

Learn More About Getting Started with PTS

At PTS, we’re committed to helping you succeed, even after you’ve graduated. We know you’ve sacrificed a lot in order to better your life, and with our expert bulldozer operator training, you’ll be on your way to a long-lasting career in no time. Are you ready to change your life? Explore how PTS can help with our bulldozer operator training. Schedule a tour of our facility today and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Are you ready to change your career and your life? PTS can help with our premier motor grader operator training. Our three-week training program will give you the skills you need to operate several pieces of heavy equipment, including motor graders, which will help you become more attractive to potential employers. With our help, you’ll be on your way to finding a long-lasting and high-paying career.

At PTS, you’ll learn basic operating skills, as well as important safety protocols and preventative maintenance. Each of our courses consists of a mixture of in-the-seat practical experience and classroom instruction, leaving you with the confidence you need to succeed out in the field. With our expert motor grader operator training, you will be able to work in a variety of industries, such as construction, mining, and agriculture.

Our Motor Grader Operator Training Program Requirements

At PTS, our training will prepare you for a long-lasting career as a motor grader operator. Here’s what you should expect from our program:

• 3-week-long course (120 hours)
• Must remain local for duration
• Lodging and meals are not included

Our curriculum only requires a basic 9th-grade understanding of reading and math, and our skilled instructors have helped individuals from all backgrounds. From veterans to unemployed workers to recent high school graduates and more, PTS is well-equipped to help you figure out your next step.

Explore How to Get Started with PTS

Are you looking for a fresh start? We can help. With our comprehensive motor grader operator training, you’ll learn the skills you need to find a successful career that can help your family thrive. We also offer career assistance services so that even after you graduate, you can count on PTS to help you succeed. If you want to change your life, PTS is here for you. Learn more about our motor grader operator training today.

A Closer Look at Landfill Operation

Landfill operators manage, maintain, and operate heavy equipment at landfill sites to ensure safer and more efficient waste disposal. Often, landfill operators will operate equipment like bulldozers, compactors, loaders, and graders, and must follow important environmental and safety regulations. Workers must also maintain access roads and drainage systems.

As cities grow, you can expect increased residential and commercial waste. With rising waste volumes, landfills are also expected to meet strict environmental guidelines in order to prevent groundwater contamination or other environmental hazards.

Landfills are common in municipal and infrastructure development, and require skilled operators. With demand across multiple industries, such as municipal waste, private landfills, environmental remediation companies, construction and demolition, and more, landfill operators are employed all year-round, offering stable employment with consistent demand.

Landfill equipment operators can earn competitive salaries. While wages can vary by location, entry-level workers can earn an average of $60,810 per year, while top earners make $97,672 per year. Operators can also progress to various other positions, like site supervisor or operations manager. In addition, landfill operators fulfill meaningful work, contributing to sustainability and community health.

Are you ready to start your journey toward this rewarding career? Let’s see how PTS can prepare you for success.

Take the First Step Toward Your Future with PTS

PTS provides hands-on, intensive training with various machines on terrain similar to landfill sites. In our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 course, you’ll learn the skills required to find employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator. You’ll also learn earthmoving, soils, safety, and preventative maintenance.

Our follow-up course, Heavy Equipment Operator 2, will teach you how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders, as well as how to perform excavation math, interpret civil drawings, and more. You will learn important OSHA-compliant safety protocols that will be important when handling waste in landfills. At PTS, you’ll receive the skills you need to be credentialed and find a job soon after graduation. Our entire team is dedicated to helping you succeed.

Landfill operators are critical to waste management and environmental sustainability, and there’s never been a better time to enter the field. Are you ready to take the first step toward a stable, in-demand career? Connect with PTS today to learn more about our heavy equipment training programs and how we can help you build a better future.

Crane operation is a less physically demanding second career choice, and PTS can help career changers make the transition with ease. If you’re considering a career shift, explore how PTS can prepare you to find crane operator jobs that will leave you with less physical pain and more sustainable wages.

The Wear and Tear of Physically Demanding Jobs

In the trades, workers may need a career change after experiencing common injuries in concrete, construction, or roofing. The long-term physical impact on knees, backs, and joints can be challenging, limiting workers’ ability to perform their jobs successfully. Repetitive tasks like lifting, bending, and squatting can lead to bodily strain, and conditions could worsen with age.

In addition, older workers take longer to recover, increasing time away from work and risking reinjury. Workers’ comp injuries force workers to look for new roles, cutting careers short or forcing early retirement. Loss of income and benefits can lead to serious financial strain, which is why it’s so important to have an alternative career path in mind.

Crane operator jobs are the perfect choice. These positions are less physically demanding, requiring seated work and minimal lifting. Workers will find themselves in an environment that they understand: on job sites operating heavy machinery. With a growing demand for certified crane operators across industries, there are plenty of opportunities available for older workers looking to stay in the workforce, injured tradespeople needing a less physically intense job, or career changers with mechanical aptitude.

Crane operator jobs provide a stable and high-paying career. According to the National Center for Construction Education and Research, mobile crane operators make an average of $80,674 per year, which is on the higher end of construction salaries.

If you’re looking to make a seamless career transition into mobile crane operation, PTS can support you. Let’s explore how.

PTS Will Help You Prepare for New Crane Operator Jobs

Our training school provides comprehensive, hands-on training that will give you the practical experience you need to find success in mobile crane operation. Learn how to operate the mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fix-cab cranes, as well as preventative maintenance, wire rope and basic rigging practices.

At PTS, our training program lasts for three weeks, and with our career assistance services, you’ll be on your way to your new job in no time. There are numerous opportunities available that can help you fund your training with PTS. You may be able to use your workers’ compensation funds or disability benefits to pay for our program. PTS also accepts veterans’ benefits, such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill®.

Our team is committed to seeing you succeed. With our mixture of classroom instruction and in-the-seat practical experience, PTS will leave you qualified for a number of crane operator jobs. In as little as three weeks, you can find your next step in a new career that offers a fresh start without walking away from everything you’ve learned in the trades.

If you’re an older or disabled worker, you don’t have to give up your career. Just reroute it. We’re here to help you do it. Schedule a tour with PTS today to get started.

If you’re ready to transform your life, PTS is here to support you with our expert backhoe loader operator training. This versatile and compact piece of equipment is in demand in a variety of applications, including construction, demolition, landscaping, and road-paving projects. With our help, you’ll be qualified to work within many different industries, finding rewarding, long-lasting career opportunities.

Each of our heavy equipment courses lasts three weeks and includes a mixture of practical experience and classroom instruction. You’ll learn important safety standards, basic preventative maintenance, earthmoving, excavation math, and much more. With our expertise, you’ll be qualified to find entry-level positions in a variety of industries once you graduate.

Our Backhoe Loader Operator Training Requirements

At PTS, we prioritize small class sizes so you can receive the personalized attention you deserve, and our programs are geared toward hands-on learners with a curriculum that requires a 9th-grade level of reading, math, and comprehension skills. Key factors that you need to know about our heavy equipment courses include:

• 3-week-long course (120 hours)
• Must remain local for duration
• Lodging and meals are not included

We serve a variety of individuals, including recent high school graduates, unemployed workers, disabled workers, and veterans. As a Military Friendly School^Ⓡ, we are the perfect training partner to help veterans find their next step. We’re eager to ensure each student graduates from our program on their way to being credentialed, employed, and earning a competitive salary. We support you as you build a foundation of success.

Get Started with PTS Today

Our comprehensive backhoe loader operator training is perfect for those who want to make smart business moves. With our career assistance services and dedicated instructors, you’ll be able to find plenty of entry-level heavy equipment operator employment opportunities after you complete our training program. We’re ready to get started whenever you are. Schedule a tour with us and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. Start your journey to success now.

Are you ready to experience premier excavator training from the top program in the nation? At PTS, we understand how valuable excavators are on various job sites, and we work hard to arm you with the skills you need to stay competitive as you begin your job search. With our training, you’ll be qualified to find work in a variety of essential industries, including construction, forestry, and more.

In our comprehensive three-week training program, you will learn how to safely operate various types of heavy equipment, including excavators. Our courses include a mixture of classroom instruction and in-the-seat experience, and in addition to important safety training, you’ll also learn basic preventative maintenance techniques, which will be attractive to potential employers. PTS will also provide you with training in earthmoving, soils, site work, finishing and grading, excavation math, and much more. Our top excavator training will leave you qualified to find entry-level employment once you graduate.

Our Excavator Training Program Requirements

Here’s what you need to know about our heavy equipment courses:

• 3-week-long course (120 hours)
• Must remain local for duration
• Lodging and meals are not included

Our small class sizes are geared toward hands-on learners, and our curriculum requires a basic understanding of 9th-grade level reading, math, and comprehension skills. While you will be away from your family for the duration of the course, keep in mind that it will all be worth it once you are credentialed and employed, earning a rewarding wage.

At PTS, we serve a variety of individuals from all walks of life, including recent high school graduates, unemployed workers, and disabled workers. We are also proud to be a Military Friendly School^Ⓡ, making us the perfect training partner for veterans, and we accept a variety of veteran benefits to make financing your training journey less stressful. Our team works hard to support you as you train for a better future.

Start Your Journey at PTS Now

PTS is invested in your success, which is why we offer career assistance services, even long after you’ve graduated from our program. With our help, you’ll find good heavy equipment operator employment opportunities that will leave you with a long-lasting, rewarding career. Are you ready to start your excavator training today? Schedule a tour of PTS and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Are you ready to find your next step? Schedule a tour of our training facility and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship today. 

Explore Our Equipment Types

With our mix of classroom instruction and in-the-seat practical experience, you’ll receive the training you need to operate various equipment types with confidence, including:

Start Your Career With Scraper Operator Training from PTS

PTS offers comprehensive scraper operator training to give you a competitive advantage in fields like construction, agriculture, mining, energy infrastructure, and transportation projects. Learn more here.

Expert Articulated Dump Truck Training from PTS

PTS offers expert articulated dump truck training that is perfect for a career in construction, mining, energy, and infrastructure development. Explore how we can help here.

Master Compactor Training With PTS

PTS offers comprehensive compactor training to give you a competitive advantage when you begin your job search. Learn more here.

Expert Loader Operator Training from PTS

PTS offers expert loader operator training that is perfect for a career in construction, landscaping, road maintenance, municipalities, and more. Explore how to get started here.

Skid Steer Training from PTS Gets You Job-Ready

PTS offers comprehensive skid steer training to give you the tools for an in-demand career. Learn more here.

Top-Tier Bulldozer Operator Training from PTS

PTS offers comprehensive bulldozer operator training to give you a competitive advantage when you begin your job search. Learn more here.

Expert Motor Grader Operator Training from PTS

PTS offers expert motor grader operator training that is perfect for a career in construction, mining, and more. Explore how we can help here.

Top-Tier Backhoe Loader Operator Training at PTS

PTS offers top-tier backhoe loader operator training that will leave you prepared to work in construction, landscaping, and more. Learn more about our courses.

Premium Excavator Training From PTS

PTS offers expert excavator training so you can be prepared to find entry-level employment. Learn more about our three-week heavy equipment courses.

Now Is the Perfect Time to Get Started with PTS

Each of our three-week training courses will provide you with the knowledge you need to find success in a variety of industries, and we’re here to help you every step of the way as you land your dream job. Don’t wait — now is the time to change your life.

Schedule a tour with PTS now and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. Let’s get started today.

Premium Jobs After Graduating from a Heavy Equipment Trade School

Construction

Probably the most well-known industry for heavy equipment operation, construction is an in-demand sector that is full of infrastructure projects, including roads, buildings, and utilities projects. Here, heavy equipment operators move earth and materials, pour foundations, excavate, backfill, and more. Attending a heavy equipment trade school is ideal for finding a construction job, and it will prepare you to operate different types of equipment and adapt to different tasks. According to the NCCER 2024 Construction Craft Salary Survey results, heavy equipment operators typically earn an average of nearly $71,000 per year. 

Landfill

In the landfill industry, operators move, spread, cover and compact waste using various machines, including wheel loaders, scrapers, and dozers. They also move dirt and soil, and maintain landfill roads. Some duties also involve ensuring that hazardous or prohibited materials are not dumped improperly. Heavy equipment trade programs will prepare you for this position, which, depending on location, can earn an average of $77,654 per year. 

Forestry / Logging

In this industry, operators use specialized forestry equipment, such as skidders, loaders, and harvesters to fell trees, transport logs, or clear land. Operators will also be expected to cut trees, sort logs, and load them onto trucks. Safety training is especially important in this job, because operators must avoid falling trees, so heavy equipment trade schools can prepare them for success. Experienced logging operators can earn upwards of $60,000 per year.

Quarry

In this industry, operators extract stone, gravel, sand and rock using heavy machinery such as loaders, graders, and dozers. They also move material and maintain roads and other surfaces. Since they may be required to deal with blasting operations, uneven terrain, flying fragments, or other hazards, proper trade school education is necessary in this career. Experienced workers earn higher wages, and in 2024 the top 10% of operators earned a salary of over $99,000.

Mining 

Mining can refer to surface mining, underground mining, or specialty mining. Here, operators utilize earth-moving equipment, such as dozers, excavators, and graders. They also assist in blasting operations and transport material safely. Formal safety training from a heavy equipment trade school is ideal for this industry as work can be hazardous if not performed by a professional. Mining operators can make an average of $62,000 per year. 

PTS Can Prepare You For a Variety of Careers

At PTS, we provide you with hands-on training with real machinery so you are exposed to multiple equipment types that will leave you prepared for a multitude of careers as a heavy equipment operator. 

In our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 Course, you’ll learn how to operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump truck operators. In this three-week course, you’ll learn about basic operational techniques, equipment safety, earthmoving, and preventative maintenance. 

In our Heavy Equipment Operator 2 Course, you’ll learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. You’ll learn how to interpret civil drawings, excavation math, site work, and more.  Our heavy equipment trade school will prepare you to find entry-level employment within a variety of industries. 

In just three weeks, you can find yourself ready to jumpstart your new career. With the right training at PTS, you can start earning fast. Are you ready to launch your career? Connect with our team or schedule a facility tour to earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. 

Here, we’ve developed a comprehensive roadmap tailored for veterans who are interested in joining the rewarding world of crane operation. Let’s get started. 

Why Crane Operation is a Great Fit for Veterans

Veterans have a number of skills that are valuable for crane operation. Employers appreciate that veterans are able to adapt to changing environments and learn quickly in order to succeed. Veterans also have several transferable skills that help them thrive in crane operation, such as mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic. In addition, veterans typically have great critical thinking skills and approach their jobs with a problem-solving attitude. 

Veteran hires also tend to stay longer in their jobs, reducing turnover, which is ideal for an in-demand career like crane operation. Projected to grow nearly 4% over the next decade, crane operators are always needed for a variety of industries, such as construction, mining, transportation, and more. Even more attractive is this career’s high earning potential, with crane operators earning an average of over $80,000 a year.

It’s clear that veterans can thrive in this rewarding career, but still the question pops up: How do you become a crane operator? Let’s explore how PTS can help you answer this.

PTS: Helping Veterans Get Ahead

If you’re wondering how to become a crane operator, choosing the right training path is the first step. As a Military FriendlyⓇ institution, PTS knows how to address the unique needs of veterans and we work hard to ensure their success.

At PTS, our mobile crane operations course will get you job-ready fast. This three-week program will teach you the fundamental skills you need to find entry-level employment as an NCCCO certified crane operator. With our help, you’ll learn how to operate both the Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes. 

Our program utilizes a mix of classroom instruction and in-the-seat practical experience, and you’ll learn crane safety and operation, preventative maintenance, wire rope and basic rigging practices, and much more. We will help you prepare for both the written exam and practical test so that you can earn your NCCCO certification and make you more attractive to potential employers. 

PTS understands how to help veterans thrive. Rejoining civilian life means you have a lot of options, and we’re proud to prepare you for a rewarding career as a heavy equipment or mobile crane operator. We accept a number of funding options that assist veterans, including the Post 9/11 GI BillⓇ and Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits. In addition, our career assistance program will help prepare you for finding employment, even after you’ve graduated. Our team is here to ensure you find success. 

If you’re wondering how do you become a crane operator, PTS will gladly help you get started. We are uniquely qualified to help veterans thrive in their new career paths, and we’re ready to guide you towards your next step. Connect with PTS today or schedule a facility tour to earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship now.   

Benefits of Mobile Crane Training for Recent Grads

Mobile crane training is a quick way to enter the workforce, especially when compared to a traditional four-year college degree. At PTS, our three-week course will leave you prepared to find entry-level employment as a mobile crane operator, and our program is also more affordable than college tuition, meaning you can focus on finding a job instead of stressing about student loans.

Once you complete our fast three-week mobile crane operator training course, you’ll be well on your way to finding a rewarding career. With the rise of infrastructure projects and building development, there has been a high demand for certified crane operators, so the right training will make you attractive to employers. 

In addition to being an in-demand career, mobile crane operators earn competitive salaries. According to the NCCER’s 2024 Construction Craft Salary Survey results, mobile crane operators earn an average of $80,674 per year, making them one of the more successful construction careers out there. 

Fast, affordable, and rewarding: those are just some of the benefits of completing a mobile crane operator training course. But it’s important that recent high school graduates choose the right training course, and that’s where PTS comes in. 

Trust the Top-Tier Mobile Crane Training at PTS

PTS has been one of the nation’s leading mobile crane and heavy equipment operator training schools for decades, and we’ve worked with countless individuals to help them figure out their next step. Our three-week mobile crane operator training course will teach you how to operate mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fix-cab cranes. You’ll also learn basic crane safety, preventative maintenance, and more that will leave you ready for the workforce. 

Our training program is a mix of hands-on equipment experience and classroom learning, and will leave you prepared to earn your NCCCO credential. With our career assistance program and dedicated instructors, you’ll be on your way to finding employment in no time. 

Mobile crane operation is a smart, fast-track option for high school grads looking to start a career without massive debt, and PTS is the perfect place to learn. If you’re ready to begin your journey toward success, reach out to PTS today. Contact us or schedule a tour of our facility and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. 

You Don’t Need Experience to Start Heavy Equipment Training

A variety of key industries rely on heavy equipment operators to perform essential tasks, including construction, mining, transportation, infrastructure, and more. Skilled operators are needed, making this a high-demand career. With competitive wages, even with entry level positions, and job stability with ongoing, long-term infrastructure projects, heavy equipment operation can be a rewarding career with plenty of opportunities for advancement. 

Even more appealing for job seekers: You don’t need experience to start heavy equipment operator training. Employers want safety awareness and basic operating knowledge, which you can gain at a reputable training school like PTS. Designed to get you job-ready fast, PTS is ideal for beginners and those looking to change careers. Let’s take a closer look. 

Expert Equipment Operator Training at PTS

We ensure you have the necessary knowledge and skills you need to find employment as a heavy equipment operator. Our entry-level course will teach you how to operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. In addition, you’ll gain an introduction to earthmoving, soils, safety, and basic operational techniques. In our follow-up course, you’ll learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders, and you’ll also be exposed to grades, site work, excavation math, and more. Our comprehensive training includes classroom instruction and hands-on practice, giving you the experience you need to appeal to potential employers. 

Our three-week training program will get you job-ready fast, and leave you prepared to earn your NCCER credential, increasing potential job opportunities. At PTS, it doesn’t matter if you have zero experience. We’ve helped a variety of individuals find their new careers, including: 

• Veterans: PTS has been helping veterans from every branch of the military for over a decade. Finding a new career after your military service can be tricky. That’s why we support your journey with our expert heavy equipment training. When rejoining civilian life, the last thing you want is to spend years training for a new career. Our three-week program will help you find your next step fast.
• Unemployed workers: If you’re facing unemployment, our training can help you get back on track quickly. Many of our students are funded by different training grants, and depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for these grants as well. We can help you find your footing.
• Disabled workers: Even if you’re struggling with a workplace injury, accident, or learning disability, PTS can ensure that it doesn’t prevent you from achieving your career goals. We’ll help you evaluate your options and launch a successful career as a heavy equipment operator. 
• Recent high school graduates: There are plenty of ways to find fulfilling career options without going to college for an expensive four-year degree. We help recent high school graduates find their next step with our comprehensive heavy equipment training, which can get them ready for long-lasting careers. 

Turn to PTS to Find Your Next Career

If you’re looking for a new job, it’s important to bring the right mindset. With a willingness to learn and ask questions, you’ll succeed in our training programs. Experience isn’t required to find heavy equipment operator success — the right training at PTS is the key to breaking into this high-demand industry. Are you ready to get started? Reach out to PTS or schedule a tour of our facility and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship today. 

Ready for a new path forward? Check out this free ebook from PTS to learn more about how veterans can take advantage of heavy equipment operator training. 

Why Choose a Career in Heavy Machinery Operation? 

When you become a heavy equipment operator, you’re joining an in-demand and high-paying career that has strong job security. There are many heavy machinery opportunities in construction, mining, infrastructure and more. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job openings for heavy equipment operators are projected to grow 4% annually from 2023 to 2033, approximately 45,700 openings per year. It’s clear that this is a career that is in demand.

Veterans transitioning to heavy equipment careers can also expect to earn significant salaries. According to the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), heavy equipment operators made an average of $70,797 per year. That means veterans could earn high wages after their military careers, without earning an additional degree. Heavy machinery is a field that values discipline, focus and precision — all traits common in veterans, making this the perfect next step. 

PTS understands the value veterans can bring to this job, which is why we accept the GI Bill® for our heavy machinery classes. Let’s learn more.

A Closer Look at the GI Bill®

The Post-9/11 GI Bill® is designed to help veterans pay for school, trade programs, or other job-training expenses. Military members who were on active duty on or after September 11, 2001 qualify for this bill, and this program can help veterans with tuition and fees, housing, books and supplies, on-the-job training, test fees, work study and more. 

There are certain eligibility requirements you must meet to qualify for the GI Bill®, including: 

• Serving for at least 90 days of active duty on or after September 11, 2001 or
• Receiving a Purple Heart on or after September 11, 2001, and were honorably discharged or
• Serving for at least 30 continuous days on or after September 11, 2001, and were honorably discharged with a service-related disability or
• Being a dependent child using benefits transferred by a qualifying veteran

Using the GI Bill® for heavy machinery classes is easy at PTS. As a designated Military Friendly® school, we’re eager to support our valued veterans as they transition to civilian life. With our comprehensive training and career assistance programs, veterans feel ready to start their new jobs as heavy equipment operators. 

At PTS, we offer a number of heavy machinery classes, including: 

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1: In this introductory course, you’ll learn how to operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, and more. In addition to basic equipment operation and safety techniques, you’ll learn preventive maintenance, earthmoving, and soils. 
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2: Here, you’ll learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. You’ll also be exposed to grades, site work, excavation math, and more, allowing you to be qualified for a number of heavy equipment operator jobs.

In as little as three weeks, our heavy machinery classes will leave you ready to start a new and rewarding career. We offer personalized support, and a balance of hands-on training and classroom instruction, giving you the experience you need to find employment after graduation.   

Heavy machinery classes are a smart move for veterans and PTS is ready to help you use your GI Bill® to get started. Schedule a tour of our facility today to earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship and see us in action for yourself. 

These positions are in-demand and can lead to numerous growth opportunities in various industries, including construction and mining. Are you ready to fast-track to a new career? Learn how PTS can help with our expert crane operator schooling programs. 

Why Consider a Career Change to Crane Operation?  

There is a high demand for skilled crane operators nationwide, especially as national infrastructure projects ramp up in the construction and renewable energy industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for crane operators are expected to grow by 5% annually until 2033. That’s a projected 51,000 job openings per year. 

Along with job security, you can expect high wages as well. According to the National Center for Construction Education and Research, mobile crane operators can make an average of $80,674 per year. When you compare that to the national average salary of $66,621, it’s clear that  becoming a crane operator is a smart financial decision that will allow you to earn competitive wages. 

This hands-on, active career is perfect for those who dislike desk jobs, and as a crane operator, you’ll be able to gain experience on a variety of job sites, including those in the construction, transportation, and energy sectors. In this role, you’ll be responsible for using cranes to lift and move various materials, which requires precision and attention to detail, as well as a deep understanding of important safety precautions. To gain that knowledge, you’ll need expert crane operator schooling, and that’s where PTS can help.

A Closer Look at How PTS’s Crane Operator Schooling Can Help Career Changers Find Their Next Step

At PTS, we understand that when you’re searching for a new career, the last thing you want to invest in is a lengthy training program. That’s why in only three weeks, our mobile crane operator course will leave you job-ready and primed for a new career. 

In our mobile crane operations course, you’ll learn how to operate both the Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and the Telescopic Boom Fix-Cab. With a combination of classroom and in-the-seat instruction, you’ll learn the basic principles of cranes, as well as crane safety and operation. You’ll also learn preventive maintenance and wire rope and basic rigging practices. With our practical, hands-on training, you’ll earn the experience that future employers will value out in the field. 

PTS has designed our courses to help our students get the certifications necessary when changing careers. The NCCCO Crane Operator certification is an in-demand and highly-regarded certification for the construction industry, and our instructors will prepare you to succeed on the exams. 

With our help, graduates can start working fast and our career assistance program will help you find the right employment opportunity. In addition to career changers, our crane operator schooling is perfect for veterans, high school graduates, and more. We’ve helped a variety of individuals find their next step, and we’re eager to help you too. 

Our crane operator schooling can lead to future career advancement, and with our fast training, you’ll be well on your way to earning strong pay in a highly in-demand field. Are you ready to start your new career journey? Schedule a tour of our PTS facility today and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. We’re ready to get started whenever you are. 

If you’re searching for a career change, heavy equipment operation is a field that is always seeking new talent. In this guide, we’ll go over the responsibilities of a dump truck operator, the process of dump truck training, and how PTS can prepare you for success. 

What You Need to Know About Dump Trucks

As a dump truck driver, you will be responsible for transporting materials like soil and debris from one part of a job site to another. Loading and unloading these materials are critical in construction and other infrastructure projects. In addition to operating a dump truck, operators are expected to perform preventative maintenance on their equipment, communicate effectively with team members, and adhere to important safety protocols. 

You’ll find dump trucks in a wide range of industries: construction, mining, renewable energy, transportation, and much more, which means it is a career that will always be needed. Even more impressive is the average yearly pay for dump truck drivers, which is nearly $72,000, depending on experience and location. It’s clear that becoming a dump truck driver will lead to a lasting and rewarding career. Get started with PTS today!

How PTS Prepares You with Expert Dump Truck Training

At PTS, we’ve worked with countless individuals, including veterans and disabled workers, to prepare them for successful careers in heavy equipment operation. With our help, you’ll be on your way to earning family-sustaining wages in no time.

PTS offers a heavy equipment operator course, where you’ll learn how to safely and efficiently operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. You’ll also receive an introduction to earthmoving, soils, heavy equipment safety, preventative maintenance, and more. If you want to extend your knowledge, we also offer a follow-up course, where you’ll learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders, as well as learn about site work, excavation math, finishing and grading, and more.

Our programs are short but intensive. In only three weeks, you can learn all you need to become a successful dump truck operator. We provide the perfect balance of hands-on and classroom instruction, and our curriculum only requires a basic 9th-grade understanding of reading and math. 

Proper dump truck training and preparation are key to excelling in this in-demand field. Take the next step forward with confidence and explore how PTS can help you with your new career. Schedule a tour with us today and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. 

Oil rig crane operators play a large role in ensuring the safe movement of heavy materials and supplies both onshore and offshore. If recent high school graduates are looking for high-demand, rewarding career opportunities, becoming a crane operator in the oil and gas industry is a smart choice. Let’s take a closer look at this job option and how PTS can help fast-track your success.

Why Crane Operators are Essential on Oil Rigs

Oil rig crane operators play a critical role in safety and logistics. They are responsible for lifting and moving heavy equipment, which on an oil rig can include pipes and drilling components. Crane operators must follow important safety protocols in order to avoid accidents, which includes communicating with ground personnel via hand signals or radio. 

Crane operators in the oil industry may work in different settings, like offshore oil rigs, onshore drilling sites, refineries, and construction sites designed for oil and gas projects. These types of jobs might require extended stays on rigs or rotational shifts, especially when working offshore. 

Being an oil rig crane operator involves a lot of coordination, maintenance skills, and operational expertise, but it is also one of the highest-paid crane operator positions. The average pay of an offshore crane operator is about $96,204 per year. While exact pay depends on experience and location, it’s worth noting that the national average salary is $63,795, which is considerably lower than what typical experienced oil rig crane operators make annually. The oil industry is always busy, and specialized crane operators are in high demand because of their skills and experience. 

It’s clear that picking this career is a long-lasting and rewarding choice. How do you get started? PTS can help.

How PTS Can Help You Join the Oil Industry

When you’re ready to figure out your next step after graduation, we’re here to support you. PTS is one of the nation’s leading heavy equipment and mobile crane operator training schools, and we’re prepared to provide you with the tools for success. 

If you’re looking to become an oil rig crane operator, we’ve got you covered. In our mobile crane operator training course, you can learn:

• How to operate both mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab cranes
• Crane safety and preventative maintenance
• Wire rope and basic rigging practices
• And more!

If you’ve recently graduated from high school, we understand that getting back into the classroom might not be your first choice. That’s why we balance our class instruction with in-the-seat practical experience so you’ll feel comfortable operating a crane out in the field. And our program is only three weeks long! In just 120 hours, you’ll be on your way to building a rewarding, high-paying career.

At PTS, we’ve designed our courses to prepare you for the certifications you’ll need to find successful employment as an oil rig crane operator. Once you’ve passed the written and practical NCCCO exams, you’ll receive an in-demand certification for oil rig crane operation. 

We know that life after high school can seem uncertain. PTS has helped countless individuals, including high school graduates, veterans, and disabled workers, prepare for their new careers, and we’re eager to help you, too. Are you ready to figure out your next step in the oil industry? Connect with the team at PTS today to learn more. Or better yet, schedule a tour at our facility and earn a $500 tuition reduction discount.

Put yourself in the driver’s seat and power forward into a new career.

Heavy equipment operator training takes only a few short weeks, but the benefits can be felt lifelong. This free guide breaks down what you can expect from HEO training, including the timeline, tools, and career trajectory. You’ll also explore why PTS is the best choice for your courses and how we’ve helped more than 90% of our students land a job after training. When you invest in your future with HEO training, you can enjoy strong compensation and stable employment in a career path always in demand.

Read our free ebook below.

Excavator operation is an in-demand, high-paying career choice, and the required training will leave you feeling prepared without forcing you to go into debt. Better yet — excavator training doesn’t take years. If you’re a high school graduate looking for your next step, earning your excavator operator credential is a smart choice. Let’s explore why. 

Why Consider an Excavator Credential After High School? 

First, it’s important to understand what an excavator operator does. An excavator operator has many duties on a typical job site. These include digging, site prep, trenching, and demolition, and are common in many different industries, such as construction, mining, and public works. This role is important and is in-demand across various sectors. A heavy equipment operator can earn an average of $70,797, depending on location and experience.

In addition to strong job prospects and competitive pay with room for growth, earning your excavator operator credential is a much shorter time commitment compared to college. At PTS, our programs last only three weeks, meaning you can get ready for the job market faster. As an excavator operator, you won’t be stuck in an office all day either. You’ll be out performing hands-on work and gaining practical experience. 

Now that you understand why you should look into earning your excavator operator credential after high school, let’s dive into how to do it — and how PTS can help.

What to Expect from Excavator Operator Training

Before doing anything else, you’ll need to find a quality heavy equipment operator training program. That’s where PTS comes in. We’re one of the country’s leading training schools and we offer intensive heavy equipment operator programs so you can kickstart your new career. Here’s what you can expect from our courses: 

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1: In this course, you’ll learn how to operate a variety of equipment, including skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, and more. This three-week class will also give you an introduction to earthmoving and soils, as well as heavy equipment safety and preventative maintenance. 
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2: This follow-up course will teach you how to operate excavators, bulldozers, scrapers, and motor graders. You’ll learn excavation math, as well as finishing and grading. Successfully completing this course will leave you qualified for a number of heavy equipment jobs.  

With our support, you can gain valuable practical experience as well as classroom instruction that will prepare you for an entry-level excavator position. PTS can help you confidently operate machines, while also learning about key safety protocols and equipment maintenance. We’ll prepare you to earn your NCCER credentials, which will appeal to potential employers as you begin your job search. Preparing for your excavator operator credential with PTS will lead to plenty of career opportunities and advancement. 

PTS Can Support Your Career Goals

At PTS, we’ve helped countless high school graduates figure out how to achieve their career dreams. If you want to discover other options besides college, earning your excavator operator credential can help you start a rewarding career — without the four-year degree. 

We can also help guide you through financial assistance opportunities, like state or federal grants that you can use to pay for training, such as the Trade Adjustment Act, Tribal Education, and more.  

It’s time to explore earning your excavator operator credential! Schedule a tour with PTS today to learn more and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. We’re ready to dig into your future if you are.

In addition to being in-demand and offering strong job security, mobile crane operation offers competitive salaries. According to the NCCER 2024 Construction Craft Salary Survey results, the average mobile crane operator makes $80,674 a year. These are the types of wages that can help you and your family thrive. The first step to starting this rewarding career is to get your mobile crane operator certificate. 

Follow our guide here to see the steps to becoming certified and launching your career as a mobile crane operator. Let’s dive in. 

Safety First: Why Getting a Mobile Crane Operator Certificate is So Important

Mobile crane operators must lift and move heavy materials on construction sites, at ports, and in warehouses. Successful crane operators need to have a good mechanical aptitude as well as attention to detail. They also need to have a strong safety awareness. That’s why it’s so important to get a mobile crane operator certificate.

In most regions, there are legal requirements for operating mobile cranes, making it an absolute must to obtain certification. There are certain safety and liability concerns with operating mobile cranes, and certification can lead to better job opportunities and higher pay. In fact, the average salary for a certified NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) crane operator is $85,000. It’s clear that getting certified pays off — but where should you start? Here’s a step-by-step guide:  

1. Meet the Basic Requirements

First, you must be at least 18 years old and be physically fit enough to pass a medical exam. Once you meet those basic requirements, you need to enroll in a training program so you can gain classroom training and hands-on practical experience. That’s where PTS comes in.

2. Find a Training Program

PTS is one of the nation’s top heavy equipment and mobile crane operator training schools, and we’re ready to help you prepare to get your mobile crane operator certificate. Our three-week programs will fast-track your new career opportunities, and our prime location in Thornville, Ohio, is perfectly situated for students coming from all over the country. 

3. Gain Practical Experience 

Once you find an exceptional training program like PTS, it’s time to gain the practical experience you need to prepare you for entry-level employment. With our training, you’ll gain in-the-seat experience operating both Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes. With our expert instruction, you’ll be able to safely and confidently operate these cranes on a job site.

4. Pass the Certification Exam

Once you graduate from our training program, you’ll be fully prepared to pass the NCCCO certification exam. The NCCCO certification is recognized throughout the country and can lead to higher-paying job opportunities. All of our crane instructors are NCCCO certified, and we can help prepare you to pass both the written and practical NCCCO exams once you’ve finished our training program. 

5. Apply for Your State or Local Crane Operator Certificate

You’ll need to check local or state regulations, but once you complete your training and pass the NCCCO certification exam, you may need to apply for your state or local certificate. This will likely involve some additional paperwork, but will vary by location.

Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll be able to receive your mobile crane operator certificate!

PTS Can Help You Earn Your Mobile Crane Operator Certificate

With our expert training, you’ll be on your way to finding an entry-level mobile crane operator job. We’re here to help you even after you graduate. PTS offers career assistance programs that can give you guidance while you find work. You’re also welcome back at any time for a refresher on any piece of equipment on which you’ve been trained and credentialed. No matter what you may need, we’re here to help.

We’ve trained countless individuals, like veterans, disabled workers, and high school graduates, and we’re eager to help you earn your mobile crane operator certificate. Schedule a tour of our facility today to get started and to earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Founded in 2003, the number of organizations that were designated as Military Friendly® was only 20. Today, that number has grown to over 3,500. It’s important to choose the right school after your military service, especially when looking to earn the qualifications for in-demand careers like heavy equipment operation. 

Let’s examine what a Military Friendly® School really means, and how you can find the right program for you.

Learn more about how PTS can help veterans elevate their careers. Download our free guide, A New Path Forward: How Veterans Can Capitalize on HE Operator Training. 

What Does “Military Friendly®” Mean?

A Military Friendly® School is an organization that is committed to helping the military community succeed. This community includes active duty members, as well as members of the reserve, guard, veterans, and military spouses. This designation establishes expectations to allocate resources for schools to recruit, retain and advance veterans. 

Military Friendly® Schools encourage schools to build strong veteran programs, like support services and career assistance services that are directed specifically to the military community. Many of these organizations employ dedicated veteran affairs advisors, and can help with resume building and job placement assistance. 

It’s important to consider your career goals and how a Military Friendly® School can help you achieve those goals. Does the school use hands-on training and have qualified instructors? Can it help you prepare for essential industry credentials? Does it make an effort to assist veterans and help with their unique needs? 

PTS checks each of these boxes — and more. 

PTS: A Place Designed to Help Veterans Succeed

At PTS, we’ve helped countless veterans prepare for a successful career as heavy equipment and mobile crane operators. We’re grateful for the sacrifices veterans have made in serving our country, and we’re committed to helping them find their next step. We’ve qualified for the Military Friendly® designation for years and we’ll continue to help veterans succeed with our heavy equipment training. 

In only three weeks, your training at PTS can be complete and you can be on your way to finding a high-earning career. We know that heavy equipment training is a smart choice for veterans and we offer them a fast-track into a high-demand field.

Our comprehensive courses include:

• Heavy Equipment Operator Training 1: Here, you’ll earn the practical experience you need to operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors and more, as well as preventative maintenance, safety, soils, and earthmoving.
• Heavy Equipment Operator Training 2: In this follow-up course, you’ll learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. You’ll also be exposed to grades, site work, excavation math, and more. 
• Mobile Crane Operations: This course will train you to operate both the Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes, and you’ll also learn crane safety, wire rope and basic rigging practices. 

PTS accepts various veteran financing options such as the Post 9/11 GI Bill® and Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits. We help you maximize your benefits so that you can utilize them to better your future. Our programs will help prepare you for a long and rewarding career as a heavy equipment operator. 

The best way to decide which Military Friendly® School is right for you is to visit or reach out to the school. Schedule a tour of PTS and ask questions about our training environment, as well as how we support veterans. Visit us today and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

In 2023 for instance, the college enrollment rate for recent high school graduates fell to 61.4%, which was down five points from pre-pandemic rates in 2019. Conversely, the rate of recent high school graduates actively joining the labor force rose to over 71% in 2023, showcasing the uncertainty of the value of a college degree. 

Instead many graduates are looking for alternatives, and it’s clear that one option rises above the rest: mobile crane education.

With the growing demand for skilled workers in construction and other vital industries, mobile crane education offers many valuable opportunities to high school graduates. Let’s take a closer look at why pursuing mobile crane education is a smart career choice for high school grads. 

Looking for more information about how PTS can help you level up your job prospects? Download our free ebook, Elevate Your Career With Mobile Crane Training.

The Advantages of a Quality Mobile Crane Education

There’s an increasing need for mobile crane operators in construction, infrastructure projects, and other in-demand industries, like renewable energy. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for crane operators are expected to grow by 5% until 2033, which is an estimated 51,000 job openings per year. 

Mobile crane operators are essential to the success of various large-scale projects, like bridge or highway construction, and so this is one career choice that will never go out of style, making it the perfect choice for a recent graduate. 

In addition to job security, you can also expect to earn a competitive salary as a mobile crane operator, even when just starting out in an entry-level position. According to the National Center for Construction Education and Research, mobile crane operators make an average of $80,674 per year, making it one of the higher-earning construction jobs. In fact, it is well above the national average salary of $66,621. 

Even better — there are plenty of career growth opportunities for crane operators and you could find yourself moving up to a management or supervisory position, meaning that your earning potential can be even higher. 

Mobile crane education involves a short training period that can yield high returns. For instance, at PTS our training programs are three weeks long. Jam-packed with valuable information in a short amount of time, you’ll be able to quickly join the workforce to start earning earlier. Compared to a traditional four-year college program, you’ll be on your way to a successful career in record time. 

It’s clear that mobile crane education is the way to go. Now how do you get there? It’s simple — let PTS lead the way.

Choose Top-Tier Crane Training from PTS

PTS is one of the premier mobile crane operator training schools in the country. With our three week crane training course, you’ll learn how to operate both the Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes. We’ll also teach you about crane safety, preventative maintenance, wire rope and basic rigging practices. 

We understand the importance of hands-on, practical experience. That’s why half of our course takes place in the classroom with our skilled instructors, and the other half takes place on our training grounds, giving you the in-the-seat experience you need to feel confident on a real job site. 

Don’t worry if you didn’t succeed academically in high school. You’ll only need basic 9th grade level comprehension and math skills for our program, and we’ve designed our course to help you get the in-demand certifications you need, like the NCCCO crane operator certification. No matter what you may need, PTS is here to help you succeed. 

If high school graduation is on the horizon and you’re uncertain about what your future may look like, speak with the team at PTS to get some answers. We’re ready to help you find your next step. Schedule a tour of our facility today and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

With the rise of AI and the growth of the manufacturing and renewable energy industries, it’s clear that college is not the answer for everyone. So what should your next step be? And more importantly — how can PTS help you get there? The answer is 3 week heavy equipment training. 

Let’s explore the benefits of 3 week heavy equipment training so you can start your journey towards finding a rewarding career today.

Cost, Time, and Results: Comparing Different Options

Whether you’re a high school graduate, a veteran retiring from military life, or simply a worker looking for a different path, there are several different options you may encounter.

College, for instance, is a conventional choice for many. Cost is a major consideration here, however. The average cost of a four-year college education is about $100,000. While that cost is dependent on location and whether that school is private or public, cost is a large factor that can impact your decisions. Community college is an option for many as well, but these programs can be time-consuming, and take several years to complete and earn a degree. 

Trade programs are another affordable option, and there are a variety of programs out there that can train you to join the workforce. Trade schools are dedicated to a particular vocation, such as plumbing or electrical work. While these programs train you to be qualified for specific careers, they still often take several years to complete and usually lead to apprenticeships before you can find a steady position.

That’s why 3 week heavy equipment training is the perfect option for your next step. It’s a fraction of the cost of a four-year college program, and it’s incredibly faster to complete than other trade programs. Learn the valuable skills you need to find a high-paying job quickly and affordably. But the most important thing is to make sure you learn from the best — and that’s PTS.

Turn to PTS for 3 Week Heavy Equipment Training You Can Trust

At PTS, our 3 week training programs will help you prepare for a rewarding career as a heavy equipment operator. Our programs are short, but they are comprehensive. With our 3 week, 120-hour training courses, you can expect to gain both the classroom and practical experience you need to feel ready for an entry-level position as a heavy equipment operator. 

We have small classes, which allows our experienced instructors to give you the attention you deserve to meet your learning needs. Our curriculum isn’t based on college-level material. Instead, you’ll just need basic 9th grade level reading, math, and comprehension skills to succeed in our 3 week heavy equipment training program. 

What should you expect from our courses? Let’s take a closer look:

• Heavy equipment operator 1 course: Learn how to operate skid steers, compactors, backhoes and more, as well as preventative maintenance and safety.
• Heavy equipment operator 2 course: Learn how to operate excavators, bulldozers, scrapers and more. You’ll also learn excavation math, and finishing and grading.
• Mobile crane operations course: Learn how to operate both Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes. You’ll also learn wire rope and basic rigging practices, as well as crane safety procedures.

PTS has been one of the nation’s leading heavy equipment operator training schools for decades, and we’re eager to help get you started on your way towards an in-demand and high-paying career. Are you ready to begin? Schedule a tour of our facility today to earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship and discuss your future with our admissions team. 

Your career choice can impact your life in so many ways: your finances, your family, your housing, and your happiness can all depend on choosing the right path for you. Let’s take a closer look at how becoming a crane operator can enhance the quality of your life.

Are you ready to elevate your career with mobile crane training? Download our free guide here to find out what you need to know to get started. 

3 Advantages of Mobile Crane Operation Training

1. Earn a Family-Sustaining Wage

In comparison to other construction careers, mobile crane operators earn high salaries that can help them enhance their families’ way of life. According to the NCCER 2024 Construction Craft Salary Survey Results, mobile crane operators earn an average of $80,674. Depending on location and experience, crane operators can earn even more, and many workers have the chance to earn overtime pay as well.

This kind of salary could help crane operators and their families thrive in this volatile economy. The U.S. national average salary is $59,228, well below the average mobile crane operator salary. It’s clear this is a career that rewards specialized labor, and taking advantage of these high wages could change your life.

2. Join a High-Demand Career

Crane operators are used in a variety of industries, like construction, mining, transportation, and renewable energy. They are the backbone of important infrastructure projects, and their work is in-demand. This demand is only expected to grow as more construction projects are needed. In fact, the mobile crane industry is projected to grow nearly 7% until 2032, meaning that there will always be a need for your role as a crane operator.

3. Expect Career Growth

There are plenty of advancement opportunities in mobile crane operation. Because this is such a versatile career, you’ll gain plenty of valuable experience on the job and you’ll gain it quickly. As you master more and more skills, you’ll build upon your crane operator knowledge, which will make you more attractive to employers. You can expect doors to open throughout your career, and you may be able to move to manager or supervisor positions, which will come with higher pay as well.

But the first step towards realizing your career potential? That’s crane operator training with PTS. Let’s learn more.

PTS is Ready to Help You Get Started

At PTS, we’re eager to help prepare you for a rewarding career with our crane operator training program. With our expert course, you’ll learn:

• How to operate a Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and a Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab crane
• Basic principles of cranes
• Crane safety
• Preventative maintenance
• Wire rope and basic rigging practices

Our program includes a mix of practical and classroom instruction so that you’ll feel confident entering the workforce once you graduate. Find employment quickly with our 120-hour, three-week crane operator training program. Our instructors are experienced professionals, and we’re ready to help you succeed.

Check us out yourself — schedule a tour of our facility and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship now.

When returning to civilian life, it can be difficult for veterans to navigate their new lives. It can be especially difficult navigating employment and finances, which is why trade programs can offer a lifeline for veterans. Here, we will take a closer look at how veterans can use trade programs to change their lives and support their families.

Learn more about how veterans can capitalize on heavy equipment training with our free ebook. Download it here.

Exploring Different Trade Programs 

When re-entering civilian life, veterans can expect to find a number of different trade programs that can help them figure out their next step. For instance, there are several programs dedicated to helping veterans learn important skills that will help them find work in trades that can provide income to support a family.

