Heavy Equipment Operation and Maintenance

Big Machines that Have the Power for Big Opportunities

A student operates an excavator, preparing to scoop soil.
Gear up for a career behind the wheel of big rigs and construction equipment. Start the engine of your career with basic operating techniques. Dig into the world of power tools and ensure machines stay in top shape through preventative maintenance. Drill further into your potential as you explore career opportunities and prepare for a commercial driver license (CDL).

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
Work-Based Learning
Organizations that support this program:
  • The Dolomite Group
  • Monroe County Parks
  • Monroe Tractor
  • Milton CAT
  • DeConinck Farms
  • American Fleet Maintenance
  • Conway Beam

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
Video Demo by CTE Students
Presentation Hosted by CTE Students

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.