How Do You Become a Crane Operator? A Guide for Veterans

Veterans who are transitioning from their military to civilian careers are incredibly valuable to potential employers. A McKinsey study estimates that using veterans’ skills in businesses could generate nearly $15 billion in economic value over the next decade. Military experience can translate well into civilian roles, especially crane operation positions, and there is a high demand for skilled crane operators in construction, logistics, mining, and more. But how do you become a crane operator? And how can PTS help? 

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.