Whatever the choice, trade programs for veterans can boost earning potential. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, veterans who have attended trade programs have job growth rates of more than 14%. Investing in job training programs can enhance veterans’ opportunities and allow them to earn wages that can help their families thrive. But one trade possibility rises above the rest: heavy equipment operation. Let’s dive into how heavy equipment operation training can benefit veterans. 

Explore How Heavy Equipment Operator Training Empowers Veterans

If you’re looking for a high-earning, in-demand career opportunity, you’ve found it with heavy equipment operation. This career is perfect for veterans just returning from service. Many Veterans have gained a number of useful skills from their military experience that will be to heavy equipment operation. They are adaptable, cooperative, fast-learners, critical thinkers, and self-disciplined, all of which is important for a career operating heavy equipment.

Heavy equipment operators are in high demand because they are utilized in multiple industries, like construction, mining, transportation, and renewable energy. HE operators load and unload materials, move building supplies, dig, and more, and they are highly paid for this role. While it does depend on experience and location, on average heavy equipment operators make $70,797 per year, which is well above the national average salary of $59,228. These kinds of wages can help veterans sustain their families and thrive in their post-service lives.

When searching for trade programs for veterans, it’s clear that heavy equipment operator training is the way to go — and PTS is the best training school that can help you jumpstart your career. Let’s find out why.

Let PTS Guide You to Your Next Step

PTS is a designated Military Friendly® School, which means PTS meets the standard that measures an organization’s commitment, effort and success in creating sustainable and meaningful benefits for the military community. Additionally, we understand the unique challenges veterans may face when returning to civilian life. We’re dedicated to helping veterans navigate their post-service lives successfully, and we’ve trained countless veterans in heavy equipment and mobile crane operation. With our three-week training programs, you can start your new career quickly and be well on your way to earning high wages.

We have a number of courses available that are aimed at helping veterans succeed, including:

• Heavy equipment operator 1: In this introductory course, you will learn how to operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. You’ll also learn basic safety and preventative maintenance procedures, and you gain an introduction to earthmoving and soils.
• Heavy equipment operator 2: In this follow-up course, you’ll learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. You will also learn how to interpret civil drawings, excavation math, finishing and grading, and more. This course will leave you qualified for a number of entry-level heavy equipment operator jobs.

In just three weeks, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in your new career. Our courses consist of a balance of classroom instruction and in-the-seat experience so you can feel comfortable on the job site. At PTS, we value small class sizes and gear our training to appeal to hands-on learners. Our heavy equipment training courses are the top choice of trade programs for veterans, and we’re eager to help you get started on your next step. 

Learn more about our programs and schedule a tour of our facility to earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

A number of veterans have found success in heavy equipment operation. Are you wondering how your military experience can help you find a rewarding career as a heavy equipment operator? Let’s explore here.

If you’d like more information about how PTS can give veterans the training they need to find successful careers, download our free guide here.

What Skills Do Veterans Bring to Heavy Equipment Operation?

Veterans are highly trained individuals with unique life experiences that can bring value to any career. Let’s take a closer look at some important skills veterans learn from their military experience, and how these skills can help them operate heavy equipment:

• Adaptable: Veterans are used to adapting to fast-changing environments. They can react quickly to changes, which will be helpful as they navigate job sites as heavy equipment operators. Operators will need to maneuver around the site, as well as react quickly to whatever needs come up during a project.
• Communicative: Clear communication skills are necessary for a successful heavy equipment operation. You’ll need to both listen and command, which is something that veterans have experience with. Understanding both verbal commands and signals is imperative for this field.
• Cooperative: Veterans are used to working on a team, and the cooperation skills they learn in their military experience will serve them well on a job site. Heavy equipment operators have to collaborate with other construction workers to finish the job each day.
• Self-Disciplined: Following the rules and getting the job done is important for both veterans and heavy equipment operators. Both need to have the self-discipline to finish tasks to the best of their abilities.

In addition to these important skills, veterans have learned other valuable things from their military experience that will help them as heavy equipment operators. They are used to being physically active, as well as thinking critically. Veterans are also used to dealing with risks each day and value safety on the job site.

PTS Can Help Veterans Become Heavy Equipment Operators

At PTS, we understand how valuable your military experience can be. That’s why we’ve worked with countless veterans to find successful careers as heavy equipment operators. With our three-week, 120-hour training programs, veterans can easily transform their lives and gain the experience they need to find entry-level employment in heavy equipment operation.

• Our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 course will teach you how to operate many types of equipment, including skid steers, compactors, backhoes and more. You’ll also learn how to perform preventative maintenance, equipment safety, earthmoving, and much more.
• Take our Heavy Equipment Operator 2 course next to learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, and excavators, as well as how to do site work, excavation math, and more. By the end of our programs, you’ll be qualified to find employment for many heavy equipment operator jobs.

As a Military Friendly® school, we understand the unique challenges veterans may face when transitioning to civilian life, as well as the many advantages they bring to the table. With our comprehensive career assistance services and highly trained staff, we’re ready to help you with whatever you may need to find success as a heavy equipment operator. Ready to get started? Get in touch with us today, or better yet — schedule a tour of our facility and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

But with such a physically demanding job, you need to ensure you’re taking the proper steps to keep yourself and others safe. Here, we’ll dive into the top crane safety rules you need to know on the job site — and how PTS can help prepare you to get there.

4 Crane Safety Rules: What You Need to Know

1. Make sure you protect yourself by wearing the proper safety gear. Wear a hard hat and closed-toed shoes. A bright, orange jacket will also give you more visibility on the job site. Also make sure you’re protecting yourself from weather conditions with warm clothing since you may be required to be outside for long periods of time.
2. Ensure you’re protecting yourself from the elements. One important crane safety rule is to observe the conditions around you, so you’re not caught off-guard if the job site encounters high winds, lightning, rain or snow. Knowing your way around the job site is another important safety tip because it’s important that you’re able to maneuver the crane safely around your surroundings.
3. Make sure you’re also performing daily inspections and proper preventative maintenance on your crane equipment to ensure they’re operating as expected. Double check the engine, oil levels, emergency controls, safety switches, and more. These important safety checks will ensure that the equipment is working properly so you can safely operate it on the job site.
4. Ensure a qualified individual is operating the equipment. The proper mobile crane operator training can help with this, and PTS is the perfect choice. Let’s learn why.

PTS Can Train You to Be a Crane Safety Expert

We’re ready to help you become a mobile crane operator, and learning the proper safety protocols is an important part of that process. With our mobile crane operations training course, you can gain the skills necessary to gain entry-level employment as an NCCCO certified crane operator. In just three weeks, you can get practical experience operating both a Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and a Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab crane.

In addition to learning crane operation, you’ll also learn crane safety and how to perform preventative maintenance. These are all important skills that will be useful on a job site. You’ll learn the importance of never lifting a load over people, or a load that is over-capacity. Make sure you take up the slack slowly, and never try to lift a person.

Don’t forget about our rigger and signal training. With our training, you’ll learn different types of signals that you’ll use on a job site and prepare to successfully complete the NCCCO Rigger Certification program. This training can help you become a safer crane operator.

At PTS, we’re eager to help you learn the top crane safety rules so that you can become an effective and successful mobile crane operator. We’re proud to be one of the nation’s leading heavy equipment and mobile crane operator training schools, and we’ve helped countless individuals realize their potential and gain employment in successful fields.

Our team includes NCCER Master Trainers, NCCER Craft Instructors, NCCCO Certified Instructors and NCCCO Certified Examiners. We’ve worked with veterans as well, and we’re happy to help you use your VA benefits, like the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, to help pay for program tuition. We’re committed to your success, and we’ll do whatever it takes to help you start the career you deserve.

Are you ready to get started learning important crane safety rules that can help you find employment? Contact us today to schedule a tour of our facility and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Find the Best Heavy Equipment Training for Trades

With the trades growing in popularity both as business ventures and as individual careers, there’s no better time to sign your employees up for heavy equipment training. When you invest in their heavy equipment training for trades like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical — you’re investing in your business — ensuring it remains competitive year over year. 

That’s why Performance Training Solutions (PTS) is the perfect partner for your employee certifications. Our courses are fast, affordable, and perfect for aspiring tradespeople. With the proper heavy equipment training for trades from PTS, your employees will be empowered to create more value for your business and their own families. 

PTS’s heavy equipment training for trades gives tradespeople the ability to obtain highly regarded certifications that greatly increase their skills and abilities. Whether it’s HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or something else, PTS is here to support your employees. We even provide help with financial assistance for qualifying students, and can help you and your employees navigate the process quickly and easily. 

Find the Perfect Heavy Equipment Training for Trades

Our courses are fast and affordable, requiring only three weeks (or 120-clock-hours) of in-person training to complete. We offer three different types of training at our Central Ohio facility, which candidates are required to complete on-campus. While lodging and food are not included in tuition, the value provided by the certifications PTS offers far outweighs the short-term costs.

Jump into Quality Construction Operator Training

PTS offers three, 120-clock-hour (3 weeks) courses covering a variety of heavy equipment types. Training is held on-site at our Central Ohio facility, and you’ll be required to stay locally to complete your training. While food and lodging aren’t included in tuition, the short training duration and practical experience you’ll gain makes it all worthwhile, especially when you’ll be able to start earning a strong income in your new career. We offer the following courses:

Heavy Equipment Operator 2

Mobile Crane Operations

Government Employees Benefit From an Equipment Operator Certification

If you’re looking for an effective way to raise the skillsets of your public workers, helping them obtain a mobile crane or heavy equipment operator certification is a great way to do so. Becoming qualified to work with cranes and heavy equipment provides your workers with a strong foundation for starting new projects and endeavors. 

At Performance Training Solutions (PTS), we provide quality instruction to help aspiring professionals advance their careers in crane and heavy machinery operations. Our courses allow your employees to earn credentials and certifications quickly so they have a solid foundation for future public works projects. 

Our mobile crane and heavy equipment operator certifications will qualify your employees to handle a variety of different types of heavy machinery. The PTS team is also available and willing to help them obtain financial assistance for receiving heavy equipment or crane operator training. 

Help Your Employees Earn an Equipment Operator Certification Quickly

Getting certified with PTS only takes three weeks. We offer three different courses for different types of heavy equipment training, each requiring 120 hours of training. The training for these courses takes place on-site at our Central Ohio facility. Local lodging and food are not included within the tuition, so candidates will be required to provide for those needs themselves or through their employer. However, the opportunity to greatly increase your workers’ skillsets is well worth the cost, especially considering only three weeks worth of training are required to obtain an equipment operator certification.

Why Should You Sign Government Employees Up for a PTS Course?

By earning your equipment operator certification and credentials with PTS, your employees will be set up for success within the heavy machinery operation world. With the proper credentials, they’ll have the ability to take on new municipal jobs and work on new projects, greatly increasing their versatility. 

Once they’ve completed their program, the PTS team is always happy to provide refresher training for previous candidates who want to update their skills. 

There’s no better time to get started. Reach out today to learn more about our available courses and scholarship opportunities. 

Courses Available for Construction Operator Training

PTS offers three, 120-clock-hour (3 weeks) courses covering a variety of heavy equipment types. Training is held on-site at our Central Ohio facility, and you’ll be required to stay locally to complete your training. While food and lodging aren’t included in tuition, the short training duration and practical experience you’ll gain makes it all worthwhile, especially when you’ll be able to start earning a strong income in your new career. We offer the following courses:

Heavy Equipment Operator 2

Mobile Crane Operations

That’s why you should consider group heavy equipment training from PTS for your business or government department. How can this benefit you? Let’s dive in.

If you’re looking to enhance the quality of your workforce, get more information about employee equipment training from PTS here. 

The Advantages of Employee Equipment Training

When you invest in quality training for your employees, you can expect enhanced performance on the job site. When your employees gain the necessary skills to operate different types of heavy equipment and mobile cranes, you can expect that they will be able to more effectively and expertly perform for your business, leading to higher quality work and impressive final results.

Group training can also result in reduced turnover in your workforce. Investing in employee training increases both job performance and job satisfaction, boosting employee confidence as well. Recent research has indicated that companies that prioritize employee training and development retain workers up to 30% more than companies that do not. Group equipment training can boost overall productivity, morale, and also leave you with a competitive advantage because your reputation will grow as a business that invests in your employees. 

Boost Your Employee Skillset with Group Heavy Equipment Training from PTS

At PTS, we’re one of the nation’s leading heavy equipment and mobile crane operator training schools. While we often serve individuals with our comprehensive three-week courses, we also are proud to serve businesses and government departments with employee training.

PTS offers a variety of training that help you ensure your employees are operating equipment both safely and efficiently in the field. These training programs can help with certifications or credentials on essential pieces of equipment. Our programs lead to NCCCO Crane Operator Certification for mobile cranes, NCCCO Rigger and Signal Person Certification, and NCCER credentials for a wide range of heavy equipment. We also offer refreshers on specific machines so you can guarantee that your employees are following the latest state and federal regulations to ensure compliance in the field.

We’ve served businesses and government departments in various industries, including construction, mining, and transportation. Whether you run a Department of Transportation or own a construction company, you can invest in quality equipment training so your employees are well-prepared to operate various pieces of heavy equipment, such as bulldozers, skid steers, or excavators, and mobile cranes. With our help, you can ensure your employees are highly qualified and productive on your job sites. 

Are you ready to learn more about our group equipment training at PTS? Get in touch with us today or better yet, schedule a tour of our facility to speak with one of our expert staff members in person. 

Here, we take a closer look at the different types of cranes you might encounter on a job site — and how PTS can arm you with the foundational skills to become a high-earning crane operator. 

Are you ready to elevate your career with mobile crane operator training from PTS? Download our free ebook here and set yourself up for success with a career that rises above the rest. 

Different Types of Mobile Cranes Used in Construction 

Rough Terrain Crane

Designed for working in uneven terrain, this type of mobile crane is ideal for the construction industry. Because it is mounted on a truck, its large tires give it the ability to travel over rough surfaces and it is easy to maneuver. 

Crawler Crane

Instead of wheels, a crawler crane uses tracks to maneuver, which can be useful while on the uneven terrain of a construction site. This type of crane is ideal for carrying heavy loads, like construction materials.

Boom Truck Crane

This piece of equipment is a truck equipped with a hydraulic crane that can lift and move heavy construction materials. These cranes are popular in construction because they are extremely mobile and can be driven along public roads.

Telescopic Crane

This mobile crane can reach extremely high heights, making it perfect for the construction industry, specifically in placing prefabricated materials and demolition. A telescopic crane can be placed on trucks, allowing it to move throughout construction sites easily.

Reach New Heights with PTS

It’s clear that mobile cranes are critically important in the construction industry. Now, what’s the first step towards becoming a mobile crane operator? PTS can help you with your next move.

As one of the nation’s leading heavy equipment and mobile crane operator training schools, we’re eager to help you get on your way towards greatness. According to the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) 2024 Construction Craft Salary Survey, mobile crane operators can make an average of $80,674 a year. PTS can train you to join this rewarding career.

If you’re ready to get started, explore our Mobile Crane Operations course, a three-week, 120-hour program that will give you the necessary skills to find entry-level employment as an NCCCO-certified crane operator. Here, you’ll gain experience operating a Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and a Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab crane and you’ll learn important skills, like crane safety, preventative maintenance and more. 

With our mix of classroom instruction and practical experience, you’ll get the best possible education in mobile crane operations. And you don’t need to worry about college-level material — for our curriculum, you just need a basic 9th grade reading and math understanding.

Are you ready to see for yourself how PTS can help you learn how to operate cranes in construction? Schedule a tour of our Thornville, Ohio facility and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

But what does a loader actually do and why is it so important on a job site? Here, we’ll dive into what a loader operator does and how PTS can help you join this exciting career.

Want to know more about wheel loaders and how they move materials? Check out our article here, Why You Should Attend a Wheel Loader Training School.

Everything You Need to About Loaders

First things first: what is a loader and why is it important? A loader is a piece of heavy equipment used to move various items on a job site, such as rock, soil, debris, and other building materials. It has a large bucket used to scoop and dump these materials, and is essential in construction, highway projects, landscaping, and agriculture. They are different from bulldozers because they use large buckets to lift materials, while bulldozers use a heavy metal plate.

There are various types of loaders with different characteristics but similar capabilities. A front-end loader has a large bucket mounted in the front of the machinery that scoops and lifts materials. A specific type of front-end loader is a wheel loader, which has large, thick wheels that enable it to cover larger areas. A backhoe loader utilizes the typical loader bucket in the front, combined with a backhoe attachment at the back that allows them to perform excavating tasks.

While dependent on location and experience, the average salary of a loader operator is about $55,270, but there are plenty of opportunities for that number to grow as your career progresses. Earning a NCCER credential can go a long way in improving your salary potential, and PTS can help with that. Let’s learn how.

PTS Can Help You Become a Loader Operator

At PTS, we are committed to preparing you for a long and successful career as a loader operator. With our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 course, you can learn how to operate various types of heavy equipment, including wheel loaders, skid steers, backhoes, and more. You’ll also learn how to perform preventative maintenance, safety protocols, and learn earthmoving and soils, preparing you to be a loader operator on any job site you wish.

Take your education one step further with our Heavy Equipment Operator 2 course. You’ll learn how to operate other types of equipment, like bulldozers and excavators, and also gain experience with finishing and grading, as well as site work. Combined, these two courses will prepare you well for a rewarding career.

PTS has long been considered one of the nation’s premier heavy equipment training schools, and we’re proud to serve individuals from all walks of life, including veterans and recent high school graduates. With our three-week programs, you’ll gain valuable foundational skills that will help you succeed in your career. Our courses combine practical experience with classroom instruction so you have all the tools you need to find a job as a loader operator.

If you’re looking to enhance your career, get in touch with PTS today. Schedule a tour and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship now.

The construction industry, for instance, requires skilled laborers who are able to operate different types of machinery. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the construction industry is expecting a 12% job growth rate until 2029, which is faster than the 7% job growth rate of other industries.

That’s why crane operator training school is such a great investment if you’re looking for a profitable and long-lasting career. But how much time do you need to commit to crane operator training school in order to be successful? Here, we’ll take a closer look at mobile crane training programs so you can make an informed decision about your next career.

Are you ready to take the next step towards becoming a mobile crane operator? Browse our free guide here to learn more about how PTS can prepare you for a satisfying career. 

Crane Operator Training School: What You Need to Know

When you choose PTS for your mobile crane operator training, you’ll make a temporary commitment for a lifelong gain. Our programs last three weeks, which is a 120-hour commitment. But what is so revolutionary about our courses is that more than half of your time will be spent operating real equipment. This practical, in-the-seat experience is invaluable and will give you the confidence you need going into your job search.

Now that you understand how long crane operator training school will take, let’s take a look at what else you need to know. First, it’s important to balance practical experience with classroom instruction. At PTS, our curriculum is comprehensive so you receive the foundational knowledge you need to be successful as a mobile crane operator. But you don’t need to worry about college level material — you’ll simply need a basic 9th grade level of reading and math skills to complete our program.

How PTS Prepares You for a Rewarding Career

In our crane operator training school, you’ll learn how to operate both Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes, which will give you plenty of impressive experience when you’re ready to find a job. In addition to learning how to operate mobile cranes, you’ll also learn basic preventative maintenance and safety protocols. We will also teach you wire rope and basic rigging practices. With our small classes and comprehensive instruction, you’ll receive the support you need to find success.

But besides our world-class training and highly skilled instructors, you can also expect PTS to prepare you for NCCCO certification, which is a very in-demand certification. It helps establish important operational and safety protocols for crane operation, and PTS can prepare you for both the written and practical NCCCO certification exams so you can feel confident in your knowledge.

No matter what your background, PTS is well-equipped to provide you with an exceptional crane operator training school. We serve a variety of individuals, like veterans, recent high school graduates, and disabled workers. Our program is intensive but in as little as three weeks, you could be well on your way towards becoming a mobile crane operator and earning the type of wages that can help your family thrive. According to the 2024 NCCCER Construction Craft Salary Survey results, the average salary of an experienced mobile crane operator is $80,674, making it one of the higher paid construction careers out there.

When you commit to our three-week crane operator training school, you’re committing to a lifetime of satisfying and high-paying work. Are you ready to take the first step towards becoming a mobile crane operator? Schedule a tour of our facility at PTS today and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Premium Heavy Equipment Training in Peoria, IL

If you’re looking for a new career opportunity, Performance Training Solutions can help. We offer expert heavy equipment training in Peoria, IL. We can also provide you with crane operator certification so that you can be more appealing to potential employers. Our state-of-the-art Thornville, OH facility is within a day’s drive from Peoria, making it the perfect choice for your next step. In as little as three weeks, you can find yourself ready to join a variety of exciting industries, like construction or mining. Let PTS help you and your family thrive.

About Our Crane Operator Certification and Heavy Equipment Training Programs

At PTS, we’ve had experience serving a wide range of individuals, including veterans, disabled workers, recent high school graduates, and unemployed workers. No matter what your background is, we have what it takes to help you succeed. With our highly trained staff, our programs are the perfect mixture of classroom instruction and practical training, giving you the in-the-seat experience that you need to feel confident going into your job search. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect from our heavy equipment training near Peoria, IL:

Gain important foundational knowledge with our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 course. Here, you’ll learn operational basics, preventative maintenance and how to operate a variety of equipment that will make you more employable, such as skid steers, wheel loaders, and more. Next, take our follow-up course, Heavy Equipment Operator 2, where you’ll gain even more experience in the field. You’ll learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders, as well as be exposed to site work, finishing and grading, excavation math and more.

Are you looking for crane operator certification, and from Peoria, Illinois? PTS has you covered with our expert Mobile Crane Operations course. Here, you’ll learn operational basics, safety procedures, and preventative maintenance, as well as wire rope and basic rigging practices. With our help, you’ll gain experience operating a mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab crane.

At PTS, we’re well-equipped to prepare you for a long-lasting career as a heavy equipment or mobile crane operator. Our highly trained staff can help prepare you for NCCER or NCCCO certification, which will make you more attractive to prospective employers.

Trust PTS for High-Quality Heavy Equipment Training in Peoria, IL

PTS is committed to your success. That’s why we’re proud to accept a variety of funding options so you can put your best foot forward as you begin your new career. With our career assistance services, we help you find employment after you graduate because we understand the ins and outs of the industry. No matter what you may need, we’re prepared to help you get started as a heavy equipment operator. See the PTS difference for yourself — schedule a tour of our facility today and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Expert Heavy Equipment Training in Quincy, IL

Are you ready to transform your life with an exciting and high-paying new career? Let Performance Training Solutions help you with quality heavy equipment and mobile crane training in Quincy, IL. With our premier training facility located in Thornville, Ohio, we are the perfect choice for mobile crane and heavy equipment training close to Quincy, IL. We’re prepared to help you find your next step, no matter what your experience may be. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, unemployed, disabled, or a veteran, we know that you have what it takes to be successful in your new career.

About Our Mobile Crane and Heavy Equipment Training

We know how important it is to find a career that will help you and your family thrive. That’s why we’re so invested in your success. Our three-week programs are intensive and will prepare you for a rewarding job as a mobile crane or heavy equipment operator. Our Thornville facility is located within a day’s drive from Quincy, IL, so you can rest assured knowing that you can go through our program quickly and then get back to your family and your job search.

What can you expect from our training courses? Let’s take a closer look.

First, gain important foundational knowledge with our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 course. Here, you’ll learn how to operate several pieces of heavy equipment, like skid steers, wheel loaders, backhoes and much more. Then take our follow-up course, Heavy Equipment Operator 2. You’ll gain experience operating bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders, as well as learning preventative maintenance and important safety procedures.

If you’re looking for expert mobile crane training, and are from Quincy, IL, we’ve got you covered. Our Mobile Crane Operations course will teach you how to operate a mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab crane, as well as prepare you for an NCCCO certification, which is a very in-demand certification that will make you more appealing to employers.

With our help, you’ll be able to find a job in a variety of key industries, including construction, mining, energy, and transportation. Heavy equipment operation is a very in-demand field, and we’re well-equipped to prepare you to find success.

Choose PTS for World-Class Heavy Equipment Training in Quincy, IL

At PTS, our programs are designed to balance classroom instruction with practical experience so that you’ll feel confident on a job site. Our highly trained staff consists of NCCER Master Trainers, NCCER Craft Instructors, NCCCO Certified Instructors, and NCCCO Certified Examiners, who are all dedicated to helping you succeed. With our career assistance services, we’re happy to welcome you back to PTS anytime, even after you graduate, for a refresher for any piece of equipment on which you’ve been trained and credentialed. Explore our funding options here to learn more about what benefits you may be able to use for our programs, and schedule a tour of our facility today to earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Superior Heavy Equipment Training in Champaign, IL

Are you ready to kickstart a new career as a heavy equipment or mobile crane operator? Performance Training Solutions can help. Located within driving distance from Champaign, IL, PTS has a reputation as the premier heavy equipment training school in the nation. If you’re looking for mobile crane or heavy equipment training in Champaign, IL, we can ensure that you find success in a vast range of industries, including construction or mining. In as little as three weeks, you can enter a new and exciting career that will help you and your family thrive.

About Our Mobile Crane and Heavy Equipment Training Programs

At PTS, we understand how important it is to balance classroom instruction with practical experience. That’s why we’re so proud of our training facility, which features over 15 acres of training grounds that will enable you to gain in-the-seat experience. Our highly trained staff is invested in your success, and will help you gain the knowledge necessary for your NCCER or NCCCO certification, which will make you more employable as you begin your job search.

We’re prepared to help you succeed, which is why we have such comprehensive training programs. In our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 course, you’ll learn how to operate a variety of popular heavy equipment, including skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. Then take our follow-up course, Heavy Equipment Operator 2 course, where you’ll gain the experience necessary to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. If you’re looking for mobile crane training near Champaign, IL, turn to our Mobile Crane Operations course. Here, you’ll learn how to operate mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab cranes, as well as preventative maintenance and crane safety.

PTS is prepared to help students from all walks of life: veterans, disabled workers, recent high school graduates, unemployed workers and much more. We want to see you enter this new career field, so we’re happy to accept a variety of funding options, including VA benefits. No matter your experience, we’re ready to help you figure out your next step.

PTS Can Help You with Heavy Equipment Training in Champaign, IL

Start your new journey today with PTS. We can help you with mobile crane and heavy equipment training if you live near Champaign, IL. Trust our expert training programs and career assistance services that will help you find a job even after you’ve graduated. Schedule a tour of our facility today to see our program in action and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. Let PTS help you figure out your next step.

Premium Heavy Equipment Training in Springfield, IL

If you’re looking for quality heavy equipment and mobile crane training in Springfield, IL, turn to the experts at Performance Training Solutions. Our training facility is located in Thornville, Ohio, within driving distance from Springfield. With our assistance, you can prepare for a rewarding career as a heavy equipment or mobile crane operator, which is valuable in a wide range of industries, such as construction, mining, or transportation. PTS can ensure your success in an in-demand career with our superior heavy equipment training program.

Learn More About Our Training Programs

Our training facility is equipped with over 15 acres of training grounds and 5,400 square feet of classroom space to prepare you for your new career. We understand the importance of practical experience, so you will receive plenty of in-the-seat training so you can gain the foundational skills necessary to find entry-level employment. Our highly trained staff includes NCCER Master Trainers, NCCER Craft Instructors, NCCCO Certified Instructors, and NCCCO Certified Examiners, and all are ready to invest in your success.

What do you need to know about our training courses? Our accelerated programs are only three weeks long but are jam-packed with important fundamental knowledge that you’ll need to know for a long-lasting heavy equipment operation career. In our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 course, you’ll gain experience operating skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. In our follow-up, Heavy Equipment Operator 2 course, you’ll learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders.

Finally, our Mobile Crane Operations course will prepare you to operate a mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab crane. Our high-quality courses will help prepare you for NCCER and NCCCO certification, which are both extremely appealing to employers.

Turn to PTS for Heavy Equipment Training in Springfield, IL

No matter who you are, PTS is committed to seeing you succeed. We serve a wide range of individuals, including veterans and disabled workers. Our top priority is you, which is why we accept a variety of funding options, including VA benefits, like the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. We’re prepared to help you as you achieve greatness in your new career. Schedule a tour of our facility today and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. If you’re ready to invest in your own success, turn to PTS.

The Top Heavy Equipment Operator Training in Cleveland, Ohio

If you’re looking to jumpstart your career, turn to the experts at Performance Training Solutions (PTS). We offer the best mobile crane operator and heavy equipment operator training in Cleveland, Ohio. Join an in-demand field and become part of successful industries like construction, mining, transportation or energy, setting you up for a long-lasting and rewarding career with plenty of growth opportunities.

About Our Heavy Equipment and Mobile Crane Operator Training

Just two and a half hours from Cleveland, our facility in Thornville, Ohio is equipped to prepare you for a long career as a heavy equipment operator. We have 5,400 square feet of classroom space and 15+ acres of training ground to use for in-the-seat practical experience. Our curriculum isn’t based on college-level material — you’ll only need to know basic 9th grade reading and math skills to be successful in our program.

What can you expect to learn from our training courses? Our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 course will teach you how to operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. Upon completion, you will be accredited with the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

Our Heavy Equipment Operator 2 course will then teach you how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders, giving you plenty of experience that will appeal to employers when it’s time to join the job hunt.

Our Mobile Crane Operator course will instruct you how to operate mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab crane. Upon completion, you’ll be certified through the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). Get ready to start earning family-sustaining wages that will enable you to thrive.

Turn to PTS for Heavy Equipment Operator Training in Cleveland, Ohio

Whether you are a veteran, an unemployed worker, a recent high school graduate or a disabled worker, PTS is invested in your success. Our staff works hard to help you find a job after you graduate, and you are always welcome back at PTS for a refresher on any piece of equipment on which you’ve been trained and credentialed. Explore our funding information, as well as how you can use VA benefits for our program. Schedule a tour of our facility and receive a $500 tuition reduction discount. Embark on your new career with PTS today.

High-Quality Heavy Equipment Operator Training in Cincinnati, Ohio

Whether you are a veteran just retired from military service, an unemployed worker looking for your next step, or a recent high school graduate, Performance Training Solutions (PTS) can prepare you for a thriving career. Just two hours away from Cincinnati, PTS is the perfect place to gain experience as a heavy equipment or mobile crane operator. If you’re interested in a career in construction, mining, or other in-demand industries, work with PTS, the premier heavy equipment operator training program for Cincinnati, Ohio.

More on Our Mobile Crane and Heavy Equipment Operator Training

Our program balances classroom instruction with practical experience, where you’ll get to learn in-the-seat on a variety of heavy equipment. Our program doesn’t require a college-level education — basic 9th grade reading and math skills apply to our curriculum. We understand the importance of entering the workforce quickly so you can take care of your family. Our programs last only three weeks so you can start your career as soon as possible. During the duration of your training, you’ll need to remain local. While lodging and meals are not included, our admissions team is happy to work with you to recommend local options.

Our programs prepare you for important credentials that will allow you to be more appealing to employers. The Heavy Equipment Operator 1 course will give you experience operating skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks and upon completion, students will be accredited with the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

Continue your education with our Heavy Equipment Operator 2 course, where you’ll learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders, leaving you qualified for a wide range of heavy equipment operator jobs. Our Mobile Crane Operator course will prepare you to operate a mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab crane and upon completion, you’ll be certified through the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO).

Trust PTS for Heavy Equipment Operator Training in Cincinnati, Ohio

At PTS, we’re committed to seeing you succeed. We have an extensive career assistance program because we want you to find a job as soon as you can. We accept a variety of funding options, including VA benefits, so you can begin succeeding in your heavy equipment or mobile crane operator training. Schedule a tour with us today and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. Get started with PTS and start your new and rewarding career.

World-class Heavy Equipment Training in Columbus, OH

For outstanding and affordable heavy equipment training for students in Columbus, OH, turn to the experts at Performance Training Solutions. Our Thornville facility is only 25 minutes away from Columbus, making it a prime location for students who need to commute while attending our training program. If you’re interested in starting your career as a mobile crane or heavy equipment operator, get in touch with PTS today.

Explore Our Training Programs and Career Courses

At PTS, we are invested in your success. That’s why we’re committed to bringing you into the workforce quickly. Our accelerated training programs enable our students to start their careers as mobile crane or heavy equipment operators as soon as they complete our three-week courses. With a mixture of classroom learning and in-the-seat practical experience, our courses prepare students for a long-lasting and rewarding career as heavy equipment operators, and many are appreciative of the chance to earn family-sustaining salaries with opportunities to grow.

No matter your background, PTS is dedicated to your success in heavy equipment training in Columbus. We’ve helped students from all walks of life: veterans, disabled workers, recent high school graduates, unemployed workers and more. We’re eager to help get you started on the path towards success, regardless of your past experience.

Our students work in a variety of in-demand industries, including construction and mining, but our training programs prepare you for a variety of job opportunities. Our courses offer you a much faster and more affordable option to obtain your dream career instead of attending a 2-year or 4-year college with a costly price tag.

Our programs include Heavy Equipment Operator 1, where you’ll learn the basics of operating skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. With our Heavy Equipment Operator 2 course, you’ll gain experience operating bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders, and upon completion of the course, will be accredited with the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). You can also become a certified crane operator with our Mobile Crane Training course. Here, you’ll learn how to operate a mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab crane and upon completion, students will be certified through the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO).

Get Started with Heavy Equipment Training in Columbus, OH

With training from PTS, you’re on your way to earning a salary that can help your family thrive. Our career assistance program provides you with job placement services and we accept a variety of funding solutions, including VA benefits, to help offset the costs of our program. Schedule a tour of our facility today and you’ll also receive a $500 tuition reduction discount. Get started with PTS today.

Take the next step in your career and earn your mobile crane operator certification. Let’s dive into the duties and responsibilities of a mobile crane operator, and then we’ll see how Performance Training Solutions (PTS) can help prepare you to enter this exciting industry.

What Does a Mobile Crane Operator Do?

A mobile crane operator is an expert in moving and operating cranes, which are used to raise and lower items, like shipping containers or building materials. A crane operator needs to be skilled in operating this difficult piece of machinery, as well as well-versed in proper safety protocols. In addition to operational techniques, you’ll need to understand how to calculate load weights and capacities, as well as how to follow site plans. You’ll also need to perform preventative maintenance on your equipment and log your work.

There are several different types of cranes, although two popular options are the mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab crane and the telescopic boom fixed-cab crane. The mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab crane is flexible and rotates. It can handle a wide variety of lifts and is used to navigate tight spaces. The telescopic boom fixed-cab crane is compact but the cab is stationary.

If you’re ready to become a mobile crane operator, you can expect to find opportunities in a diverse range of industries. Commonly, they work in the construction industry, working on both commercial and residential projects. There are opportunities for mobile crane operation in the mining industry as well, working in quarry operations or open pit mining. You could also work in the energy industry maintaining power plants, or installing solar panels. Consider operating a railroad crane in the transportation industry. No matter what industry you decide to join, earning your mobile crane operator certification is imperative for your success in this career.

What You Need to Know About the Mobile Crane Operator Certification Process

The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) is an organization that is dedicated to safer standards in crane operation. An NCCCO certification is an in-demand certification because it demonstrates to employers that you understand important safety procedures, leading to fewer on-site accidents.

An NCCCO certification can improve your job prospects and salary growth. The salary for an NCCCO certified crane operator could be about $85,000. This mobile crane operator certification is important for your success in the industry. But what does it entail?

First, you’ll need to attend a qualified mobile crane operator training program that will prepare you for a long-lasting career. Your program should give you plenty of opportunities for practical, in-the-seat training, as well as classroom instruction that can prepare you for the NCCCO certification exam.

For your NCCCO certification, you’ll need to meet certain requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Comply with the NCCCO’s Substance Abuse Policy
• Pass Written Examinations
• Pass Practical Examination
• Comply with the NCCCO Code of Ethics

You’ll also need to pass a core written exam, which is in multiple-choice format. Then you’ll need to pass one or more specialty exams, which include lattice boom cranes, telescopic boom cranes (swing cab), and telescopic boom cranes (fixed cab). This mobile crane operator certification is valid for five years.

PTS Can Prepare You for a Mobile Crane Operator Career

At PTS, we have experience providing individuals with high-quality mobile crane operation training. With our mobile crane operation course, we prepare you to operate different types of cranes, as well as basic safety procedures and preventative maintenance. You’ll also learn wire rope and basic rigging practices. Our three-week program will help you gain the necessary skills to find success as a mobile crane operator. We prepare you to pass the NCCCO exam so you can receive this in-demand mobile crane operator certification.

In addition to our expert training courses, we also have extensive career assistance services because we are invested in your success. We assist you with finding employment opportunities, and we also welcome graduates back any time for a brief refresher on any piece of equipment on which they’ve been trained and credentialed. We’re prepared to help you find success any way we can.

If you’re ready to take the first step towards earning your mobile crane operator certification, get in touch with the team at PTS today. Earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship when you schedule a tour with us. 

Here, we’ll take a closer look at what articulated trucks do on a job site, what the career trajectory of a dump truck driver looks like, and how you can take the first step towards articulated truck training.

The Role of a Dump Truck Driver

First, let’s dive into what a dump truck driver does. A dump truck driver is a professional who transports materials in an open-bed truck. These materials can include gravel, dirt, garbage, or mulch, and dump truck drivers work to pour these materials where needed. In addition to construction or mining, dump trucks are often found in the renewable energy and transportation industries as well.

One obvious responsibility of dump truck drivers is driving the vehicle, but they also have other job duties. You need to understand basic operational safety procedures, and perform preventative maintenance on your equipment. You’ll have to complete paperwork and follow site plans. Dump truck drivers play a vital role on any job site.

What Salary Can You Expect as a Dump Truck Driver?

Articulated truck drivers are highly valuable and their salaries reflect this. According to Glassdoor, the salary of dump truck drivers ranges from $69,000 to $127,000 a year. The median annual salary is $93,000 a year. In the latest research for the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average salary is $59,384. Additionally, the job outlook for dump truck drivers is positive. About 240,300 openings per year are expected as current drivers are projected to retire.

Dump truck drivers can work in a variety of industries and for various projects. It’s clear that there are numerous job opportunities out there for articulated truck drivers. As one of the more lucrative heavy equipment operator careers, you should consider this role as your next job. The first step? High-quality heavy duty dump truck driver training.

PTS Can Help You With Superior Articulated Truck Training

If you’re ready to dive into the world of heavy equipment operation, then you should turn to Performance Training Solutions (PTS) for high-quality dump truck driver training. At PTS, we’re one of the top heavy equipment operator training schools in the country and we’re well-equipped to prepare you for a long-lasting career as an articulated truck driver.

We offer several classes that can help you get started on this path. Most importantly, our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 Course will teach you how to operate several types of heavy equipment, including articulated trucks, skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, and backhoes. In addition, you’ll learn basic operational techniques and preventative maintenance. You’ll gain experience in earthmoving and soils, and learn safety protocols as well. Our three-week course will provide you with the foundation you need to find success as a dump truck driver.

Continue your education with our Heavy Equipment Operator 2 Course, where you’ll learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. You’ll also gain experience in site works, grades, excavation math and much more. With our Mobile Crane Operations Course, you’ll learn how to operate different types of cranes, as well as crane safety, preventative maintenance, and wire rope and basic rigging practices.

With our heavy duty dump truck driver training, you’ll gain the experience and credentials needed to appeal to employers as you’re entering the job search. We understand that school might not be for everyone, but you just need basic 9th grade level reading and math skills to be successful in our program. With our courses, you can expect a balance of classroom instruction and practical experience.

If you’re ready to get started with dump truck driver training, it’s time to get in touch with the experts at PTS now. Schedule a tour of our facility today and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

What a DOT Heavy Equipment Operator Does

There are plenty of opportunities for heavy equipment operators to find long-lasting careers in departments of transportation. DOT heavy equipment operators have an important role in maintaining roads and bridges, as well as keeping highways safe. You’ll likely be operating skid steers, backhoes, tractors, dump trucks, and snow plows.

A DOT heavy equipment operator can be expected to perform maintenance along the highways, such as repair work. They’ll also work on DOT-mandated construction projects. This can include pothole repair, repaving projects, sidewalk construction, and more. Just like in any other industry, DOT heavy equipment operators will be expected to safely operate machinery by loading and unloading materials, such as construction equipment, building materials, or soil.

There are plenty of opportunities to work in different Departments of Transportation, across a variety of levels: federal, state, and local. At the federal level, you can consider working for the Federal Transit Administration, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or the Federal Highway Administration. Each of these divisions works to provide highway services, which encompasses safety, traffic operations, bridges, right-of-way, construction and maintenance, highway beautification, and more. Those job functions will also be expected of you, although at a smaller scale, for state and local Department of Transportation jobs. You can expect competitive salaries, benefits, and some even provide pensions. No matter where you look, there are plenty of job opportunities available for DOT heavy equipment operators.

How PTS Can Set You Up For a Career as a DOT Heavy Equipment Operator

Now that you understand the duties and benefits of a Department of Transportation heavy equipment operator, you need to figure out how to get started. PTS can help you with this first step.

At PTS, we are well-prepared to help you start on your journey to becoming a heavy equipment operator. As one of the premier heavy equipment operator training programs in the country, we are invested in your success. Our programs combine classroom instruction with in-the-seat practical training so that you have experience operating a variety of equipment. Our three-week, 120-hour courses are comprehensive and the perfect preparation for your new career.

How do you know which course might be right for you? Let’s take a closer look at our heavy equipment courses:

Heavy Equipment Operator 1: In this entry-level course, you’ll learn the basics of heavy equipment operation and safety. You’ll gain experience operating skid steers, backhoes, wheel loaders, and more. You’ll also learn some preventative maintenance. This course will prepare you to find employment operating many types of equipment that are used in the Department of Transportation.

Heavy Equipment Operator 2: This is a follow-up course where you will continue your education. Here, you’ll learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and more. You’ll also learn excavation math, site work, and finishing and grading. In addition, you’ll learn how to interpret civil drawings, which is an important skill for a DOT heavy equipment operator. This course will qualify you for a wide range of heavy equipment jobs, including with the Department of Transportation.

Get Started With PTS Today

PTS is capable of preparing you for a long-lasting career as a DOT heavy equipment operator. Our courses will teach you all you need to know about heavy equipment operation, and you don’t even need a college degree for our programs. A 9th-grade math and reading level is satisfactory. Our facility is located in Thornville, Ohio, a prime location for students from all over the country. While we don’t provide accommodations, we are happy to offer recommendations while you are attending our three-week program. Schedule a tour of our facility today to receive a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Examine the positive aspects of heavy equipment operator training for veterans, how to use your earned benefits to help pay for the training, and why Performance Training Solutions is the best choice to power you forward in a new career. Adjusting back to civilian life can be difficult; Learn how a rewarding, accessible career can ease the process.

Read our free, no-obligation ebook below.

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Becoming a heavy equipment operator is a great option for women who are looking for their next step. Whether you are a veteran or a recent high school graduate, Performance Training Solutions (PTS) can help you find your place as a woman in the construction industry. With our world-class mobile crane and heavy equipment operator training courses, you will be well equipped to take on your role as a heavy equipment operator. At PTS, we are ready to invest in you so that you can find success in a new and rewarding career.

Read our free ebook below.

A New Path Forward: For more information about how veterans can take advantage of heavy equipment operator training, check out this free ebook from PTS. 

What is the GI Bill® and How Can Veterans Use It?

The Post-9/11 GI Bill® can help you pay for school, trade programs, or cover job-training expenses. If you were an active duty military member on or after September 11, 2001, you may qualify for the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. Let’s dive into the requirements for Post-9/11 GI Bill® eligibility.

You may be eligible for these education benefits if you meet at least one of the following requirements:

• You have served at least 90 days of active duty on or after September 11, 2001, or
• You have received a Purple Heart on or after September 11, 2001, and were honorably discharged after any amount of service, or
• You have served for at least 30 continuous days on or after September 11, 2001, and were honorably discharged with a service-related disability, or
• You are a dependent child using benefits transferred by a qualifying veteran

Additionally, if your service ended on or after January 1, 2013, these benefits won’t ever expire because of a law called the Forever GI Bill® — Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act.

But how exactly can you use the GI Bill® for veteran trade programs? You can use these benefits for:

• Tuition and fees
• Money for housing if you are in school more than half time
• Money for books and other supplies
• Money to help you move from a rural area to go to school
• Payments for vocational training or a non-college degree
• On-the-job training and apprenticeships
• Entrepreneurship training
• Flight training
• Test fees
• Work study
• Correspondence training
• Distance learning

Now the important question: how do you get these benefits? First, you’ll need to apply to use the GI Bill® for veteran trade programs. You’ll need some documents and information readily available, like your social security number, bank account direct deposit information, education and military history, and basic information about the program you wish to attend. Typically, it takes about 30 days to determine your eligibility for these benefits.

The Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program

In addition to the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, you should also consider utilizing the VR&E program for veteran trade programs. This is available to veterans with a service-related disability that limits or prevents their ability to work. Benefits include support services for learning new skills, finding new employment, starting a business, or getting educational counseling, and these benefits can also transfer to the dependents of veterans.

Use Your Veteran Benefits at PTS and Thrive in a New Career

PTS is a certified Military Friendly® school and we have extensive experience helping veterans find new careers as heavy equipment or crane operators. We offer three-week, 120-hour courses that will prepare you for future success:

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1: Here, you’ll learn the basic skills that can help you gain entry-level employment operating a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck. You’ll also gain an introduction to earthmoving, soils, and basic safety measures.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2: In this course, you’ll gain the knowledge needed to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders, as well as learn grades, site work, excavation math, and more.
• Mobile Crane Operations: PTS  will provide you with the skills necessary to find a job as an NCCCO-certified crane operator. You’ll learn crane safety, crane operations, preventative maintenance, and how to operate a mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and a telescopic boom fixed-cab crane.

PTS can help you take advantage of your veteran benefits and thrive in veteran trade programs. Our training courses consist of a balance of classroom learning and practical experience so you have the knowledge you need to gain employment. We have helped veterans from all branches of the military utilize their hard-earned benefits, and we’re ready to help you take the next step. If you’re ready to embark on your new career journey, contact us today. Schedule a tour at PTS and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. 

What is an NCCCO Certification and How Does it Help You?

First, it’s important to understand what an NCCCO certification is. This is an in-demand certification from the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to safer standards in crane operation. Recognized by OSHA for meeting safety requirements, an NCCCO certification is a popular certification because it leads to fewer accidents on the job, reduced loss risk, and more consistent training for crane operators.

In addition to the obvious safety benefits, an NCCCO certification can actually improve your career opportunities. In fact, the salary for an NCCCO certified crane operator could be about $85,000, which is 19% above the national average. Of course, this number could vary based on experience and industry, but it’s undeniable that certified crane operators make higher salaries because their training and expertise are valuable to employers. This certification is vital for your entry into the crane industry, so let’s take a closer look at what the NCCCO certification entails.

How to Get a Crane Operator License from NCCCO?

