Heavy Equipment Operation and Maintenance

Big Machines that Have the Power for Big Opportunities

A student operates an excavator, preparing to scoop soil.
Prepare for a rewarding career in the construction industry. Develop foundational skills in the operation of commercial trucks and construction equipment while gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and machinery. Learn essential knowledge and safety procedures, including preventative maintenance practices that keep equipment operating efficiently. Explore a variety of high-demand career pathways and build the skills needed to pursue a Commercial Driver License (CDL) and other industry credentials.

What You Can Learn

Units of Study

  • Basic Operating Techniques
  • Orientation to the Trade
  • Identification of Heavy Equipment
  • Introduction to Hand and Power Tools
  • Welding/Oxy-Acetylene Torching
  • Preventative Maintenance of Heavy Equipment
  • Career and Financial Management
  • Career Exploration
  • Basic Employability and Leadership Skills
  • CDL General Knowledge Exam Prep
  • CDL Airbrake Prep
  • Certified Excavator Program Training
  • Principles of Diesel Engines, Powertrains, Machine Electronics, Hydraulics, Air Brakes and Crawler Tractors

What You Can Earn

Available High School Academic Credits
At district request, students may earn:
  • English
Licensing/Industry-Based Certifications
Students have opportunities to earn:
  • Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED
  • NCCER Certifications for Core and Level 1 Heavy Equipment Operations Modules
  • OSHA 10 Construction Industry
  • Dig Safely New York Certified Excavator Program (CEP)
  • NYS CDL Class B Exam Prep
  • Inspection, Maintenance and Minor Repair (IMMR) ASE Certification
Work-Based Learning
  • School-Based Learning
  • Educational Tours
  • Guest Speakers
  • Career Fair
  • Co-op
  • Job Shadow

Where You Can Go

Career Opportunities
Minimal Requirement Beyond CTE
  • Equipment Operator
  • Heavy Duty Mechanic Assistant
Additional Education and/or Experience
  • Site Engineer
  • Project Estimator
  • Land Developer
Postsecondary Pathways
Articulation Agreements
  • Alfred State
Intro Video

Getting Started

Meet with your school counselor to discuss how Career & Technical Education at WEMOCO can benefit your career development. Your counselor can help you begin the enrollment process.