The first step towards earning your NCCCO certification is to attend the right training program that can properly prepare you not only for the exam, but also for your career as a crane operator. Classroom training is important because you’ll need to learn about basic crane operation, preventative maintenance, crane safety, wire rope, and basic rigging practices.

In-the-seat training is just as important, so find a program that values practical experience as well. You need to gain experience operating both a mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and a telescopic boom fixed-cab crane because you’ll be tested on them during the NCCCO certification exam. Find a training program that employs NCCCO certified instructors who are experienced and able to properly prepare you not only for the exam, but for a long-lasting career as a crane operator as well.

What to Expect on the NCCCO Exam

In order to receive your NCCCO certification, there are certain requirements you must meet:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Comply with the NCCCO’s Substance Abuse Policy
• Pass Written Examinations
• Pass Practical Examination
• Comply with the NCCCO Code of Ethics

The core written examination is in a multiple-choice format with a total of 90 questions. Candidates must also be competent in one or more Specialty designations, which include:

• Lattice Boom Cranes
• Telescopic Boom Cranes — Swing Cab
• Telescopic Boom Cranes — Fixed Cab

Typically, your exam results will be given to you before you leave the testing center, and NCCCO certification is valid for five years.

How to Get a Crane Operator License? Turn to PTS!

Performance Training Solutions can help prepare you for a satisfying and long-lasting career that will enable you to find future growth opportunities and help sustain your family. As one of the nation’s leading heavy equipment and crane operator training schools, PTS has what it takes to help you elevate your career. Located in central Ohio, our training facility features 5,400 square feet for classroom training and over 10 acres for practical experience.

In addition to our high-quality mobile crane operation training, we also provide Heavy Equipment Operator Training 1, which provides the necessary knowledge required to operate a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck. Then, continue your training with our Heavy Equipment Operator Training 2, where you will learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, on-road dump truck, and motor graders. Our programs last three weeks, but the knowledge and skills you’ll gain will last a lifetime.

No matter what course you decide to take, PTS is here to help. Whether you are a veteran, recent high school graduate, disabled worker, or unemployed worker, PTS is ready to help you level up your career. If you’re ready to take the first step towards getting your crane operator license, schedule a tour at PTS and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Get Behind the Wheel and Unlock Your Career Potential Today.

If you’re searching for your next rewarding job opportunity, look no further. PTS can prepare you for a long-lasting and thriving career as a heavy equipment or crane operator. Our free guide breaks down all you need to know about the salaries you can expect as a heavy equipment or crane operator, as well as information about our training programs, so that you can be part of this exciting career field.

Read our free ebook below.

If you’re wondering what course you should take at PTS to launch your career, check out more information here.

Crane Operator Requirements and Responsibilities

There are several physical crane operator requirements that are essential for success in that job. Since you’ll be operating heavy machinery on a construction site, you’ll need good hand-eye coordination, as well as good vision, depth perception, and spatial awareness. Your hearing must be adequate, either with or without a hearing aid, because you typically must be constantly communicating with other site workers. You also need strength and endurance to successfully operate a mobile crane and react quickly to changes in the environment.

Beyond physical requirements, you’ll need to be able to remain calm in stressful situations and remain adaptable to whatever changes may occur on the job site. Communication and teamwork skills are also vital, so you need to be able to cooperate with others. Since you’ll be responsible for operating a mobile crane, you’ll need to understand crane safety and preventative maintenance.

Crane operator requirements also include practical thinking. You’ll need to be able to assess conditions quickly and follow site plans. Ninth-grade level reading and math skills are required to be successful in this position, so don’t worry if you don’t have a college degree. As long as you have basic critical thinking skills, you’ll be able to successfully become a mobile crane operator.

Now that you understand crane operator requirements, how do you break into this career? PTS can help you take the first step.

Partner with PTS to Elevate Your Mobile Crane Operator Training

Our highly reviewed mobile crane operations course trains you to find entry-level employment as an NCCCO certified crane operator. This three-week, 120-hour course gives you the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to operate both Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes.

In addition to classroom learning, you’ll gain real-world experience with in-the-seat field instruction. Crane operator requirements include practical education to help you become more confident and familiar with operating cranes. You’ll learn crane safety, operation, preventative maintenance, wire rope, and basic rigging practices.

After successfully completing this course, you’ll have the opportunity to earn your crane operator certification from the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). This five-year certification is in-demand in the construction industry, and will help you stand out to employers. PTS can help prepare you for this important crane certification.

PTS is here to help you in your journey to becoming a crane operator. In fact, graduates are always welcome back at PTS for a brief refresher on any piece of equipment on which they’ve been trained. We want to support you as you begin your new and rewarding career as a crane operator. If you schedule a tour at PTS, you can even earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. For more information about crane operator requirements and our training programs, get in touch today.

But first, it’s important to find the right construction role for you. Here, we’ll take a look at becoming a heavy equipment operator, why this is the perfect job for veterans after their military careers, and how PTS can properly prepare you for this new career.

How does PTS help veterans build a rewarding career? Learn more about our veteran resources here.

How Veterans Can Excel as Heavy Equipment Operators

First, what do heavy equipment operators even do? In the construction industry, heavy equipment operators operate skid steers, backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, and more. According to a 2024 survey by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) comparing the salaries of different construction jobs, heavy equipment operators made an average of $70,797. Those are significant earnings, especially for a job that doesn’t require an additional degree. Veterans in construction are choosing heavy equipment operation more and more because the growth potential is tremendous.

Veterans can easily transition to heavy equipment operation because they have many transferable skills that are highly valued by their employers. Veterans are easily adaptable to changes in their environment and are able to communicate with their coworkers effectively to get the job done. Being a team player is also important because a construction project requires many different workers to accomplish a task. Veterans also have self-discipline and are able to complete physically demanding work, which is necessary in heavy equipment operation. Thinking critically is key as well. Construction sites may be dangerous if you don’t have the proper training or critical thinking skills to safely perform your job.

Veterans possess all the skills necessary to find a successful career as a heavy equipment operator, one that will leave room for growth and will enable a comfortable transition back to civilian life. But they need to find the best heavy equipment operator training school that can prepare them for success – and that’s where PTS can help.

Trust PTS to Help Veterans in Construction Build a Rewarding Career

PTS offers high-quality training programs that provide the fundamental education necessary to find entry-level employment as a heavy equipment operator. Veterans in construction can also take advantage of several programs in order to help fund heavy equipment operator training at PTS. For instance, the Post-9/11 GI Bill® may provide payment for tuition and fees, and the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program can also provide you with certain benefits if you are eligible.

As one of the top training schools in the country, we have an experienced team of NCCER Master Trainers, NCCER Craft Instructors, NCCCO Certified Instructors, and NCCCO Certified Examiners who are ready to help you succeed.

Each training course lasts three weeks, and during that period, you’ll gain valuable knowledge that you can take with you to any job site. Our programs include both classroom learning and in-the-seat instruction, where you’ll learn how to safely operate various types of equipment. We have several courses available:

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1: in this entry-level course, you’ll gain the necessary knowledge required for the basic operation of several types of heavy equipment, as well as heavy equipment safety, earthmoving, and soils. You’ll learn valuable skills, like preventative maintenance, and will practice operating five types of equipment that are commonly used on construction sites: skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2: in this follow-up course, you’ll gain additional knowledge about heavy equipment operation, including excavation math, interpretation of civil drawings, and finishing and grading. You’ll practice operating bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders, and you’ll be qualified for a wide range of construction jobs.

We also offer a mobile crane operations course that will prepare you for entry-level work as a NCCCO certified crane operator. No matter what course you choose, expect small class sizes, dedicated instructors, and a supportive team that wants to see you succeed above all else. Contact PTS to see how we support veterans in construction build rewarding careers. Schedule a tour today and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship. 

Build a Career in Industry Where You’re Always in Demand

Mobile crane and heavy equipment operators for the energy industry are needed now more than ever, with investment from both government and private sectors seeing significant growth over the past few years.

As a result, opportunities for operators of heavy equipment such as mobile cranes, skid steers, backhoes, graders, excavators, off-road dump trucks, and countless other machines are increasing — creating a great opportunity for those considering this as a career path.

The first step is getting trained — resulting in certification for mobile crane operation or accreditation for heavy equipment operation. Learn more about the differences between these here. If you’re exploring career options for heavy equipment operators in the energy industry, the best place to get trained is at Performance Training Solutions (PTS).

Why PTS for Heavy Equipment and Mobile Crane Training?

• Each program is only three weeks long, getting you in the market faster
• Training is less expensive than obtaining a 2- or 4-year college degree
• Training combines classroom teaching with in-the-seat instruction
• Our facility is ideally suited for training on multiple equipment types
• We offer small class sizes for better one-on-one time with instructors
• Grants and scholarships may be available, and veterans can use benefits
• We have an industry-leading 90% job placement rate for our graduates
• We offer lifetime career services support for our graduates

Start Your Journey to a Rewarding Career in Energy

With ample opportunities for meaningful careers supporting U.S. energy infrastructure and adjacent industries, now is the time to take the first step toward a brighter future with training at PTS. Connect with our team today to learn more about our training programs, discuss tuition and schedules, and more. Schedule a tour of our Central Ohio facility and receive a $500 tuition reduction scholarship!

Courses Available for Construction Operator Training

Heavy Equipment Operator 2

Mobile Crane Operations

Get Trained for a Career Where You’re Always on the Move

The transportation industry — consisting of government departments, airports, private contractors, shipping companies, maritime transport, and many others — all rely on heavy equipment and crane operators. Every day, transportation heavy equipment operators help to prepare sites for new construction, maintain shipping operations, relocate other equipment or containers, and so much more.

Because of this, career opportunities in the transportation industry are plentiful, with job growth in the sector increasing significantly year over year. If you’ve been considering a new career path, or if you’re weighing whether to attend college or try a different vocational path, Performance Training Solutions (PTS) can help you break into this market with our heavy equipment and mobile crane operations training.

Why PTS for Heavy Equipment and Mobile Crane Training?

• Our programs are only three weeks in length so you can get hired sooner
• Training is less costly than going to a traditional 2- or 4-year college
• You’ll benefit from in-class as well as in-the-seat instruction
• Our Central Ohio facility is perfect for training on multiple equipment types
• Small class sizes ensure better one-on-one time with instructors
• Grants and scholarships may be available, and veterans can use benefits
• We have an industry-leading 90% job placement rate for our graduates
• We offer lifetime career services support for our graduates

Get Trained and Get Hired with PTS

The transportation industry keeps the world moving, and heavy equipment and mobile crane operators keep the industry moving. Now is the time to get trained and start earning strong, family-sustaining wages in a field where skilled workers such as yourself are always in demand. Connect with us today to learn more about training, and schedule a tour of our facility to receive a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Explore Our Transportation Heavy Equipment Operator and Mobile Crane Operator Programs

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Mobile Crane Operations

Heavy Equipment Operator School for Illinois Students

Build a Rewarding Career in Heavy Equipment and Mobile Crane Operations

Looking for the best heavy equipment operator school in Illinois? While you likely have local options, consider Performance Training Solutions (PTS). With thousands of students served across numerous states, PTS is the heavy equipment operator and mobile crane operator training school you’ve been looking for.

While we’re located in Central Ohio, a short drive over from Illinois and an industry-leading fast training program mean you’ll be on your way to earning a strong wage in an extremely in-demand career field. Here’s why you should consider going out of state in your search for the best heavy equipment operator school in Illinois.

• Our training programs are only three weeks long each (120 clock hours)
• Training is vastly less expensive than a 2- or 4-year college program
• 90% placement rate for students seeking jobs after graduation
• Lifetime career services support (resumes, job search, and more)
• Small class sizes mean more one-to-one time with instructors
• Extensive facility with updated classrooms and vast field space
• Training consists of classroom and in-the-seat instruction
• Grants and scholarships may be available

About Our Heavy Equipment and Mobile Crane Training Programs

Heavy Equipment Operator I

Our Heavy Equipment Operator I course provides entry-level training for skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. Students will receive an introduction to earthmoving, soils, heavy equipment safety, and basic operational techniques and will be accredited with the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) upon completion.

Heavy Equipment Operator II

Completion of Heavy Equipment Operator I is required. Our Heavy Equipment Operator II course exposes students to bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders as well as grades, site work, excavation math, interpretation of civil drawings, and finishing and grading. Students will be accredited with the NCCER upon completion.

Mobile Crane Operations

Our Mobile Crane Operations course includes both the mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab cranes. Students will learn basic crane principles, safety, operations, preventive maintenance, wire rope, and basic rigging practices. Students will operate a mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab crane. Students will be certified through the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) upon completion.

Experience the Best Training Available and Start Your Journey to a Lasting, In-Demand Career

Whether you’re a high school student thinking about your next steps, are a veteran rejoining the workforce, or are another experienced worker looking for a new career path, training at PTS is the ideal solution for building a career in persistent industries with strong salaries and benefits. While meals and lodging aren’t provided at PTS, our admissions team can work with you to identify arrangements that meet your needs.

Contact us today to schedule an on-site tour and receive a $500 tuition reduction scholarship!

If you’re a current job seeker, it’s important to do your research to make sure you land at a place where you can have a long-lasting career. It can be overwhelming to figure out what you want to do with your life, so let’s dive into one specific career choice to help you decide if it’s a good fit for you: mobile crane operator.

Whether you are a veteran, unemployed worker, disabled worker, or recent high school graduate, becoming a crane operator is certainly an option that you should consider. You might be thinking a few things. First, what does a crane operator do? And, most importantly, is a crane operator a good job? Let’s explore this career choice together so you can decide if being a crane operator is right for you.

What Does a Crane Operator Do?

Firstly, it’s important to understand what a crane operator does. While the day-to-day life of a crane operator may change based on the project, you can expect to be operating and maintaining different types of cranes, like the Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and the Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes.

No matter the type of crane you’ll be operating, you can expect to be using heavy machinery to lift materials, objects, and equipment at commercial or residential construction sites and industrial facilities. Of course, the most important thing about this job is that you’ll need to be able to safely operate cranes and move these materials. You’ll need to assess load weights and capacities, as well as keep accurate records of crane usage. In order to make sure you’re following all the proper safety procedures, you also need to effectively communicate with other team members, like signal persons or supervisors.

Now that you know what a crane operator does, it’s time to look into career prospects, salary, and more aspects to determine if this is a good job for you.

Is a Crane Operator a Good Fit for You?

When you’re job searching, something at the top of your mind is always salary. Does this job have the type of salary that can help sustain your family? Will this job allow you to thrive, or will you struggle to live from paycheck to paycheck? Luckily, if you decide to become a crane operator, you won’t have to worry about a low salary.

According to the National Center for Construction Education and Research, in 2024 the average salary of a mobile crane operator was $80,674. Compare this to the average U.S. annual salary of $59,384 and you can see just how well paid crane operators are. Of course, it’s important to note that the more experience you have in this industry, the more money you can make. It’s not unheard of for highly skilled crane operators to make up to six figures! This type of money can absolutely change your life.

And the need for qualified crane operators is increasing! According to Recruiter.com, demand for crane operators is expected to go up by about 0.75% each year by 2029. This is certainly a stable career choice that will give you many opportunities in the years to come.

Keep in mind that you need to have the required certifications and credentials in order to be considered for jobs, so let’s look into what it takes to become a crane operator.

How to Become a Crane Operator

Companies want to hire skilled employees, which is why most look for crane operator certification from the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). In order to be eligible for this certification, you will need to fulfill these requirements:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Comply with NCCCO’s Substance Abuse Policy
• Pass Written Examinations (Core and at least one Specialty)
• Pass Practical Examination(s)—Candidates must pass the Practical exam within twelve months of passing the written examination
• Comply with the NCCCO Code of Ethics

You’ll also want to find a good training program that can not only help you with this certification, but one that can give you real in-the-seat field experience. You need to be able to properly operate swing and fixed cab mobile hydraulic cranes, so finding a program that gives you excellent practical experience is key.

You may want to also consider rigger and signal training in order to give you more opportunities as you look for work. This will enable you to understand the different types of signals used, as well as understanding how to operate equipment. You’ll also learn the different requirements of OSHA. This certification can enable you to find work in mining operations, construction, boat building, and more.

PTS Can Help Kickstart Your Career as a Crane Operator

Now that you know the type of training you’ll need to become a crane operator, you need to pick the best training program for you and that’s where PTS can help. We offer several courses that will help you achieve the career of your dreams.

Learn how to operate a crane at our mobile crane operator school. This is a 120 hour, three week course that gives you the skills necessary to find an entry-level position as an NCCCO certified crane operator. With both classroom and field training, you will learn how to operate a crane, as well as crane safety, preventive maintenance, wire rope and basic rigging practices.

We have your long-term career goals in mind, and once you complete the program and pass all the required exams, you will receive a five-year Mobile Crane Operator Certification from the NCCCO. With this in-demand certification, you won’t have to worry about struggling to find a job as a crane operator.

But PTS will help you long after you graduate from our programs. We are proud of the fact that 90% of our students become employed after graduation. PTS also has career assistance tools so that you will find the right job after you complete our program. In addition, you are always welcome back at PTS if you need to refresh your skills or apply for recertification.

We proudly serve a wide range of individuals, from veterans, to recent high school graduates, to disabled workers and more. We can also help you train to become a heavy equipment operator. If you want to level up your career and start the process of becoming a crane operator, reach out to PTS today. Schedule a tour and learn about our $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

If you’re searching for a new career, it’s important to know that you have options beyond a four-year degree or a traditional 9-to-5 office job. Whether you are a new high school graduate, a veteran, an unemployed worker, or a disabled worker, you should consider a career in the construction industry. Construction, as a whole, is a booming industry:

• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction added 27,000 jobs in June 2024, which was higher than the average monthly gain of 20,000 over the prior 12 months.
• The construction industry has also bounced back significantly in spite of recent pandemic challenges.
• While other sectors have faced severe decreases in employment, the construction industry’s employment rate has grown from 5.0% of total employment in February 2020 to 5.2% in March 2024.

Construction jobs are continuing to be on the rise, and if you’re looking for a new career, you need to take advantage of this opportunity. Let’s dive into why a career in construction might be right for you.

What Does a Construction Career Look Like?

First, it’s important to understand that the construction industry is very large. You can work within residential or commercial construction, and so many different roles are included within the industry. You might look into construction management, carpentry, drywall installation, roofing, and much more. There are two specific construction jobs that are showing immense growth and high earning potential: heavy equipment operators and mobile crane operators. Let’s take a look at both of these roles.

Heavy Equipment Operator Careers

As a heavy equipment operator, you can operate bulldozers, skid steers, backhoes, excavators, scrapers and more. These types of equipment are in-demand in the construction, energy, and mining industries. You will also be working in both the commercial and residential sectors, using equipment to move heavy objects, like construction materials or soil. You might work on repairing bridges or constructing commercial buildings. While the day-to-day of each project may look different, you will always be responsible for operating and maintaining the heavy equipment and machinery on each construction site.

According to the 2024 Construction Craft Salary Survey Results published by the National Center for Construction Education and Research, the average salary for a heavy equipment operator is $70,797. This is far above many of the other salaries in this industry, which shows that a career as a heavy equipment operator is high-paying. This is the type of salary that can help you sustain your family. There are plenty of careers out there that require a four-year degree, and yet they don’t offer salaries like this. Consider becoming a heavy equipment operator and see how many amazing opportunities come your way.

Mobile Crane Operator Careers

Becoming a mobile crane operator is another career option to think about. With the increase in urbanization and industrial projects, there is a high demand for cranes and advanced lifting solutions. As of 2023, the U.S. crane market was worth 26.3 billion dollars. By 2032, the market is projected to be worth 46.7 billion dollars. As the number of construction projects continues to rise, crane operators are needed now more than ever.

As a mobile crane operator, you are expected to operate various types of cranes, like the Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes, as well as know key principles of crane safety, preventative maintenance, wire rope and basic rigging practices.

You’ll need NCCCO Crane Operator certification, which is an in-demand certification in the construction industry. It’s worth it though because according to the NCCER 2024 Construction Craft Salary Survey Results, the average salary of a mobile crane operator is $80,674. That shows that your salary as a mobile crane operator is in the top 5 salaries of construction jobs.

These are the types of wages that can truly change your family’s life. And in an industry that is always growing, the only place to go is up. For more information about becoming a crane operator, check out this article: How Long Does it Take to Become a Crane Operator? 

How to Start a Career in Construction

Now that you’ve learned about different jobs in the construction industry, you might be wondering where to begin if you’re interested in a new career.

First, you’ll need to determine what kind of training or certifications you may need. For most construction jobs, like heavy equipment operators, you will not need higher education like a four-year degree. However, you will need certain training in order to ensure you have knowledge of proper safety, maintenance, and operational procedures. As already mentioned, NCCCO certification will ensure that you are qualified to operate cranes. There is both a written and practical exam requirement for this certification.

You may also want to consider specialized heavy equipment training that provides an NCCER equipment-specific credential. Here, you can become certified in operating skid steers, articulated off-road dump trucks, dozers, excavators, and more.

No matter what type of certification you choose, however, hands-on training is the most valuable way to start your career in construction. This is where we excel, so let’s learn more about the PTS difference.

How PTS Can Help You with a Career in Construction

At PTS, we are committed to helping you succeed. A heavy equipment and mobile crane operator school, we offer numerous training programs at our state-of-the-art facility in Ohio. With small class sizes, our experienced instructors use a nationally recognized standardized NCCER curriculum so you can earn your NCCER or NCCCO certifications. We combine classroom learning with in-the-seat field experience to make sure that in as little as three or six weeks, you are ready for a job in the real world.

Our facility in Thornville, Ohio has 5,400 square feet of space for classroom training, while also offering 10+ acres of training grounds for the hands-on experience that makes PTS graduates so successful. In fact, our students have a 85% job placement rate after graduation. We serve veterans, new high school graduates, unemployed workers and more.

PTS knows what it takes to be successful in the construction industry, and we want to help you provide for your family so we offer career assistance for our students even after they’ve graduated from our programs. At PTS, we also understand that you may need a refresher every now and then, so feel free to come back for a brief re-training on any piece of equipment on which you have been trained and credentialed.

That is truly the PTS difference — you are more than just a name to us. Long after you’ve graduated from our program, you can expect support from PTS. You want to have a long-lasting career in the construction industry and we can help you not just survive but thrive. Partner with us and expect your career prospects to soar. Get started today by scheduling a tour of our facility and learn about our $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Starting Heavy Construction Equipment Training

Heavy equipment and crane operator training does not take nearly as long as a college education, allowing you to jump into your career much faster. In order to start your training, you will need to find a reputable school. If you are having trouble deciding, taking tours of the facilities will help you determine which school is the best fit for you.

Once you have decided on a school, you will enroll in a course. At PTS, we have a few options, including Heavy Equipment Operator I and Mobile Crane Operations. In the Heavy Equipment Operator I course you will learn the skills needed for various types of construction equipment compared to learning solely about the mobile crane in the Mobile Crane Operator course.

What to Expect During Training

At PTS, both our Heavy Equipment Operator I and Mobile Crane Operator courses are three weeks long, covering 120 hours of instruction. This time is split between classroom and in-the-seat learning so you gain all of the information and skills needed for your new profession.

During the Heavy Equipment Operator I training, you will learn how to operate many types of critical equipment on the construction site including skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and off road dump trucks. In the Mobile Crane Operator course you will be focused on learning how to operate Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes.

Getting Your Certification or Credentials

Depending on which type of equipment you are interested in operating, you will either need to get your certification or your accreditation. If you are looking to operate mobile cranes, you will sit for your certification exam after graduating and if you are going to operate heavy equipment, you will receive your credentials.

Crane Certification

After finishing your Mobile Crane Operator training, you will need to sit for a test to receive your certification from the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators, or NCCCO. Once you receive your formal NCCCO certification, you will be able to find employment or continue your education on other types of cranes.

Heavy Equipment Credential

Once you complete your Heavy Equipment Operator I course you will receive a credential from the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). After this credential is awarded, you will be able to seek employment or continue your education.

Finding Work After Your Training

After getting your certification or credential for operating heavy machinery on construction sites, you will have many job opportunities to choose from. Many construction projects are being started and are underway with the need for more housing, updating existing buildings, and infrastructure repairs. In fact, construction employment grew from 5.0% of total employment in February 2020 to 5.2% in March 2024.

At PTS, we provide our former and current students with career assistance services. Our team will work with you to teach you soft skills that will make you more marketable in the workplace and we will help you find a job that fits what you are looking for.

What to Expect Out of Your Salary?

When you join the heavy equipment operations industry, you will have the opportunity to make a great salary. The average yearly salary of a mobile crane operator in the United States is $54,566 and the average salary of a heavy equipment operator is $49,330. Of course, like with any career, your salary will increase as you gain more and more experience, allowing you to make upwards of $87,000 with more experience.

Continuing Your Heavy Construction Equipment Training

You will also be able to continue honing your skills in the heavy equipment operator sector by furthering your education. For example, if you had previously completed your Heavy Equipment Operator I training, you can return to PTS to complete the Heavy Equipment Operator II training. In this course you will expand your knowledge to include operating bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders.

By continuing your education, you broaden the opportunities you have within the construction industry. You will be able to operate even more types of machinery, and you will have learned marketable skills, such as excavation math and interpretation of civil drawings.

Start Your Heavy Construction Equipment Training With PTS

If you are ready to get started on your new career path or continuing your education, PTS is here to help. We offer two entry-level courses — Heavy Equipment Operator I and Mobile Crane Operator — and one continuing education course  — Heavy Equipment Operator II. From veterans and high school graduates to those looking for a new career and the unemployed, PTS has helped a broad range of students find their place in this field.

Start the process today by scheduling a tour with PTS to receive $500 off of your tuition!

Heavy Equipment Operator Careers

First, you need to know your options when entering heavy equipment operations. There are a few common industries that you can enter, including construction, mining, and energy, as well as the option to go into heavy equipment or mobile crane operations.

As a heavy equipment operator, you will have the knowledge needed to operate many different types of equipment on construction, mining, and energy projects. These professionals can work as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or off-road dump truck operator.

Mobile crane operators also have the opportunity to join various industries, however, they are only trained to operate types of cranes. When focusing specifically on mobile cranes, we provide training on mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cabs and telescopic boom fixed-cab cranes.

What Do Heavy Equipment Operators Do in Construction?

With the increased need for new housing, infrastructure repairs and additions, commercial projects, and renovations on various buildings, construction workers and heavy equipment operators are in high demand. As a heavy equipment operator in the construction industry, your day-to-day responsibilities will largely be related to moving heavy materials. This includes moving building supplies, soil, and earth.

In your work, you will be responsible for repairing or building various projects, such as roads, bridges, homes, aircraft runways, dams, commercial buildings, and more. Each project is different and the exact demands of heavy equipment operators and crane operators may change from project to project.

What Do Heavy Equipment Operators Do in Mining?

In the mining industry, heavy equipment operators are critical to getting the job done safely and efficiently. You will be responsible for facilitating the extraction of raw materials and the restoration of mines at the end of their economic life. The daily activities of heavy equipment operators who work in mining include using bulldozers, front-end loaders, and dump trucks to move materials, perform excavating and grading, and loading or unloading trucks.

What Do Heavy Equipment Operators Do in Energy?

The energy industry is critical to everyone in the world, meaning the industry will always be in demand, especially with the growth of sustainable energy initiatives. Individuals have the option to work in oil, gas, mining, or green energy.

On the job, heavy equipment operators are responsible for operating and maintaining the the large machinery used on-site, including graders, scrapers, compactors, tractors, bulldozers, front-end loaders, and more. In a typical day, you will operate one of these large machines in order to move earth, build access roads, bridges, pipelines, and tunnels. Additionally, you will assist with the construction of sustainable energy initiatives such as windmills and solar panels.

How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator

If the day to day of what heavy equipment operators do interests you, you’ll need to know how to break into the field. In order to start, you will need to sign up for heavy equipment or mobile crane operator courses. This training will combine in-the-seat training and classroom instruction so you have all of the information and the skills needed to be successful in the field.

To learn more about the process of becoming a heavy equipment operator or a mobile crane operator, check out our blogs:

• How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator
• How Long Does It Take to Become a Crane Operator?

Interested in Becoming a Heavy Equipment Operator? Turn to PTS

At PTS, we offer courses in both heavy equipment operating and mobile crane operating that last just a few weeks and are a fraction of the cost of a college education. We work with you to get you into a job quickly, providing you with the necessary in-the-seat skills and the classroom knowledge you need to be successful. Our career assistance program also provides you with soft skills training and resources to help you land a job.

Get started today by scheduling a tour of our training facilities and get $500 off of your tuition!

Looking for Steubenville Jobs?

Get Trained in Heavy Equipment and Mobile Crane Operations and Grow Your Career

Whether were recently laid off, are a veteran re-entering the workforce, are a recent high school graduate, or are just exploring the latest Steubenville jobs, Performance Training Solutions (PTS) offers a solution that sets you up for a rewarding, long-term career.

Designed for small class sizes to provide deeper instruction and learning, our heavy equipment operator and crane training programs equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for a career in multiple industries where trained individuals are always in demand:

• Mining
• Construction
• Energy
• Oil & Gas
• Transportation

• Logistics
• Import/Export
• Military
• Airports
• Other Service Industries

We Offer Mobile Crane and Heavy Equipment Training Programs

Conducted at our facility just east of Columbus, Ohio, our programs consist of both in-the-seat and in-the-classroom instruction totaling 120 hours, or three weeks. Students will learn the safe operation of various types of heavy equipment or mobile cranes and will gain firsthand experience operating the equipment in a safe, controlled training space. Students are expected to remain local during training. Lodging and meals are not provided, but our admissions team can work with you to recommend local options.

Heavy Equipment Operator I

Our Heavy Equipment Operator I course provides entry-level training for operating skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. Students will also receive an introduction to earthmoving, soils, heavy equipment safety, and basic operational techniques. Upon completion, students will be accredited with the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

Learn More

Heavy Equipment Operator II

Upon completion of Heavy Equipment Operator I, students may choose to continue their education with Heavy Equipment Operator II, which exposes students to bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. Students will be exposed to grades, site work, excavation math, interpretation of civil drawings, and finishing and grading. Upon completion, students will be accredited with the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

Learn More

Mobile Crane Operations

Become a certified mobile crane operator with our Mobile Crane Operations course! This program includes both the mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab cranes. Students will learn basic crane principles, safety, operations, preventive maintenance, wire rope, and basic rigging practices. Students will also operate a mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab crane. Upon completion, students will be certified through the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO).

Learn More

Your Search for Steubenville Jobs Ends Here

With training from PTS, you’ll be on your way to earning a strong wage and enjoying a meaningful career in just a matter of weeks — much faster and more affordably than going to a 2-year or 4-year college. Best of all, our support continues after you graduate. Our career services team provides assistance with job placement, and our strong 90% placement rate demonstrates the success of that commitment.
We accept a variety of funding, including VA benefits programs. Our team will be happy to discuss options with you — simply schedule a tour below. Those who complete a tour of our facility will also receive a $500 Tuition Reduction Scholarship! Get started today.

However, there is still a great deal of growth needed to make women feel comfortable joining the construction and mining workforces. Since March is Women in Construction Month, we are going to explore the benefits of women in the construction industry and how PTS supports women wanting to join the industry. 

Women in the Construction Industry Offer Many Benefits

Gender Diversity Improves Productivity

When there is greater diversity in the workplace, companies tend to be more productive. In fact, companies that were in the top 25% in gender diversity were more likely to outperform the industry average. Gender diversity also brings in people from many backgrounds with many different experiences, and their skill sets. These different skill sets allow companies to put employees in positions where they can reach their full potential. 

Improved Communication and Attention to Detail

Women have been found to be better communicators than men, as they can express themselves better and are able to see other peoples’ sides. This may lead to improved communication with coworkers and other companies. 

Attention to detail is another area in which women thrive. Many times, their male counterparts are overconfident in their ability to notice details and make adjustments. This attention to detail may prevent accidents on the job and lead to a higher quality finished project. 

A Smaller Wage Gap

In many industries, women earn 16% less than men, or 84 cents for every dollar made by a man. However, the gender pay gap in the construction industry is one of the smallest with women earning 95.5% of what men in the industry are earning. The gender pay gap has been extremely slow to close over the years, making the near-equal pay of the construction industry that much more impressive. 

Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs for Women in the Construction Industry

Mining 

Mining jobs provide raw materials needed to power all industries, helping to fuel the country’s growth. Not only does mining boost economies and provide necessary materials, but it also helps create crucial infrastructure. Heavy equipment operators are a big part of making the mining industry a success. From removing earth to relocating it, operators for bulldozers, excavators, dump trucks, wheel loaders, and more are always in demand. 

Construction

With the population continuing to grow and many structures starting to age, the construction industry is more important than ever. In these jobs, construction workers are responsible for building new structures, renovating existing structures, and replacing or repairing infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and more. These workers are responsible for moving earth and large objects with heavy equipment such as bulldozers, dump trucks, and more, as well as mobile cranes. 

How to Join the Women in the Construction Industry 

Joining the construction or mining industry is easy with PTS. Our programs run in as little as three weeks and provide you with all of the information and skills needed to gain your certification and join the workforce. 

We offer courses in heavy equipment operating and mobile crane operating so you can choose exactly what you want to do with your education. Our courses take place over three, six, or nine weeks and cost significantly less than college. 

How it Works

To start, you can schedule a tour at PTS’s training location and sign up for the course you are most interested in. Your training will take place over three, six, or nine weeks and will consist of a mix of classroom and in-seat training. Once your training is complete, you will need to schedule and sit for an exam to gain your accreditation — such as taking the NCCCO mobile crane operator exam. After this, you are ready to join the workforce. At PTS, we offer career assistance to help you find the right job for you.  

Get Started with PTS

PTS offers various financing options and also accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® and the Veteran Readiness and Employment Program Chapter 31 benefits. If you are ready to get started on your new career path, schedule a tour with PTS today and get $500 off of your tuition!

When working to become a crane operator, it is important to understand the process as a whole, including what taking the crane operator tests entails. In this blog, we will briefly outline what it looks like to become a crane operator and take a deep dive into crane exam preparation.

Thinking About Crane Training? Here is Why it is in Demand

The demand for mobile crane operators will continue to grow in 2024. The market is expected to grow 6.3% from 2023 to 2033, increasing the demand for workers. More and more construction projects are taking place and older infrastructure, such as bridges, roads, and sidewalks, need to be updated or replaced, both of which lead to an increased demand for crane operators.

To learn more about why now is the right time to get your mobile crane certification, check out our blog.

What Does Crane Training Entail?

At Performance Training Solutions, you can complete your mobile crane operator training in as little as three weeks. This 120-hour program provides you with both in-seat and classroom education to prepare you for the NCCCO crane training exams. In-seat and classroom instruction are split evenly and cover all of the subjects and skills you need to pass the crane operator test.

What Does the Crane Training Exam Include?

Once training is completed, all crane operator students will need to sit for the NCCCO crane operator exams (Core and Specialties). The practical crane operator test consists of six main tasks including inspecting equipment, hoisting, booming, swinging, following hand signals, and combination operations. The written exam covers technical knowledge, operations, load charts, and site knowledge. Once the test is passed, you may begin working!

Keep in mind that you need to pass both the written and practical exams in order to obtain your mobile crane operator certification. Luckily, there are a few crane exam preparation techniques you can use to succeed.

How to Prepare for the Crane Operator Test

Receive Training from a High-Quality School

The first step you can take to pass the NCCCO crane training exam is to attend the right school. Being able to train in-seat is crucial to the exam, however, classroom education is just as important. Working with a school that splits time evenly between these will help you succeed during the exam.

Additionally, the right school for you should have small class sizes. This allows instructors to provide a more personalized approach to your education and gives you the opportunity to ask questions easily.

Utilize the NCCCO Reference Material, Study Guides, and Practice Exams

The NCCCO provides reference materials on their site, such as The Candidate Handbook which outlines each exam you may be required to complete. Additionally, there are various resources that students can use to study for the test on the NCCCO site, including load chart manuals and study aids.

What to Expect on the Day of Your NCCCO Crane Operator Tests

When you show up to your testing site on the day of your scheduled exams, you will need to present some form of government-issued photo identification. This may be your passport, U.S. government- or state-issued driver’s license, military identification card, or U.S. government-issued alien registration card. It is also recommended that you bring your scheduling confirmation email with you.

The test is scored as you go, so before you leave, you will be able to see your preliminary exam results immediately after your exam. These results are also available on the CCO portal and are emailed to you.

PTS is Here to Help You Prepare for Your Crane Operator Test

At Performance Training Solutions, we provide our students with in-depth training both in-seat and in the classroom so they are prepared to take the NCCCO crane operator tests and enter the field successfully. Our training only takes three weeks and our small class sizes allow us to provide a more personalized, tailored training experience.

On top of the training we provide, we are also now using the NCCCO required testing center guidelines. In these testing centers, the NCCCO written exam is given on a brand new laptop and each student has their own station. Once the test is complete, students receive their results right away.

Whether you are a high school graduate or a veteran, PTS is here to help. We offer many financing options, including accepting the Post 9/11 GI Bill®. If you are ready to get started, schedule a tour today to get $500 off of your tuition.

While there are many great jobs for military veterans, heavy equipment and crane operators earn a competitive salary and training takes as little as three weeks while costing significantly less than a college degree. If you are a veteran and are looking for a high-paying job, there are some things you should consider about heavy equipment operator or mobile crane operator training.

What Are the Benefits of Getting Your Heavy Equipment or Crane Operator Certification?

Competitive Salary

Luckily, the mobile crane industry is expected to continue growing into 2024. The annual growth of the industry is largely driven by the increase in construction and mining projects. These include repairing roads and other infrastructure, building new homes and apartments, and mining minerals like tin, aluminum, and coal.

Because of these growing industries, the salaries of crane operators and heavy equipment operators remain competitive. In the United States, the average salary of a mobile crane operator is $52,571, as of January 2024 and the average salary of a heavy equipment operator ranges from $34,509 to $57,778, depending on the state you are in. As with any profession, there is room for advancement and growth, and the longer you are in the industry the more you will make.

In-Demand Jobs

There are many reasons why heavy equipment operators and mobile crane operators are in demand. The first is that there is a massive labor shortage in the construction industry. With Baby Boomers accounting for 40% of construction workers, they are starting to and continuing to leave the workforce, leaving companies in need of new workers. Additionally, there is an increasing demand for new housing and infrastructure. With the population continuing to grow, more and more housing is needed and the roads, bridges, and other infrastructure are starting to break down at a faster rate with increased traffic.

Learn more about the demand for heavy equipment operators in our blog.

Training is Just a Few Weeks

While most college degrees require two or four years of commitment, heavy equipment and mobile crane operator training can be completed in as little as three weeks. This allows you to get the training you need to be successful, get your accreditation, and start working in a fraction of the time needed to get a college degree.

Join Many Different Industries

Various industries require heavy equipment and mobile crane operators. After you complete training and gain your certification, you will have the ability to choose between working in the construction industry, the mining industry, or starting your own business.

Find a Job Anywhere You Go

Every city in every state needs reliable, skilled heavy equipment and mobile crane operators. The need for housing, infrastructure repairs, mining, and other construction jobs is growing everywhere, so no matter what state or city you decide to move to, you will be able to find a job with your heavy equipment or mobile crane operator training.

Choose a School That Wants to See You Succeed

Find Great Jobs for Military Veterans With Performance Training Solutions’ Financing and Continued Support

Performance Training Solutions is dedicated to helping all of our students succeed in their careers as heavy equipment or mobile crane operators, and we are dedicated to providing opportunities to our veterans. We offer various financing options, including accepting the GI Bill®, the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 Benefits, and the Vocational Rehabilitation and Veterans Benefits (VA).

During your training, you will experience small class sizes with personalized instruction. We want to make sure you succeed and have all of the knowledge needed to start your career. Our staff combines in-seat training with classroom instruction to help you hone your skills while providing you with crucial information to keep yourself and your coworkers safe on the job.

After your training, we want to continue to support you. Our career assistance services help prepare students for the job hunt. This includes helping you with your “soft skills” such as people skills, interview skills, and even resume reviews. It is important that each of our students is set up for success and is equipped with everything they need to land a job quickly after graduation.

If you are ready to experience great jobs for military veterans, schedule a tour today to get $500 off of your tuition!

Going into 2024, construction workers are in high demand and crane operator salaries remain competitive. As of December 2023, the average crane operator salary in the United States is an impressive $50,729.

What Will Affect Crane Operator Salaries in 2024?

Growing Industry

The mobile crane industry is expected to grow by 6.9% annually between 2024 and 2032. Both the construction and mining industries are responsible for this annual growth. Construction and mining continue to grow due to increased infrastructure projects and a shift in the focus of mining materials.

• Construction projects will focus on repairing and building roads, bridges, other infrastructure, homes, and commercial buildings
• Mining will focus on tin, aluminum, lead, and coal

Both industries require crane operators to move large slabs and equipment. Additionally, more and more products are being shipped every day, and crane operators are essential to moving large pallets and products in warehouses and shipping docks.

Crane Operators are In-Demand

With the construction, mining, and shipping/warehousing industries growing in 2024, the demand for crane operators will increase as well. These professionals are crucial to many processes as they are responsible for safely moving large materials, structures, and equipment around building and mining sites and warehouses.

Your Location

While crane operator salaries in the United States average over $50,000, there may be slight differences based on what state you are working in. For example, in Ohio, the average crane operator salary ranges from $44,110 and $58,170 while in Kentucky it falls between $42,322 and $55,812.

How to Become a Crane Operator in 2024

Becoming a crane operator in 2024 is affordable and will only take you a few weeks! At Performance Training Solutions, our mobile crane operator training lasts three weeks (120 clock hours), with the time split evenly between the classroom and in-seat operation.

Once you have completed our three-week training program, you will sit for the NCCCO Crane Operator Certification. Upon passing, you will receive a five-year NCCCO certification that allows you to work in various fields, including construction.

At PTS, we don’t just stop after the NCCCO exam. We want to help you find the perfect job for you. Our career assistance services will help you find the right fit for you immediately after graduation or years down the line.

Start Your Crane Operator Training with Performance Training Solutions Today

Our goal at Performance Training Solutions is to give our students the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their field. We provide both in-seat and classroom instruction so you can gain your NCCCO certification and start your new career in just three weeks. We offer several financing options and accept the Post 9/11 GI Bill® and the Veteran Readiness and Employment Program Chapter 31 benefits. We have an 88% placement rate post-graduation and offer career assistance services to new grads and graduates who are returning years later.

If you are ready to get started, schedule a tour today to get $500 off of your tuition, or contact our team with any questions.

With salaries starting around $31,000, as you gain experience your salary could increase up to $100,000. The more experience you have, the greater your salary will be. Plus, with these industries continuing to grow, job opportunities will be abundant.

Industries You Can Enter with an Accredited Crane Operator Certification

Construction

The construction industry is projected to grow 7% in 2024. This growth is due to the increasing need for residential, commercial, and non-building projects throughout the United States. Crane operators are crucial to the construction of homes, schools, highways, bridges, and so much more. As construction grows, more and more people are needed to fulfill the needs of the industry.

Energy

Clean energy has become an area of focus over the last few years, and jobs in this industry have grown nearly 10% and facilities are expected to generate 12,000 new infrastructure development jobs over the next few years as well. People with accredited crane operator certifications are needed for these infrastructure development jobs as they are an essential part of the process of moving materials safely.

Mining

Going hand in hand with the energy industry, the mining and extraction sectors provide the raw materials needed to power various industries. This industry is also expected to see an annual growth rate of about 2.6% over the next five years, meaning there will be numerous opportunities for crane operators to join the sector.

Transportation

The transportation industry is continuing to grow. With more and more drivers on the road and ground and over 70% of the U.S. goods being shipped via the over-the-road modality, roadways, highways, and bridges need to be kept in good condition. Crane operators come into the equation here: they are needed to keep infrastructure up and running as well as implement new infrastructure.

How Long Will It Take to Earn an Accredited Crane Operator Certification?

Changing careers or deciding which career path to take can be anxiety-inducing, especially when considering timeline and cost. Many universities require two to four years of your time and tens of thousands of dollars. Luckily, accredited crane operator certifications at Performance Training Solutions do not require years to obtain.

At PTS, we want to help you enter your new career as soon as possible while still being abundantly prepared. Our courses can be completed in as little as three weeks, compared to other schools which can take 20 weeks. We also offer various financing solutions so you can get the education you desire without having to worry about the cost.

Once you are finished with your courses, PTS will help you find a job that fits your needs. Our career services are here to help you make connections, update your resume, or find jobs that fit your needs.

Performance Training Solutions Can Help You Gain an Accredited Crane Operator Certification Quickly

We have all of the courses you need to become a successful crane operator. Contact our team today to learn more or schedule a tour to get a $500 tuition reduction scholarship!

Individuals can start a new career with many employment opportunities and competitive pay. On the other hand, businesses can make sure they are meeting all state and federal regulations.

So, Why Should You Get Your Mobile Crane Certification Now?

Increased Demand Due to Market Growth

Mobile cranes are in greater demand today because they can be moved around during projects rather than having to stay stationary. In fact, the mobile crane market is predicted to grow by a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.3% from 2023 to 2033, reaching a market share value of $29.05 billion.

The demand for mobile crane operators is growing because of the increasing need for construction projects to take place. Older infrastructure, such as bridges, roads, and sidewalks, need to be updated. Businesses and homeowners are renovating their older buildings to make them more eco-friendly. And, with the increasing population, new housing and commercial buildings are needed.

Competitive Salary

The starting salary for mobile crane operators is significant. After getting your certification, you could be making about $45,000 annually. From there, with more experience gained, your salary will grow.

The average mobile crane operator’s salary in the United States as of October 25, 2023 is $52,134. The range falls anywhere from $44,267 to $61,676 and these numbers will continue to grow as both the industry and demand grows.

Abundant Opportunities

Skilled trade workers are in high demand, so no matter where you are based or where you plan to move, you will be able to find a job as a mobile crane operator. There are various industries you could choose from as well, including construction, mining, and energy.

Mobile crane operators will also have the ability to expand on their skills. Once they are certified, they can get a job practically anywhere to gain experience. If they decide they want to grow their knowledge, they can attend training to gain more certifications in different machinery or fields of work. And, if you have the right amount of experience and decide you want to help others start a new career path, you could always become an instructor at a heavy equipment operator training school.

Training is a Shorter, Cheaper Alternative to College

While becoming a certified mobile crane operator does require training, it is a much shorter process than attending a university. Usually, heavy equipment operator training lasts a few weeks rather than a few years. Additionally, this training is a fraction of the cost of college.

At Performance Training Solutions, our programs generally take three, six, or nine weeks to complete—a much shorter time than obtaining a college degree. We also are proud to offer financing options for our students.

Women are Breaking Into the Industry

About 14% of mobile crane operators are women, and this number will continue to grow. This is up about 5% from 2010. Opportunities are abundant for women to break into this industry, and it is an exciting time to continue to see this number growing.

Businesses Can Meet Regulations and Keep Employees Safe

Enrolling in NCCCO crane certifications can help businesses comply with state and federal regulations that are in place to keep their employees safe. Being officially enrolled in these programs allows businesses to verify the training while keeping their employees’ skill sets sharp.

Get Your Mobile Crane Certification with Performance Training Solutions

At Performance Training Solutions, we strive to provide exceptional training on various heavy equipment, including mobile crane certifications. We make sure to educate our students both in the classroom and in the field, ensuring they are ready for their certification exams and their everyday work life.

Our programs last anywhere from three to nine weeks and, once you complete your certification, you will be ready to jump right into the workforce. We don’t just stop there, though. Our team provides career assistance, helping you find the right fit for you.

We also understand how important financing is, which is why we accept certain scholarships and provide various options for all of our students. If you are a veteran, we accept GI Bill® benefits as well.

Contact our team to learn more, or schedule a tour for $500 off of your tuition!

Rich’s Career Before PTS

Rich enlisted in the U.S. Air Force after high school, serving as a medical services specialist. As he transitioned out of the military, he continued on in medicine, working for the Tennessee State Department of Corrections as a night clinic superintendent in Nashville.

Taking advantage of his GI Bill® benefits, Rich obtained an education that allowed him to gain employment in a wide variety of industries, from medicine to banking to technology. While his career was varied, he saw a common theme: he was working with people to find answers to personal and technical issues.

In the years before confounding PTS, Rich was an application engineer for a few local electrical design and manufacturing companies. As he gained this professional and technical experience, he moved into a position in international sales and sales management. However, he believes his biggest accomplishment prior to PTS was growing a team of application engineers from the ground up. Starting from scratch, Rich was able to build a team of 12 talented individuals who provided services and opportunities to customers.

The opportunity to start PTS came along one day when a friend reached out. He remembers sitting on his porch when he received a call from Matt Foor, PTS’ cofounder and president. Matt expressed his interest in starting up a heavy equipment and crane operator school. As it turns out, Rich and Matt had the same reasoning — there is a world outside of college. To this day, Rich is still grateful that, out of all the people Matt knew, he chose to call him.

The Early Days of PTS

After the call with Matt, Rich got to work drafting the business plan for PTS. As with any new venture, the early days were fun and exciting — but also challenging. Leads and enrollment were thin at first, but as they continued to get the PTS name out into the community and online, the school started to grow.

Rich says that he and Matt shared the same vision of changing people’s lives, which kept them motivated throughout the hard times. Education, even short-term, can have a huge impact on someone’s life and bring them opportunities that they may have never had before. So, even when things were difficult, Rich and Matt kept their vision in mind and knew it would work out for the better.

Rich’s Role at PTS

When Rich started PTS with Matt, he knew that he would be heavily involved. With his vast experience in administration, Rich has worn every hat possible at PTS with the exception of instructor. This involved both front- and back-end work. Some of his front-end responsibilities included prospecting new students, attending job fairs, student admissions, conducting tours, and running new student orientations. On the back end, Rich provided career services, such as customized resumes for students and sourcing job leads.

Under his official title as School Director, Rich was responsible for federal and VA statistical reports, compliance with the law, and making sure the facilities were in good condition. Throughout his time at PTS, Rich never had a problem taking on other jobs — he simply wanted to do whatever was needed to be able to continue providing high-quality education and career opportunities.

Memorable Moments

As a small business, seeing growth was always rewarding for Rich and the team. Any time a new piece of equipment came onto the lot, it was a noteworthy moment because it meant things were moving in the right direction.

Another aspect of the school that Rich loved was seeing graduates return. No matter how far away they lived, many students came back to the school to visit instructors and tell current students about their success. Grateful students will always be memorable to Rich, as they prove PTS did precisely what we set out to do, help change lives.

Some students even returned as instructors. Through the years, three former students who used their GI Bill® benefits to attend PTS later returned and applied to become instructors. Not only did they find work after graduation in their respective fields, but they also wanted to come back to teach at PTS. Rich never wanted students to feel they were stuck, and he was thrilled to give returning graduates the opportunity to expand their skills through teaching.

Rich believes that the most significant event lately has been the opening of their new training facility in 2023. The new location provides a larger classroom area, more teaching aids, and a larger training ground. Rich says it is an emotional feeling when growth finally comes to fruition.

Accomplishments at PTS

When asked about his accomplishments, Rich states that he could “talk about the school all day, but this one was tricky.” Rich believes that PTS’s greatest accomplishment is that they have stayed true to their core values — honesty, integrity, and respect.

On a personal level, Rich has worked alongside some of the best people he has ever known. He has been able to learn so much from them from a personal and professional standpoint, and they have made PTS a fun place to be.

Rich believes that the people he works with sets PTS apart. When he was developing the business plan with Matt, they were dedicated to making sure PTS was a family-like school and not a “diploma mill.” They wanted to change people’s lives, and they have been able to do so through an exceptional curriculum, hands-on training, small class sizes, and career services following graduation.

Rich’s Advice to Future Students

“Try” and “plan” were the first words that came to Rich’s mind. He has encountered many people who are paralyzed by indecision and poor planning. “Being idle, either through indecision or a lack of commitment, will cost you for the rest of your life. You are losing time to experience things, you’re losing time to gain knowledge, and you’re losing income. In other words, your life is just slipping away, and you’d be surprised how fast the years go by. Additionally, to coin a phrase, if you don’t know where you’re going, any road will take you there. Lasting success with anything is rarely spontaneous. Find your passion, research educational and employment options, meet with those who can help you, and get moving.” Rich says. He believes you do not have to marry any single career or job, but he believes you should do something.

What’s Up Next for Rich

Currently, Rich and his wife are traveling across the country to spend time with their loved ones. This will also give Rich more opportunities to work with his church and get more involved in serving his community. Rich’s son is a minister at a local church and has founded programs in the Dover area for widows and other individuals in need of help and companionship, and Rich is looking forward to helping with these efforts.

Rich hasn’t forgotten about his PTS family, however. “The most important thing I’ve carried with me is how profoundly thankful I have been and that I am for the opportunity to have served for and with Matt there at PTS. Again, of all the people Matt knew — and Matt knows everybody — he called me. With that in mind, I am glad we shared the vision and stuck it out because we knew we were doing the right thing for the right reasons. It has been a blessed opportunity, and I thank Matt so much.”

A Thank You to Rich Lee

Rich isn’t just the co-founder or school director of PTS — he has been the heart and soul of the operation. From the very beginning, he has worked with the entire PTS family to maintain honesty, integrity, and respect at the school while providing exceptional education to all PTS students. Not only has he helped uphold our values, but he also used his own experience in the military and GI Bill® benefits to create a financial program that helps veterans attend our school.

We would like to thank Rich for his service in the United States Air Force and his time at PTS. He has truly made our school a place where people want to work and study.

Thank you, Rich!

Industries

Construction

From building new homes to medical centers and so much more, the construction industry has been and will continue to grow. In fact, the North American construction market is projected to grow by 4.82% between 2023 and 2028. There are quite a few factors that contribute to the growth of this industry, such as: 

• The increase in e-commerce sales creates more need for manufacturing and warehousing spaces
• More urban areas and a growing population increase the need for housing
• Maintaining aging roads, bridges, and public places is becoming more necessary 

Construction equipment operators are tasked with using a wide range of machinery to do a variety of things on the job site, including moving building supplies, soil, and heavy materials. Additionally, they can help prepare these sites for the construction of roads, bridges, and buildings. 

Mining

Mining and mineral extraction are essential for all industries. These mined materials are responsible for providing power in a variety of ways. Even with the growth of clean energy, the mining industry is still expected to grow by 6.7% by 2027. While coal mining is still needed to provide power, more mining companies are shifting their focus to critical minerals. These minerals power electric vehicles, wind turbines, solar panels, and other sustainable technologies. So, while coal mining may be on the decline, the market for mined minerals for sustainable energy practices is growing rapidly. 

Mining equipment operators are responsible for removing large deposits of rock from quarries. They also remove minerals from the ground using bulldozers, excavators, dump trucks, and other machines. 

Equipment

Heavy equipment operators are expected to know how to operate all kinds of equipment, and during training, they will learn how to operate each one safely.  A few of the most common machines seen in construction and mining heavy machine operator jobs include: 

Bulldozers

These machines are used to gouge out and level soil, as well as move materials in construction, mining, forestry, and other projects. 

Skid Steers

Skid steers dig holes, move large objects, dig trenches, move dirt, and assist and lay pavement at construction sites. 

Backhoes

At construction and mining sites, this machine is used to move or remove soil and other materials. 

Dump Trucks

These trucks are used to transport paving materials, construction supplies, dirt, and garbage. 

Excavator

Excavators clear, move, load, and unload materials like rock, ore, and more from construction and mining sites.

Mobile Hydraulic Cranes

Mobile hydraulic cranes move, lift, position, and place materials and equipment around the job site.  

How to Start Your Heavy Machine Operator Career

To become a heavy machine operator, you will need to complete a training program at an accredited training facility. This allows you to gain the necessary skills and certifications needed to be successful in your new career. During training, you will complete both field and classroom work, so you have both knowledge and experience. If you want to learn more about the process of becoming a heavy machine operator or a crane operator, check out our blogs. 

Performance Training Solutions Can Help You Jumpstart Your Heavy Machine Operator Career

At Performance Training Solutions we are dedicated to providing the highest quality training in the shortest time possible. In just a few short weeks you will have all of the necessary skills needed to jump into your new career as a heavy equipment operator. We offer training for both heavy equipment and crane operations and with our 90% graduate placement rate, you won’t have to worry about finding a job post-graduation.  

If you are ready to get started, contact our team today, or schedule a tour of our facilities for a $500 tuition reduction.

With demand for mobile crane operators continuing to grow, this average may increase. As the population and economy grow, so will this demand. New housing, shopping centers, and roads will be needed at a rapid rate, meaning construction workers and heavy equipment operators will be in very high demand.  

What is the Demand for Mobile Crane Operators? 

It is estimated that the crane operator job market will grow by 8.5% from 2016 to 2026. The increasing demand for this profession is thanks to many different factors. From the population to the need for green buildings, there are numerous things that are driving the need for more crane operators:  

Growing Population

The population all over the country will continue to grow. And as it grows, the need for residential, commercial, and public infrastructure will grow as well. The need for new homes, apartment complexes, roads, and so much more drives high demand for crane operators.

As the population grows, the need for more energy will increase as well. More housing and other types of buildings mean there will be a greater need for all types of energy. Properly moving heavy materials, objects, and machinery around an energy project is important to completing the project while keeping everyone safe.     

Growing Economy

More and more crane operators will be needed as the economy grows. Demand for commercial, residential, and public construction projects increases as the economy booms.  This means that more crane operators will be needed to safely move materials and structures around these job sites.   

Infrastructure Maintenance and Rebuilds

Highways, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure continue to age. As they get older, require more maintenance to make sure they are still safe and functional. Also, with the growing population, more infrastructure is needed, meaning more construction jobs. 

The popularity of clean energy and green buildings is also growing. Companies want to give their old buildings a more modern look while making sure they are using green energy and building materials. These businesses are turning to construction companies to rebuild or renovate their office spaces. 

Increase in Shipping and Manufacturing

Mobile crane operators aren’t just needed for the construction and mining industries. Manufacturing and shipping companies also need crane operators to move heavy products and product loads to different places within the factory. They are also needed to move heavy shipments around the loading dock and onto trucks or into containers.  

How to Become a Mobile Crane Operator with Performance Training Solutions 

After you get your GED or graduate from high school, you just need to make sure you meet the physical requirements set by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and enroll in an NCCCO-accredited training program like the one offered at Performance Training Solutions.

Our crane operator training program at PTS helps prepare individuals to operate swing and fixed cab mobile hydraulic cranes properly. In just three weeks, you will learn about the various types of cranes, their uses, and your new career opportunities. After that, you will sit for the NCCCO exam. That’s it. Then you can start making anywhere from $43,864 to $61,117 a year with your new career! If you want to learn more about the process, check out our blog about how to become a crane operator or contact our team with any questions. 

If you are ready to get started, schedule a tour today for a $500 tuition reduction.

The construction industry offers both competitive pay and job security thanks to the increased demand for construction workers. With the need for housing and commercial real estate spaces increasing steadily, the construction industry is expected to continue to grow. This growth is creating higher demand for heavy equipment operators. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a growth in the construction career field to increase at a rate of 5% through 2031.  

There are many reasons for the increase in demand for heavy equipment operators and many benefits to entering the industry. If you are ready to get started on your construction career, contact our team today. 

What is Driving the Demand for Heavy Equipment Operators? 

Labor Shortage

While there have been reports of labor shortages in many industries, it is particularly true for the construction industry.  

The problem is that many construction workers are part of the Baby Boomer generation, and are starting to retire. Baby Boomers account for more than 40% of construction workers, meaning that more than 40% of construction workers have already retired or are going to retire soon.  

This gap in experienced and qualified workers caused by the Baby Boomers retiring is causing the demand for trained construction workers and heavy equipment operators to increase sharply.

Infrastructure Construction

Over time, roadways, bridges, highways, and other government properties start to break down. We are starting to see the introduction of more and more bills introduced by local and federal governments aiming to repair rundown infrastructure, like these highways and bridges.  

As these bills are introduced and infrastructure construction is set to begin, skilled and trained construction workers and heavy equipment operators are needed. The more infrastructure construction projects that are approved, the more demand there is for trained heavy equipment operators.

Housing Demand

Private housing developers are continuing to see a sharp increase in demand for new housing builds even with supply chain delays and shortages. This makes the need for skilled heavy equipment operators and construction workers skyrocket. They need people who are trained to complete a high-quality job in a tight timeframe to offset the wait times for supplies.  

Sustainable Projects

Taking care of the environment is becoming increasingly important, and ‘green’ buildings are becoming more and more popular. Old and outdated buildings are being replaced or overhauled with eco-friendly building materials, modern designs and eco-friendly materials and construction methods. Trained professionals are in high demand in these industries, as more projects are starting. 

Benefits of Heavy Equipment Training

The construction industry is growing and will continue to grow for years to come.  With this growth, the demand for skilled workers will also increase. If you are interested in working in construction, here are a few of the things you will gain from heavy equipment training.

Industry Options

When you complete your training, you will have opportunities in many industries. With your skills, you will be able to choose between working in the construction industry, the mining industry, or you could even choose to be self-employed. 

Specialization Options

You can specialize in one particular piece of equipment, or you can gain a general knowledge of a range of equipment. Either way, you will walk away with the skills needed to land a job in the industry of your choice. 

Competitive Pay

Recent data shows that skilled, trained heavy equipment operators have a median salary of $65,657 yearly. The median salary range of all heavy equipment operator jobs was from $54,889 to $74,493.  

While there are pay differences between specialization and industry, it is important to note that the more training and experience you have, the more you will make. At PTS, our training offers a great jumping-off point for anyone interested in joining the industry.  

No Need for a Costly College Education

Attending a four-year college is extremely expensive. The average cost of attending college for all four years is $104,108 for in-state students and $108,364 for out-of-state students.  

Professional heavy equipment training is a much more affordable option that will still give you many opportunities to make a good living.  

PTS can direct applicants to a number of state and federal grant sources to pay for the training programs. These programs are typically applicable to veterans, unemployed/underemployed individuals, and those with disabilities.   

Get Started on Your Heavy Equipment Operating Career with PTS

At Performance Training Solutions, we have helped individuals start their heavy equipment operating careers for over 10 years. We specialize in the construction and mining industries, providing training that you can complete in just three weeks so you can get to work.  

There is no need to wait to enroll either. Our training offerings start new classes every three weeks throughout the year, allowing you to start work as soon as possible.  

We also offer training for businesses. OSHA requires specific training to be completed by heavy equipment operators, so it is important for businesses to make sure their employees have the proper training. At PTS, we are happy to work with you to make sure your employees have the training they need to stay safe.  

If you are interested in becoming a heavy equipment operator, or if you need training for your business, contact our team today.

Put yourself in the driver’s seat and power forward into a new career.

Heavy equipment operator training takes only a few short weeks, but the benefits can be felt lifelong. This free guide breaks down what you can expect from HEO training, including the timeline, tools, and career trajectory. You’ll also explore why PTS is the best choice for your courses and how we’ve helped more than 90% of our students land a job after training. When you invest in your future with HEO training, you can enjoy strong compensation and stable employment in a career path always in demand.

Download our informative ebook to read more.

In an economic climate filled with layoffs and recession fears, the need for crane operators and other trade jobs continues to hold strong. The growing need for crane operators isn’t predicted to slow down soon, and the salaries continue to rise to fix the shortage of skilled workers. Per research by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, crane operator jobs are expected to grow by 8% percent overall from 2014 through 2024.

Whether you’re a recent high school graduate seeking alternatives to traditional four-year degrees or you’re feeling underutilized in your current role and want to carve out a fulfilling career path with an industry shift, becoming a crane operator is a worthwhile investment for your time and money.

Prospective students determining if they want to pursue a career in heavy equipment operations often have important questions on top of their minds: how long does it take to become a crane operator? How long until I can start earning, and what can I expect to earn?

We’ve broken down the timeline you can expect for how long it takes to become a crane operator and start earning. We’ve also explored how much you can expect to earn and how the unique, hands-on education we offer at PTS will help skyrocket your career.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Crane Operator?

You’ll find different crane operator education programs. However, if you are able to choose the right one, you can learn the vital skills necessary to get certified as a crane operator in only three short weeks.

Don’t Forget to Get Your NCCCO Certification!

Please note that in order to become a crane operator, you must get NCCCO certified. The NCCCO crane certification is the final part of a process established to educate individuals properly to perform their assigned job duties when it comes to operating cranes.

How to Get the NCCCO Certification

In order to be eligible to receive a certification, you must fulfill the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Comply with NCCCO’s Substance Abuse Policy
• Pass written examinations (Core and at least one Specialty)
• Pass practical examination(s) — Candidates must pass the Practical exam within 12 months of passing the written examination
• Comply with the NCCCO Code of Ethics

Your crane operator education program should prepare you for the same tasks you tackle on the job. A combination of seated classroom instruction and hands-on operation will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to confidently operate a mobile crane.

What All the Three-Week Crane Operator Education Program Includes

At PTS, our three-week program includes 120 hours of education to prepare you for the NCCCO crane operator certification exam providing you with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to obtain entry-level employment. The program includes a combination of classroom and in-the-seat instruction. Approximately half of the instruction will take place in the classroom. Topics covered include orientation to the trade, basic principles of cranes, crane safety, operating a crane, preventative maintenance, wire rope, and basic rigging practices.

The other half of the training includes the in-the-seat operation of a mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab crane. PTS training programs require students to stay locally for the duration of the course. Small class sizes provide more one-on-one time with our instructors and examiners. After only three weeks, you’ll be ready to embark on an in-demand, fulfilling career.

Expected Earnings for Mobile Crane Operators

After less than a month of education, you can get hired and start earning. Crane operators have an average base salary of $32,000, which may be even higher depending on your state. Crane operators are known for their high earning potential, and your salary can eventually reach nearly $100,000 as you gain more years of experience.

Starting your crane operator career as early as possible means you’ll start earning even higher salaries sooner than if you stall your own opportunities. In addition to a strong salary, mobile crane operators can receive a range of benefits and feel safe in their career choices, knowing that their position is always in-demand.

PTS Can Help You Propel Your Career Per Your Aspirations

How long does it take to become a crane operator? Three weeks, and at PTS, that’s time well spent.

PTS is one of the top training schools in the country, and we’re dedicated to supporting students like you with all the resources necessary to jumpstart your new career. Our 90+% placement rate and long record of success stories from past students are a testament to the strength of our program.

We serve:

• Businesses
• Individuals
• Veterans
• Unemployed Workers
• Disabled Workers
• Recent High School Graduates

From crane operator courses to other heavy equipment programs, we offer a wide range of opportunities to help you find the path that will propel your life forward with a strong salary, job security, and fast earning potential.

Contact our team today to start learning and earning. Schedule a tour, and you can even save $500 with a tuition reduction scholarship!

Every spring millions of high school graduates begin looking for ways to build their future. For many — roughly 60% of all high school grads — that journey starts with college. But with the ever-increasing cost of four- and two-year institutions and the need to start earning a real income sooner, a rising number of young people are looking for alternatives to college after their high school career ends.

Exploring alternatives to college is more common, socially acceptable, and popular than ever before. A typical four-year degree used to monopolize the immediate goals for high school grads, but that is changing. Higher education continues to grow more expensive every passing year and the rapidly changing state of the economy and workforce have opened up opportunities for those looking to immediately start boosting their earning potential.

College can still be a wonderful and important experience for those who choose to pursue it. But for students with other interests or career goals, alternatives to college are becoming more common and more rewarding. For many, it comes down to simple economics: Gaining a traditional degree leaves more than 70% of college students in debt.

Trade programs, like heavy equipment operator training, give new high school graduates an alternative to college. Such programs are much quicker to finish, much more affordable than even two-year degrees, and help new grads begin earning supporting salaries much earlier in life. Let’s look at this career path closer.

Our central location makes training accessible. We provide the Midwest and much of the East Coast with the opportunity for training.

Alternatives to College Provide Advantages

Whether you’re considering a trade school, apprenticeship, military service, or another direction, there are many options available to high school graduates today. Most will provide benefits when compared to the time, cost, and effort involved in completing a four-year degree.

For example, at Performance Training Solutions our heavy equipment and crane operator programs give individuals from a wide range of backgrounds the tools they need to quickly start a new in-demand career. This applies especially to recent high school graduates who, by obtaining their HS diploma, have already completed one of the necessary requirements.

But when considering your future you should weigh all the benefits and disadvantages of each path. Is heavy equipment operator training worth it? We’ve detailed the case for it before, but let’s go through some additional advantages it provides for high school graduates.

Speed to Impact

Heavy equipment operator training offers one of the quickest paths to a rewarding job possible. Forget years or months; at PTS you can complete one of our operator training courses in just three weeks.

Our focused program is all about the knowledge you need to enter the workforce with a skill required across a wide range of industries. You won’t spend time on classroom work that doesn’t relate to your chosen career. You won’t be saddled with mastering topics that don’t relate to your work. Specialized training and small class sizes prepare you to enter the workforce quickly. You’ll be earning sooner, and growing your career long before you would have completed a traditional degree course of study.

Saving and Earning

Heavy equipment operator schools not only cost far less than traditional education tracks, but you also only need to pay it once — there’s no tuition bill year after year. Better yet, after the minimal time needed to complete your training, you’ll be equipped to begin earning family-supporting salaries in industries ranging from construction to mining, energy, agriculture, and more. As your experience grows, so will your salary.

In addition, PTS helps you tap into funding solutions to help pay for your initial training. For example, veterans can use benefits earned from the Post 9/11 GI Bill® program to help pay for tuition. Other state and federal grants may also be available according to your specific circumstances.

Career Assistance

At PTS, we’re proud of the job placement rate for graduates — around 90%. But our commitment to you doesn’t end after you graduate from our program. Ongoing career assistance is available for students long after they’ve graduated. We’ll provide the fundamental knowledge and ‘seat’ time you need for employment opportunities as a heavy equipment operator, and then remain available to help you stay on track.

In addition to industry-related training, PTS also provides soft skills training and resources to help you prepare for the employment hunt. In the event of a job change, graduates can also get a brief refresher on any piece of equipment on which they have trained and credentialed.

Get help in acquiring the training you need to move ahead. Learn about the Ohio job training assistance programs available.

Need Earning Alternatives to College? Start with PTS

College isn’t, and shouldn’t be, for everyone. We’re proud to offer an accessible, quick-to-complete, and cost-effective alternative to high school graduates looking to start a career and start earning a strong salary. With a new Central Ohio training facility, complete with an expanded training ground and more classroom space, we help our students with financing options and accelerated education to unlock a more rewarding career path.

Contact our team today and we will explore your options. If you’re ready, schedule a tour with us and save $500 on your tuition.

Heavy equipment operators tap into their skill and experience to control machinery like cranes, bulldozers, excavators, and a host of other machines to provide the muscle for projects across a wide range of industries. It is a rewarding profession. I you identify as someone who knows they need to do something but are not sure what or wants a brighter working career, knowing how to become a heavy equipment operator can open the door to some great opportunities.

The “Heavy Equipment Operator” Occupation Is Gaining Popularity

Being a heavy equipment operator remains an in-demand occupation with robust starting salaries. Per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for construction equipment operators was $48,290 in May 2021. This comes as a significant compensatory package, given the easily reached educational and training requirements. You can become a heavy equipment operator after earning a high school diploma or equivalent. Alternatively, you can do an apprenticeship or attend vocational schools.

Among the many benefits of their chosen field is also the choice of specializing in several heavy equipment types, industries, or specific tasks or jobs. Used to drill, pave, compact, lift, drill, dig, and much more, heavy equipment comes in wide varieties with different machinery makeups, tools, areas of focus, and strengths.

For example, while excavators dig through the earth, demolish old buildings, grind down trees, mine, cut asphalt, backhoes perform small-scale demolitions, light transportation of building materials, power building equipment, dig holes, landscaping, break up asphalt, and so on. Other equipment options include bulldozers, cranes, excavators, and many more.

Let us walk you step-by-step through the process of how to become a heavy equipment operator and demonstrate how anyone looking for a career change can consider this versatile career path.

Want a closer look? Schedule a tour of our Central Ohio facility and earn a $500 tuition discount.

Step-by-Step Guidance on How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator

The requirements to become a heavy equipment operator aren’t prohibitive for most people.

1. To be eligible for heavy machinery training, you must be at least 18 years of age. Physically, good hand-eye (and foot) coordination is vital to operate various levers, pedals, steering mechanisms, and more. The ability to react quickly to changing stimuli and the stamina to work full shifts are also beneficial.
2. The career path has a baseline education requirement of a high school diploma or the General Educational Development (GED).
3. You must show proficiency in the safe operation of the equipment you apply to work on and in following safety procedures used on job sites. Both the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) offer credentials and the certification once the requisite education with an accredited institution is completed.
4. There are many options to choose from, but PTS offers fully compliant three-week courses that leave graduates ready to gain the required credentials. Anyone seeking training to operate a crane weighing 2,000 pounds or more must first be CERTIFIED by an accredited crane operator testing organization or qualified through an audited employer program. At PTS, once you complete your crane operator program, you will face NCCCO examinations. After passing those exams, you will receive formal certification.
5. When learning to operate wheel loaders, backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, and more, however, students will NOT receive certification (or the opportunity to test for it) at the end of their training. Instead, they will receive a CREDENTIAL from the NCCER. Becoming accredited with NCCER shows you have the knowledge and proficiency in operating various equipment safely on a job site.
6. A commercial driver’s license (CDL) isn’t mandatory for heavy machinery operations. But in some cases, it might be required by law or by individual employers. In construction, heavy equipment is often towed on trailers – an equipment operator with a CDL can transport and operate their machinery, which may give you hiring preference. The requirements to earn a CDL vary by state, so you must look up the process where you live.
7. Getting reacquainted with a piece of equipment prior to going to a job interview can often be helpful. Refresh your training when needed and augment your job-seeking skills. In the event of a job change or the need to shake the rust off, PTS will gladly provide a brief refresher on any piece of equipment on which you have been trained and credentialed.

Learn How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator at PTS

PTS is a heavy equipment and mobile crane operator school located in Central Ohio, roughly 30 minutes east of Columbus. Recognizing a need for standardized training programs to fill in-demand operator jobs created by the burgeoning construction and energy development industries within Ohio and nearby states, PTS was launched in June of 2011 to help fill the skills gap.

We serve:

• Businesses
• Individuals
• Veterans
• Unemployed Workers
• Disabled Workers
• Recent High School Graduates

With the combination of small class sizes for hands-on learners, classroom activities followed by in-the-seat field exercises, PTS students are well prepared and positioned for good entry-level employment opportunities. Our 90% placement rate is a testament to this fact.

Courses we offer:

We offer a pair of three-week, 120-hour courses that provide the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to obtain entry-level employment as an NCCER credentialed operator, and an additional crane operator training class for NCCCO certification.

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is an entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on that initial training and opens the door to employment as an operator for bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders.
• Mobile Crane Operations is a three-week, 120-hour program providing fundamental knowledge and skills to obtain entry-level employment as an NCCCO-certified crane operator, including both the Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes.

Connect with PTS today to learn how to become a heavy equipment operator and take a tour of our facility for a $500 tuition discount.

PTS launched its new facility in Thornville, Ohio, about 15 minutes east of their current training location in Reynoldsburg, on January 30. Students interested in heavy equipment or crane training can visit the new facility in person by scheduling a tour. They will receive a $500 tuition reduction scholarship if they tour the facility and sign up for training.

Matt Foor, President of PTS, says:

“We founded PTS to help connect people in our community with meaningful career opportunities in industries where demand for heavy equipment and crane skills has and continues to remain strong. Our new location is the evolution of that focus, allowing us to help more people, train on more equipment types, and create more employment opportunities. We’re thrilled to welcome students to the new facility and look forward to building thousands of successful careers here.”

PTS’ new home — located at 10077 Jacksontown Rd., Thornville, OH 43076 — features 5,400 square feet of space in the facility and more than 15 acres of training grounds to make teaching students easier and more engaging than ever.

They are accepting students for training courses at their new location. For students who have already enrolled in a training course or are in the middle of one, their training will be completed either at the current location (in Columbus, Ohio) or the new facility. They will not split their training time between both locations.

For over a decade, Performance Training Solutions (PTS) has provided the training needed for students to become certified or credentialed heavy equipment and crane operators.

At PTS, the training you need for employment in these industries can be completed in just three weeks! With a high job placement rate for graduates and refresher training and career assistance available after you graduate, PTS is committed to supporting your long-term success.

Contact:

Rich Lee
School Director
(614) 863-8830
r.lee@ptsworks.com

For more than a decade, Performance Training Solutions (PTS) has provided the training needed for students to become certified or credentialed heavy equipment and crane operators. At PTS, the training you need to pursue employment in these industries can be completed in just three weeks! With a high job placement rate for graduates and refresher training and career assistance available after you graduate, PTS is committed to supporting your long-term success.

There’s no better place to experience that commitment than our Central Ohio training facility. Located at 10077 Jacksontown Rd., Thornville, OH 43076, our facility features 5,400 square feet of space for classroom training and 15+ acres of training grounds that makes helping students learn heavy equipment and crane operator training highly effective.

Contact us today to learn more about our training programs, our new heavy equipment operator facility, and how scheduling an on-site tour lands you a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

More Resources

Who We Serve

Who can take advantage of our accessible heavy equipment operator training? Nearly anyone! We’re here to provide you the opportunity, whether you’re just starting looking for work or making a career change.

Success Stories

Hear from students who helped build new careers with our professional, credentialed, and certified heavy equipment operator training. A new start is just weeks away with PTS.

Blog

Gain insight into many topics about and related to heavy equipment operator training. From certifications to salary expectations, and much more, our informative articles will help get up to speed about the industry.

Resources

Find in-depth resources on the heavy equipment operator training industry and how Performance Training Solutions serves our students’ needs here.

Traditional degrees can take two to six years to complete, and the steep cost of college lands 64% of students in debt. Trade programs like heavy equipment operator school can save you time and money compared to other forms of education and set you up for a long-lasting, high-earning career. Read on to explore an analysis of the return on your investment in traditional education versus heavy equipment operator school.

Time

Earning a bachelor’s degree in college takes four to five years to complete on average. While the later years offer more flexibility to choose your own classes, many traditional degrees have a lengthy list of general requirements you must take to graduate, even if they don’t correspond to your chosen career path. Students may spend years stuck in the classroom learning subjects that don’t relate to their career interests.

Earning a two-year associate’s degree is often shorter and cheaper, but when you enter the job market, you’ll often be competing against individuals who received their bachelor’s degree. For many fields, a bachelor’s degree is a minimum requirement. When you only have an associate’s degree, you may struggle to find work or receive the same pay and promotions that your counterparts with bachelor’s degrees receive. It’s also a two-year time commitment that cuts your ability to provide and earn in the short term.

Trade school is less expensive than bachelor’s and associate’s degrees, and takes far less time than traditional education. For many programs, you spend the majority of your time building your skills hands-on instead of learning less relevant subjects in the classroom. Training at PTS can be completed in three, six, or nine weeks depending on what certification is desired. In only one to two months, you can get qualified to begin a new career. This accelerated education puts you ahead in your career growth and earning potential.

When you choose a trade, you won’t be forced to compete with individuals holding higher degrees. There’s a shortage of skilled tradespeople, and the growing need for trade jobs isn’t predicted to slow down soon. After only a handful of weeks on the grind, you’ll join a booming job market where the certifications you’ll receive at PTS prepare you to get hired at an in-demand job and start earning fast.

Money

Many individuals considering heavy operator school are underemployed. Perhaps you’re working a low-paying job because it’s reliable, consistent work to pay the bills, but you know you can achieve more. Pursuing traditional college degrees or trade school is costly. In-state public schools cost over $28,000 a year on average, and the cost only rises for out-of-state schools and private education. Associate degrees cost an estimated $11,600 annually, and many individuals who pursue an associate’s degree end up returning to college to finish their bachelor’s, adding to the overall costs substantially.

Heavy equipment operator schools cost far less than traditional education options, and you’re paying only for the training, not for further education each year. PTS also offers assistance to explore financial options available to our applicants. We have a range of funding and finance options so we can work with your unique needs and circumstances. We also gladly accept the Post 9/11 GI Bill® and other state and federal grants you may be eligible for to make our program more even affordable.

After you complete the training, you can start earning. Heavy equipment operators enjoy a median salary of $79,443. This differs based on the equipment used and the experience level, but base salaries are $35,599 or more. Senior salaries can rise to nearly $100,000 in certain equipment specialties. By starting soon and getting the certifications you need to advance your career, PTS can prepare you for the long-term potential that skyrockets your salary as you grow your experience.

Elevate your earning potential. Crane operator training is just as accessible, and available, at PTS. Learn more here.

Catapult into your New Career with PTS

PTS is a quick, cost-effective alternative to traditional education, and it pays off. Our program will provide you with the knowledge and credentials you need to enter a high-paying, in-demand career with ease. With financing options and accelerated education that gives you the real, hands-on skills you need to get hired, PTS will take the time and money you put into our program and help you transform it into a long-lasting, high-earning career.

Is heavy equipment operator school worth it? Our former students think so. From starting salaries of over $30 an hour to full-time roles with significant benefits and fulfilling duties, our former students land great jobs after leaving our program and share their success stories for future students like you to read. If you’re willing to put in the work, our program will help you catapult into a new career where you can earn more and earn faster.

Ready to learn more about how our program can help you achieve something greater? Contact our team today and we will explore your options. If you’re ready, schedule a tour with us and save $500 on your tuition.

Women’s involvement in construction work has typically varied between 9% and 13% and remained relatively constant over time. This makes for a starkly unequal gender ratio in the construction industry. According to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, women make up 11% of the workforce involved in the construction industry. This number rises to 15.4% in mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction.

The numbers are more slanted when considering front-line workers in these fields. While women are employed abundantly in front office roles, managing IT, or in managerial support, it’s estimated that women only fill 2.3% of the tradespeople roles on a typical job site. For heavy equipment operators, one estimate puts that number at just 6%. This makes us mull over what keeps women from such rewarding career paths.

Land of Opportunity! Intel construction projects in Central Ohio need skilled workers and PTS can help. Learn more.

Reasons for the Gap and Pressure to Fill It

There are several factors that explain this enormous gender gap, including unconscious gender bias, a lack of adequate training, and negative perceptions of women working in construction. Despite these barriers, some women continue to build their path in the industry, and more are needed.

Providing more pathways to women’s participation in construction industries is urgent, especially in light of the labor shortages that dominated headlines in 2022. The distance between job positions open today, those set to be created in the years ahead, and the number of qualified people to fill them is massive. Thus, we cannot afford to practice gender discrimination in such a situation.

New construction industry jobs were expected to balloon by almost 2 million in 2022, and companies are looking to recruit more women than ever before to bring their skills into the field. Helping women carve out a niche in construction and heavy equipment operation can be accomplished with improved training and support programs.

Women in Construction Jobs Bring Specific Strengths

As heavy equipment operators, women have always been recognized as having easily identifiable strengths.

• Learning ability: As more rule-abiding and keen to learn, women can show greater learning ability than men.
• Consistency: When enrolling in a training program, women are more likely to show up for classes regularly than men.
• Attention to detail: Women tend to have an eye for detail, greater than their male counterparts, who often slip up on their overconfidence.
• Attitude and Employability: Women are hard working regarding their jobs. In a man’s field where they are offered lesser pay and credit, they strive to outshine men by keeping a diligent attitude towards their work.

Additional training programs and support and help place more women in construction jobs, such as heavy equipment operators. The National Association of Women in Construction and its annual conference, provide mentorship, marketing, and networking opportunities to help women new to the construction and/or heavy equipment operation industries.

Changing career paths? Learn how PTS and our heavy equipment operator training programs can help you quickly shift gears.

PTS Training is Perfect for Women in Construction Jobs

PTS is a heavy equipment and mobile crane operator school located outside of Columbus, Ohio. For more than a decade PTS has provided standardized training programs to help the construction and energy development industries fill their need for qualified, in-demand, heavy equipment operators.

Our combination of small class sizes, classroom instruction, and in-the-seat field exercises prepare our students for excellent entry-level employment opportunities. We’re proud of our 90% job placement rate, and provide training to businesses and individuals, including veterans, recent high school graduates, the recently unemployed, and those with disabilities.

PTS offers a series of three-week, 120-hour courses that provide the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to obtain entry-level employment as an NCCER credentialed operator or NCCCO certified crane operator.

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is an entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on that initial training and opens the door to employment as an operator for bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders.
• Mobile Crane Operations covers both Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes.

Connect with PTS today to learn more about how we help put more women in construction jobs. Schedule a free tour of our facility for a $500 tuition discount.

For Americans entering their late-middle, or even older years, a career change can result from a desire to explore other work options, or they may be forced into a new career by their previous employer or market forces. For the ones facing a layoff or unpreparedness for retirement, a new career or work stream may be the need of the hour. This is where heavy equipment operating training fits the picture and paves the way to a career in construction and engineering.

Amid Ohio’s burgeoning construction and energy development industries, heavy equipment operator training is gaining momentum as a career choice. This is also reflected in research by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics suggesting that heavy equipment operator jobs will grow by at least 4% between 2019 and 2029. Notably, this growth rate equals the average compared to all other occupations.

Here’s How Heavy Equipment Operator Training Can Benefit Your Career

Why explore a career in heavy equipment operating training? Here are four reasons.

• As the backbone of the building industry, heavy equipment training has widespread demand. All-pervasive in construction sites, it is a key requirement in all construction projects.
• The training is easy-to-access, affordable, and quick to complete with a low barrier to entry/requirements. The eligibility criterion bypasses stringent norms and suits just about everyone.
• A heavy equipment operator’s job is a well-paid job in a stable job market. While the pay differs per both the equipment used and your experience level, the baseline salary is still quite rewarding. Approximately 50% of all heavy equipment jobs will have an annual salary ranging from $54,889 to $74,493.
• Veterans can start a stable, well-paying post-military career path as heavy equipment operators, which can help them quickly acclimate to civilian life.

Want to know how PTS can serve veterans? Learn everything you need to know in our free, downloadable ebook. Get it here.

Beneficial Programs to Fuel Career Change Assistance

Even if you’re being forced into a new career due to a layoff, stand firm and remember that it is not the “end” of your career. It could just be the start of a new beginning. Workers in their early 50s and up, former service members, etc., can tap into the benefits offered by several assistance programs that can help them in pursuing training to be heavy equipment operators.

Here’s a list of program you can explore if you’re planning to become a heavy equipment operator:

The Trade Adjustment Assistance/Trade Reemployment Assistance programs (TAA/TRA programs)

TAA is a federal program that supports workers who lose their jobs due to foreign trade. It seeks to support such affected persons by reemploying and providing them with the necessary provisions, opportunities, skills, credentials, and resources.

Benefits of this program include:

• Reemployment credentials
• Training and career benefits
• Income support (Trade Readjustment Allowances)
• Job search allowances
• Relocation allowances
• Alternative or Reemployment Trade Adjustment Assistance
• A federal health insurance tax credit, known as the Health Coverage Tax Credit
• Wage supplements for workers age 50 and older

Former Military Personnel

Funding programs for heavy equipment operator training are enlisted below:

Post-9/11 GI Bill® (Chapter 33) — This bill provides educational and occupational benefits to the veterans directly, given that they’ve served on active duty after September 10, 2001. It funds veterans’ involvement in job training, schooling, tuition, and other educational purposes for a maximum period of 48 months. In addition, it also backs their housing, books, and other educational supplies financially.

Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program (CHAPTER 31) — Veterans having a service-connected disability that limits their ability to work or pursue employment opportunities can tune into this program. It seeks to provide educational assistance and employment opportunities to veterans or their families. 

PTS Support — As a certified Military Friendly® School for 2021-22, Performance Training Solutions will do everything it can to help eligible veterans access and utilize these programs. PTS has served veterans from all branches of military service and is committed to continual support veterans as they return to civilian life.

Get help in acquiring the training you need to move ahead. Learn about the Ohio job training assistance programs available.

PTS Excels in Offering Career Change Assistance for Those Interested in Becoming a Heavy Equipment Operator

PTS is a heavy equipment and mobile crane operator school located outside of Columbus, Ohio. Recognizing a need for standardized training programs to fill in-demand operator jobs created by the burgeoning construction and energy development industries within Ohio and nearby states, PTS was launched on June 11, 2011, to help fill the skills gap.

We serve:

• Businesses
• Individuals
• Veterans
• Unemployed Workers
• Disabled Workers
• Recent High School Graduates

With the combination of small class sizes for hands-on learners, classroom activities followed by in-the-seat field exercises, PTS students are well prepared and positioned for good entry-level employment opportunities. Our average 90% placement rate is a testament to this fact.

Courses we offer:

We offer a pair of three-week, 120-hour courses that provide the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to obtain entry-level employment as an NCCER credentialed operator.

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is an entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on that initial training and opens the door to employment as an operator for bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders.

Connect with PTS today to learn more about our career change assistance programs. Schedule a free tour of our facility for a $500 tuition discount.

Performance Training Solutions (PTS) has helped a diverse range of individuals learn to operate and begin careers as heavy equipment operators for more than 10 years. In that time we’ve learned that heavy equipment operator industries cover every aspect of American life, from gathering key resources and building critical infrastructure to handling goods and providing homes and structures.

At PTS, the training you need to pursue employment in these industries can be completed in just three weeks! You can gain the skills and knowledge needed to find well-paying jobs capable of supporting yourself and your family. With a high job placement rate for graduates and refresher training and career assistance available after you graduate, PTS is committed to supporting your long-term success. Contact us today to learn more about our training and our $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Get Ready to Build a Career with Construction Operator Training

Construction is one of the largest and most vital industries in the U.S. From building new homes, to industrial facilities, medical centers, production plants, and much more, construction is always needed for progress.

At Performance Training Solutions (PTS), we recognized long ago the need for quality instruction to ensure the job sites of today and tomorrow have the trained professionals in place to keep the country moving forward. Our construction operator training programs allow you to start an exciting new career in heavy equipment and crane operations faster, for less money, and with more job prospects.

Construction operator training through our credentialed programs gives you the foundation to pursue employment opportunities on a variety of equipment. At PTS, we’ll support you in obtaining funding for heavy equipment or crane operator training and will walk you through the process step by step.

Construction Operation Courses

PTS offers three, 120-clock-hour (3 weeks) courses covering a variety of heavy equipment types. Training is held on-site at our Central Ohio facility, and you’ll be required to stay locally to complete your training. While food and lodging aren’t included in tuition, the short training duration and practical experience you’ll gain makes it all worthwhile, especially when you’ll be able to start earning a strong income in your new career. We offer the following courses:

Heavy Equipment Operator 2

Mobile Crane Operations

Dig Into a New Career with Mining Operator Training

Mining and extraction operations fuel the country’s growth by providing the raw materials needed to power all manner of industry. From quarry operations and moving massive amounts of earth to open pit mining and more, mining operator training is critical in maintaining a prepared workforce to fulfill these important jobs.

At Performance Training Solutions (PTS), we have always prioritized the need for quality instruction to ensure every mining operation has the trained professionals in place to keep safety standards high and the industry powering forward. Our mining operator training programs help you start a rewarding new career in heavy equipment and crane operations faster, for less money, and with more job prospects — while ensuring the industry runs smoothly.

If you’re considering what Air Force veteran jobs might be available to you after you’ve completed your service, consider the advantages of a career in heavy equipment operation. Rather than spending tens of thousands of dollars and two to four years trying to get a college degree, you can get trained and credentialed at Performance Training Solutions (PTS) in heavy equipment or crane operations in only three weeks! This means you can be on your way to an in-demand, high-paying career sooner and with more career prospects, as equipment operators are needed nationwide.

Mining operator training through our credentialed programs provides the opportunity to burrow into new opportunities on a variety of equipment — from bulldozers and excavators to dump trucks and wheel loaders, and more. At PTS, we’ll help you examine funding solutions for heavy equipment or crane operator training and will walk you through the process step by step.

Explore Construction Operator Training Options

PTS offers three, 120-clock-hour (3 weeks) courses covering a variety of heavy equipment types. Training is held on-site at our Central Ohio facility, and you’ll be required to stay locally to complete your training. While food and lodging aren’t included in tuition, the short training duration and practical experience you’ll gain makes it all worthwhile, especially when you’ll be able to start earning a strong income in your new career. We offer the following courses:

Heavy Equipment Operator 2

Mobile Crane Operations

Opportunities for work and demand for construction workers and heavy equipment operators are growing rapidly in central Ohio. Both stem directly from Intel construction projects in Ohio that aim to alter the region into a hub for tech production — for years to come.

Intel, a world leader in semiconductors, announced earlier this year that it is investing $20 billion into the construction of two new microchip factories near Columbus, Ohio. Intel said the site will be its first new manufacturing center in 40 years and claims the project is the largest single private-sector investment in Ohio history. When complete, the facility will cover nearly 1,000 acres and could eventually include up to eight different semiconductor factories.

Work has already begun in clearing the area for construction, with ground expected to break in late 2022 and a goal of being production-ready by 2025. Intel has indicated that an additional $100 million will be invested in local research and educational institutions to grow the talent pipeline.

The facility will need thousands of construction workers to get built, will house approximately 3,000 Intel jobs when finished, and potentially add tens of thousands of long-term jobs in the area. Total investment in the project could reach $100 billion over the next decade. The project is expected to accelerate after Congress passed the CHIPS Act and President Joe Biden signed it into law in August 2022.

Intel is Only Part of the Construction Boom in Central Ohio

As big as the Intel project is, it’s only one of several similar efforts in the region — and will surely be followed by others that will be necessary to provide housing, support, and amenities to the new facility. For instance, just six months after the Intel announcement, Missouri’s VanTrust Real Estate announced it would be building a 500-acre business park in an adjacent area to house Intel suppliers.

Other ongoing or recently announced major developments in the region include:

• Three new Google and Amazon data centers
• Solar power array project
• $2 billion addition to the Ohio State University medical center
• $365 million Amgen bio-manufacturing plant
• $200 million municipal courthouse in Columbus

Obviously, such a parade of major construction projects will demand workers to get the jobs completed. With a shortage in skilled labor affecting many industries, including construction, now is a great time to explore your options in joining this in-demand field.

Our central location makes training accessible. We provide the Midwest and much of the East Coast with the opportunity for training.

HE Operator Training Needed for Intel Construction Projects in Ohio

Clearly, there is a need for construction workers of all types in Central Ohio. Heavy equipment operators will serve a vital role in completing the mentioned projects, adding to what is already a steady demand for these skilled workers.

For Intel construction alone, it’s estimated that 7,000 construction jobs will be created. That number is only a portion of what will be needed over the lifetime of the project, which will radically transform hundreds of acres of rural land about a half-hour east of Columbus. State officials have noted there’s not a pool of 7,000 extra workers in central Ohio, let alone skilled tradespeople with the training needed for critical roles.

PTS is Ready to Assist

Federal Job data indicates there are roughly 45,000 home and commercial construction workers in the region. That number increased by only 1,800 from May 2021 to May 2022, leaving a sizable gap between the labor needed and what’s available. High-quality training programs are needed to quickly help fill in the difference.

Performance Training Solutions has always valued helping a wide variety of students unlock new careers with an education that puts them in line for better jobs. Due to the demand in central Ohio, and the labor shortage, it’s expected those salaries — already strong for heavy equipment operators — could expand greatly in the region. With monthly openings and quickly completed training courses, PTS offers the quickest way for those interested in capitalizing on the construction boom in central Ohio to get on board.

Get help in acquiring the training you need to move ahead. Learn about the Ohio job training assistance programs available.

PTS Provides the Training Needed for Intel Construction Projects in Ohio

Performance Training Solutions is one of the finest heavy equipment operator schools in the country and is located just minutes from the Intel project location. We’re prepared to quickly get you up to speed with the knowledge and skills needed to secure employment as an NCCER-credentialed heavy equipment operator with a pair of three-week, 120-hour courses. Once complete, the training will enable you to join the pool of candidates for work either in the construction of the mammoth semiconductor campus or the other Central Ohio projects mentioned earlier.

With each course lasting just three weeks, new classes are available every month. This means you’ll never have to wait long for a spot in our program, if at all. Here’s a snapshot of the two heavy equipment courses offered at PTS. A three-week training course on the operation of cranes is also available.

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is an entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on that initial training and opens the door to employment as an operator for bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. Completion of HE Operator 1 is needed to take HE Operator 2.

All of our PTS staff members are subject to Continuing Education Requirements as set forth by the Ohio Board of Career Colleges and Schools. More than half of your total training time will be spent in the seat of actual machinery as you apply information obtained in the classroom in the field. We’ll also work with you to access funding for training through any applicable Ohio job training programs.

Connect with PTS today and learn how our training programs position you to take advantage of Intel construction projects in Ohio, and other regional development. Schedule a free tour for a $500 tuition discount, or sign up for a spot in the next course.

Crane operator education can unlock entry into a new, well-supported career, and is a necessary component of continuing to work in that field thereafter. With the right training program, you can quickly access all the important factors that go into learning the machinery, gain assistance in securing the proper certification, and leave the door open to continue your education in the future.

There are plenty of reasons to pursue crane operator education and training. Here’s a quick look at the three biggest:

1. Compensation Opportunity — On average, crane operators remain among the best paid among the entire heavy equipment operator family of occupations. Nationwide, the median salary for crane operators reaches nearly $60,000 and top-end salaries can approach $100,000 or more. Learn more details in our breakdown of salary considerations here.
2. Speed of Training — Crane operator education can be completed in a matter of weeks — not months or years. After the base training is finished, you’ll need proof of a high school diploma along with the proper certification and sometimes a state-issued license. Many states recognize the exams administered by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO).
3. Demand Level — Crane operators typically have no shortage of opportunities and enjoy more options if they expand their education to cover different types of cranes — such as tower cranes or mobile hydraulic versions, or fixed-cab versus swing-cab varieties.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule a free tour of our training facility and earn a tuition reduction in the process.

Crane Operator Education Covers Safety and Test Prep

A key component of any crane operator training program is pursuing safety and it should be one of the primary considerations of any worksite that uses heavy equipment to complete necessary work. Hazards remain whenever and wherever heavy equipment is used to move, lift, and distribute materials, and accidents — besides the terrible personal costs they extract — present potentially avoidable delays, shutdowns, and expenses.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has created regulations that dictate that only trained, certified, and properly evaluated workers are eligible to operate cranes on job sites. Following such regulations help avoid accidents, show a commitment to your workforce, and impact your bottom line through less damaged materials and shutdowns. The right crane operator education program will also help enhance your safety efforts with focus on aspects like using qualified riggers and signallers, proper stabilizing techniques, and understanding concepts like load radius and lift limits.

Finish Your Crane Operator Education with Certification

As mentioned earlier, testing through the NCCCO is usually the final step for new would-be crane operators, and completing the exam will give you the certification needed to pursue employment. However, you don’t need to go it alone in lining up and preparing for the exam.

Performance Training Solutions can help you learn the foundation to become a new crane operator or help veterans in the field brush up prior to re-certification. Certification is only valid for five years and when seeking to extend that certification candidates must complete all the requirements in a 12-month window prior to the expiration date.

PTS Provides the Finest in Crane Operator Education

The training courses at Performance Training Solutions are designed with the student in mind. The goal is to provide a high-quality training experience to offer the fundamental knowledge and skills needed for entry-level employment in the field, in addition to certifications.

PTS offers a quick — three-week, 120-hour — program that provides you with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to obtain entry-level employment as an NCCCO-certified crane operator. Our mobile crane operator school program includes both the Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes.

Featuring a mixture of classroom and in-the-seat instruction, students will learn the basic principles of cranes, crane safety, an orientation to the trade, operating a crane, preventative maintenance, wire, rope, and basic rigging practices. Small class sizes are designed to provide more one-on-one time with our instructors and examiners.

Connect with PTS today to learn more, schedule a free tour for a tuition discount, or sign up for a spot in the next course offering.

Getting the needed education, skills, and experience to unlock a new career path can seem like a substantial hurdle for those looking to make a change. For those in the Buckeye State, however, numerous Ohio job training assistance programs are in place to aid the process.

These programs are essential for many individuals and can provide aid in pursuing training and education that cover a variety of potential fields and industries. A key qualifying factor for tuition assistance is that the occupation is “in demand”. Both heavy equipment and mobile crane operators meet this “in demand” standard.

Heavy equipment operator training schools and programs seamlessly integrate with the goals of Ohio job training assistance programs. The purpose of such programs is to help individuals find meaningful employment, and heavy equipment operators provide key services in a number of critical industries along with many benefits for the individuals carrying out the work.

• The list of requirements to begin training is within reach of most
• Completing training is a matter of weeks, not the years you can expect in a traditional educational program
• With a variety of equipment types and multiple areas of specialization, HE operators remain in constant demand and have many ways to develop their careers further
• Once complete, training opens up jobs with strong salaries — even at the starting level

Today, we’ll examine some of the job training programs available in the state of Ohio. Remember, however, that similar programs — particularly those generated at the federal level — are available across the U.S. Anyone looking to begin a new career should work with their own local and state agencies to find out the job training and tuition assistance programs available to them.

YOU’VE SERVED YOUR COUNTRY — WHAT’S NEXT?

In our free, no-strings-attached ebook — A New Path Forward — examine the positive aspects of heavy equipment operator training for veterans and why Performance Training Solutions is the right choice to empower you in a new career.

Ohio Job Training Assistance Programs Present Options

Tapping into state-level programs in Ohio that promote job training, individuals will be required to coordinate their efforts through and work with the Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services. In addition, the Ohio Means Jobs website provides more information about how to learn career skills, meet the requirements of your government benefits, and find a job when you’re ready. Becoming familiar with both is key to getting the most out of the job training programs available in Ohio.

Now, let’s briefly examine some of the specific programs available.

WIOA

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is a federal program that provides funding to states to offer job training, education, and employment services for unemployed and underemployed workers and youth. WIOA, signed into law in 2014, seeks to increase employment retention and earnings of participants, and help them attain recognized post-secondary credentials. The program is offered to dislocated workers, adults over 18 who can work in the US and young adults (ages 14-24) who may be missing a high school diploma or dealing with other hardships.

CCMEP

The Comprehensive Case Management and Employment Program is designed to help low-income young adults (ages 14-24) get the training and support necessary to build a career path, find employment, and break the poverty cycle. Specifically tailored to each individual, CCMEP integrates funding from both the WIOA youth program and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program to offer more coordinated services. Every Ohio county has a designated lead agency responsible for managing CCMEP; to find your nearest OhioMeansJobs center click here.

TAA/TRA

The Trade Adjustment Assistance/Trade Reemployment Assistance programs provide services and income support to help those who have become unemployed — or had working hours reduced — as a result of shifts in production to foreign countries. This federal-level program has many potential benefits such as career counseling, job search allowances, relocation allowances, wage supplements for those 50 and older, and skills testing and training. You can find out much more about TAA/TRA, and how Ohio manages them, here.

IEP

An Individualized Education Program is developed for a child with an identified disability who is attending an elementary or secondary education institution. Performance Training Solutions has detailed IEPs before and how they can be used to line up educational or training programs following high school graduation. Contact PTS directly for details on specific funding opportunities involving IEPs, which typically draw funding from state and federal sources.

Vocational Rehabilitation

The Ohio Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (BVR) provides those with disabilities the services and support they need to help them secure and maintain employment. Assistance for disabilities ranging from physical, intellectual, sensory, or mental health causes includes customization for each individual through assessments and one-on-one meetings. Vocational Rehabilitation services are available in all 88 Ohio counties and cover a wide range of services, including vocational training. To find the Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) regional office closest to you, click here.

Our central location makes training accessible. We provide the Midwest and much of the East Coast with the opportunity for training.

PTS Puts Students First

Performance Training Solutions is one of the top heavy equipment training schools in the US and operates with one goal: to help students build their careers with credentialed, certified, and professional training. Our team of experienced trainers, admissions representatives, and career coaches is dedicated to the success of the diverse range of students we serve — including veterans, disabled persons, the recently unemployed, and new high school graduates.

PTS offers a pair of three-week, 120-hour courses that provide the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to obtain entry-level employment as an NCCER-credentialed heavy equipment operator. The training, once complete, will open up potential employment across a wide variety of industries, from construction and road-building to mining, forestry, agriculture, and more. We’re willing to work with students to help them unlock benefits to offset the cost of training, our graduates have a nearly 90% job placement rate, and we continue to offer ongoing assistance after course completion.

Connect with PTS today to learn more about Ohio job training assistance programs. Schedule a free tour of our facility for a $500 tuition discount.

Set Yourself Up for Success in a Career that Rises Above the Rest.

Prepare yourself for an exciting and rewarding career with mobile crane operator training from Performance Training Solutions (PTS). Mobile crane operators are in demand, and with the proper training and certification, you can have a job that sustains your family and allows for future growth. In this free guide, you’ll explore why mobile crane training with PTS will prepare you for opportunities across every industry. Invest in your mobile crane career — and lift your future to new heights.

Read our free ebook below.

Dig Deeper with Expert Insight from PTS

Performance Training Solutions is committed to helping all of our students succeed in their drive to become heavy equipment and/or crane operators. Our entire team — trainers, examiners, admissions specialists, and career representatives — believes in putting our students first. We do so by providing resources they need to make informed decisions about their future.

Begin building for your future by digging into any of our free resources located below. For regular updates on our training school, the state of heavy equipment operator training, key insights into the industry, and more, visit our PTS blog for monthly updates and sign up for emails. If you have questions, or would like to learn more about our team and how we help students start a new career path, contact us now.

A New Path Forward: How Veterans Can Capitalize on HE Operator Training

Coming to grips with a new career after enlistment is challenging for many. Learn how heavy equipment operator training through PTS gives veterans an express lane to rewarding careers in this free ebook.

Breaking Barriers: How Women Can Find Success as Heavy Equipment Operators

As a woman in the construction industry, your possibilities are endless. Learn how becoming a heavy equipment operator can allow you to find a long-lasting career, earn a family-sustaining salary, and discover limitless growth opportunities. Learn more from PTS about how to build a better future for yourself.

The 2025 Guide to Heavy Equipment and Crane Operator Salaries

Becoming a heavy equipment or crane operator can give you a family-sustaining salary, a long-lasting career, and future opportunities for growth. Learn more about the expert training programs at PTS and how we can prepare you to join this rewarding field.

Elevate Your Career With Mobile Crane Training

Read our free guide to discover why mobile crane operator training from PTS will help you find career opportunities across every industry. Learn more.

Power Up: A Guide to HEO Training

Heavy equipment operator training can equip you with the skills and knowledge to secure a strong career with a high earning potential in only a few short weeks. Learn more about what you can expect from HEO training and how PTS sets you up for success in this free ebook.

Though sometimes used interchangeably, there is a distinct difference between heavy equipment operator credentials and certification. This can be an area of confusion for students learning to operate such equipment, whether that be cranes or the assorted heavy equipment on a construction site.

Let’s say you’ve decided to begin training to learn how to operate heavy equipment. The course is nearing completion and you’re wondering what’s next. Do you need to become accredited or certified? Do you need both to begin exploring professional prospects once your education and training are complete?

Since our inception, Performance Training Solutions has served hundreds of students, men and women, from ages 17 to 72. Whether you’re recently unemployed, a recent high school graduate, a veteran, or disabled, PTS takes pride in helping you adjust to a career change and engineer an opportunity to do so. We even work with you to help secure funding solutions that can help pay for the training.

Today we’ll discuss that credentials or certification question. Let’s lay out what you need to know when it comes to heavy equipment operator credentials.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule a free tour of our training facility and earn a tuition reduction in the process.

Which Form of Proof Do I Need?

The question of whether you need a credential or certification to begin professional employment after your training comes down to the type of equipment you’ve learned to operate. At PTS, our core training programs are divided into two broad types — heavy equipment (two different courses) and cranes (Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Fixed-Cab).

Cranes

According to regulations set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), anyone seeking to operate a crane that weighs 2,000 pounds or more must first be certified by an accredited crane operator testing organization or qualified through an audited employer program.

For the vast majority of future crane operators, this means achieving certification through the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). At PTS, once you complete your crane operator program you will take the NCCCO exam. Once your exams are passed, you will receive formal certification. You can continue to pursue additional training (on other crane types for instance) but there is no other next step needed in order to find employment.

If you’re seeking NCCCO Crane Certification for the first time, you should be aware of the specifics of the exam and the training provided by PTS will ensure you’re prepared. Certification is only valid for five years, and when seeking to extend that certification candidates must complete all of their requirements (including the exam) in the 12-month window prior to the certification expiration date. PTS also offers a Prep & Test program for those seeking a fast track toward recertification.

Heavy Equipment

However, when learning to operate wheel loaders, backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, and more, students will NOT receive certification (or the opportunity to test for it) at the end of their training. Instead, when the training is complete students will receive a credential from the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

This credential is the most important part of the requirements to become a heavy equipment operator. By becoming accredited with NCCER, students have demonstrated they completed an NCCER-sanctioned curriculum, and that they have the knowledge and proficiency in how to operate various pieces of equipment safely on a job site.

Once training is completed and the credential is secured, students can immediately go out and seek employment. There is no other step or additional training required. They’re free to begin work as a credentialed heavy equipment operator.

Ready to grow with heavy equipment operator training? Plan with the right course.

PTS Provides Heavy Equipment Operator Credentials and Crane Operator Certification

The training courses at PTS are designed with the student in mind. The goal is to provide a high-quality training experience to offer the fundamental knowledge and skills needed for entry-level employment in the field, in addition to credentials and/or certifications.

PTS offers instruction that engages students with plenty of in-the-seat training, helps them meet requirements quickly, and empowers them in a new career. As mentioned earlier, we offer two three-week, 120-hour courses in heavy equipment operations and a third training course covering cranes.

Here’s a quick look at each of the three main courses offered at PTS.

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is an entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator. Individuals also receive information on heavy equipment safety, basic operational techniques, and an introduction to earthmoving and soils.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on the initial training of HE Operator 1 and adds the layer of training needed for operating bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. During this second course, students also learn about site work, excavation math, the interpretation of civil drawings, and finishing and grading.
• Mobile Crane Operations gives you the background needed to obtain entry-level employment as an NCCCO-certified crane operator. Our program includes both Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes. Topics covered include basic crane principles, wire rope and basic rigging practices, crane safety, and more.

Connect with PTS today to learn more, schedule a free tour for a tuition discount, or sign up for a spot in the next course offering.

With graduation day closing in across the country, many high school students are exploring the next steps in their educational or professional development. An important consideration, for those who qualify, is how to apply Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) toward their next steps. For example, it’s possible to use IEP benefits for heavy equipment operator training.

An Individualized Education Plan is a program developed for a child with an identified disability who is attending an elementary or secondary education institution. It is designed to ensure the student receives specialized instruction and other related services. The child, family members, designated advocates, and various education personnel develop the IEP.

A typical IEP includes ways for the child to progress in the general curriculum of the school and plugs them into all related services for which they qualify while also arranging the accommodations necessary for them to be successful. With measurable goals and objectives, IEPs create opportunities for the student and those involved with them. IEPs establish a structure for the student and their educators, provide a plan to follow, and individual focus that helps students progress toward a purposeful future.

IEP funding primarily comes through special education programs at the state and federal levels (contact us for details on specific funding opportunities). In the case of IEPs, the benefits associated with the program typically expire upon high school graduation or shortly thereafter. It makes the spring season critical for those using IEPs to tap into the benefits as much as possible to line up post-graduation opportunities to continue education or training programs.

Performance Training Solutions works with many varieties of students and is committed to working with them to find funding solutions or helping access benefits to pursue training as a heavy equipment operator. It is possible to use IEPs to support students’ efforts in acquiring training at PTS. Contact us to learn to apply such a program to further job and career development opportunities.

Beyond IEPs, there are many other programs and options individuals may turn to help fund job training at PTS. For veterans, PTS proudly accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® as well as Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits.

PTS also serves many students funded by training grants through programs such as the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act and the Trade Adjustment/Readjustment Act. Depending on your circumstances, these training grants may include additional funds for lodging, transportation, and meals. Multiple different federal and state grants may also help fund training. Some examples include the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), Tribal Education (BIA), and the Department of Workforce Development.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule a free tour of our training facility and earn a tuition reduction in the process.

Heavy Equipment Operator Training Provides a Path Forward

Job training, like the operator programs offered by Performance Training Solutions, benefits those with learning disabilities or who have implemented IEPs. Using IEP benefits for heavy equipment operator training provides former training and a solid foundation for a potential long-term career or employment. Completing training programs increases the chances for the student to be hired in their chosen field and enter the workforce sooner — at PTS our courses are just three weeks (120 hours).

The requirements for entry into a heavy equipment operator program are within reach for most individuals, even those with a disability. Taking part in such courses helps students develop social skills, earn a greater sense of independence, and find increased confidence as they work toward a goal within a structured environment.

Just as importantly, finishing training and finding work as a heavy equipment operator provides a way for those with disabilities to find their way into a self-sustaining career. Jobs in the field have remained in demand consistently, even during the last two years with pandemic conditions, and boast strong salaries even at a beginner level. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average yearly earnings of a heavy equipment operator is $46,080. Meanwhile, the average salary for all occupations across the board was $37,690. It’s a significant difference and one that can grow as your skills and experience level do as well.

Ready to grow with heavy equipment operator training? Plan with the right course.

PTS Can Guide You on Using IEP Benefits for Heavy Equipment Operator Training

The training courses at PTS are designed with the student in mind. The goal is to provide a high-quality training experience to offer the fundamental knowledge and skills needed for entry-level employment in the field in addition to credentials and/or certifications to show potential employers what you have learned and the types of equipment you’re qualified to operate.

Small class sizes give each student the opportunity to learn and ask questions and allow our instructors to adjust the information delivery to meet the needs of the students. While a combination of textbooks, models, and visual presentations are used in the classroom environment, and there will be multiple-choice quizzes and tests, practical training will make up the bulk of your education. We’ll help you put theory into action with plenty of time in the seat of real equipment to learn.

PTS offers instruction that propels students into a new career and helps them meet all requirements quickly. We offer two three-week, 120-hour courses in heavy equipment operations and a third training course covering cranes.

Here’s a quick look at each of the three main courses offered at PTS.

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is an entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator. Individuals also receive information on heavy equipment safety, basic operational techniques, and an introduction to earthmoving and soils.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on the initial training of HE Operator 1 and adds the layer of training needed for operating bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. During this second course, students also learn about site work, excavation math, the interpretation of civil drawings, and finishing and grading.
• Mobile Crane Operations gives you the background needed to obtain entry-level employment as an NCCCO certified crane operator. Our program includes both Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes. Topics covered include basic crane principles, wire rope and basic rigging practices, crane safety, and more.

Connect with PTS today to learn more about applying IEP support toward heavy equipment operator training. You can also schedule a free tour for a tuition discount, or sign up for a spot in the next course offering.

Finding and landing civilian jobs for veterans has proven to be critical for former military personnel transitioning back into everyday life. Every year approximately 200,000 service members end their service with one branch of the military, and for many the process of adjusting to life back in the working world can be difficult.

There are many things veterans can do to help accelerate the process, or make the transition easier. Foremost among them is finding a new career path, educational opportunities, and contacts in the field in which they choose to work. After years of life in the military, veterans can feel out of place or alienated upon returning to civilian life. Having a firm plan in place, employment goal, or similar directive can help those who have served our country plot out their next steps after enlistment.

Learning to operate heavy equipment is a natural fit in lining up civilian jobs for veterans. Heavy equipment operators and crane operators are key components of two of the top five industries for military veterans, and pursuing such opportunities leads to a career with many noteworthy benefits:

• Even as first-year workers in the field, heavy equipment operators will have access to jobs with wages capable of supporting themselves and their families.
• Getting into the necessary training programs is simple with just a few requirements.
• It’s not a long process, with training taking a matter of weeks compared to years for a college degree. At Performance Training Solutions, for instance, each of our heavy equipment operator courses can be completed in no more than three weeks.

How does PTS serve veterans? Learn more about our 90% job placement rate here.

Training Programs at PTS Help Provide Set Up Civilian Jobs for Veterans

Performance Training Solutions offers a pair of three-week, 120-hour courses that provide the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to obtain entry-level employment as an NCCER credentialed operator. The training, once complete, will open up potential employment across a wide variety of industries, from construction and road-building to mining, forestry, agriculture, and more.

With each course lasting just three weeks, new classes are available every month. This means you’re never far away from landing a spot in our program. With a rapid pace of training, you’ll be able to complete your educational requirements for heavy equipment operator work and be able to enter the job market much quicker — and for much less — than if you attended a two- or four-year program at a college or university.

Here’s a snapshot of the two heavy equipment courses offered at PTS. In addition, veterans are also served well with the crane operator training we offer.

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is an entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on that initial training and opens the door to employment as an operator for bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders.
• Completion of HE Operator 1 is needed to take HE Operator 2.

The heart of the training course takes place in the seat on the machinery. More than half of your total training time will be spent in the seat as you apply information obtained in the classroom in the field. All staff members are also subject to Continuing Education Requirements as set forth by the Ohio Board of Career Colleges and Schools.

Ready to grow with heavy equipment operator training? Plan for your future with the right course.

Veterans Can Use Benefits to Help Pay for Training

Lining up civilian jobs for veterans can be aided by taking advantage of the benefits programs military personnel earns during their service. Near the end of their service time, every veteran should think about what they want to do when they re-enter the civilian workforce and inquire about VA benefits, which can include healthcare and home loans as well as education and job training benefits. Veterans can enroll in their respective branch’s transition assistance program (TAP) to learn interview and resume skills and learn more about the funding solutions available to them.

As a Military Friendly® school, Performance Training Solutions is committed to doing everything possible to help eligible veterans use the benefits they’ve earned. We’ll work with you to secure benefits funding for our training programs if you’re eligible. Here’s a quick look at some of the programs military personnel can take advantage of.

Post 9/11 GI Bill® — This program provides payment of tuition and fees, a stipend for textbooks and supplies, and a monthly housing allowance for up to 36 months.

Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program — This program is available to veterans who have a service-connected disability that limits their pursuit of employment or ability to work. It’s also available to family members of service members and veterans with disabilities and has similar educational benefits to the GI Bill®.

Other options — Military Reserves and members of the National Guard may also access benefits that could help them pay for educational training. Guard and Reserve members may be eligible for both GI Bill® and VR&E programs and should inquire about their eligibility.

Contact PTS today and see how our training can lead to civilian jobs for veterans. Schedule a free tour for a $500 tuition discount, or sign up for a spot in the next course offering.

YOU’VE SERVED YOUR COUNTRY — WHAT’S NEXT?

In our free, no-strings-attached ebook — A New Path Forward — examine the positive aspects of heavy equipment operator training for veterans and why Performance Training Solutions is the right choice to empower you in a new career.

The decision to attend a wheel loader training school is one that can open up paths to a rewarding new career quickly and will give you the skills needed to operate an essential piece of heavy equipment. Acting as a giant, mobile shovel on the worksite or demolition area, wheel loaders can be found wherever major works are taking place.

There are many heavy equipment types, but the wheel loader has carved out its own niche as a powerful and versatile tool that serves a simple, but vital purpose. This piece of heavy machinery is used to scoop material into trucks or transport it around a job site. They’re capable of lifting any loose, granular material, ranging from rubble, debris, and gravel to smaller, finer elements like soil, dirt, and sand.

The equipment’s name refers to the transportation method employed by the machine and the job it does best. Similar in appearance to a bulldozer, a wheel loader differs in that it has, well, wheels. Also, where a bulldozer comes equipped with a relatively flat front blade, the wheel loader uses a large, deeper bucket to scoop and dump materials. When you want to push things around, go with a bulldozer. When you need to pick materials up and place them somewhere else, a wheel loader is what you need.

And because of those aforementioned wheels, this equipment has far better maneuverability on roads. In addition, those wheels give the machine the added benefit of being able to traverse concrete or asphalt without damaging the surface — unlike tracked machinery.

Let’s learn more about this staple of the construction site and how you can rapidly acquire the needed knowledge and certification to become an operator.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule a free tour of our training facility and earn a tuition reduction in the process.

Everything You Need to Know About Wheel Loaders

Similar to other heavy equipment notables, the history of the wheel loader is not a linear line from one person or company, but rather a collection of innovations and inventions across the globe. But the first recognizable wheel loaders came about in the 1920s when agriculture tractors were fitted with a scoop-shovel mechanism to move, transport, and deliver soil and dirt.

The invention of the wheel loader as it is recognized today is credited to Volvo Construction Equipment in 1954. It was dubbed ‘The H10’ and was based on a tractor with rear-wheel drive. Since then, the wheel loader has been adapted and improved. By the 1960s more companies started developing wheel loaders. All adaptations and variations contributed to the end result of the modern wheel loader. New ideas and patents continue to be filed. Caterpillar, Komatsu, and Yanmar all went on to file separate patents for the wheeled loader between 1989 and 2014.

Many Names, Same Capability

When looking for work as a wheel loader operator you might be surprised at how many different terms are used for these machines. Some terms are regionally specific, most are manufacturing-specific, yet there is a certain amount of logic behind each name. Even in a wheel loader training school, you might hear some of the terms listed below, but they do refer to the same general machine.

Wheel Loader — One of the more common names, it includes mention of the different method of travel.

Front-End Loader — Another popular moniker, this still refers to the traditional wheeled machinery with loading capability.

Skip Loader — Smaller versions of a loader, sometimes smaller than a typical car, the arms on this machinery to control the shovel come over the top from behind the cab.

Skid Steer Loaders — Generally driven on tracks, these machines get their name from the steering method.

Backhoe Loader — A different type of heavy equipment entirely, backhoes come with a front-loading device and a rear excavator tool.

Variable Attachments

The principle job of a wheel loader can be altered by equipping other attachments to the front lifting mechanism. Instead of a bucket scoop, these attachments give the machine a more specific purpose and different capabilities. With these additions, wheel loaders can be used to move other equipment, clear forests and landscapes, remove snow and ice, dig holes, and more.

• Forks
• Couplers
• Lifting jibs
• Rakes
• Pushers
• Shovels
• Augers
• Brooms
• Stump grinders

Where To Use Wheel Loaders

Wheel loaders are often used when a skid steer is too small, or the digger implemented on a backhoe is not needed. Wheel loaders come in different sizes as well, usually determined by the size of the bucket or scoop, leaving some variability (considering attachments as well) on which projects need which specific loaders. Here are some general guidelines.

Loaders are often seen on construction sites and excavation jobs as the large bucket is perfect for scooping and moving dirt and rocks away from an excavation site and loading it into trucks. Loaders can also help to transport such material around the site.

You’ll also see wheel loaders used in road-building projects as their tires make it essential whenever moving heavy loads is needed in the construction of city streets or interstate highways. Loaders are also seen in agriculture and landscaping projects and can prepare any job site or assist in cleanup after a project is completed.

Ready to grow with heavy equipment operator training? Plan with the right course.

PTS is the Wheel Loader Training School You Need

Performance Training Solutions provides accessible training to get you set up for a new career and meet all requirements quickly. We offer two, three-week, 120-hour courses in heavy equipment operations. Depending on the type of machinery you’re seeking certification for, you may need to take one or both of the courses.

Here’s a brief snapshot of the types of equipment covered in each course.

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is an entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on that initial training and opens the door to employment as an operator for bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders.

If you are not prepared to pay tuition outright, several funding and finance options are available to you. For veterans, PTS gladly accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® as well as Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits.

If you are not prepared to pay tuition outright, several funding and finance options are available to you. PTS serves many students who are funded by training grants through programs such as the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act and the Trade Adjustment/Readjustment Act. Depending on your circumstances, these training grants may include additional funds for lodging, transportation, and meals. Call 1-866-248-9958 now to learn more about how we serve unemployed or underemployed workers.

There are also different state and federal grants that individuals may be eligible for that can be used to pay for training. Examples of some of these programs are Tribal Education (BIA), WIOA Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Department of Workforce Development, and Displaced Workers, Displaced Farmers.

Lastly, remember it’s possible to use Individual Education Plans (IEPs) to support students’ efforts in acquiring training. Contact us to learn how IEP support can be used to get training at PTS.

Contact PTS today to learn why we’re the best wheel loader training school in the country. You can schedule a free tour for a tuition discount, or sign up for a spot in the next course offering.

There are many funding programs available to veterans for heavy equipment training that help those who have served our country quickly transition into a profession following their service. Learning to operate heavy equipment doesn’t lead to a job for veterans; It opens the door to a second career for those looking to integrate back into society outside of their military branch.

Heavy equipment operator training offers many proven benefits for veterans and makes an ideal path for many seeking a new working profession.

• Accessing training is easy with few requirements to prohibit entry into such programs.
• The training can be completed quickly. At Performance Training Solutions, for instance, each of the heavy equipment courses can be completed in no more than three weeks.
• Heavy equipment operators, even as first-year workers, will be in line for solid, family-supporting wages.

Lining up vocational training also aids veterans in transitional planning as a whole. With a focused path forward those leaving the military will have a path to follow and a way to develop needed skills for the next stage of their life, such as forging social and language skills, developing new contacts within the chosen industry, building a network of people you can rely on to navigate your next steps.

If bulldozers and excavators aren’t your thing, many of the same benefits from learning to operate heavy equipment apply to becoming a certified crane operator. With even stronger starting salaries and more variety, learning to run a crane is another rewarding path forward for veterans.

Best of all for post-military personnel is the many funding programs available to veterans for heavy equipment training. Let’s examine some of them further.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule a free tour of our training facility and earn a tuition reduction in the process.

Multiple Funding Programs Available to Veterans for Heavy Equipment Training

As part of the process of serving our country, veterans earned the right to access benefit programs that can be used to develop their professional prospects after leaving their branch of service. Every veteran is encouraged to think about their transition near the end of their service and should ask about VA benefits, which can include healthcare and home loans as well as education and job training benefits. Veterans should also enroll in their military branch’s transition assistance program to help boost interview and resume skills and aid in job searches.

For heavy equipment operator training, here are some specific programs that can help pay for the instruction you need.

Post-9/11 GI Bill® (Chapter 33)

The GI Bill® provides benefits and living expenses directly to the veteran while they’re in school and can last for up to 36 months. If your service ended on or after January 1, 2013, your benefits won’t ever expire thanks to a law called the Forever GI Bill® — Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act.

Benefits include the full cost of public, in-state tuition and fees, money for housing (if you’re in school more than half-time), and additional funds for books and supplies. You can even receive money to help move from a rural location closer to your educational institution.

Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program (Chapter 31)

The VR&E program is available to veterans who have a service-connected disability that limits their ability to work or prevents them from pursuing employment opportunities. It’s also available to family members of service members and veterans with disabilities. The benefits include similar educational assistance as the GI Bill® but are more dependent on the specific circumstances of the individual applying to the program.

Other Potential Options

Military Reserves and members of the National Guard may also access benefits that could help them pay for educational training. Guard and Reserve members may be eligible for both GI Bill® and VR&E programs and should inquire about their eligibility.

As a certified Military Friendly® School for 2021-22, PTS will do everything it can to help eligible veterans access and utilize these programs. PTS has served veterans from all branches of military service and is committed to continuing to support veterans as they return to civilian life.

Ready to grow with heavy equipment operator training? Plan for your future with the right course.

Take Advantage of Funding Programs Available to Veterans for Heavy Equipment Training with PTS

Performance Training Solutions offers a pair of three-week, 120-hour courses that provide the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to obtain entry-level employment as an NCCER credentialed operator.

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is an entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on that initial training and opens the door to employment as an operator for bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders.

With new classes rolling out every month there are always seats available or open slots close on the horizon. With the rapid deployment of the training, you’ll be able to complete your educational requirements and get to work earning a strong salary sooner than if you pursued a traditional two- or four-year program at a college or university — and pay far less as well.

The core of the curriculum will take place in the seat on the machinery. Practical in-the-seat training will make up more than half of your total training time as you apply classroom information in the field. All staff members are also subject to Continuing Education Requirements as set forth by the Ohio Board of Career Colleges and Schools.

Contact PTS today to begin taking advantage of funding programs available to veterans for heavy equipment training. You can schedule a free tour for a tuition discount, or sign up for a spot in the next course offering.

YOU’VE SERVED YOUR COUNTRY — WHAT’S NEXT?

In our free, no-strings-attached ebook — A New Path Forward — examine the positive aspects of heavy equipment operator training for veterans and why Performance Training Solutions is the right choice to empower you in a new career.

Heavy equipment training programs offer an accessible and fast path forward for many who are looking for a new beginning or direction in 2022. Complete with a wide variety of equipment types and with multiple areas of specialization, operating heavy equipment continues to grow as an in-demand and valued skill for many different industries.

The variety in the heavy equipment available — from backhoes to bulldozers and much more — and the many different applications of that equipment mean average salaries can vary quite a bit. But heavy equipment operators still command family-supporting salaries and that compensation is one of the benefits to transitioning to a full-time career in this area. For example, data from 2021 across all experience levels and types of equipment indicates that more than half of all heavy equipment jobs will have an annual salary of more than $50,000.

Beyond the opportunity for strong salaries, heavy equipment training programs offer participants a quick return on their investment while also remaining within reach for many. Completing the training and acquiring the credentials necessary for heavy equipment operation happens in a matter of weeks, not years. The list of other requirements to enter the field is modest, and there are funding solutions available to help some get started with the training process.

Today we’ll look at each of those aspects of heavy equipment training programs and how Performance Training Solutions help you find and start a new career path quickly.

Dig deeper with PTS: Learn much more about salaries and job growth with heavy equipment operators here.

The Strengths of Heavy Equipment Training Programs

The benefits of pursuing career enhancement with heavy equipment training programs include two key aspects: the requirements to enter into such training are within reach for most, and the timeline to begin and complete the necessary instruction is modest in comparison to other avenues of education.

The requirements to become a heavy equipment operator are not prohibitive for most people. First, for vocational education involving heavy machinery, you’ll need to be at least 18 years of age and possess your high school diploma or its equivalent. Next, there are physical requirements that should be met as well. You’ll need good hand-eye (and foot) coordination to operate the assortment of steering mechanisms, levers, pedals, and more that reside in the cab areas of most forms of equipment. The stamina to complete full shifts, and the ability to react to changing circumstances of the job site are also vital.

The most important requirement is being able to show you can operate equipment safely, and understand safety procedures in place on job sites. To prove this proficiency, you’ll need certification once the required instruction is complete. The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) offers credentials once the required instruction with an accredited institution is completed. As the top heavy equipment and mobile crane operator training school in the Midwest, Performance Training Solutions is fully accredited and certified by the governing bodies in the industry to provide the necessary instruction to fulfill all your heavy machinery operator requirements.

The other benefit of working for heavy equipment training programs is the speed at which they can be completed, and the accessibility of the program itself. For instance, at Performance Training Solutions students will receive all of the instruction needed for NCCER credentials in a condensed, efficient setting. Our programs last only three weeks — 120 hours — with roughly half that time spent with in-the-seat training. At PTS, you’ll be operating real equipment — not simulators.

The overall price and time commitment are far less than you could expect to pay for a semester at a university or a two-year community college degree. The courses are accessible, too — ninth-grade level reading, math, and comprehension skills apply to the NCCER course curriculum, and a combination of textbooks, visual presentations, and models will be used in the classroom environment.

Ready to grow with heavy equipment operator training? Plan with the right course.

PTS Works With You to Find Funding Solutions

At Performance Training Solutions, we are committed to finding ways to make our training programs available to anyone who is interested. Whether you’re recently unemployed, a veteran, a recent high school graduate, or disabled, we’ll collaborate with you to find forms of assistance to make receiving training possible.

If you are not prepared to pay tuition outright, several funding and finance options are available to you. For veterans, PTS gladly accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® as well as Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits.

Performance Training Solutions serves many students who are funded by training grants through programs such as the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act and the Trade Adjustment/Readjustment Act. Depending on your circumstances, these training grants may include additional funds for lodging, transportation, and meals. Call 1-866-248-9958 now to learn more about how we serve unemployed or underemployed workers.

There are also different state and federal grants that individuals may be eligible for that can be used to pay for training. Examples of some of these programs are Tribal Education (BIA), WIOA Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Department of Workforce Development, and Displaced Workers, Displaced Farmers.

Lastly, remember it’s possible to use Individual Education Plans (IEPs) to support students’ efforts in acquiring training. Contact us to learn how IEP support can be used to get training at PTS.

Want to see more, in person? Schedule a free tour to see our facilities, and earn a $500 tuition reduction in the process.

PTS Provides the Heavy Equipment Training Programs You Need

PTS provides accessible training to get you set up for a new career quickly. We offer two, three-week, 120-hour courses in heavy equipment operations that — upon completion of both — will have you credentialed to operate 10 different pieces of heavy equipment.

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is an entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on that initial training and opens the door to employment as an operator for bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders.

With PTS you’ll acquire the skills needed to further your job prospects and open up doors to new opportunities.

Connect with our admissions team today to learn more about what we do, who we serve, schedule a free tour, or sign up for a spot in our next course offering.

Learning how to become a crane operator is one way to carve out a new career path in a desirable, consistent, and well-paying field. After two full years of dealing with the ebbs and flows of the pandemic, now is the time to take more control over your employment future. Becoming a certified crane operator will give you the flexibility to choose from a variety of jobs in several different industries, the comfort in knowing demand will be there for your services, and the security that comes from strong salaries across the board.

Let’s start with the salary considerations. Crane operators remain, on average, among the best paid in the entire heavy equipment operator family of occupations. Data collected throughout 2020 by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicated the average (or mean) hourly wage for crane operators was at $30.27/hour in 2020. The median yearly earning for crane operators was more than $59,000. The numbers are strong for those on either side of the experience gap as well, with highly experienced crane operators — those in the 20% of earners in the field — approaching $100,000 or more in a given year. The entry-level compensation still offers a strong initial earning capacity ($30-40K).

How much crane operators make is a strong reason to consider training and certification, but it’s far from the only one. For example, the demand level is already high and expected to gain momentum as more focus is turned to infrastructure projects across the country. The ability to quickly acquire the necessary training has strong appeal. Finally, like heavy equipment, cranes come in a variety of shapes and sizes; you can specialize in different types of cranes to address different tasks and jobs. There will always be room to grow and add to your skillset.

Are you a veteran looking for a new career path? Post-military crane operator training is a potential solution.

YOU’VE SERVED YOUR COUNTRY — WHAT’S NEXT?

In our free, no-strings-attached ebook — A New Path Forward — examine the positive aspects of heavy equipment operator training for veterans and why Performance Training Solutions is the right choice to empower you in a new career.

Here’s How to Become a Crane Operator

The process begins with identifying if you meet the basic and physical requirements to operate heavy equipment — and specifically a crane. The basic requirements include being at least 18 years of age, and the willingness to follow and abide by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCO) Substance Abuse Policy and Code of Ethics. A high school diploma or GED is required by many training and certification programs as well.

There are physical requirements, as outlined by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), to reach as well. These include (but are not limited to):

• At least 20/30 vision in one eye and 20/50 in the other (with or without corrective lenses)
• Normal depth perception and field of vision
• Ability to distinguish colors
• Adequate hearing (with or without aid)
• Sufficient strength, coordination, and reaction time to meet operational demands
• No evidence of seizures or loss of physical control

If those basics are met, the next step is to locate an NCCCO accredited training program to receive the proper instruction. Regulations, set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), state that any individual seeking to operate a crane that weighs 2,000 pounds or more must first be certified by an accredited crane operator testing organization, or qualified through an audited employer program. For most, this means working through the NCCCO, or an NCCCO accredited program to get ready for the certification exams.

Once the training program is complete, applicants then must pass both a written and practical exam to receive their complete certification. The written crane certification test will feature a Core section that will ask you to display general knowledge about crane operations. Also included will be up to four crane specialty (load chart) examinations. To complete certification, you will need to pass both the Core section and at least one specialty component.

In the practical section, operators will be asked to show their proficiency in Telescopic Boom Cranes — in either a Swing Cab (TLL) or Fixed Cab (TSS) set up. In this part of the exam, operators will need to complete six tasks that progressively increase in the skill needed to finish them, including equipment inspection, hoisting, booming, swinging, following hand signals, and combination (or multifunctional) operations.

Once you’ve passed both parts of the certification exam, you completed the process for how to become a crane operator and can now begin applying your new skills in the workforce.

Ready to grow with heavy equipment operator training? Plan with the right course.

PTS Helps You Achieve Certification

Performance Training Solutions offers a quick — three-week, 120-hour — program that provides you with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to obtain entry-level employment as an NCCCO certified crane operator. Our mobile crane operator school program includes both the Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes.

Featuring a mixture of classroom and in-the-seat instruction, students will learn the basic principles of cranes, crane safety, an orientation to the trade, operating a crane, preventative maintenance, wire, rope, and basic rigging practices. Small class sizes are designed to provide more one-on-one time with our instructors and examiners.

NCCCO Crane operator certification requires you to take and pass both written and practical competency examinations at the conclusion of the training program. Once you have passed all the required exams, you will receive a five-year Mobile Crane Operator Certification from the NCCCO National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators.

Connect with our admissions team today to learn more about how we can help you learn how to become a crane operator. With a free tour of our Columbus, Ohio facility, you’ll be eligible to earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

From lifting to pushing to digging, heavy equipment types all have one thing in common; they require skill to operate and make any job easier.

It’s crucial to use specialized types of heavy equipment geared toward the earthmoving and construction project at hand. The selection of heavy equipment types used for a particular project depends on the size and nature of the project. From construction and road-building to forestry, agriculture, and mining, being able to operate the right heavy equipment for the job is essential in many critical industries that keep the country running.

At Performance Training Solutions, we train and educate individuals so they can safely and efficiently operate heavy equipment on the job site. In turn, this training opens up new career paths and better opportunities for those who take this step.

Heavy equipment operators enjoy many benefits from their chosen field, including the ability to choose to specialize in several heavy equipment types, industries, or specific tasks or jobs. Operators also enter into a stable, consistently-growing field that provides ongoing opportunities. You can work with large crews as part of construction or road-building teams, reap the benefits of individualized work in mining, or even become self-employed.

As for another essential question — how much do heavy equipment operators make? — the answer is also encouraging. Across all heavy equipment types and experience levels, according to 2021 data, heavy equipment operators will access a median salary of $65,657. Approximately 50 percent of all heavy equipment jobs will have an annual salary ranging from $54,889 to $74,493. A great career opportunity for veterans, recent high school graduates, disabled workers, or unemployed career searchers, heavy equipment operating has numerous expanding avenues for growth and earning potential.

But heavy equipment types range across a wide spectrum. Used to drill, pave, compact, lift, drill, dig, and much more, heavy equipment comes in many varieties with different machinery makeups, tools, areas of focus, and strengths. Here we’ll examine several types of heavy machinery — what they include and what they do — all of which you can learn to operate at Performance Training Solutions.

Ready to grow with heavy equipment operator training? Plan with the right course.

Excavators Remain the Gold Standard

Featuring one of the oldest designs for heavy equipment, the excavator remains one of the most popular types of heavy equipment today. By seeking training through an excavator training school, you’ll get the training necessary to operate the most common piece of heavy equipment currently used at work sites — according to heavy equipment manufacturers.

Regarded still as the gold standard among heavy equipment types, today’s modern hydraulic excavators offer power, efficiency, and versatility undreamed of when the machinery first became prevalent in construction, earth-moving, and road (and railway) building more than a century ago. Steam-powered versions of the machinery — also known as steam shovels — were the earliest versions of the model, and were prolific in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the construction of the Panama Canal and the railroads that criss-cross the United States.

All excavators have the same basic makeup of parts. The most distinctive part of the machine is the multiple-articulated ‘arm,’ which is divided into a ‘boom’ that is connected to the vehicle through a ‘king-post’ that allows it to pivot both left and right — usually up to 180 or 220 degrees. The second part of the arm is the ‘the dipper,’ which holds and manipulates the ‘bucket.’ Every component of the arm runs to the cab, which is attached to a platform atop an undercarriage of tracks or wheels. Combined, the cab and platform are referred to as the ‘house.’

The persistent popularity of the excavator is tied to the versatility — through the use of attachments — provided by bucket replacement options. Options like saws, claws, and breakers, or drills, pile drivers, and snow blowers, give this type of heavy equipment the capability to tackle most jobs. You’ll see excavators digging through the earth, demolishing old buildings, grinding down trees, mining, cutting asphalt, and more.

Are you a veteran seeking a new path? Learn how investing in post-military crane operator training can aid your transition.

YOU’VE SERVED YOUR COUNTRY — WHAT’S NEXT?

In our free, no-strings-attached ebook — A New Path Forward — examine the positive aspects of heavy equipment operator training for veterans and why Performance Training Solutions is the right choice to empower you in a new career.

Backhoes Bring Versatility to the Job Site

With instruction from a backhoe training school, you’ll learn to support a variety of construction projects with this adaptable machinery that stands out among heavy equipment types. Part excavator, part loader, and always useful, the backhoe is an essential part of construction sites big and small. Considered the Swiss army knife of heavy equipment, the backhoe (or backhoe loader) is optimal for excavation and digging projects of all sizes.

Backhoes are common and can be seen being used by independent farmers or large construction organizations. They’re used to tackle a wide variety of tasks on a job site including small-scale demolitions, light transportation of building materials, powering building equipment, digging holes, landscaping, breaking up asphalt, and many more.

Backhoes are often composed of a standard tractor base (wheeled) that supports a digging bucket on the end of a jointed, two-part arm. The opposite end of the backhoe will often have a front loader (or similar) attachment. The operator cab features a seat that can swivel to allow the operator to face whichever side is being used at the time. While the bucket is synonymous with a backhoe, it can be replaced with a variety of attachments designed for specific purposes such as drills, hammers, rippers, breakers, and more. Likewise, the front loader can also be swapped out for different attachments, like a plow or a forklift, to fulfill distinct tasks.

In many aspects, the backhoe serves as a smaller version of the excavator, but gains added agility and versatility in place of the larger machinery’s greater size and increased power. The principal difference between the two machines is size; excavators are better suited for large-scale jobs because of this, while the backhoe is a better fit for farming tasks, simple loading jobs, and small-to-medium scale construction projects. The backhoe’s versatility is enhanced by a larger assortment of attachment options and the fact it — unlike most excavators — can be driven on roads which makes them the better choice on spread out (but connected) worksites. Lastly, the excavator can rotate its entire chassis and arm together in a 360-degree circle; the backhoe’s arm only pivots across a range of about 200 degrees over the back of the chassis.

What about cranes? Learn how PTS can help you tackle NCCCO crane operator certification with a variety of solutions.

Bulldozers: Tracks, Blades, and Power

When you enroll in a bulldozer training school you’ll learn to operate a chief piece of heavy equipment. The bulldozer has long been a staple in construction, mining, road building, and many other industries.

The bulldozer is defined by its tracks — the threaded belts or chains along the right and left sides of the vehicle — and the blades attached to the front of the machinery. The tracks provide excellent ground-holding capability and mobility through rough terrain. When you don’t have a road, you use a bulldozer to make one.

Bulldozers trade precision and delicate manipulation of materials for blunt, raw power. The tools implemented on the machinery reflect this reality. The most common component for every bulldozer is the massive blade affixed to the front of the machine. This moves the earth or other debris, pushes rubble, and levels the ground for roads and fields.

The blades used by bulldozers are generally classified into one of three types:

• The straight blade (S-blade) is the shortest (top to bottom) and does have side wings. It’s used for stripping, ditching, and fine grading work.
• The universal blade (U-blade) is the most common blade type and has a curved shape with large side wings.
• The semi-universal blade (S-U blade) is more narrow and only slightly curved with moderately-sized side wings. Its ideal tasks include backfilling, crowning, and moving large rocks.

Bulldozers remain a vital part of many industries and with the required training to operate them you’ll. open up many opportunities for employment. You’ll see their use in road-building projects, construction operations, at mining quarry sites, performing in forestry operations, general land clearing, and in any other project that requires a highly mobile, powerful, and stable piece of earth-moving equipment.

Want to know more about PTS course offerings? Get the information you need here.

Operate Heavy Equipment Types of All Sorts with PTS

For more than a decade, Performance Training Solutions has provided heavy equipment and mobile crane operator training from our facility located in Columbus, Ohio. As one of the top training schools in the country, we assist those who wish to pursue a career in the industry. Our team of experienced trainers, examiners, and career representatives are committed to helping our students not only get the certifications they need but apply them and succeed.

With the combination of small class sizes for hands-on learners, classroom activities followed by in-the-seat field exercises, PTS students are well prepared and positioned for excellent entry-level employment opportunities. Our average 90% placement rate is a testament to this fact.

PTS provides accessible training to get you up to speed for a new career in short order. We offer two, three-week, 120-hour courses in heavy equipment operations where you’ll learn how to operate many heavy equipment types. Depending on the machinery, you may complete both courses to become fully credentialed. For instance, you’ll only need the first course to be credentialed to operate a wheel loader, but you’ll need both for credentials for motor grader operation.

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is our entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on the initial training and opens the door to credentials as an operator for bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders.

Connect with our admissions team today to learn more about how we can help you explore careers with many different heavy equipment types. With a free tour of our Columbus, Ohio facility, you’ll be eligible to earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

The decision to attend a backhoe training school is one that can open up paths to a rewarding new career quickly and is one that will give you the skills needed to operate one of the most versatile pieces of heavy equipment.

Considered the Swiss army knife of heavy equipment, the backhoe (or backhoe loader) is optimal for excavation and digging projects of all sizes. Backhoes are common and can be seen being used by independent farmers or small-town city maintenance crews, and by large road-building or construction organizations. They’re used to tackle a wide variety of tasks on a job site including small-scale demolitions, light transportation of building materials, powering building equipment, digging holes, landscaping, breaking up asphalt, and many more. It’s this versatility that sets it apart from other heavy equipment types.

Let’s learn more about this workhorse of the construction site and how you can rapidly acquire the needed knowledge and certification to become an operator.

More of a Bulldozer type? Learn all about these powerful construction and demolition tools on our blog.

Everything You Need to Know About Backhoes

The term ‘backhoe’ refers to how the bucket is moved, not its location on the vehicle. That means that the backhoe digs by drawing the earth back toward the machine itself, rather than lifting it with a forward motion — like a person shoveling or if using a bulldozer for instance.

Most backhoes feature a tractor-like vehicle with the backhoe component at the rear and the implementation of a front loader on the other end. A swiveling seat positions the operator in whichever direction is needed at the time. In North America, this machine is simply referred to as a backhoe or backhoe loader. If the chassis is a farm tractor, it is sometimes referred to as a tractor-loader backhoe. The farm variations are typically not suitable for heavy work.

The backhoe swing frame was invented in 1947 by Vaino Holopainen and Roy E. Handy Jr. The swing frame allowed the hydraulic digging arm to swing side to the side to dump the bucket. In April 1948, the Wain-Roy Corporation sold the first hydraulic backhoe, mounted to a Ford Model 8N tractor, to the Connecticut Light and Power Company for $705.

The first tractor-loader backhoe was made by Wain-Roy in 1952 for use by the Holden (Mass.) Water Department. By early 1954 two Hough ‘Payloader’ model wheel loaders were available with Wain-Roy backhoes. That same year, JCB launched the first European hydraulic loader followed by a backhoe with a 180-degree slew fitted to a tractor. JCB was the first to introduce a dedicated backhoe loader, incorporating the excavator element and the major loader into a single, all-purpose tool.

Essential Parts and Makeup

Backhoes are often composed of a standard tractor base (wheeled) that supports a digging bucket on the end of a jointed, two-part arm. As mentioned earlier, the opposite end of the backhoe will often have a front loader (or similar) attachment. The operator cab features a seat that can swivel to allow the operator to face whichever side is being used at the time.

The part of the backhoe arm that’s attached to the base vehicle or tractor is called the boom, and the segment that holds the digger bucket is called the dipper or the dipper-stick. The pivot that connects the boom and the dipper is known as the king-post. While the bucket is synonymous with a backhoe, it can be replaced with a variety of attachments designed for specific purposes such as drills, hammers, rippers, breakers, and more. Likewise, the front loader can also be swapped out for different attachments to fulfill different tasks, like a plow or a forklift.

Isn’t This an Excavator?

The backhoe is similar to the larger, more singularly-focused excavator, but trades in size and raw power for agility and versatility. The primary differences between a backhoe and an excavator can be identified according to three categories.

Size — The principal difference between the two pieces of heavy equipment is size. Excavators are larger and heavier, which makes them a better fit for jobs like large-scale demolition projects, mining, big industrial projects, driving piles, and drilling shafts. The backhoe, meanwhile, is more adept at small to medium-scale construction projects, farming tasks, and loading jobs.

Versatility — Though both machines have a good selection of attachment options, the array is larger and more diverse for the backhoe. Backhoes, unlike most excavators, can also be driven on roads which makes them the better choice on spread out (but connected) worksites.

Rotation — Lastly, the two machines have different rotation angles that can make them different machines from an operator’s standpoint. The excavator, given the dedicated purpose of the machine, can rotate the entire chassis and arm together in a complete 360-degree circle. The backhoe’s arm only pivots across a range of about 200 degrees over the ‘back’ end of the chassis.

Need to go bigger, dig deeper? Take a deep dive on the excavator and learn more about how to quickly learn to operate one.

PTS is the Backhoe Training School You Need

For more than a decade, Performance Training Solutions has provided heavy equipment and mobile crane operator training from our facility located in Columbus, Ohio. As one of the top training schools in the country, we assist those who wish to pursue a career in the industry, and our team of experienced trainers, examiners, and admissions and career representatives are committed to helping our students succeed.

With the combination of small class sizes for hands-on learners, classroom activities followed by in-the-seat field exercises, PTS students are well prepared and positioned for good entry-level employment opportunities. Our average 90% placement rate is a testament to this fact.

Heavy equipment operators still command family-supporting salaries. Across all experience levels and types of equipment, data from 2021 indicates that roughly half of all heavy equipment jobs will have an annual salary ranging from $54,000 to $74,000.

PTS provides accessible training to get you set up for a new career quickly. We offer two, three-week, 120-hour courses in heavy equipment operations. To be credentialed for backhoe operation, you’ll need to complete only the first course.

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is an entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on that initial training and opens the door to employment as an operator for bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders.

With PTS you can learn to operate a backhoe or any of up to 10 pieces of heavy equipment. You’ll acquire the skills needed to further your job opportunities and prospects.

Connect with our admissions team today to get a free tour of our Columbus, Ohio facility. Complete the tour and earn a $500 Tuition Reduction Scholarship.

CONSIDERING HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR SCHOOLS IN NJ?

For a quick career change that can set you on a new road in only three weeks, Performance Training Solutions has you covered. We are a heavy equipment operator school based out of Columbus, Ohio that attracts students across the country. While we are not a heavy equipment school in NJ, you may find PTS to be one of the closest heavy equipment operator schools available to you. Fortunately, our fast training and ongoing support will make the short trip to Ohio well worth your time.

If you are interested in heavy equipment and crane operating, don’t let a short certification stand in your way. Get the hands-on experience you need to start working in construction, manufacturing, mining, energy, or any other high-demand industry of your choice. With on-site training available in Columbus, Ohio, our program is a great fit for any New Jersey resident looking to make a quick career move.

WHAT MAKES OUR HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR SCHOOL DIFFERENT?

Whether you are a veteran, a recent high school graduate, recently unemployed, disabled, or are just looking to start a new career, our equipment operator school is a chance to open a new career path. With the right qualifications, Performance Training Solutions helps you make a successful career transition that changes your outlook on life.

Our nationally recognized certification and hands-on training give you the opportunity to travel and grow professionally, all without the time and cost of a traditional four-year degree. Learn how to operate up to 10 different types of heavy construction and get the qualifications employers actively search for. With a job placement rate of around 90%, PTS keeps you on the right track in your training and in real life.

Our goal is to help you develop the skills, confidence, and qualifications to launch a new career path to build a better life. With construction equipment training, you can launch a successful career in just a few weeks with a skill that is only increasing in demand.

If you have ever thought about being your own boss or being self-employed, developing crane operating skills can be the first step to having that flexibility. With hands-on training and valuable industry experience, you’ll be certified and have a real-world understanding of what it takes to eventually start your own business.

To learn more about what heavy equipment operator schools or future opportunities look like, schedule a tour with us, or call 1-866-248-9139 today. By taking the time to visit us on-site and letting our experts answer all of your career and industry-specific questions, you will also be eligible for a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

FUNDING MAY BE AVAILABLE

As a certified Military Friendly® School, at PTS we help our veteran students reinvest in themselves. Our program readily accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® as well as The VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits. We have always backed military members and will continue to support eligible veterans with the educational resources they need for a new start.

As a current job-seeker or someone who has struggled with unemployment, there are ways Performance Training Solutions can help you get back on your feet. Our program readily supports students who are funded by federal and state training grants. Depending on your situation, your training grant may include funds for lodging, transportation, and meals.

For more information on training grants, first see if you qualify for the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA), Trade Adjustment Act (TAA), Tribal Education (BIA), Department of Workforce Development, Displaced workers, or Displaced Farmers. There are many grant funding options and we will help you find them. Call us today at 1-866-248-9139 to hear more about how we can give you a leg up.

GET STARTED TO GET HEAVY EQUIPMENT CERTIFIED

If you are ready to jump into a new career path with a heavy equipment operator school in NJ, our certification program will have employers looking at you in no more than three weeks. To find out how, schedule a tour with us or contact us today.

Heavy machinery operators maneuver heavy equipment safely, ensure the proper maintenance of their machinery, as well as display aptitude for following blueprints and calculating appropriate loads. Despite all that, heavy machinery operator requirements remain within reach for most individuals.

Heavy equipment operators realize many positive benefits from their career choice, including stable and consistent opportunity, strong sustaining salaries, and the ability to choose from a variety of machinery, industries, and specific jobs to specialize in. For instance, those who operate heavy machinery can choose to follow the work — so to speak — by following construction and road-building trends. You can choose a more individualized, or solitary, path with work in the mining industry. You can even become self-employed.

Heavy equipment operators can specialize in one particular piece of equipment, or be a general operator with knowledge of a wide range of machines. Operators will also be working outdoors on virtually every job site and will have the ability to find potential employment anywhere in the country and in many places around the world.

But to begin tapping into these benefits and choices, you’ll need to account for the minimal heavy machinery operator requirements.

Want to start bulldozing? Learn more about this titan of heavy equipment and how quickly you can learn to start working one for a career.

The List of Heavy Machinery Operator Requirements is Not Extensive

While there are important standards and criteria to meet, the requirements to become a heavy equipment operator aren’t prohibitive for most people. First, to be eligible for vocational education and training programs involving heavy machinery, you need to be at least 18 years of age and possess your high school diploma (or equivalent).

Physically, heavy equipment operators should have good hand-eye (and foot) coordination to be able to operate the variety of levers, pedals, steering mechanisms, and more that come in the cab area of most forms of equipment. The ability to react quickly to changing stimuli and the stamina to work full shifts are also beneficial.

The most important, and critical, requirement is the ability to show proficiency in the safe operation of various pieces of equipment (particularly the piece of equipment you’re applying to work on) and instruction of safety procedures used on job sites. To prove this proficiency, you’ll need certification once the required instruction is complete. Both the NCCER and the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) offer credentials and/or certification once the requisite instruction with an accredited institution is completed.

Performance Training Solutions is one of the top heavy equipment and mobile crane operator training schools in the country. Located in Columbus, Ohio, PTS is fully accredited and certified by the governing bodies to provide the necessary instruction to fulfill all your heavy machinery operator requirements.

Want to know more about PTS course offerings? Get the information you need here.

Clear Heavy Machinery Operator Requirements with PTS

Performance Training Solutions provides accessible training to get you set up for a new career and meet all requirements quickly. We offer two, three-week, 120-hour courses in heavy equipment operations. Depending on the type of machinery you’re seeking certification for, you may need to take one or both of the courses.

Here’s a brief snapshot of the types of equipment covered in each course.

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is an entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on that initial training and opens the door to employment as an operator for bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders.

With our training experience, you’ll receive the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level employment opportunities after a few short weeks, as well as credentials and/or certifications to show potential employers what types of equipment you’re qualified to operate.

Our small class sizes will help adjust information delivery to meet the needs of the students in the course. A combination of textbooks, visual presentations, and models will be employed in the classroom environment. Basic 9th grade-level reading, math, and comprehension skills apply to the course materials; tests and quizzes will usually be in a multiple-choice format.

The core of the curriculum will take place in the seat on the machinery. Practical in-the-seat training will make up more than half of your total training time as you apply classroom information in the field. All staff members are also subject to Continuing Education Requirements as set forth by the Ohio Board of Career Colleges and Schools.

Contact PTS today to begin tackling all your heavy machinery operator requirements. You can schedule a free tour for a tuition discount, or sign up for a spot in the next course offering.

Whether you are a military veteran transitioning from active duty service, a reservist on or off active duty, or are fully separated from the armed forces, there has never been a better time to explore post-military crane operator training.

Finding sustaining work is a vital part of any transition plan for former military personnel. Because of ease of access to training and strong opening salaries, operating heavy equipment and crane operators have been named as two of the top five industries for veterans returning to the civilian workforce.

Vocational training is needed to begin a career in heavy equipment operation and taking part in such training has long been established as part of a winning strategy for veterans implementing transition plans. The benefits of vocational training for veterans cover a wide range of areas, including:

• Access to experts in the chosen field
• Develop new skills and knowledge
• Practical, real-life applicable experience
• Accelerated timetable toward starting
• Gaining needed confidence and contacts in the chosen field

These benefits apply to many vocational training programs. However, there are a few more specific reasons why post-military crane operator training could be the right choice for your next career. Let’s examine some of them further.

More than cranes: PTS also offers training courses on all sorts of heavy equipment, from skid steers to excavators. Learn more here.

Opportunity, Strong Salaries Await

Like most if not all heavy equipment jobs, crane operators can expect demand to remain strong in both the short-term and long-term future. The presents consistent predictions of job growth in the industry. In addition, crane operators remain among the best-compensated workers in the broader heavy equipment operator sector.

According to recent data compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median national salary for crane operators — accounting for different styles and roles — is more than $59,000 per year. That median salary doesn’t reflect the top-end potential either. For highly experienced, or uniquely qualified, crane operators represented by the top 20 percent, salaries can approach $100,000 or more. Even entry-level positions provide a strong initial earning capacity ($30-40K).

Those salary metrics show that how much crane operators make is a strong reason to consider training and certification, but it’s not the only one.

Another is the speed at which you can engage the education program needed to begin work. You won’t need a two- or four-year degree, only a high school diploma and the proper certification. While a state-issued license is sometimes required, many states will recognize the exams administered by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) to satisfy those requirements. Start to finish, your training and education can be completed in a matter of weeks — not months or years.

Being a crane operator will also open up a diverse range of industries and job sites to work in. This variety leads to an array of opportunities, which can be further enhanced if specialized training in different types of cranes — like tower cranes or mobile hydraulic versions, or fixed-cab versus swing-cab varieties. You can find crane operators in any place where work is needed, from quarries and mining operations to railways and shipyards, and building construction projects far and wide.

When can you start? View our updated course offering schedule here.

Veterans Can Access Post-Military Crane Operator Training Quickly

Because of their service, veterans have access to additional tools to help secure educational programs and training services to aid their search for new careers. Performance Training Solutions has always backed military members looking for a new start and will work with you to help you engage in post-military crane operator training.

We accept veteran funding benefits — that you’ve earned — to pay for your training. The Post 9/11 GI Bill® includes payment of tuition and fees, a monthly housing allowance, and a stipend for textbooks and supplies for up to 36 months. In addition, the Veteran Affairs’ Vocational Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 provides similar educational assistance. VR&E can be used by entitled transitioning service members and helps vets with service-connected disabilities and an employment handicap prepare for, obtain, and maintain a job.

As a certified Military Friendly® School for 2021-22, PTS will do everything we can to help eligible veterans access and utilize these programs. With concise, effective, and available three-week training programs, you can be on your way with a post-military crane operator career in far less time (and at much less expense) than if you pursued a more traditional educational track in a two- or four-year collegiate program.

Connect with our admissions team today to learn more about how we can help, or to take a free tour of our Columbus, Ohio facility and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

YOU’VE SERVED YOUR COUNTRY — WHAT’S NEXT?

In our free, no-strings-attached ebook — A New Path Forward — examine the positive aspects of heavy equipment operator training for veterans and why Performance Training Solutions is the right choice to empower you in a new career.

Much like the excavator, the bulldozer is an essential component of any substantial construction project. But, when were they developed? How long have they been implemented as key tools? What are the essential parts? Heavy equipment types all feature designed strengths; what sets the bulldozer apart?

Today we’ll go all-in on bulldozers, and how learning to operate one can open up paths to more rewarding employment.

Bulldozing Through History

The first designs of a bulldozer are traced back to the early 1920s, as the piece of heavy machinery was first conceived by farmers looking for more efficient ways to clear land and prepare it for planting. In 1923, farmer James Cummings and draftsman J. Earl McLeod issued what were the first public designs for the bulldozer. On Dec. 18, 1923, the pair filed U.S. patent #1,522,378 (later issued on Jan. 6, 1925) for an “Attachment for Tractors.”

The first produced bulldozers closely followed the ‘Attachment for Tractors’ moniker stated in the patent. Those first bulldozers were simply adapted from existing Holt farm tractors that were used to plow fields. The versatility of the machinery, however, was quickly realized. Operating on heavy tracks, the bulldozer soon became essential for working on soft ground for tasks such as logging and road building. Their utility was adapted and their design contributed heavily to the development of the armored tank which changed battlefields starting in World War I.

For many years those tracks — the threaded belts or chains along the right and left sides of the vehicle — were one of the defining features of the equipment. The tracks provided excellent ground-holding capability and mobility through rough terrain. When you don’t have a road, you use a bulldozer to make one. Extra-wide tracks were developed to help distribute the bulldozer’s weight over a larger area, and thus decrease the ground pressure, to allow the machinery to not sink when atop sandy or muddy ground.

Today, however, you can find some bulldozers using large wheels and tires instead of track mechanisms. The mobility benefits remain, but with tires, the machinery can now be used in more finished areas without the potential for damaging the terrain and the simpler conveyance mechanism is less prone to breakdown issues. With the right bulldozer training school, you’ll be instructed on how to use either type.

Are you prepared? Learn how to make the most out of ‘layoff season’ on our blog.

Tools of the Trade

The bulldozer is a blunt implement. You don’t use one for delicate, or precision-needed tasks. The tools commonly found on bulldozers, besides the rugged conveyance system, reflect this fact. The one thing every bulldozer has and uses is a massive blade mounted to the front of the machinery. This is what moves the earth or other debris, pushes rubble out of the way, and levels the ground for roads and crop-growing fields. The other common addition to a bulldozer is a ripper, mounted on the rear of the vehicle.

The blades used by bulldozers are generally classified into one of three types:

• The straight blade (S-blade), which is the shortest (top to bottom) and does not feature side wings. It’s used for stripping and ditching and is often employed for fine grading work or for use with fine-grained and medium to hard material.
• The universal blade (U-blade) is the most common blade type in use generally, and has a curved shape with large side wings; it’s used for pushing and other material handling needs.
• The semi-universal blade (S-U blade) is more narrow and only slightly curved with moderately sized side wings. Its ideal tasks include backfilling, crowning, and moving large rocks.

The Ripper is a long, claw-like device mounted on the back of the bulldozer and comes in two styles: a single large shank, or as a group of multiple shanks. Rippers are used to break up land to allow agriculture to grow or to break down rock and earth to be moved. Ripping rock breaks the ground surface rock or pavement into smaller pieces that are easier to handle and transport away. With agricultural ripping, a farmer breaks up rocky or very hard earth (or stumps), which is otherwise un-plowable, to farm it.

Want to know more about PTS course offerings? Get the information you need here.

PTS is the Bulldozer Training School You Need

Bulldozers remain a vital part of many industries and having the required training to operate them will open up many opportunities for employment. You’ll see their use in road-building projects, construction operations, at mining quarry sites, performing in forestry operations, general land clearing, and in any other project that requires a highly mobile, powerful, and stable piece of earth-moving equipment.

And heavy equipment operators still command family-supporting salaries. Across all experience levels and types of equipment, data from 2021 indicates that roughly half of all heavy equipment jobs will have an annual salary ranging from $54,000 to $74,000.

Performance Training Solutions is the best heavy equipment operator school in the Midwest and provides accessible training to get you set up for a new career quickly. We offer two, three-week, 120-hour courses in heavy equipment operations. For bulldozer operation certification, you’ll need to complete both courses.

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is an entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on that initial training and opens the door to employment as an operator for bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders.

With PTS you can learn to operate a bulldozer or any of more than a dozen other pieces of heavy equipment. You’ll acquire the skills needed to further your job opportunities and prospects.

Connect with our admissions team today to get a free tour of our Columbus, Ohio facility. Complete the tour and earn a $500 Tuition Reduction Scholarship.

We’ll answer that question below. But first, it should be noted that crane and material handling machine operators are projected to see consistent job growth for the next decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the field is expected to see 7% job growth — which matches the projected across all fields and industries — for the decade stretching from 2020-2030.

Those projections don’t take into account the possible increased growth that could occur with the initiation of the federal infrastructure bill. The $1 trillion bill is designed to improve, through passive public projects, all manner of infrastructure projects — from roads and bridges to improvements for water systems, airports, and railways. These projects will need crane and material handling machine operators — and other heavy equipment operators — to be completed. Clearly, the opportunities for crane operators will likely increase in frequency moving forward.

More than cranes: PTS also offers training courses on all sorts of heavy equipment, from skid steers to excavators. Learn more here.

Excellent Baseline, Median Pay for Crane Operators

Crane operators remain, on average, among the best compensated in the entire heavy equipment operator family of occupations. Recent data compiled by the BLS showed the average (or mean) hourly wage for crane operators was at $30.27/hour in 2020. The median yearly earning for crane operators was more than $59,000.

While those median wage numbers are impressive, the top-end and entry-level compensation place crane operators above other similar occupations. For example, highly experienced crane operators — those in the 20% of earners in the field — can approach $100,000 or more in a given year. The entry-level compensation still offers a strong initial earning capacity ($30-40K).

How much crane operators make is a strong reason to consider training and certification, but it’s far from the only one. There are many considerations that make this career path an attractive one. For instance, the demand level (cited above) is and will remain strong as more focus is turned to infrastructure projects. Also, the variety of roles crane operators can fulfill means there will be different tasks, locales, and jobs to potentially work. You can specialize in different types of cranes — like tower cranes or mobile hydraulic versions, fixed-cab or swing-cab — meaning there will also be room to grow, develop, and add to your skillset.

Finally, the ease of access and the relative quickness of the training and education programs to get started is a benefit for those looking for a new start. To become a crane operator you’ll need a high school education, and the proper certification and training. You won’t need a two- or four-year college degree. Your entire initial training and certification can be completed in a number of weeks, not months or years.

When can you start? View our updated course offering schedule here.

PTS Provides Crane Operator Training and More

With three-week courses, hands-on training, and in-the-seat instruction, Performance Training Solutions can have you lined up for a new career path in a wide variety of heavy equipment operator jobs quickly. With 120-hour training courses, you’ll be able to update your credentials quickly. Our small class sizes mean students will be involved throughout and will allow for adjustments on how the information is delivered to better serve you.

In the classroom, models and visual representations will be combined with textbook information. In the field, you’ll receive plenty of time in the seat — roughly half of your total training time — to practice putting theories into action. PTS offers three heavy equipment training courses.

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is an entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator.
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on that initial training and opens the door to employment as an operator for bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders.
• Our Mobile Crane Operations course, structured the same as the Heavy Equipment courses, will help you become an NCCCO certified crane operator and covers both mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and fixed-cab cranes.

With PTS, you won’t have to wonder ‘How much does a crane operator make?’ You’ll know and experience it quickly yourself. By beginning your training now or in the near future, you’ll be that much closer to realizing a new career path and strong earning potential as a crane or heavy equipment operator.

Contact PTS today to schedule a tour of our Columbus, Ohio facility. You’ll learn more about how we operate, how we can serve you, and earn a $500 Tuition Reduction Scholarship in the process.

The bill includes funding for virtually every segment of the economy. It promises to jump-start major projects to rebuild American infrastructure from bridges and highways to railways and water services. Many of the proposals for spending in the bill will consist of and rely on work performed by heavy equipment operators across the country. Multiple segments of the heavy equipment industry have long pushed for the legislation — named the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act —  and called it a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to generate family-sustaining jobs for working Americans.

How do the infrastructure bill and heavy equipment operators relate to each other? What’s in the bill exactly? And how can you prepare to be in a position to take advantage of the proposals once the bill is enacted? Let’s start by delving into how the bill is broken down.

Rebuilding Roads, Bridges, the Energy Grid, and More

More than half of the bill’s scope ($550 billion) is earmarked as new spending, while the remainder comprises previously approved funding. The new funding segments of the bill include the following allowances.

Roads and Bridges

The bill sends $110 billion to rebuild the country’s aging highways, bridges, and roads. The state of the road infrastructure as a whole has been subpar and is getting worse. The White House contends that 173,000 miles of American roads and 45,000 bridges are in poor condition. According to the Biden administration, the nearly $40 billion designated for bridges alone is the single largest bridge investment since the construction of the interstate highway system. 

Modernize the Power Grid

The bill will spend $73 billion to boost the reliability and resiliency of the nation’s energy grid as widespread power outages have become more and more common in recent years. It will also work to improve more environmentally friendly electricity sources, like clean hydrogen and carbon capture technologies.

Passenger and Freight Railways

The bill provides $66 billion to improve Amtrak’s rail service along the 457-mile Northeast Corridor as well as other routes. Like the bridge funding, the investment is the largest for the rail service since Amtrak was founded 50 years ago.

Broadband Expansion

With $65 billion for improving broadband access, the legislation aims to improve internet services for underserved segments, such as rural areas, low-income families, and tribal communities. Most of the money in this slice of the bill would be made available through grants to states.

Water Infrastructure

The legislation will spend $55 billion on water and wastewater infrastructure to improve the nation’s drinking water safety. There’s $15 billion to replace lead pipes across the country, and $10 billion is set aside to address contamination from polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) — chemicals used to make Teflon, firefighting foam, water-repellent clothing, and other items.

Public Transportation

With $39 billion, the bill hopes to expand transportation systems, improve accessibility for people with disabilities, and provide money for state and local governments to invest in zero- and low-emission buses. 

Airports

The bill earmarks $25 billion to upgrade runways, gates, and taxiways at airports. Provisions also include improvements for aging elements at air traffic control towers and terminal improvements.

Electric Vehicles

The bill spends $7.5 billion for electric vehicle charging stations and provides $5 billion to purchase hybrid and electric school buses. Both aim to help curb climate change by reducing the need for fossil fuel vehicles.

Heavy Equipment Operators Will Be Needed

The bill’s eventual passage will create massive opportunities for those involved in road building and repair, bridge construction, water line replacement, railway and airport infrastructure work, cable laying for broadband access, and much more. Heavy equipment will be a necessity for most projects, and operators for that machinery will be in high demand.

One study estimated the infrastructure bill could create 100,000 jobs — besides delivering consistent work to those already in the related fields — over the lifetime of the legislation. The bill is set to be spread out over eight years. Employees with heavy equipment operator training will be able to set themselves apart from others in the industries affected by the bill and will be positioned to take advantage of what will be nearly a decade of heavy infrastructure investment.

PTS Helps Bridge the Infrastructure Bill and Heavy Equipment Operators

Performance Training Solutions can get you ready, quickly, to transition into the role of a heavy equipment operator in order to capitalize on this opportunity. Our easily accessible and digestible three-week, 120-hour training courses will enable you to rapidly augment your credentials. Our small class sizes prioritize student involvement and allow for adjusting information delivery to suit your needs.

In the classroom, models and visual representations will be combined with textbook information. In the field, you’ll receive plenty of time in the seat — roughly 70% of your training time — to practice putting theories into action. PTS offers three heavy equipment training courses. 

• Heavy Equipment Operator 1 is an entry-level course and covers the knowledge and skills required to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator. 
• Heavy Equipment Operator 2 follows up on that initial training and opens the door to employment as an operator for bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. 
• Our Mobile Crane Operations course, structured the same as the Heavy Equipment courses, will help you become an NCCCO certified crane operator and covers both mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and fixed-cab cranes.

By initiating training now or in the near future, you’ll be equipped to apply those new skills immediately once projects powered by the bill start becoming a reality. With heavy equipment operator training, you’ll also access the already known benefits of this type of work — including a strong base pay rate, stability, and accessibility. Those advantages should only become more prevalent with the expected infrastructure investment. 

Contact PTS today to schedule a tour and learn more about how the infrastructure bill and heavy equipment operators will be working in concert soon.

Regulations, set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), state that any individual seeking to operate a crane that weighs 2,000 pounds or more must first be certified by an accredited crane operator testing organization, or qualified through an audited employer program.

For most, this means testing through the NCCCO to achieve certification. But you need not go it alone in lining up the required tests and preparing for the exam. Performance Training Solutions has a variety of tools available to help you prepare for the NCCCO prior to the accreditation exam. Whether you are new to crane operation as a career, or a veteran of the field looking to brush up prior to recertification, PTS has the solutions to get you where you want to go.

Whether It’s Your First Try, or Re-try, Prepare for the NCCCO

If you’re seeking NCCCO Crane Certification for the first time, you should be aware of the specifics of the exam. Maybe you’ve already had some on-the-job training, or even taken part in crane operator training. This will give you some baseline experience and knowledge to use for a comprehensive exam that will consist of both practical (in the equipment) and written portions.

The written crane certification test will feature a Core section that will ask you to display general knowledge about crane operations. Also included will be up to four crane specialty (load chart) examinations. To complete certification, you will need to pass both the Core section and at least one specialty component. The written test will have 90 multiple-choice questions regarding the Core component, and 26 multiple-choice questions for each specialty section selection. For example, if you wanted to test for two of the four allowed specialties, then you would need to answer 90 core questions and 52 additional specialty questions.

In the practical section, operators will be asked to show their proficiency in Telescopic Boom Cranes — in either a Swing Cab (TLL) or Fixed Cab (TSS) set up. In this part of the exam, operators will need to complete six tasks that progressively increase in the skill needed to finish them, including equipment inspection, hoisting, booming, swinging, following hand signals, and combination (or multifunctional) operations. You will be asked to operate the crane both with and without, load.

Meanwhile, if you’re seeking NCCCO Crane Recertification, then you’ll already be familiar with the layout and scope of the exam — and have obviously passed it at least once before. However, certification is only valid for five years, and when seeking to extend that certification candidates must complete all of their requirements (including the exam) in the 12-month window prior to the certification expiration date.

Certification is a necessary and important part of being a crane operator. It’s a clear sign to potential or current employers that you have the third-party verified knowledge and expertise to operate a piece of expensive, powerful, and complex equipment. It’s proof you have the training needed to execute the tasks asked of you and will mitigate the potential risk that comes with any job site. Certification is the key to unlocking expanded job opportunities; it should be approached with the seriousness and dedication of any job.

With that in mind, finding a way to prepare for the NCCCO prior to, or heading into, the exam should be a priority.

PTS Has the Programs to Get You Prepared

Whether you’re starting fresh, or need a quick gauge of where your knowledge is at, Performance Training Solutions can help you determine the level of expertise you need, and then provide the training to meet and exceed it.

The Prep & Test program is ideally designed for crane operators with working experience but no initial certification, or those seeking to finish recertification before their five-year window closes. It is not intended for newcomers to crane operation; those individuals should instead invest in the three-week training program at PTS to gain a more first understanding of the basics and fundamentals of crane operator training.

The Test & Prep program will help you prepare for the NCCCO and enable you to approach the certification exam with confidence. A three-day refresher course, the program includes classroom reviews covering legal standards and load chart practice tests. Tuition cost for this program also includes the NCCCO exam fees.

But no matter your experience level, Performance Training Solutions will offer you many ways to prepare for the NCCCO and achieve eventual certification thanks to the dedication and experience of one of the top heavy equipment operator training schools in the country.

Seating is limited for the Test & Prep program, so if interested you should contact Rich Lee at 614-863-8830 as soon as possible to reserve your spot.

The fall months, across much of the United States, mean cooler temperatures and deteriorating weather conditions. This, in turn, leads to cutbacks and postponements of all sorts of outdoor work projects. With outdoor work schedules scaled back, businesses follow suit and release portions of their workforces until demand scales back up again at the beginning of spring.

For those that work in these fields, the process is somewhat regular and expected. While sometimes referred to as layoff season, it also has another name: seasonal unemployment.

What is Seasonal Unemployment?

According to Indeed.com, seasonal unemployment is when those who work in seasonal jobs — part or full-time work that correlates to specific periods of the year — are let go when the demand for labor in that specific area decreases due to the calendar. These can be tourism-related jobs, farming work related to the harvest of specific crops, or holiday-related jobs. For the construction and related outdoor labor industries, this period typically runs from February or March through September or October for much of the continental U.S.

Seasonal unemployment means the number of jobs available corresponds to a business’ need for employees, depending on the time of year. For example, a construction company will need more workers during the spring and summer months when it tries to start and finish as many contracts as possible. The number needed decreases during the winter when major projects could be put on hold due to potential weather delays and issues. In another example, Street crews or state transportation workers will do fewer road improvement projects from November through February than from April through August.

The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics has compiled data that indicates the layoff and discharge levels for construction workers (and those in similar industries) are approximately double during the layoff season. For instance, October typically grades out to be the worst month for layoffs and discharges for construction workers. Overall discharge numbers equaled 6.3% in 2019 and 2.8% in 2020. Adjusted for seasonal only layoffs, those numbers are 3.4% for 2019, and 2.8% for 2020.

Do you have a plan in place for when the cold weather comes? Many seasonal workers account for the layoff season and try to take advantage of it with additional part-time work elsewhere, or training and education programs to aid in finding better employment options moving forward.

And some workers have the skills already to make navigating seasonal layoffs easier or even a non-issue. For instance, some heavy equipment operators working in similar, related fields are not affected by seasonal layoffs. Those who work for city, county, and state road departments work with snow removal efforts often maintain employment. Landfill operations, mining, and many other industries also employ heavy equipment operators throughout the year continuously.

Heavy Equipment Training is an Excellent Option in Layoff Season

By capitalizing on the time available due to seasonal unemployment, workers can engage in heavy equipment or crane operator training to jumpstart a new career path that will be more consistent, remain in demand for years to come, provide strong wage potential, and even help mitigate concerns from future layoff seasons.

With training to operate heavy machinery or cranes, workers will be able to add valuable skills that they can then utilize to secure better employment for the next year. With specialized talents, you’ll be viewed as more essential to keep throughout the slow periods of work scheduling and even potentially be used to fulfill new important roles even as the seasons change.

And the fall, or winter, months are the best time to begin heavy equipment and crane operator training. Demand for operators will be at the highest in the spring, as work schedules are built, major projects outlined, and proposals are finalized. Demand for operators will remain high throughout the summer and early fall as there is a rush to complete as much work or as many projects as possible in the calendar year, and then demand will taper off through the fall and winter.

By beginning to line up and formalize your training in the early fall, you’ll be ready to begin the accessible educational demands of learning to be a heavy equipment operator just when the weather turns. And while the demand is the lowest, you’ll be learning the skills needed to allow you to take advantage when demand increases again the following spring.

Seasonal unemployment is an unfortunate fact of life for so many laborers in construction and related outdoor industries. But by planning for the layoff season, and using that potential gap in available work to better your future prospects through training, you’ll set yourself up for a more promising — and consistent — future.

Performance Training Solutions will Help You Move Forward

As a leading heavy equipment operator school in the midwest, Performance Training Solutions has accessible, quick options to help you add valuable skills to your resume. We have two heavy equipment operator training programs and a crane operator program. All three are 120-hour courses and are designed to be completed in just three weeks.

Our heavy equipment operator programs cover two levels. The first course, Heavy Equipment Operator I, will cover working with skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and articulated off-road dump trucks. The second course, Heavy Equipment Operator 2, will ensure you’re qualified to run bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders. Both courses will have small class sizes and are well-suited to hands-on learners, with in-the-seat instruction, one-on-one time with instructors, and more seat time. And one key facet to remember is that in many cases you can use unemployment benefits to pay for the heavy equipment operator training, and PTS will work with you to guide you through that process.

And while unemployment benefits have not typically been approved to cover the crane-specific training offered at PTS, becoming a certified crane operator comes with its own assortment of specific benefits. Crane operators are among the best-rewarded operators in the industry and have the capability to pick from a variety of jobs and industries that rely on a worker’s skills. With three-week training courses, transitioning to a crane operator position can easily be tackled during the winter months.

Layoff season doesn’t have to be a time of the year you dread or try to salvage. It can also mark the start to a better future with essential training that could open more opportunities and possibilities. Plot a different course for 2022.

Contact PTS today to learn more about what we have to offer and find out more about our upcoming course availability. Schedule a tour of Columbus, Ohio facilities and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship in the process.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has ruled that crane operators need to be certified by an accredited crane operator testing organization or qualified through an audited employer program. This regulation is in place for any individual looking to operate a crane that weighs 2,000 pounds or more.

Usually, achieving crane certification will mean testing through the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). But lining up and preparing for a crane certification test doesn’t have to be an arduous process. Performance Training Solutions offers a selection of courses and services to get you ready to reach the next stage of your career path.

The Difference Between First-Time Testing and Recertification

The first important distinction to make as you prepare for your crane certification test is your experience level.

If you’re seeking NCCCO Crane Certification for the first time — perhaps after taking part in a crane operator training course or prior on-the-job training — you should be aware of the specifics of the exam.

The crane certification test will consist of both written and practical exams. The written exam will consist of a Core section (general knowledge) and then up to four crane specialty (load chart) examinations. To gain certification, you will need to display competency in both the Core section and at least one specialty component. The exam will feature 90 multiple-choice questions covering the core component and 26 more multiple-choice questions for each specialty section selection. For instance, if you wanted to test for three of the four allotted specialties, then that would mean 78 additional questions in total.

The practical portion of the exam will ask operators to demonstrate proficiency in Telescopic Boom Cranes in either the Swing Cab (TLL) or Fixed Cab (TSS) varieties. This part of the exam will ask operators to complete six main tasks that increase progressively in the skill level needed, including equipment inspection, hoisting, booming, swinging, following hand signals, and combination (or multifunctional) operations. Operating a crane both with and without load is required.

If you’re seeking NCCCO Crane Recertification, you’re already familiar with the nuts and bolts of the exam and have obviously passed it at least once before. You should be aware, however, that the original certification is valid for only five years. And when seeking recertification, candidates must complete all their requirements in the 12-month window prior to the certification expiration date.

Certification is an essential part of being a crane operator. It shows that you have demonstrated independently verified knowledge and skills in the operation of a piece of powerful and complicated equipment. This proves to potential employers that you have the training needed to execute your assignments on a job site and that you are at a lower risk of an accident or other associated loss on site. With certification, crane operators have shown consistent training and will enjoy expanded job opportunities.

PTS has Options To Prepare You For a Crane Certification Test

PTS is here to help you determine the level of preparation you need and then provide it.

Those who score below the 70 percent threshold will be directed to the specialized three-week training program at PTS to gain a more firm understanding of the fundamentals of crane operator training.

The PTS Test & Prep program is designed for those crane operators who are either seeking recertification or have extensive experience (at least 500 hours per year). This program is a three-day refresher course that will prepare you for the crane certification test with classroom reviews covering the legal standards and load chart practice tests. Tuition cost for the program includes the NCCCO exam fees.

The Test & Prep program is ideally designed for crane operators with working experience but no initial certification, or those seeking to complete their recertification before their five-year window closes. The program is not intended for those just beginning their experience with cranes; those individuals should instead invest in the three-week course.

Becoming Certified is Easier with PTS

With options no matter your experience level, Performance Training Solutions will set you up to pass your crane certification test and get you prepared for the job site. You can approach NCCCO certification or recertification with confidence thanks to the experience and expertise of one of the top heavy equipment operator training schools in the country.

Seating is limited for the Test & Prep program, so if interested, you should contact Rich Lee at 614-863-8830 at your earliest convenience to reserve your spot or for more information.

Today’s modern hydraulic excavators offer power, efficiency, and versatility undreamed of when the piece of heavy equipment first became prevalent in construction, earth-moving, and road (and railway) building more than a century ago. Steam-powered versions of the machinery — also known as steam shovels — were the earliest versions of the machinery, and were prolific in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the construction of the Panama Canal and the railroads that criss-cross the United States.

The earliest hydraulic excavators were first developed in the 1880s, and the first all-hydraulic device was unveiled in 1897. And ever since, the excavator has been essential whenever and wherever dirt needed to be moved, a boulder needed to be repositioned, or a ditch needed to be dug. The first of many heavy equipment types, the excavator has remained an essential piece of machinery for more than 100 years.

Excavators, as evidenced by The Ever Given situation in the Suez Canal this spring, remain as indispensable as ever.

Were you impacted by the Pipeline XL shutdown? Learn how PTS can help here.

Familiar Parts, Uncommon Versatility

Despite a myriad of subtle differences, all excavators have the same basic makeup of parts. The most distinctive part of the machine is the multiple-articulated ‘arm,’ which is divided into a ‘boom’ that is connected to the vehicle through a ‘king-post’ that allows it to pivot both left and right — usually up to 180 or 220 degrees. The second part of the arm is the ‘the dipper,’ which holds and manipulates the ‘bucket.’ Every component of the arm runs to the cab, which is attached to a platform atop an undercarriage of tracks or wheels. Combined, the cab and platform are referred to as the ‘house.’

Despite being one of the oldest designs for heavy equipment, the excavator remains one of the most popular. Today the excavator is rated as the most common piece of heavy equipment used at work sites according to heavy equipment manufacturers.

That popularity is undoubtedly tied to the versatility of the machinery. A huge assortment of attachments and bucket replacement options — from saws, claws, and breakers to more specialized accessories like pile drivers, drills, and snow blowers — give excavators the capability to tackle nearly any job. You’ll commonly see excavators digging through earth, handling materials, demolishing old buildings, placing large pipes, mining, cutting asphalt, or grinding down trees.

Are you more partial to cranes? Learn about our Mobile crane operator course here.

Excavator Training School Opens Door to Opportunity

Like most heavy equipment operator jobs and careers, the demand for excavator operators is projected to remain steady for the next decade. The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics projects more than 19,000 such jobs will be added through 2029, and the annual 4% job growth rate is on par with most industries and career paths.

Salaries for operators specializing in excavators remain robust and strong enough to offer stability and support for you and your family even at relatively low experience levels. Average annual salaries for excavator operators rest between $43,000 and $55,000 according to data through April 2021.

Acquiring credentials for the operation of excavators can be completed in as little as six weeks — through a pair of three-week courses — at Performance Training Solutions. This offers a quick pivot-point for those looking to change careers, had previous opportunities ended due to the ongoing pandemic, or are just re-entering the workforce for a variety of reasons.

With few prerequisites needed, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is satisfactory, excavator training school offers a chance to quickly switch gears in your career while still offering consistent, and rewarding job prospects.

Looking for what’s next as a veteran? Learn about the best post-military careers here.

YOU’VE SERVED YOUR COUNTRY — WHAT’S NEXT?

In our free, no-strings-attached ebook — A New Path Forward — examine the positive aspects of heavy equipment operator training for veterans and why Performance Training Solutions is the right choice to empower you in a new career.

PTS is Much More Than Excavators

Based just outside of Columbus, Ohio, Performance Training Solutions is the best heavy equipment operator training school in the Midwest. With a decade of experience, PTS offers accelerated training and education on up to 10 types of heavy construction equipment as well as mobile hydraulic cranes.

Our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 course is of the entry-level variety and serves up the knowledge necessary and skills needed to obtain employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator. Also included are an introduction to earthmoving, heavy equipment safety, and basic operational techniques.

Our Heavy Equipment Operator 2 course follows up the intro course, and can only be taken after completion of Operator 1. Completion of Course 2 will open up employment options for bulldozers, scrapers, motor graders, and excavators. Additional instruction will also cover finishing and grading, site work, excavation math, and the interpretation of civil drawings.

Both courses will utilize three-week, 120-hour windows, and more than half of that time will be spent in the seat operating real equipment — not simulators. With small class sizes, the classes are geared toward hands-on learners and designed to provide more one-on-one time with instructors and increased seat time. Practical training will constitute more than 70% of your overall training time, and the curriculum is built on applying information covered in the classroom to your time in the equipment. You’ll put theories into practice.

Prepare to Excavate with PTS

If you’ve long thought about changing careers, or always had a desire to operate heavy equipment like the excavator, Performance Training Solutions has experienced instructors and career representatives to help you succeed in pursuing your goals.

Schedule a free tour of our training facilities for an in-person look at the atmosphere and equipment you’ll be learning in. If you complete a tour, you’ll become eligible for a $500 Tuition Reduction Scholarship to go toward your tuition costs.

Contact us today to begin preparing for a new and rewarding career as a heavy equipment operator.

Whatever your circumstances for wanting to find more stable and financially rewarding work, becoming a crane operator is a terrific option to explore further. Demand in the industry has remained stable throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and the projected job growth for crane operators — estimated at 8 percent through 2024 — is expected to increase dramatically with the resolution of the federal government’s proposed $2 trillion infrastructure bill.

With the country eager to bounce back and dig out of more than a year of dealing with the pandemic, many are looking for ways to embark on new ventures. Crane operator school can offer you an opportunity to take your first steps on a new career path or to switch lanes from a prior one.

More than cranes: PTS also offers training courses on all sorts of heavy equipment, from backhoes to off-road dump trucks. Learn more here.

Here’s Why Crane Operator School Makes Sense

Compensation Opportunity

Crane operators remain, on average, among the best compensated in the entire heavy equipment operator family of occupations. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics through May 2020, crane operators earned a nationwide median salary of more than $59,000. Meanwhile, the median wage for all construction equipment operators reached $48,160. Top-end salaries for veteran and highly-experienced crane operators can approach $100,000 or more, and entry-level positions will still offer a strong initial earning capacity.

Speed of Training

A primary benefit of crane operator school is the quickness with which you can absorb the training and education needed to begin work. To become a crane operator you’ll need a high school diploma along with the proper certification and training and/or apprenticeships. What isn’t required is a four-year or two-year degree.

Certification remains necessary and a state-issued license is sometimes required. Many states will recognize the exams administered by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) to satisfy those requirements. But your training and education can be completed in a matter of weeks — not months or years.

Demand Level/Variety

Crane operators remain in demand due in part to the variety of industries and job sites they’re needed in. Crane operators will have an assortment of opportunities, made more so if they elect to specialize in several different types of cranes — say tower cranes or mobile hydraulic versions, or fixed-cab versus swing-cab varieties. Also, the number of sites needing crane operators includes most construction-related tasks (from homes to skyscrapers), railway or shipping yard stations, mining operations, and various government infrastructure projects.

Completing crane operator school will open the door for more, and better, options for your future.

When can you start? View our updated course offering schedule here.

PTS Provides Industry-leading Crane Training

The three-week, 120-hour crane operator course at Performance Training Solutions will provide you with everything you need to obtain entry-level employment as an NCCCO certified crane operator. Our mobile crane operator school program includes instruction for both Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes.

Small class sizes provide more one-on-one time between students and instructors, and the program includes a healthy combination of classroom and in-the-seat, practical instruction. Roughly half the course will involve training operating the machinery, while the other half will include topics such as the basic principles of cranes and crane safety, preventive maintenance, and basic rigging practices.

Even after completing the crane operator training course, you can count on PTS to continue to support your efforts. The Crane Prep & Test program is a refresher course designed for crane operators who have some working experience but have not yet achieved their initial certification, or for those who have been certified once before and need to complete an NCCCO Recertification Test before their five-year window closes.

Prepare for a New Start with PTS

The team of veteran trainers and career representatives at Performance Training Solutions are committed to helping students succeed in reaching both their short-term and long-term goals. Recognized as one of the best heavy equipment and crane operator schools in the country, PTS offers an assortment of programs that will help launch you quickly into a new lucrative career.

For a first-hand look at our equipment, staff, and the program as a whole, schedule a tour of our facilities located in Columbus, Ohio. If you complete a tour, you’ll become eligible for a $500 Tuition Reduction Scholarship to go toward your tuition costs.

Contact Performance Training Solutions today to take your first steps on a new career path.

The Keystone XL, designed to deliver 830,000 barrels a day of crude oil from the Alberta oil sands in Canada to refineries along the Gulf Coast, has been a political football for the last decade. In 2015, President Barack Obama rejected the initial permit application. But the next President, Donald Trump, reversed that decision in 2019. Construction on the U.S. portion of the pipeline, repeatedly challenged in court throughout the process, finally began in 2020. Only 1.2 miles (in Montana) of the 875-mile project had been completed by the time of Biden’s order in January.

TC Energy Corp, the Canadian company that owns Keystone XL along with the Alberta government, announced a suspension of the project after the permit was revoked. TC Energy told the Associated Press that “over 1,000 jobs, the majority unionized, will be eliminated in the coming weeks.” In 2014, a State Department estimate stated that Keystone XL would employ 10,400 workers over multiple construction ‘seasons’ — which it believed equated to 3,900 jobs.

The suspension of the project is not good news for an industry that forms a small segment in the overall warehousing and transportation section. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 49,300 people worked in the pipeline transportation sector as of December 2020. The scope, however, is much larger when you consider all the temporary or seasonal workers affected. More than 200,000 people were employed in the oil and gas pipeline construction sector at the beginning of 2021.

If you were one of those affected by the sudden reversal in the Keystone XL project, you might be wondering what’s next. As you ponder your next move — whether that is as a pipefitter looking for a more stable career path or a construction-adjacent worker seeking more rewarding employment — consider heavy equipment operator jobs as part of your solution.

Learn more about PTS and what we offer here.

How Heavy Equipment and Crane Operator Training Can Help

By investing in your future with heavy equipment and crane operator training, you’ll give yourself more opportunities and more stability. Working exclusively within the pipeline arena, you’ll often find your working future immersed alongside a hot-button political topic — climate change and the fossil-fuel industry.

Pipeline heavy equipment operator jobs pay well but are often seasonal in nature. By expanding your scope beyond the pipeline industry, you’ll be less reliant on policy decisions and enjoy more opportunities to pick your field, site, and destination. Heavy equipment operator jobs populate many industries, including mining, construction, shipping, land management, and other energy-related jobs.

It’s also relatively easy and quick to toggle into a heavy equipment or crane operation career. If you don’t have a college degree, opting into a heavy machinery operation training program can save you significant time and money. For example, at Performance Training Solutions, you can complete any one of our three primary operator courses in just three weeks. In less than a month, you can broaden your opportunities for a much less up-front cost than pursuing a two-year or four-year degree.

With competitive salaries, even at the entry level, you’ll be able to provide for your family in short order. With a stable career field, you’ll have access to opportunities on a more consistent basis. As you gain more experience as a heavy equipment operator, you’ll see your earning potential grow accordingly and eventually could become self-employed as a specialized heavy equipment or crane operator pursuing the ventures that suit you best.

There may also be funding opportunities to help you get retraining, lessening the upfront investment needed from you. Veterans, for example, can tap into two such programs — the Post 9/11 GI Bill® and the Veteran Affairs’ Vocational Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31. Also, the American Rescue Act Plan of 2021 is set to include several job training provisions that could be essential in helping many receive the training they need to re-engage in the workforce. PTS is proud to help secure funding for students through various government programs and will work with you to see you receive the benefits you deserve.

PTS Will Work With You Toward a New Beginning

Performance Training Solutions is one of the best heavy equipment and crane operator schools in the country. Based in Columbus, Ohio, we’ve made it our mission to serve and help a variety of people from many walks of life pursue a more rewarding career with our hands-on instructional training designed to help you get to work quickly.

Maybe you’ve been recently shut out from pipeline heavy equipment operator jobs due to a governmental decision? Or perhaps you’re a recent high school graduate? Or you might be a veteran looking for a civilian working career after finishing your active service? At PTS, we work with people at all stages of their working lives and from all over the Midwest and beyond.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you down a new career path. Schedule a tour of our facility, and you’ll become eligible to earn a $500 Tuition Reduction Scholarship!

If you’re closing in on the end of your Military Service Obligation (MSO), or have recently finished the entirety of your MSO, then the military has likely started working with you to plan for your future. But with approximately 200,000 servicemembers going through this process every year, finding where you might fit in for a steady career with a good income can be challenging.

At Performance Training Solutions, we’re committed to helping veterans from all branches from the Armed Forces transition back to civilian working life. Even without a college degree in hand, there are still opportunities to be found for rewarding careers — and heavy equipment operator training for veterans is a great way forward. With this training, you’ll be positioned for well-paying work in a host of industries from general construction, mining, shipping, and specialized projects with government agencies.

Training is Easy to Start, Quick to Finish

One of the strengths offered by the heavy equipment operator training for veterans program at PTS is the timeframe needed to complete the necessary work. All of our courses — heavy equipment operator training I and II and mobile crane operator training — are designed as three-week, 120-clock-hour programs held on-site at our facility.

This can be a boon for veterans as in just three weeks, you can be fully trained and certified to operate a variety of heavy equipment. You won’t have to spend months researching college options and studying for a degree. You won’t be mired in a job search without a clearly defined path pointing the way.

PTS teaches a nationally developed curriculum provided by NCCER and the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). Upon completing your chosen course you’ll have either an NCCER credential or an NCCCO certification, key elements in ensuring potential employment in fields across the country.

More than certification or credentials, you’ll also have the backing of PTS. We’ll provide career assistance and are proud to claim an 89% veteran placement rate for course graduates. And we’ll stick with you for the long haul. PTS will be available for remedial training or refresher coursework for better employment opportunities, as we work to build a lifelong relationship with our graduates.

We’ll Help You Access Your Educational Funding

In the process of completing their MSO, veterans are usually briefed on some of the benefits available to them in their return to civilian employment — such as the Post 9/11 GI Bill® and Veteran Affairs’ Vocational Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 program.

PTS accepts both of these programs, which allow you to help fund your training without impacting you or your family with extreme financial difficulty. Our personnel includes military veterans who understand the problems and issues that veterans face and can help you and eligible dependents navigate through the process of securing these educational benefits.

Contact us to learn more about these programs and how they can help you get started on a new career.

PTS is a Military Friendly® School

PTS was proud to earn the Military Friendly® School designation for 2021–22. The program began in 2003 to encourage civilian organizations to recruit, retain and advance veterans as students, employees, and entrepreneurs.

The Military Friendly® Schools list is crafted each year based on public data research for more than 8,800 schools nationwide with input from student veterans and responses to the data-driven Military Friendly® Schools survey from participating institutions — which included more than 1,200 schools in 2020.

If heavy equipment operator training for veterans sounds like a path you would like to explore, we would be proud to work with you. Schedule a tour with us today to visit our facility and get a feel for the training process. You can do so knowing that as a veteran, we’ll work hard to help you transition back into civilian life with the training needed so you can provide for your family.

Completing a tour will make you eligible to receive a $500 Tuition Reduction Scholarship to apply toward your tuition costs. Take the first step on a new career path today!

YOU’VE SERVED YOUR COUNTRY — WHAT’S NEXT?

In our free, no-strings-attached ebook — A New Path Forward — examine the positive aspects of heavy equipment operator training for veterans and why Performance Training Solutions is the right choice to empower you in a new career.

Heavy equipment operator jobs are predicted to grow by at least three percent between 2022 and 2032 — a rate equal to the average compared to all other occupations — according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. As the country continues to rebound from COVID-19, builders will be in high demand as the United States gets back on track.

Heavy equipment operators serve as the backbone for the building industry. Filling a variety of roles and with a wide array of equipment, heavy equipment operators are positioned to make good money in a stable job market.

So, how much do heavy equipment operators make in the current market? A number of factors — the equipment used, the location, and experience level — all impact the bottom line, but even at a base level, the payout offers workers a rewarding path forward.

Strong Baseline Pay for Heavy Equipment Operators

At the big-picture level, heavy equipment operators will enjoy a median salary of $79,443 — across all equipment and experience levels — according to data collected as of April 24, 2024. Approximately 50 percent of all heavy equipment jobs will have an annual salary ranging from $65,680 to $89,704.

But there are differences and variances according to both the equipment used and the experience level. For instance, an excavator operator will have an average salary of $80,209, according to data gathered by the same organization over the same time period.

Among heavy equipment operators, crane operators tend to skew toward the highest ends of the spectrum. With a base salary level of more than $40,170 per year, crane operators can eventually land opportunities that can approach $70,000 a year with enough experience and in the right locales. With a median salary of $58,281, crane operators with senior-level experience can average more than $75,000 a year.

But crane operators are far from exclusive in their ability to earn good incomes as heavy equipment operators. Bulldozer operators, for example, earn a median salary of more than $48,801 with the upper ranges reaching $60,000.

Excavator operators can range from $66,931 to $90,623 according to recent data. Backhoe operators are earning a median income of $56,952, and motor grader operators have a median salary of more than $48,000 per year.

Compactor operators ($55,327), wheel loader operators ($52,971), and skid steer operators ($50,539) all also have median salary levels that will offer even entry-level employees a chance to begin a sustaining career.

Your experience level will matter, of course. At Payscale.com, the data provided indicates that first-year heavy equipment operators will make roughly 12 percent less than those with moderate (five to nine years) experience. The gap widens with more experience. Those with 20-plus years in the field can expect to earn roughly 31 percent more per hour than those just starting out.

With the strong baseline salaries and the benefits afforded to those with experience, it makes sense to prioritize switching into a heavy equipment operator career sooner rather than later. With Performance Training Solutions, you’ll be able to do just that.

Training with PTS Offers Quick Alternative

Transitioning to a new career path with dependable, well-compensated salaries doesn’t have to be a long, expensive, or complicated process.

At Performance Training Solutions, all of our courses are three-week, 120-clock-hour programs. This includes both classroom education and in-the-seat training on our equipment. You can read more about our course specifics, but it’s important to note your training time will be focused on preparing you to work on heavy equipment — over half of your training time will be operating the various forms of equipment and cranes at our facility.

If you’re looking to re-invent your career, you don’t want to spend years or tens of thousands of dollars in order to get there. With PTS, you can begin and complete the process in a month’s time. You’ll be able to get back to work sooner with new career opportunities waiting.

And if you’re already working as a heavy equipment operator, PTS can give you a refresher course or training with a different piece of equipment in order to broaden your experience and your future prospects. For instance, at PTS, we offer an NCCCO Recertification Prep & Test Program. Once your training is complete, we’ll continue to provide career assistance.

Get a Jump on Earning With PTS

Performance Training Solutions makes it easy and affordable to embark on a new career path that can generate well-paying opportunities in short order through a variety of jobs related to heavy equipment operation.

At PTS, our team of experienced trainers and career representatives will help you get results, as evidenced by our 90 percent job placement rate for course graduates. Ready to learn more about our training courses? Contact us to schedule a free tour of our facilities and receive a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Our Team is Here to Help

We understand that you may be wondering whether the life of a heavy equipment or crane operator is right for you. There’s a lot to consider and research about how training works and what opportunities are available afterward, but at PTS, our expert team will walk you through our programs, how to apply for them, how to obtain funding, if applicable, and what options you may have if you’re a veteran.

Before digging in below, the best first step is to contact us directly.

Even if you’re just starting your research, we can make the most of our time together by speaking directly over the phone or in person, during our one-on-one tours. We genuinely care about our students and their careers. Whether you’re ready to sign up or are still planning your next steps, don’t hesitate to contact us so we can provide you with the information you need to start your life-changing career today. We look forward to hearing from you!

What is PTS all about?

Founded in 2011, Performance Training Solutions (PTS) is a heavy equipment and crane training school, located in Thornville, Ohio, a suburb east of Columbus. We provide education and support for those looking to learn how to operate cranes, backhoes, skid steers, wheel loaders, off-road dump trucks, and more. This training and knowledge is needed to obtain and hold careers in many different industries. Learn more about PTS here.

Is PTS an accredited school?

PTS is licensed by the State Board of Career Colleges and Schools Ohio and educational boards in other states where it conducts business. The Heavy Equipment Training is accredited through NCCER (www.nccer.org). Mobile Crane Operations training provides certification through the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO, www.nccco.org). If you have any other questions, please call us at 866-248-9139 or schedule a meeting.

What training do you provide?

PTS provides the following training programs at our Ohio facility:

• Heavy Equipment Training I
• Heavy Equipment Training II
• Mobile Crane Operations
• Ohio Class-A CDL Commercial Driver’s License

Download our course catalog below to learn more about these courses. Our admissions team would be happy to speak in-depth with you about these classes. Please call us at 866-248-9139 or schedule a meeting to learn more.

What training should I take?

Deciding on a program usually depends entirely on you, the student — taking into account your interests and career goals. Our admissions team would be happy to walk you through the training programs themselves and the opportunities available after graduation. Learn more about the courses you might be interested in here. Please call us at 866-248-9139 or schedule a meeting to talk about options with our admissions team.

What are the benefits of training?

There are numerous advantages to getting trained as an operator at PTS:

• Training is faster than obtaining a two- or four-year college degree
• The cost of training is far less when compared to college tuition
• You can start earning a strong income faster to support your family
• We will always be here to support you after graduation with career assistance
• You’re always welcome to return for a refresher on a piece of equipment
• We offer information regarding funding options and accept many grants
• We support our veterans and accept many VA programs for funding

To learn more about how training at PTS can benefit you specifically, please call us at 866-248-9139 or schedule a meeting.

How long is training?

All heavy equipment and crane operator training programs are three-week, 120-clock-hour programs. You are expected to remain local and attend training each weekday. There is no training on weekends, so you may return home if you choose to, on those days. Our Prep & Test programs range from three days to five days and are also on-site programs. If you have any other questions about the duration of our training, please call us at 866-248-9139 or schedule a meeting.

What’s the difference between certification and accreditation?

CERTIFICATION for Cranes — According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, anyone seeking to operate a crane that weighs 2,000 pounds or more must first be CERTIFIED by an accredited crane operator testing organization or qualified through an audited employer program. For the vast majority of future crane operators, this means achieving certification through the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). At PTS, once you complete your crane operator program you will face NCCCO examinations. Once those exams are passed, you will receive formal certification. You can continue to pursue additional training (on other crane types for instance) but there is no other next step needed in order to find employment.

ACCREDITATION for Heavy Equipment — When learning to operate wheel loaders, backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, and more, however, students will NOT receive certification (or the opportunity to test for it) at the end of their training. Instead, when the training is complete students will receive a CREDENTIAL from the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). By becoming accredited with NCCER, students have demonstrated they completed an NCCER-sanctioned curriculum. Once training is completed and the credential secured, students can immediately go out and seek employment. There is no other step or additional training required.

Learn more about the difference here.

Do you offer meals and lodging?

PTS does not offer meals or lodging as part of our tuition cost. However, some grants may assist with these needs. We will gladly provide recommendations to lodging options near our school that offer reduced rates for PTS students. Please contact us at 866-248-9139 or schedule a meeting to learn more.

What are my prospects after graduation?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and many other employment-related agencies and experts have noted that the demand for heavy equipment and crane operators will continue to grow well into the 2020s. With high demand nationwide, individuals trained in the operation of this equipment have strong prospects for employment right after graduation. And with our 90% placement rate, you’ll be in a strong position to obtain a job using your skills and earning a high income. Visit our blog for more insights on the need for heavy equipment and crane operators. If you have any other questions, please call us at 866-248-9139 or schedule a meeting.

Do you offer support after graduation?

PTS offers nationwide, lifetime, career assistance for all graduates, regardless of how long it’s been since you attended our school. This includes helping you find new career opportunities and welcoming you back to our school for a refresher on any of our equipment. Learn more about our career assistance services. If you have additional questions, please call us at 866-248-9139 or schedule a meeting.

What is the cost of training at PTS?

Our courses range in price according to the program, complexity, and goal. Our equipment training classes have higher tuition costs, whereas our Prep & Test programs, which are designed to help experienced students prepare for certification or recertification tests, have lower tuition costs. Please call us at 866-248-9139 or schedule a meeting to learn more about the costs of the program best suitable for you.

Does PTS accept training grants?

Performance Training Solutions serves many students who are funded by training grants through programs such as the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act and the Trade Adjustment/Readjustment Act. Depending on your circumstances, these training grants may include additional funds for lodging, transportation, and meals. 

There are also different state and federal grants that individuals may be eligible for that can be used to pay for training. Examples of some of these programs are the Trade Adjustment Act (TAA), Tribal Education (BIA), WIOA Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Vocational Rehabilitation and Veteran’s Benefits (VA), Department of Workforce Development, Displaced Workers, and Displaced Farmers.

Call us at 866-248-9139 or schedule a meeting to learn more.

I’m a veteran. Do you have any special programs?

Thank you for your service! PTS is a designated 2020–2021 Military Friendly® School and proudly accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® and the VA’s Vocational Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits. Call us at 866-248-9139 or schedule a meeting to learn more about these programs and how we can help you navigate the process.

Do you serve students from all over the U.S.?

Although we only operate the one training facility located in Columbus, Ohio, we welcome students from anywhere in the U.S.! As long as you can make the necessary arrangements and are able to stay local during training, you’re welcome at PTS. Learn more about the areas where most of our students come from. Call us at 866-248-9139 or schedule a meeting to learn more about the areas we serve and whether we accept any specific programs from your state.

If you’re coming to the end of your military career, the military will likely already be communicating with you about the transition from your service life to civilian life. Whether you’re approaching your last year in service or are only a few months away from separation, it’s time to start considering your future. If you already have a degree, you might be considering putting that degree to use in a related field. But if not, you might be wondering about jobs for military veterans without degrees.

A Stada-Gallup Education Consumer Survey reported that 42% of veterans already have a degree, 33% hold a certificate or certification, and 25% don’t have a degree. If you fall into the 25% or 33% categories, it could be more difficult for you to obtain a position that requires a two- or four-year college degree.

While some companies give preference to veterans applying for positions, this isn’t always the case. And when you consider that around 200,000 servicemembers transition to civilian life every year, the competition for certain jobs with high incomes gets even more challenging.

At PTS, we believe that you deserve a simple transition back to civilian working life. While the Armed Forces assist veterans in obtaining college degrees, you might not have been able to take advantage of that due to your responsibilities, your deployment location, and so on. Fortunately, there are still jobs for military veterans without degrees in heavy equipment and crane operation. These jobs are available in multiple industries ranging from government to construction.

Why Heavy Equipment and Crane Operation is the Ideal Post-Service Route

Heavy equipment and crane operators are extremely in demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated that jobs for heavy equipment operators would grow by 10 percent between 2018 and 2028. That rate is double the average rate compared to all other occupations. And when it comes to compensation, you can expect a strong income early in your career — the median heavy equipment operator salary in the United States is $65,538. Crane operators earn strong salaries as well, with the median salary for a crane operator in the U.S. standing at around $56,700 and going all the way up to $99,700 for those in the top 20%. Ultimately, what you earn will depend on your experience and your education. The latter is where we come in.

PTS is a heavy equipment and crane operator training school conveniently located just outside of Columbus, Ohio. Founded in 2011, we’ve helped thousands of veterans and civilians get the training they need to obtain their heavy equipment certifications — allowing them to gain meaningful employment in multiple industries around the country. But the most beneficial aspect of our school is the speed at which our students can complete their certification program.

All of our courses are three-week, 120-clock-hour programs that are held on-site at our training facility. That’s right — in only three short weeks, you can be fully trained and certified to operate a variety of heavy equipment such as mobile boom cranes, off-road dump trucks, graders, skid steers, backhoes, and more. Examples of certifications received include:

• NCCER — National Center for Construction Education and Research
• NCCCO — National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators

And when it comes to finding jobs for military veterans without degrees, this is a significant advantage. The last thing you need is to have to spend months or even years working toward obtaining or finishing a college degree when you could be working in a matter of weeks in a new field that’s high in demand, high-paying, and extremely stable.

The cost for heavy equipment or crane operator training is far more favorable than the cost of college tuition. Our training programs start at around $7,000 (learn more about our tuition here). What better way to use and preserve your hard-earned resources than by obtaining a meaningful certification that will lead to long-term, rewarding employment as opposed to spending tens of thousands on college tuition?

Even if you were to obtain all three of our primary certifications of heavy equipment operator training I and II and mobile crane operator training, your total tuition cost would be far less than the average tuition cost at a private university. It would likely even be less than the annual cost of tuition for many public universities!

Here’s the Best Part: Your VA Benefits Can Help with Tuition

To ensure you’re able to get the training you need while also taking advantage of the benefits you’ve earned, PTS accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® and the VA’s Vocational Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits. We understand it can be challenging to transition from service life to civilian life, which is why we’ll work with you to help you put these benefits to use for your training. Our admissions team will walk you through the process, explaining step-by-step what documentation is needed, where to get it, and what happens next.

We also accept various grants from state agencies and educational institutions, further extending your ability to get the training you need for an enjoyable career. And if you sign up for an on-site school tour, you’ll get a $500 tuition reduction scholarship — making your training even more affordable.

Our Support Never Ends

While we provide the best heavy equipment and crane operator training in the country, we know that you might need a refresher on a specific piece of equipment from time to time. You’ll be welcome to come back to our facility for refresher training on our equipment whenever necessary.

Our team is also available to help you find meaningful employment at any time after graduation. If you’re looking for a new job, we’d be happy to help you find some new opportunities and point you in the right direction. Just reach out to us and let us know what you need.

As a 2021-2022 Military Friendly® School, we’re graded and evaluated each year on a variety of criteria pertaining to veterans. We’re proud to have earned this designation year after year and to have supported so many veterans from different branches of the Armed Forces in finding jobs for military veterans without degrees.

If you’re ready to start your new post-service career, contact us or schedule a tour of our facility today.

YOU’VE SERVED YOUR COUNTRY — WHAT’S NEXT?

In our free, no-strings-attached ebook — A New Path Forward — examine the positive aspects of heavy equipment operator training for veterans and why Performance Training Solutions is the right choice to empower you in a new career.

Being certified means you have displayed independently verified knowledge and skills and are a well-trained employee who knows how to execute your assigned duties as a crane operator. With certification, crane operators will have more consistent training and expanded job opportunities. This signals to potential employers that you represent a lower risk of accident or loss on the job site.

If you’ve already obtained NCCCO certification, you will at some point need to take an NCCCO Recertification Test as the original certification is valid for five years. Recertification candidates must complete all recertification requirements during the 12 months prior to their certification’s expiration date.

If you’re seeking your NCCCO certification for the first time, be aware that the process will consist of both written and practical exams. The written portion consists of a Core exam (general knowledge) and up to four crane specialty (load chart) examinations. Certification requires competency in both the core and one or more specialty components. The exam itself will feature 90 multiple-choice questions for the core and 26 more multiple-choice questions for each specialty component.

The practical exam allows operators to demonstrate proficiency in Telescopic Boom Cranes, either the Swing Cab (TLL) or Fixed Cab (TSS) variety. The practical portion is comprised of six main tasks that increase progressively in the skill level tested, including equipment inspection, hoisting, booming, swinging, following hand signals, and combination (multifunction) operations. Operating a crane with load, and without load, is required.

PTS Offers a Streamlined NCCCO Recertification Test Program

If your current certification has not expired,  you can take advantage of Performance Training Solutions’ Crane Prep & Test program.

The program is a three-day refresher course that will prepare you for the NCCCO core and specialty written exams. It will provide a classroom review detailing the legal standards and load chart practice tests to prepare crane operators seeking recertification. Any experienced crane operators, defined as one who typically operates a crane at least 500 hours per year, are eligible to enroll in the Crane Prep & Test program.

After successfully completing the NCCCO written recertification exams, the graduate will receive NCCCO recertification. The Prep & Test program tuition includes the NCCCO exam fees.

The Crane Prep & Test program is a refresher designed for crane operators who have some working experience but have not yet achieved their initial certification, or for those who have been certified once before and need to complete an NCCCO Recertification Test before their five-year window closes.

The program is not designed for those beginning their experience in crane operation.

Get Prepared for Your NCCCO Recertification Test

In less than a week, the PTS’ Crane Prep & Test program can have you brushed up on all the technical information you need to have confidence heading into your recertification program. If your experienced crane operators need either their initial NCCCO certification or recertification, PTS can help.

Seating for the program is limited!

Contact Rich Lee at 614-863-8830 to reserve your spot in our next scheduled program or for more information. If you’re interested in the wide variety of heavy equipment training we offer, schedule a free tour of our facilities (and receive a $500 tuition reduction scholarship for taking the tour!).

If you’re a veteran, you deserve the opportunity to return to the civilian workforce with an in-demand job you enjoy and a high income that can support you and your family. We at PTS are extremely grateful for your service to our country, and we’re committed to doing all that we can to prepare you for a new career path — before you enter it and for years to come (more on that shortly). But first, let’s consider where you’re at now in your search for post-military jobs.

Already Have a College Degree?

If you already obtained a degree before going into the service or during that time, you might be inclined to put it to work in an applicable industry. Understand, however, that at a high level, the job market is in a unique state. With the recent presidential election and its new policies starting to come into effect, some markets — such as oil, gas, and fracking — are likely to see layoffs. And because other industries are waiting to see what the future holds, new hiring may be put on hold (to say nothing of the pandemic and the ongoing uncertainty it brings).

Don’t Have a College Degree?

If you don’t have a college degree, you may have an even tougher time entering the job market. While some industries and jobs don’t require a degree, the competition for those positions will be tight. If you’ve been considering going back to school, you’d be able to save some money doing so virtually — but the cost of college is still significant. And it will still likely take more than a year to obtain an associate’s degree on an accelerated timeline (and more for a bachelor’s).

Fortunately, heavy equipment and crane operators will always be in demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated that jobs for heavy equipment operators would grow by at least four percent between 2019 and 2029 — a rate equal to the average compared to all other occupations.

Why Post-Military Jobs for Equipment Operators Make Sense

The last thing you want is to be spending tens of thousands of dollars (out of your earnings or by going into debt) and wasting years going back to school when there are new career opportunities available to you right now. Let’s take a look at several ways that post-military jobs for equipment operators might be the right approach for you.

Training Only Takes Three Weeks

That’s right — all of our courses are 3-week, 120-clock-hour programs consisting of both classroom education and in-the-seat training on our equipment. In fact, more than 70% of your training time will consist of operating different types of heavy equipment or cranes at our facility. Compare that to a 2-year or 4-year college program, and the difference is immediately clear. Even if you already have your degree, you can be on your way to a new, in-demand, and high-paying career in a matter of weeks.

Learn more about what to expect with our training programs.

Heavy Equipment Operator Salaries are Strong

As of December 28, 2020, the median heavy equipment operator salary was $65,417, with the low end coming in at $54,691 and compensation as high as $74,224. While compensation for new graduates will trend toward the lower end of this spectrum, it’s nevertheless a strong starting point with significant opportunities for advancement and growth as you move forward in your career.

Keep in mind that the sooner you start, the sooner you’ll be able to earn an income like this. If you were to go back to school, it could take you years to catch up to these ranges. And depending on your chosen field of study, your initial income might even be less.

Not sure which course to take? Start here.

YOU’VE SERVED YOUR COUNTRY — WHAT’S NEXT?

In our free, no-strings-attached ebook — A New Path Forward — examine the positive aspects of heavy equipment operator training for veterans and why Performance Training Solutions is the right choice to empower you in a new career.

How We Make Post-Military Jobs for Equipment Operators Accessible

We’re Experienced with Students from All Armed Forces Branches

We understand the challenges that veterans face when re-entering the job market. Whether you served in the Army, Marines, Air Force, or Navy, we’re grateful for the time and sacrifices you’ve made through your service, and we’ll do all that we can to prepare you for a meaningful career in heavy equipment operation.

We’re a Designated 2020–2021 Military Friendly® School

The Military Friendly® ratings program was started in 2003 as an advocacy vehicle to encourage civilian organizations to invest in programs to recruit, retain and advance veterans as employees, entrepreneurs and students. PTS proudly exceeds this organization’s benchmarked standards in many areas.

See our listing on the Military Friendly® site here.

We Accept Veteran-Specific Educational Funding Programs

PTS accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® and the VA’s Vocational Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits. Contact us today to learn more about these programs and how we can help you navigate the process.

We Know What It Takes to Help You Succeed

PTS has achieved a 90% graduate placement rate, which means our exceptional training has made our students highly appealing to companies looking for heavy equipment operators and crane operators. Furthermore, we stand behind every veteran that we train. We offer career assistance long after you’ve graduated to help you find new opportunities. You’re even welcome to return to our facility for a refresher training on any equipment.

Explore our career assistance offerings here.

Now is the Time — and We’re Here to Help

If you’re a veteran exploring post-military jobs for equipment operators, we would be proud to work with you and welcome you to our training school. Schedule a tour with us today to learn more about our training programs, our facility, and what the training process looks like. Those who complete a tour will receive a $500 Tuition Reduction Scholarship to apply toward your tuition costs.

Ready to start your journey to a new career?

Whether your job prospects were directly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting turmoil it caused for many segments of the job market, or if you’re simply wanting a change to find more stable and financially rewarding work, this is a great time to explore other opportunities. One option is to become a crane operator.

Becoming a crane operator, or operating other heavy equipment, is an affordable way to rapidly change your career and get you back into the workforce as a strong provider. With courses that can be completed in just three weeks, the upfront investment is minor compared to a two-year or four-year, course of study for other career paths.

A Steady, Consistent Part of Any Construction Site

Crane operators are an essential part of most construction sites, and in areas with on-going construction, you’ll find crane operators providing the lift needed to complete ambitious projects. And becoming a certified crane operator offers an assortment of job choices beyond just building construction, as crane operators are needed on railways and shipping docks, mining facilities, and more.

Crane operators do more than operate the machinery. They’ll be counted on to follow safety protocols, perform necessary maintenance, learn how to manage the details and orders of the job site, and communicate with other team members on the job.

As such, crane operators typically earn more than other heavy equipment operators. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Crane Operators took in an average annual wage of $60,530 — more than $29 per hour — in 2019 compared to the median wage of $48,160 pulled in by other construction equipment operators.

And projected growth remains strong for crane operators. The Bureau of Labor Statistics believes crane operator jobs are expected to grow by eight percent overall from 2014 through 2024, slightly more than the national average for the universal job market. The growth has been steady for more than a decade and continues to provide a stable path for sustaining jobs in a variety of areas across the country.

Get the Needed Instruction with PTS

To become a crane operator, one will need a high school diploma along with the proper certification and training/apprenticeships.

Certification remains a necessary component in crane operator training, and a state-issued license is sometimes required. Many states will recognize the exams administered by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). With no higher education required, a career in crane operation offers a path to a good salary and benefits for those with no more than a high school degree.

Performance Training Solutions offers a three-week, 120-hour program that will provide you with the fundamental training, knowledge, and skills necessary to gain entry-level employment as an NCCCO-certified crane operator. The certification program for crane operator training covers both the Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes. Successful completion of the training program and NCCCO written and practical exams will result in NCCCO certification as a Mobile Crane Operator.

We offer a program the includes a combination of in-the-crane and classroom instruction. Roughly half of the instruction will take place in the classroom, and topics covered include basic principles of cranes, crane safety, preventive maintenance, wire rope, basic rigging practices, and orientation to the trade.

The other half of the course will include in-the-seat training in both the swing-cab and fixed-cab versions of the telescopic boom cranes.

Begin a New Career Path with Help from PTS

Based in Columbus, Ohio, Performance Training Solutions is a heavy equipment operator school that provides timely and affordable training, education, and experience for those pursuing a career in crane operation or heavy equipment operation. The PTS team of veteran trainers and career representatives are committed to helping students succeed in both their short-term goals and long-term plans, and form the core for what is recognized as one of the top equipment operator training schools in the country.

In addition to the Mobile Crane Operations course, Performance Training Solutions also offers two different Heavy Equipment Operator courses. All three programs will help you get a quick start on a new lucrative career path. If you’re interested in learning more about Performance Training Solutions, you can always schedule a tour of our facilities to see the equipment, meet our staff, and get a feel for the program firsthand.

If you take part in a tour, you will also be eligible to receive a $500 Tuition Reduction Scholarship to apply to your tuition costs. 

Get Trained for a Variety of Jobs for Navy Veterans

Once you’ve completed your service in the U.S. Navy, you might be wondering where to take your career. One of the best opportunities for jobs for Navy veterans is in the growing field of heavy equipment and crane operation. This in-demand field doesn’t require a two- or four-year college degree — in fact, you can complete training for a variety of equipment types and get the necessary credentials to start working in only three weeks!

At Performance Training Solutions (PTS), we recognize that navigating your post-service career options can be challenging. If this field sounds like the right one for you, our team will help you take advantage of your veterans benefits to help fund your training. You’ve earned it, and we’ll do all that we can to help you get started on your journey to a deeply rewarding career that’s been growing significantly in demand across the country.

Courses Available Now at PTS

To help you qualify for heavy equipment-related jobs for Navy veterans, PTS offers three 120-clock-hour courses on-site at our facility outside of Columbus, Ohio. While food and lodging aren’t included in your tuition, it’s important to understand that the short amount of time in which you’ll be away from your family is offset by the fact that in just a short amount of time, you’ll be credentialed and ready to work in a new position with a strong income, allowing you to provide for your family faster than other career paths. Learn more about the training courses we offer here:

• Heavy Equipment Operator I
• Heavy Equipment Operator II
• Mobile Crane Operations

Important: Here Are Your First Steps

Registering with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the first step to taking advantage of the benefits you’ve earned. Below are helpful links to help you get started. Note that it can take up to 30 days for determination of benefits to be completed.

• GI Bill — for ordering a Certificate of Eligibility for Chapter 33
• Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) — for veterans with service-connected disabilities

Ready for a Deeply Rewarding Career?

Thank you so much for your service to our country. We know you’ve given so much of your time and effort, and now, we want to do all that we can to help you qualify for jobs for Navy veterans through our training. This career is growing in demand, as multiple industries and markets need support from heavy equipment and crane operators in construction, renovation, and more. When you come to us for training, know that we’ve got your back.

With a 90% job placement rate, we’re the best choice to help you get credentialed for an exciting career in heavy equipment and crane operations. We’ll continue supporting you long after you graduate as well through our career assistance offering. Whenever you need us, we’ll be there. You’re even welcome to visit our facility for a refresher training on any of our heavy equipment to prepare you for a new opportunity.

Ready to get trained? Contact us today to learn more about training and how you can get a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

A Great Career as a Veteran Starts at PTS

When you’ve completed your service, you might be wondering what jobs for Marine Corps veterans are available. Sure, you could go to college to pursue a degree, but it’ll cost you tens of thousands of dollars in addition to taking two to four years. With heavy equipment training from Performance Training Solutions (PTS), you can get trained and certified in a growing, in-demand field in only three weeks and for vastly less than college tuition!

We understand that finding the right jobs for Marine Corps veterans can be challenging. However, as a veteran, you have a great opportunity to get the training you need for this deeply rewarding career. Your benefits as a veteran provide the funding needed to help you get trained and qualify for jobs for Marine Corps veterans. Not sure where to start with these benefits? No worries —we’ll walk you through the process from start to finish.

About Our Training and the Classes Available

PTS offers three 120-clock-hour courses covering a variety of equipment types. Once you’ve completed the training you’re interested in, you’ll be able to qualify for a variety of heavy equipment-related jobs for Marine Corps veterans. Training is on-site at our Columbus, Ohio facility, and you’ll be required to stay locally. Food and lodging aren’t included in tuition, but the short training duration and practical experience you’ll gain makes it worthwhile, especially when you’re able to start earning a strong income in your new career. We offer the following courses for Marine Corps veterans:

• Heavy Equipment Operator I
• Heavy Equipment Operator II
• Mobile Crane Operations 

Important: Here Are Your First Steps

Registering with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the first step to taking advantage of the benefits you’ve earned. Below are helpful links to help you get started. Note that it can take up to 30 days for determination of benefits to be completed.

• GI Bill — for ordering a Certificate of Eligibility for Chapter 33
• Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) — for veterans with service-connected disabilities

Get Here, Get Trained, and Get Working

We’re grateful to you as a Marine Corps veteran for your service to our country. Now, we want to honor your commitment and sacrifices by helping you get the training you need to start an amazing, long-term career. There’s never been a stronger demand for heavy equipment and crane operators in today’s market, so now is the time to make a change for the better and start earning a strong income.

When you’ve completed your training and have become credentialed, our team will always be here to support you for years afterward. We have a strong 90% job placement rate, but should you need our assistance, we provide career support at any time. You’ll also be welcome to visit our facility to refresh yourself on our equipment whenever needed!

Ready to get trained? Contact us today to learn more about training and how you can get a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Take Your Post-Service Career to New Heights

If you’re considering what Air Force veteran jobs might be available to you after you’ve completed your service, consider the advantages of a career in heavy equipment operation. Rather than spending tens of thousands of dollars and two to four years trying to get a college degree, you can get trained and credentialed at Performance Training Solutions (PTS) in heavy equipment or crane operations in only three weeks! This means you can be on your way to an in-demand, high-paying career sooner and with more career prospects, as equipment operators are needed nationwide.

As a veteran, you have a unique opportunity to get this training and the credentials required for a long, meaningful career in heavy equipment. This is because you have access to funding support through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and potentially other veteran-focused programs. We understand that it can be challenging to navigate this process, and that’s why we’ll work closely with you to help you obtain and complete the paperwork needed to get started.

Available Heavy Equipment Training Classes

To help you find the right Air Force veteran jobs in the heavy equipment field, we offer three 120-clock-hour courses covering a variety of equipment types. Training is on-site at our Columbus, Ohio facility. You’ll be required to stay locally to complete training. While food and lodging aren’t included in tuition, the short training duration and practical experience you’ll gain makes it worthwhile, especially when you’ll be able to earn a strong income sooner in your new career. We offer the following courses for Air Force veterans:

• Heavy Equipment Operator I
• Heavy Equipment Operator II
• Mobile Crane Operations 

Important: Here Are Your First Steps

Registering with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the first step to taking advantage of the benefits you’ve earned. Below are helpful links to help you get started. Note that it can take up to 30 days for determination of benefits to be completed.

• GI Bill — for ordering a Certificate of Eligibility for Chapter 33
• Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) — for veterans with service-connected disabilities

The Best Air Force Veteran Jobs Start with Training at PTS

As an Air Force veteran, you’ve done your part to serve our country. Now, we want to give back and help you secure a truly rewarding career that you can start sooner than if you were to pursue a degree. Heavy equipment operators are needed now in multiple markets, and the training available at our school will help you get the credentials required to join the industry and start earning a great income to support your family. 

Remember, when you come to PTS for training, you’ll always have our support and gratitude for your service. In addition to a strong 90% job placement rate for our graduates, we’ll always be available to provide career assistance whenever you need it — including having you back to our facility for a refresher on any of our equipment.

Ready to get trained? Contact us today to learn more about training and how you can get a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Start a Career in Heavy Equipment or Crane Operation

If you’ve served in the U.S. Army, you might be wondering what your options are after you’ve completed your service. At Performance Training Solutions (PTS), we understand how challenging it can be to find jobs for Army veterans and enter a new career field. But rather than spend two to four years in college studying for a degree (and spending tens of thousands of dollars doing it), you can start an exciting new career in heavy equipment and crane operations faster, for less money, and with more job prospects through certification at our school.

Jobs for Army veterans aren’t difficult to obtain after you’ve become credentialed through our school, with countless industries seeing increased demand for qualified, trained operators. Even better, paying for training is easier with the benefits you’ve earned from your service in the U.S. Army. We’ll support you in obtaining funding for heavy equipment operator or crane operator training and will walk you through the process step by step.

Courses Available for Army Veterans

PTS offers three, 120-clock-hour (3 weeks) courses covering a variety of heavy equipment types. Training is held on-site at our Columbus, Ohio facility, and you’ll be required to stay locally to complete your training. While food and lodging aren’t included in tuition, the short training duration and practical experience you’ll gain makes it all worthwhile, especially when you’ll be able to start earning a strong income in your new career. We offer the following courses for Army veterans:

• Heavy Equipment Operator I
• Heavy Equipment Operator II
• Mobile Crane Operations

Important: Here Are Your First Steps

Registering with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the first step to taking advantage of the benefits you’ve earned. Below are helpful links to help you get started. Note that it can take up to 30 days for determination of benefits to be completed.

• GI Bill — for ordering a Certificate of Eligibility for Chapter 33
• Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) — for veterans with service-connected disabilities

Why Get Training at PTS?

We’re extremely grateful to our veterans for their service to our country. We recognize the commitment and sacrifices you’ve made through that service, and we want to give back to help you get the meaningful career and strong income you deserve. By getting trained at PTS, you’ll have the necessary credentials needed to explore and secure jobs for Army veterans in a variety of industries that need heavy equipment operators, enabling you to fill a much-needed role in the job market and provide for your family.

Our training school has a 90% job placement rate for graduates. After you’ve graduated, we’ll always be available to provide career assistance whenever needed, including having you back to our facility for a refresher on our equipment to brush up your skills.

Ready to get trained? Contact us today to learn more about training and how you can get a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

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Thank you for completing our contact form. We’ll be in touch with you here shortly. We appreciate your consideration and look forward to working with you on your heavy equipment training needs.

We just wanted to thank you for reaching out to schedule a tour. We will be in touch with you soon, but in case you have any questions that you want answered immediately, feel free to feel free to give us a call at 1-877-575-4787 from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM during the week.

Again, thank you for your interest. We look forward to meeting you and showing you around our facility.

Crane operators do more than simply push the pedals and pull the levers in their vehicles to lift, move, position, and reposition materials and objects. Crane operators need to be well versed in operating their equipment, of course, but also need to follow construction site safety protocols, perform the necessary maintenance on their equipment, learn how to manage the orders and details of the job site, and most importantly, communicate with team members on the job.

Skills and Certifications Needed in Crane Operator Training

Crane operators should be both responsible and detail oriented. They’ll need the discipline to sit in the tight confines of their control booth for long periods of time, and possess manual dexterity, flexibility, and enough physical strength to access their booths and make repairs and the necessary maintenance.

Crane operators should also have good depth perception, excellent reaction times, and strong hand-eye coordination. The ability to critically think and make good judgments quickly will also be assets.

In terms of education, the requirements for crane operation consist of a high school diploma along with a certification and training/apprenticeships.

Once certified, most crane operators get their initial work experience through on-the-job training or apprenticeships. All crane program candidates, in general, must be 18 years or older, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be in good physical condition.

Certification remains a necessary component in crane operator training, and depending on where you decide to work, a state-issued license may also be required. Most states will utilize the exam administered by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) as a starting point to licensure.

The NCCCO certification process includes both written and practical exams to demonstrate crane operation knowledge and operating ability. But with no higher education required, a career in crane operation offers a path to a good salary and benefits for those with no more than a high school degree.

What to Expect as a Crane Operator

Crane operators will be asked to lift, move, and place equipment and materials with their equipment. They’ll also be asked to handle inspections on their cranes and calculate the capabilities of their machines. In addition, crane operators will be sometimes asked to assemble cranes on-site and perform routine maintenance.

Crane operators typically work a standard workweek — 40 hours at eight hours a day for five days a week — but it should be expected there will be periods when they’ll be asked to work overtime in order to complete deadline projects.

But if you’re good with your hands, have strong depth perception, and possess excellent communication skills, then crane operation could be for you. Prospective operators should also be okay with working outdoors, often in noisy environments, and be willing to travel to work. Careers in crane operations cover a wide variety of options, including building construction, railway work, shipbuilding, mining, and crane rental companies.

Performance Training Solutions’ Mobile Crane Operations Course

Performance Training Solutions offers a three-week, 120-hour program that will provide you with the fundamental training, knowledge, and skills necessary to gain entry-level employment as an NCCCO-certified crane operator. The certification program for crane operator training covers both the Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes.

We offer a program that includes a combination of in-crane and in-classroom instruction. Roughly half of the instruction will take place in the classroom, and topics covered include basic principles of cranes, crane safety, preventative maintenance, wire rope, basic rigging practices, and orientation to the trade.

The other half of the course will include in-the-seat training in both the swing-cab and fixed-cab versions of the telescopic boom cranes. You can learn much more about our Mobile Crane Operations course here.

PTS Offers the First Step on a New Career Path

Located in Columbus, Ohio, Performance Training Solutions is a heavy equipment operator school that assists those who wish to pursue a career in crane operation or heavy equipment operation. Recognized as one of the top training schools in the country, Performance Training Solutions has a team of experienced trainers and career representatives who are committed to helping students succeed in the long term.

With two courses in Heavy Equipment Operation, as well as the Mobile Crane Operations course, Performance Training Solutions offers a fast-track path to a new career. If you’d like to know more about Performance Training Solutions, contact us today.

Don’t forget to ask us how you can earn $500 off your tuition by scheduling a tour!

Role, Responsibilities, and Expectations of a Crane Operator

Crane operators are responsible for operating a mobile crane in order to lift, move, position, and reposition different loads of materials. The operator controls different crane functions by pressing buttons, foot pedals, and navigating crane levers. Crane operators are required to unload accessories from trailers or other vehicles. A crane operator receives direction as to what to do from a rigger or signal person via hand and/or verbal signals. If you’re interested in learning more about the Importance of Proper Rigger and Signal Training, check out our blog.

Crane operators are also required to perform both pre- and post-trip inspections as well as daily and monthly equipment inspections, to ensure that all equipment is functioning properly. Crane operators typically work under direct supervision and are expected to work long hours that require them to be frequently sitting, standing, moving, and climbing. An operator is subject to exposure to extreme year-round outdoor environmental conditions, and may also be subject to working both weekends and holidays.

Crane Operator Career Outlook

Crane operators are in high demand nowadays. There are many different jobs that exist on a construction site, such as contractors, electricians, cement layers, and so on, but a crane operator’s unique skill set is essential when it comes to the completion of most construction jobs. There is an increasing number of opportunities for careers as a crane operator as large modern structures continue to increase.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Crane Operator jobs are expected to grow 10 percent from 2018 to 2028. This is slightly above the national average for the universal job market, but well above the national average for highly skilled jobs. The success of the crane industry has contributed to the creation of secure jobs.

Is a Career as a Crane Operator Right for You?

If you’re wondering whether a career as a crane operator is right for you, you should ask yourself a couple of questions. Are you good with your hands? Do you have strong depth perception and good communication skills? Would you like to work with heavy machinery? Would you be OK traveling for work? Can you work in high places? Are you okay with working outdoors and noisy environments/conditions? Are you interested in working in construction, mining, shipbuilding, railway, or crane rental companies?

A standard workweek for crane operators is 40 hours (8 hours a day, 5 days a week). Similar to many other careers in construction, there are periods that will require you to work overtime. The amount of overtime you work depends on the sector in which you work as well as the region. This varies from job to job.

Skills and Certifications Required

In regard to certification, the requirements usually consist of a high school diploma, along with an NCCCO Crane certification and additional training/apprenticeships.

A state-issued license is usually required. Some states utilize the exam proctored by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators. Obtaining a certification varies by state but usually consists of written and physical exams, with trainees also tested on their ability to demonstrate safe operating practices.

As higher education is not required, a career in crane operation is a pathway to a good salary and benefits even for individuals with only a high school degree.

Performance Training Solutions’ Mobile Crane Operations Course

At Performance Training Solutions, we offer a three-week, 120-clock-hour program that provides you with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to obtain entry-level employment as an NCCCO certified crane operator. This certification program includes both the Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes.

The program includes a combination of classroom and in-the-seat instruction. Approximately half of the instruction will take place in the classroom. Topics covered include orientation to the trade, basic principles of cranes, crane safety, operating a crane, preventative maintenance, wire rope, and basic rigging practices. The other half of training includes in-the-seat operation of a mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab crane. Learn more about our Mobile Crane Operations course here.

Completion of the required exams will result in a five-year Mobile Crane Operator Certification from the NCCCO National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators.

Get Started On the Path to a New Career With PTS

Performance Training Solutions is a heavy equipment operator school located in Columbus, Ohio. As one of the top training schools in the country, we assist those who wish to pursue a career as a heavy equipment operator or crane operator. Our team of experienced trainers and admissions and career representatives are committed to helping our students succeed in the long term.

If you’re interested in taking our Mobile Crane Operations course, or taking any of our additional courses, check out what you can expect. If you’d like to learn more about Performance Training Solutions and what a crane operator does, feel free to contact us today. Don’t forget to ask us how you can earn $500 off your tuition by scheduling a tour.

The Role and Responsibilities of a Rigger

Riggers are responsible for using ropes, pulleys, and other equipment like heavy chains, cables, and straps to secure heavy loads, which are then meant to be transported using a crane. Riggers have the knowledge required when it comes to knowing which hitches to tie and how much weight different cranes can support. They have a great understanding of a load’s center of gravity, which is required to ensure proper balance, stability, and mobility of the load at all times.

To someone unfamiliar with a construction site, the crane operator may seem like the person with the most responsibility. But a rigger has just as much responsibility, if not more, as they are the ones responsible for properly rigging the load. Without an experienced rigger in place and a properly rigged load, a worksite can quickly become a danger zone.

The Role and Responsibilities of a Signalperson

Once a rigger has rigged a load appropriately, it is a signalperson’s duty to safely guide the crane operator in transporting the load from its rigging location to where it needs to go. The signalperson is a crane operator’s eyes and ears on the ground and is responsible for ensuring that all crane activities are performed safely. This is done by using specific hand signals that are understood by both the signalperson and the crane operator.

How to Become a Certified Rigger and Signalperson

To become a certified rigger and signalperson, an individual must complete an accredited training program where they learn the roles and responsibilities of the position, the proper knowledge of hand signals and voice-activated and audible signals, crane operations and fundamentals of rigging, load handling, and other environmental factors. Individuals must pass both a written and practical exam offered by a National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) accredited organization. A rigger and signalperson certification is documentation demonstrating that someone has proven their ability to complete the tasks required of a qualified rigger and signalperson.

Performance Training Solutions’ NCCCO Rigger & Signalperson Certification Course

PTS provides a five-day NCCCO Rigger & Signalperson certification program. The program prepares candidates for both the NCCCO written and practical exams administered at the conclusion of the training program. The candidate must pass both the written and practical exams to earn the NCCCO five-year Rigger & Signalperson certification.

Performance Training Solutions’ Mobile Crane Operations Course

At Performance Training Solutions, we offer a three-week, 120-clock-hour program that provides you with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to obtain entry-level employment as an NCCCO certified crane operator. This certification program includes both the Mobile Hydraulic Telescopic Boom Swing-Cab and Telescopic Boom Fixed-Cab cranes.

The program includes a combination of classroom and in-the-seat instruction. Approximately half of the instruction will take place in the classroom. Topics covered include orientation to the trade, basic principles of cranes, crane safety, operating a crane, preventative maintenance, wire rope, and basic rigging practices. The other half of training includes in-the-seat operation of a mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and telescopic boom fixed-cab crane. Learn more about our Mobile Crane Operations course here.

Completion of the required exams will result in a five-year Mobile Crane Operator Certification from the NCCCO National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators.

Importance of Safety When Operating Heavy Equipment

A construction site can be very dangerous for inexperienced individuals who aren’t properly trained and educated on knowing how to behave around heavy equipment and cranes. One false move can quickly lead to considerable injury or even death. This is why it’s so important to stress safety when operating heavy equipment and to abide by OSHA crane regulations at all times.

OSHA says that signalperson needs to know the types of signals used at the worksite, can competently use those signals, know the crane equipment, its limitations, and all the dynamics involved in crane and boom movement and lifting, can demonstrate knowledge through oral, written, and practical testing, and is evaluated by a third-party or in-house qualified evaluator.

Get Started On the Path to a New Career with PTS

Performance Training Solutions is a heavy equipment operator school located in Columbus, Ohio. As one of the top training schools in the country, we assist those who wish to pursue a career as a heavy equipment operator or crane operator. Our team of experienced trainers and admissions and career representatives are committed to helping our students succeed in the long term.

If you’re interested in taking our Mobile Crane Operations course, taking our rigger and signal training, or taking any of our additional courses, check out what you can expect. If you’d like to learn more about Performance Training Solutions, feel free to contact us today. Don’t forget to ask us how you can earn $500 off your tuition by scheduling a tour.

Note: The $500 scholarship does not apply to the NCCCO Rigger & Signalperson Course.

Are you interested in heavy equipment training with Performance Training Solutions? If so, please take a moment to answer the following questions accurately and to the best of your ability. By doing so and submitting this application, we’ll be able to get back in touch with you quickly and get you on the right path toward a new and fulfilling career.

If you have any immediate questions or concerns, feel free to give us a call at 1-877-575-4787 or check out our training page for more information.

Don't hesitate to contact us!

School Location

If you have any questions about our courses, we’re here to help. Our team will be happy to walk you through the training process as well as discuss potential financing opportunities that may be available to you. And remember, PTS offers a $500 tuition reduction scholarship with an in-person tour of our facility.

If you’d like to get in touch with someone sooner, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. You can call us at (877) 575-4787.

We look forward to working with you and welcoming you to our training center!

Do Your Experienced Crane Operators Need NCCCO Certification or NCCCO Recertification?

If your experienced crane operators need initial NCCCO certification or require NCCCO recertification support, PTS is here for you. We specialize in refresher programs for NCCCO certification testing for operators of Mobile Hydraulic Cranes and Boom Trucks.

Please note: THE PREP & TEST PROGRAM IS A REFRESHER FOR EXPERIENCED CRANE OPERATORS WHO DO NOT REQUIRE CRANE OPERATION TRAINING. An experienced operator is defined as one who typically operates a crane at least 500 hours per year.

Program seating is limited. Please call 614-863-8830 to schedule today.

First-Time NCCCO Certification

Written Exams

The mobile crane operator written examinations consist of a core examination in crane operation and up to four crane specialty examinations. Certification requires competency in both the core and one or more specialty designation(s).

The core examination has 90 multiple-choice questions. Candidates are allowed 90 minutes to complete the core examination. Each specialty examination consists of 26 multiple-choice questions. Candidates are allowed 60 minutes to complete each specialty examination.

Please visit the core exam outline for additional information regarding the written examination process.

Practical Exams

The mobile crane operator practical examinations demonstrate crane operation proficiency and are available in two crane types: Telescopic Boom Cranes—Swing Cab (TLL) and Telescopic Boom Cranes—Fixed Cab (TSS)

A candidate must pass the written core and at least one specialty examination as well as the corresponding practical exam(s) to be certified for a five-year period.

All candidates are required to take the core examination, regardless of the specialty(s) in which they wish to be certified.

Candidates may take the practical examination on one or two of the crane types provided they have already passed/will pass the written examination in the corresponding designation within the 12-month time frame.

The practical examination is comprised of six main tasks that increase progressively in the skill level tested. Skills tested include inspecting the equipment, hoisting, booming, swinging, following hand signals, and combination (multifunction) operations. Crane operation with load and without load is required.

View a video of the practical exam procedure.

How to Schedule an Exam

For individuals seeking first-time certification, PTS offers a five-day Crane Prep & Test refresher program that provides a combination of classroom and seat time to prepare for and take the NCCCO core and specialty written exams and the practical specialty exams. Upon successfully completing the NCCCO written and practical examinations, the graduate will receive NCCCO certification. Testing at PTS is limited to Mobile Hydraulic Cranes. The program tuition of $2,000 includes the NCCCO exam fees.

NCCCO Recertification

For NCCCO Recertification candidates, PTS offers a three-day Crane Prep & Test refresher program that provides classroom review concerning legal standards and load chart practice tests to prepare for and take the NCCCO core and specialty written recertification exams. Upon successfully completing the NCCCO written recertification examinations, the graduate will receive NCCCO recertification. The program tuition of $1,000 includes the NCCCO exam fees.

Turn to PTS for Quality NCCCO Recertification Support Today

Empower your team with the education they need through PTS. Our quick programs are designed to prepare your employees for the NCCCO recertification program so they refresh their knowledge base and are set up for success.

Different types of heavy equipment are used when it comes to various construction, earthmoving, and other types of projects. The selection of these heavy construction equipment types depends on the size and nature of the project one is working on. By utilizing heavy equipment, a job can be made much easier and prove to be more time-efficient.

Let’s take a look at five different heavy construction equipment types that we train our students on, how they’re used, and what they’re used for. And don’t miss out on the first part of this series.

Bulldozer

A bulldozer is a type of tractor that is equipped with a metal plate also known as a blade, which is used to push all kinds of dirt, sand, and other material during construction work. It is typically equipped with a claw-like device on the rear side of it. This device is typically used to loosen densely compacted materials.

Bulldozers are stationed on tracks, which gives them excellent ground holding capability and mobility when it comes to rough terrain and slopes. The wide tracks help distribute weight over a large area, preventing it from sinking into soft ground.

Excavator

An excavator is a piece of heavy construction equipment that consists of a boom, dipper, bucket, and cab on a rotating platform that’s commonly referred to as the “house.” The house sits on top of an undercarriage that has tracks or wheels.

Excavators are used in many ways. Some of these include digging trenches, holes, or foundations, the handling of material, for forestry work, construction, demolition, and more.

Motor Grader

A motor grader is a construction machine that has a long blade that is used to create flat surfaces during the grading process, which is the process of ensuring a level base or foundation when it comes to construction work. Graders of the past used to be towed behind horses or other powered equipment, but eventually were built to contain an engine and became called motor graders as a result.

Motor graders are commonly used in the construction and maintenance of dirt and gravel roads. When it comes to the construction of paved roads, they are used to prepare the base course to create a wide flat surface upon which to place the road surface.

Loader

A loader is a type of heavy construction equipment that is usually wheeled but can sometimes be on tracks, and has a front-mounted square wide bucket that’s connected to the end of two arms. It’s commonly used in construction settings to move aside or load materials such as asphalt, demolition, debris, dirt, snow, gravel, and much more. Loaders will typically take this material from the ground level and deposit it into an awaiting dump truck or open trench excavation.

The bucket on a loader can be replaced with other tools or equipment such as mount forks or a clamshell bucket, as needed. Loaders are not the most efficient machine for digging as they cannot dig very deep below their wheel level like a backhoe or excavator is capable of.

Scraper

A scraper is a large piece of equipment that is used in mining, construction, agriculture, and other earthmoving applications. The rear part of a scraper has a vertically moveable hopper with a sharp horizontal front edge which can be raised or lowered. The front edge cuts into the soil and fills the hopper. Once the hopper is full, it gets raised, closed, and then the scraper can transport it to the area where it’s being dumped.

Scrapers are efficient when it comes to short hauls where the cut and fill areas are close to one another.

Careers in Which This Equipment is Used

If you’re using the equipment mentioned above, you’re likely to be working in a heavy equipment operator role in the construction, landscaping, agriculture, demolition, or forestry industries. These roles continue to grow as the job outlook over the next decade shows an expected increase of around 10 percent.

Training Courses at Performance Training Solutions

At Performance Training Solutions, we offer four three-week-long training courses that allow you to develop the skills and knowledge required to become certified to operate heavy equipment. In order to learn how to operate the five pieces of heavy equipment that were covered above, an individual would have to enroll in our Heavy Equipment Operator II course. This is the second part of a six-week-long, 240-hour commitment that requires you to stay local to Columbus, Ohio until completion of the course. Heavy Equipment Operator II is taken after completing Heavy Equipment Operator I, in which you learn to operate skid steers, wheel loaders, compactors, backhoes, and off-road dump trucks.

Get Started On the Path to a New Career with PTS

Performance Training Solutions is a heavy equipment operator school located in Columbus, Ohio. As one of the top training schools in the country, we assist those who wish to pursue a career as a heavy equipment operator, crane operator, or a commercial truck driver. Our team of experienced trainers and admissions and career representatives are committed to helping our students succeed.

If you’re interested in either of the courses mentioned above or any of our additional courses, check out what you can expect. If you’d like to learn more about Performance Training Solutions, feel free to contact us today. Don’t forget to ask us how you can earn $500 off your tuition by scheduling a tour.

Thank you for completing our contact form. We’ll be in touch with you here shortly. We appreciate your consideration and look forward to working with you on your heavy equipment training needs.

We just wanted to thank you for reaching out to schedule a tour. We will be in touch with you soon, but in case you have any questions that you want answered immediately, feel free to feel free to give us a call at 1-877-575-4787 from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM during the week.

Again, thank you for your interest. We look forward to meeting you and showing you around our facility.

We’re Committed to Our Students’ Success

Performance Training Solutions is here to help you build your career with credentialed, certified, and professional training. As one of the top heavy equipment training schools in the United States, our team of experienced trainers, admissions representatives, and career representatives is dedicated to the success of the students we serve. Take a look at some of the success stories from students who went through PTS’ training program.

Student Testimonials

Kelly U.

P.T.S. Isn’t just a school. P.T.S. is a place where you are made to feel as if your family who cares about you is helping you to achieve your goals. The staff from the director, the office, and the instructors is made up of quality people who are truly invested in your success!!! P.T.S. is the place to Become who your striving to be!

Cory P.

Everyone was super kind and helpful and answered all questions I had. It was an absolute blast to go through the NCCCO course at PTS and a great start to getting a career in crane operations.

Lucas G.

Very friendly people and they allways go out of the way to make sure you understand before moving forward. Highly recommended if you want to be an equipment operator they will definitely get you to where you need to be.

David M.

Had a Blast. Great Manager,Office Staff, Teacher’s, class rooms equipment and all learning areas. Couldn’t have been in a better place. Just really grateful that I found the school that wanted me to succeed and go on to my full blown career in heavy 1 &2. Thanks Guys best of luck to the School. Wonderful Place

Kendal P.

I attended PTS for the heavy equipment and crane classes and it gave me valuable experience for operating all kinds of equipment. The instructors were very knowledgeable and helped me throughout my training. I ended up finding a crane operating job shortly after I finished training.

Isaac G.

PTS was a great experience. I took the Mobile Crane certification and my instructors had a tremendous amount of experience and were 100% committed to my success in getting my NCCCO Certification. The classroom work was 100% effective in communicating the knowledge needed to pass the written test and the practical experience and coaching of our instructors while learning to operate the cranes was instrumental in my success.

Billy C.

“Thank you so much! It looks like I am going to start working Monday operating a carry deck 40 ton. It’s a URS job. My brother may be going, too. We will know later today. It’s supposed to be long-term!”

Jason S.

“I got the job at Ace Iron and Metal as an operator. Thanks for the lead. It seems to be a good job so far. It has good pay and everything I was looking for. Thanks for everything again.”

Mike G.

“I got hired today by a construction company with full benefits. Your polished resume did the trick. I sent it one day and was hired two days later. Rising up out of the ashes thanks to you guys. This particular project lasts for eight more months, and I was told I will go to the next one if I choose to.”

Frank F.

“I went to the Operator Engineers Local 132 Union Hall in Wheeling, WV last Friday and they put me straight to work. I started work today for URS in Moundsville operating a 40 ton Grove. I would recommend any student that needs help finding work to consider the union. They are starting me out at $33.66/hr. Thanks for all of your help.”

Jorge V.

“Thank you for all the help. I finally got my job a month ago from the email you sent me. Didn’t want to reply until I made sure this was the one, and it is. I’m now employed at Martin Marietta Materials and am here to stay. I’m still in training as a loader operator. Real fun stuff. I don’t think I would have gotten hired. They needed a year of experience but I showed them my certificate and told them to give me a shot. Without PTS, I don’t think I would have had the chance! Thanks again — take care.”

Tony S.

“I would like you to know that today was my first day of work. I got hired as a crane operator at the AEP Mitchell power plant. I am working for the Bowen Construction Co. I was hired out of the Wheeling Operating Engineers Union Hall. Tell Fred that his schooling really paid off. And tell the boys hey, and thanks for the knowledge. I am starting out at 30.92 an hour. How about that? Thank you.”

Next Steps

Does heavy equipment operator training sound like something you’re interested in? Schedule a tour with us and find out. Or contact us today if you have any additional questions.

Heavy equipment operators have been in high demand, and the market for these individuals continues to grow as employers continue to search for qualified individuals to fill these roles. By taking a course with Performance Training Solutions, a heavy equipment operator school located in Columbus, Ohio, you too can become a heavy equipment operator. Performance Training Solutions services Maryland residents and if you’re looking for heavy equipment training schools in Maryland, PTS is the closes training school in the vicinity of Maryland.

Why Enroll in Training at Performance Training Solutions

At Performance Training Solutions, we help change lives. Accelerated training programs followed by a career as a heavy equipment or crane operator can lead to life-changing possibilities. Many of our program graduates speak of such things as personal fulfillment (I’m doing what I want to do), finally making family-sustaining wages, the opportunity to travel, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you are a veteran, unemployed or dislocated worker looking to begin a new career, a disabled or perhaps a high school student not interested in pursuing the traditional college route, we are here to help you.

Our goal is to provide individuals like yourself a different view of the future and opportunity to make something more of yourself and to help put you on the path towards a long and successful career.

Do you dream about being self-employed and being your own boss? With the skills you’ll develop through the training programs at Performance Training Solutions, you’ll be able to build valuable industry experience and eventually open up your own business. There’s no four-year degree required.

To learn more about what may be in store for you, schedule a tour by clicking here, or call 1-877-575-4787 today. In addition to meeting our knowledgeable staff who can answer all of your questions and concerns, you will also be eligible for a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Residents of Maryland have the added benefit that no matter where in the state they reside, they’re within driving distance of the closest heavy equipment operator training available.

By training with PTS, you’re eligible to receive your credential and/or certification in as few as three weeks, thus opening you up to plenty of new job opportunities. Employers are constantly seeking qualified talent to fill their open roles. Our placement rate of 90% means that we’re very likely to be able to find you a job upon graduation.

Find Out More About Our Courses: Looking for more extensive information about what our facility has to offer? Fill out the form on this page to receive your free course catalog today.

Financing For Those Seeking Heavy Equipment Training Schools in Maryland

We will be happy to discuss financing solutions with you if needed. Additionally, for our veteran students, PTS gladly accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® as well as The VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits.

If unemployment or underemployment has affected you and your family, training to operate heavy equipment and/or crane is much faster than going back to college for a degree, and there are plenty of employers looking to fill these roles. Performance Training Solutions serves many students who are funded by training grants through programs such as the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act and the Trade Adjustment/Readjustment Act. Depending on your circumstances, these training grants may include additional funds for lodging, transportation, and meals. Call 1-877-575-4787 now to learn more about how we serve unemployed or underemployed workers.

There are also different state and federal grants that individuals may be eligible for that can be used to pay for training. Examples of some of these programs are the Trade Adjustment Act (TAA), Tribal Education (BIA), WIOA Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Vocational Rehabilitation and Veteran’s Benefits (VA), Department of Workforce Development, and Displaced Workers, Displaced Farmers.

Ready to Start Your Training?

Does heavy equipment operator training sound like something you’re interested in? Schedule a tour with us and find out. Or contact us today if you have any additional questions.

If you’re looking for a heavy equipment operator school in NY, you’ve come to the right place. Performance Training Solutions, a heavy equipment operator school serves individuals in New York with their heavy equipment training needs. Located in Columbus, Ohio, PTS can help you get credentialed quickly, and well on your way to a career in operating heavy equipment and making good money.

Helping Individuals Interested in Heavy Equipment Operator School in NY

At Performance Training Solutions, we help change lives. Accelerated training programs followed by a career as a heavy equipment or crane operator can lead to life-changing possibilities. Many of our program graduates speak of such things as personal fulfillment (I’m doing what I want to do), finally making family-sustaining wages, the opportunity to travel, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you are a veteran, unemployed, or dislocated worker looking to begin a new career, disabled or perhaps a high school student not interested in pursuing the traditional college route, we are here to help you.

Our goal is to provide individuals like yourself a different view of the future and opportunity to make something more of yourself and to help put you on the path towards a long and successful career.

Do you dream about being self-employed and being your own boss? With the skills you’ll develop through the training programs at Performance Training Solutions, you’ll be able to build valuable industry experience and eventually open up your own business. There’s no four-year degree required.

To learn more about what may be in store for you, schedule a tour by clicking here, or call 1-877-575-4787 today. In addition to meeting our knowledgeable staff who can answer all of your questions and concerns, you will also be eligible for a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Residents of New York have the added benefit that no matter where in the state they reside, they’re within driving distance of the closest heavy equipment operator training available.

By training with PTS, you’re eligible to receive your credential and/or certification in as few as three weeks, thus opening you up to plenty of new job opportunities. Employers are constantly seeking qualified talent to fill their open roles. Our placement rate of 90% means that we’re very likely to be able to find you a job upon graduation.

Endless Opportunities Start With One Application: Fill out your online course application here and our knowledgeable staff will respond quickly to help you on your path toward a new career.

Need Financing? No Worries.

We will be happy to discuss financing solutions with you if needed. Additionally, for our veteran students, PTS gladly accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® as well as the VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits.

If unemployment or underemployment has affected you and your family, training to operate heavy equipment and/or crane is much faster than going back to college for a degree, and there are plenty of employers looking to fill these roles. Performance Training Solutions serves many students who are funded by training grants through programs such as the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act and the Trade Adjustment/Readjustment Act. Depending on your circumstances, these training grants may include additional funds for lodging, transportation, and meals. Call 1-877-575-4787 now to learn more about how we serve unemployed or underemployed workers.

There are also different state and federal grants that individuals may be eligible for that can be used to pay for training. Examples of some of these programs are the Trade Adjustment Act (TAA), Tribal Education (BIA), WIOA Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Vocational Rehabilitation and Veteran’s Benefits (VA), Department of Workforce Development, and Displaced Workers, Displaced Farmers.

It’s Time to Put Your Career First

Does heavy equipment operator training sound like something you’re interested in? Schedule a tour with us and find out. Or contact us today if you have any additional questions.

Performance Training Solutions is one of the leading heavy equipment operator schools in the United States. Located in Columbus, Ohio, our focus is on providing Tennessee residents with the best training in order to help them achieve both their personal and professional goals. Individuals from Tennessee can quickly become credentialed as heavy equipment operators and get started in a new career.

How We Assist Individuals Looking for Heavy Equipment Operator Schools in Tennessee

At Performance Training Solutions, we help change lives. Accelerated training programs followed by a career as a heavy equipment or crane operator can lead to life-changing possibilities. Many of our program graduates speak of such things as personal fulfillment (I’m doing what I want to do), finally making family-sustaining wages, the opportunity to travel, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you are a veteran, unemployed, or dislocated worker looking to begin a new career, disabled or perhaps a high school student not interested in pursuing the traditional college route, we are here to help you.

Our goal is to provide individuals like yourself a different view of the future and opportunity to make something more of yourself and to help put you on the path towards a long and successful career.

Do you dream about being self-employed and being your own boss? With the skills you’ll develop through the training programs at Performance Training Solutions, you’ll be able to build valuable industry experience and eventually open up your own business. There’s no four-year degree required.

To learn more about what may be in store for you, schedule a tour by clicking here, or call 1-877-575-4787 today. In addition to meeting our knowledgeable staff who can answer all of your questions and concerns, you will also be eligible for a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Residents of Tennessee have the added benefit that no matter where in the state they reside, they’re within driving distance of the closest heavy equipment operator training available.

By training with PTS, you’re eligible to receive your credential and/or certification in as few as three weeks, thus opening you up to plenty of new job opportunities. Employers are constantly seeking qualified talent to fill their open roles. Our placement rate of 90% means that we’re very likely to be able to find you a job upon graduation.

Explore Financing

We will be happy to discuss financing solutions with you if needed. Additionally, for our veteran students, PTS gladly accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® as well as The VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits.

If unemployment or underemployment has affected you and your family, training to operate heavy equipment and/or crane is much faster than going back to college for a degree, and there are plenty of employers looking to fill these roles. Performance Training Solutions serves many students who are funded by training grants through programs such as the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act and the Trade Adjustment/Readjustment Act. Depending on your circumstances, these training grants may include additional funds for lodging, transportation, and meals. Call 1-877-575-4787 now to learn more about how we serve unemployed or underemployed workers.

There are also different state and federal grants that individuals may be eligible for that can be used to pay for training. Examples of some of these programs are the Trade Adjustment Act (TAA), Tribal Education (BIA), WIOA Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Vocational Rehabilitation and Veteran’s Benefits (VA), Department of Workforce Development, and Displaced Workers, Displaced Farmers.

Getting Started

Does heavy equipment operator training sound like something you’re interested in? Schedule a tour with us and find out. Or contact us today if you have any additional questions about heavy equipment operator school in Tennessee.

Performance Training Solutions, a heavy equipment operator school located in Columbus, Ohio, serves individuals in Virginia heavy equipment training needs. So if you’re looking for a heavy equipment school in West Virginia, PTS is here to fulfill your needs. Through training with PTS, individuals can quickly become credentialed as heavy equipment operators and begin a new and exciting career.

Helping Individuals Interested in Heavy Equipment Operator School in Virginia

At Performance Training Solutions, we help change lives. Accelerated training programs followed by a career as a heavy equipment or crane operator can lead to life-changing possibilities. Many of our program graduates speak of such things as personal fulfillment (I’m doing what I want to do), finally making family-sustaining wages, the opportunity to travel, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you are a veteran, unemployed, or dislocated worker looking to begin a new career, disabled or perhaps a high school student not interested in pursuing the traditional college route, we are here to help you.

Our goal is to provide individuals like yourself a different view of the future and opportunity to make something more of yourself and to help put you on the path towards a long and successful career.

Do you dream about being self-employed and being your own boss? With the skills you’ll develop through the training programs at Performance Training Solutions, you’ll be able to build valuable industry experience and eventually open up your own business. There’s no four-year degree required.

To learn more about what may be in store for you, schedule a tour by clicking here call 1-877-575-4787 today. In addition to meeting our knowledgeable staff who can answer all of your questions and concerns, you will also be eligible for a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Residents of Virginia have the added benefit that no matter where in the state they reside, they’re within driving distance of the closest heavy equipment operator training available.

By training with PTS, you’re eligible to receive your credential and/or certification in as few as three weeks, thus opening you up to plenty of new job opportunities. Employers are constantly seeking qualified talent to fill their open roles. Our placement rate of 90% means that we’re very likely to be able to find you a job upon graduation.

Financing Help is Available

We will be happy to discuss financing solutions with you if needed. Additionally, for our veteran students, PTS gladly accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® as well as The VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits.

If unemployment or underemployment has affected you and your family, training to operate heavy equipment and/or crane is much faster than going back to college for a degree, and there are plenty of employers looking to fill these roles. Performance Training Solutions serves many students who are funded by training grants through programs such as the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act and the Trade Adjustment/Readjustment Act. Depending on your circumstances, these training grants may include additional funds for lodging, transportation, and meals. Call 1-877-575-4787 now to learn more about how we serve unemployed or underemployed workers.

There are also different state and federal grants that individuals may be eligible for that can be used to pay for training. Examples of some of these programs are the Trade Adjustment Act (TAA), Tribal Education (BIA), WIOA Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Vocational Rehabilitation and Veteran’s Benefits (VA), Department of Workforce Development, and Displaced Workers, Displaced Farmers.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Does heavy equipment operator training sound like something you’re interested in? Schedule a tour with us and find out. Or contact us today if you have any additional questions.

Performance Training Solutions, located in Columbus, Ohio, serves individuals in West Virginia and beyond with their heavy equipment operator training needs. So if you’re looking for a heavy equipment school in West Virginia, PTS is here to fulfill your needs. PTS offers heavy equipment training to help individuals become credentialed as heavy equipment operators.

Helping Individuals Interested in Heavy Equipment Operator School in West Virginia

At Performance Training Solutions, we help change lives. Accelerated training programs followed by a career as a heavy equipment or crane operator can lead to life-changing possibilities. Many of our program graduates speak of such things as personal fulfillment (I’m doing what I want to do), finally making family-sustaining wages, the opportunity to travel, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you are a veteran, unemployed, or dislocated worker looking to begin a new career, disabled or perhaps a high school student not interested in pursuing the traditional college route, we are here to help you.

Our goal is to provide individuals like yourself a different view of the future and opportunity to make something more of yourself and to help put you on the path towards a long and successful career.

Do you dream about being self-employed and being your own boss? With the skills you’ll develop through the training programs at Performance Training Solutions, you’ll be able to build valuable industry experience and eventually open up your own business. There’s no four-year degree required.

To learn more about what may be in store for you, schedule a tour by clicking here or call 877-575-4787 today. In addition to meeting our knowledgeable staff who can answer all of your questions and concerns, you will also be eligible for a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Residents of West Virginia have the added benefit that no matter where in the state they reside, they’re within driving distance of the closest heavy equipment operator training available.

By training with PTS, you’re eligible to receive your credential and/or certification in as few as three weeks, thus opening you up to plenty of new job opportunities. Employers are constantly seeking qualified talent to fill their open roles. Our placement rate of 90% means that we’re very likely to be able to find you a job upon graduation.

Financing Options

We will be happy to discuss financing solutions with you if needed. Additionally, for our veteran students, PTS gladly accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® as well as the VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits.

If unemployment or underemployment has affected you and your family, training to operate heavy equipment and/or crane is much faster than going back to college for a degree, and there are plenty of employers looking to fill these roles. Performance Training Solutions serves many students who are funded by training grants through programs such as the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act and the Trade Adjustment/Readjustment Act. Depending on your circumstances, these training grants may include additional funds for lodging, transportation, and meals. Call 1-877-575-4787 now to learn more about how we serve unemployed or underemployed workers.

There are also different state and federal grants that individuals may be eligible for that can be used to pay for training. Examples of some of these programs are the Trade Adjustment Act (TAA), Tribal Education (BIA), WIOA Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Vocational Rehabilitation and Veteran’s Benefits (VA), Department of Workforce Development, and Displaced Workers, Displaced Farmers.

Start Something Great

Does heavy equipment operator training sound like something you’re interested in? Schedule a tour with us and find out. Or contact us today if you have any additional questions.

Are you struggling to find heavy equipment training in Kentucky? If so, you’re in the right place. Performance Training Solutions, located in Columbus, Ohio, offers heavy equipment training to individuals from Kentucky. It is easy to get started on a new and fulfilling career that allows you to achieve your dreams. Individuals interested in becoming credentialed as a heavy equipment operator should consider training with PTS.

Helping Individuals Interested in Heavy Equipment Operator Training in Kentucky

At Performance Training Solutions, we help change lives. Accelerated training programs followed by a career as a heavy equipment or crane operator can lead to life-changing possibilities. Many of our program graduates speak of such things as personal fulfillment (I’m doing what I want to do), finally making family-sustaining wages, the opportunity to travel, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you are a veteran, unemployed, or dislocated worker looking to begin a new career, disabled or perhaps a high school student not interested in pursuing the traditional college route, we are here to help you.

Our goal is to provide individuals like yourself a different view of the future and opportunity to make something more of yourself and to help put you on the path towards a long and successful career.

Do you dream about being self-employed and being your own boss? With the skills you’ll develop through the training programs at Performance Training Solutions, you’ll be able to build valuable industry experience and eventually open up your own business. There’s no four-year degree required.

To learn more about what may be in store for you, schedule a tour by clicking here, or call 1-877-575-4787 today. In addition to meeting our knowledgeable staff who can answer all of your questions and concerns, you will also be eligible for a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Residents of Kentucky have the added benefit that no matter where in the state they reside, they’re within driving distance of the closest heavy equipment operator training available.

By training with PTS, you’re eligible to receive your credential and/or certification in as few as three weeks, thus opening you up to plenty of new job opportunities. Employers are constantly seeking qualified talent to fill their open roles. Our placement rate of 90% means that we’re very likely to be able to find you a job upon graduation.

Check Out Our Financing Options

We will be happy to discuss financing solutions with you if needed. Additionally, for our veteran students, PTS gladly accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® as well as The VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits.

If unemployment or underemployment has affected you and your family, training to operate heavy equipment and/or crane is much faster than going back to college for a degree, and there are plenty of employers looking to fill these roles. Performance Training Solutions serves many students who are funded by training grants through programs such as the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act and the Trade Adjustment/Readjustment Act. Depending on your circumstances, these training grants may include additional funds for lodging, transportation and meals. Call 1-877-575-4787 now to learn more about how we serve unemployed or underemployed workers.

There are also different state and federal grants that individuals may be eligible for that can be used to pay for training. Examples of some of these programs are the Trade Adjustment Act (TAA), Tribal Education (BIA), WIOA Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Vocational Rehabilitation and Veteran’s Benefits (VA), Department of Workforce Development, and Displaced Workers, Displaced Farmers.

Getting Started is Simple

Does heavy equipment operator training sound like something you’re interested in? Schedule a tour with us and find out. Or contact us today if you have any additional questions.

If you’re having trouble finding heavy equipment operator training in Indiana, we’re here to help. Performance Training Solutions, located in Columbus, Ohio is a heavy equipment operator training school focused on helping our students find meaningful careers operating heavy equipment. For individuals looking for heavy equipment operator training in Indiana, we are the closest training facility in your vicinity.

How We Can Help Those Seeking Heavy Equipment Operator Training in Indiana

At Performance Training Solutions, we help change lives. Accelerated training programs followed by a career as a heavy equipment or crane operator can lead to life-changing possibilities. Many of our program graduates speak of such things as personal fulfillment (I’m doing what I want to do), finally making family-sustaining wages, the opportunity to travel, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you are a veteran, unemployed, or dislocated worker looking to begin a new career, disabled or perhaps a high school student not interested in pursuing the traditional college route, we are here to help you.

Our goal is to provide individuals like yourself a different view of the future and opportunity to make something more of yourself and to help put you on the path towards a long and successful career.

Do you dream about being self-employed and being your own boss? With the skills you’ll develop through the training programs at Performance Training Solutions, you’ll be able to build valuable industry experience and eventually open up your own business. There’s no four-year degree required.

To learn more about what may be in store for you, schedule a tour by clicking here, or call 1-877-575-4787 today. In addition to meeting our knowledgeable staff who can answer all of your questions and concerns, you will also be eligible for a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Residents of Indiana have the added benefit that no matter where in the state they reside, they’re within driving distance of the closest heavy equipment operator training available.

By training with PTS, you’re eligible to receive your credential and/or certification in as few as three weeks, thus opening you up to plenty of new job opportunities. Employers are constantly seeking qualified talent to fill their open roles. Our placement rate of 90% means that we’re very likely to be able to find you a job upon graduation.

See Our Facility & Earn Money Toward Your Tuition: Get a $500 tuition reduction scholarship just by coming out to our Ohio facility. Schedule a tour today.

Available Financing

We will be happy to discuss financing solutions with you if needed. Additionally, for our veteran students, PTS gladly accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® as well as The VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits.

If unemployment or underemployment has affected you and your family, training to operate heavy equipment and/or crane is much faster than going back to college for a degree, and there are plenty of employers looking to fill these roles. Performance Training Solutions serves many students who are funded by training grants through programs such as the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act and the Trade Adjustment/Readjustment Act. Depending on your circumstances, these training grants may include additional funds for lodging, transportation, and meals. Call 1-877-575-4787 now to learn more about how we serve unemployed or underemployed workers.

There are also different state and federal grants that individuals may be eligible for that can be used to pay for training. Examples of some of these programs are the Trade Adjustment Act (TAA), Tribal Education (BIA), WIOA Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Vocational Rehabilitation and Veteran’s Benefits (VA), Department of Workforce Development, and Displaced Workers, Displaced Farmers.

Let’s Get Started

Does heavy equipment operator training sound like something you’re interested in? Schedule a tour with us and find out. Or contact us today if you have any additional questions.

If you can’t find heavy equipment training in Michigan, don’t worry. Located in Columbus, Ohio, Performance Training Solutions helps Michigan residents get credentialed to operate heavy equipment. As the closest training facility in your vicinity, PTS can help prepare you to operate heavy equipment and cranes while also helping you find employment.

What We Have to Offer for Heavy Equipment Training

At Performance Training Solutions, we help change lives. Accelerated training programs followed by a career as a heavy equipment or crane operator can lead to life-changing possibilities. Many of our program graduates speak of such things as personal fulfillment (I’m doing what I want to do), finally making family-sustaining wages, the opportunity to travel, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you are a veteran, unemployed, or dislocated worker looking to begin a new career, disabled or perhaps a high school student not interested in pursuing the traditional college route, we are here to help you.

Our goal is to provide individuals like yourself a different view of the future and opportunity to make something more of yourself and to help put you on the path towards a long and successful career.

Do you dream about being self-employed and being your own boss? With the skills you’ll develop through the training programs at Performance Training Solutions, you’ll be able to build valuable industry experience and eventually open up your own business. There’s no four-year degree required.

To learn more about what may be in store for you, schedule a tour by clicking here, or call 1-877-575-4787 today. In addition to meeting our knowledgeable staff who can answer all of your questions and concerns, you will also be eligible for a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Residents of Michigan have the added benefit that no matter where in the state they reside, they’re within driving distance of the closest heavy equipment operator training available.

By training with PTS, you’re eligible to receive your credential and/or certification in as few as three weeks, thus opening you up to plenty of new job opportunities. Employers are constantly seeking qualified talent to fill their open roles. Our placement rate of 90% means that we’re very likely to be able to find you a job upon graduation.

Available Financing

We will be happy to discuss financing solutions with you if needed. Additionally, for our veteran students, PTS gladly accepts the Post 9/11 GI Bill® as well as The VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program Chapter 31 benefits.

If unemployment or underemployment has affected you and your family, training to operate heavy equipment and/or crane is much faster than going back to college for a degree, and there are plenty of employers looking to fill these roles. Performance Training Solutions serves many students who are funded by training grants through programs such as the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act and the Trade Adjustment/Readjustment Act. Depending on your circumstances, these training grants may include additional funds for lodging, transportation, and meals. Call 1-877-575-4787 now to learn more about how we serve unemployed or underemployed workers.

There are also different state and federal grants that individuals may be eligible for that can be used to pay for training. Examples of some of these programs are the Trade Adjustment Act (TAA), Tribal Education (BIA), WIOA Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Vocational Rehabilitation and Veteran’s Benefits (VA), Department of Workforce Development, and Displaced Workers, Displaced Farmers.

Let’s Get Started

Does heavy equipment operator training sound like something you’re interested in? Schedule a tour with us and find out. Or contact us today if you have any additional questions.

If you’re looking for heavy equipment operator schools in PA, then you’ve come to the right place. Performance Training Solutions isn’t located in Pennsylvania, but we’re the closest training facility in your vicinity. PTS is a heavy equipment operator school located in Columbus, Ohio focused on training and preparing individuals to operate heavy equipment and cranes in industrial and manufacturing industries.

What We Have to Offer for Pennsylvania Residents

At Performance Training Solutions, we help change lives. Accelerated training programs followed by a career as a heavy equipment or crane operator can lead to life-changing possibilities. Many of our program graduates speak of such things as personal fulfillment (I’m doing what I want to do), finally making family-sustaining wages, the opportunity to travel, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you are a veteran, unemployed, or dislocated worker looking to begin a new career, disabled or perhaps a high school student not interested in pursuing the traditional college route, we are here to help you.

Our goal is to provide individuals like yourself a different view of the future and opportunity to make something more of yourself and to help put you on the path towards a long and successful career.

Do you dream about being self-employed and being your own boss? With the skills you’ll develop through the training programs at Performance Training Solutions, you’ll be able to build valuable industry experience and eventually open up your own business. There’s no four-year degree required.

To learn more about what may be in store for you, schedule a tour by clicking here or call 1-877-575-4787 today. In addition to meeting our knowledgeable staff who can answer all of your questions and concerns, you will also be eligible for a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.

Residents of Pennsylvania have the added benefit that no matter where in the state they reside, they’re within driving distance of the closest heavy equipment operator training available.

By training with PTS, you’re eligible to receive your credential and/or certification in as few as three weeks, thus opening you up to plenty of new job opportunities. Employers are constantly seeking qualified talent to fill their open roles. Our placement rate of 90% means that we’re very likely to be able to find you a job upon graduation.

Find Your Path to a Steady Future: Contact us today and one of our industry experts will help you plan for a fulfilling career and a bright future.