Construction Equipment Operator Training
The short-term Construction Equipment Operator program is designed to provide you with the fundamental knowledge and skills needed to operate many types of light/heavy equipment used in the construction and transportation industry.
Students will operate and use the following pieces of equipment:
- Bulldozer
- Excavator
- Skid Steer Loader
- Large Wheel Loader
- Motor Grader
- Mini Excavator
- All-Terrain Forklift
- Dump Truck
The program combines a mix of classroom and hands-on practices that include both simulators and actual heavy equipment. The program also teaches project management; job site safety; blueprint reading; construction site preparation; and excavation, grading, leveling, and trenching techniques.
Career Opportunities
Individuals completing the non-credit certificate may find employment as construction equipment operators for commercial and residential building contractors, trenching and excavation contractors, road maintenance departments, and road construction contractors.
Example Careers and Average Wages
| Entry | Average | Experience |
| Construction Equipment Operators | $41,600 | $55,200 | $62,100 |
| Highway Maintenance Workers | $41,100 | $49,600 | $53,800 |
Source: 2022 Iowa Wage Report, Iowa Workforce Development
Admission Requirements
No admission requirements or entrance exam needed. Seats are limited in each session.
Class Information
The program is eight weeks and 240 hours.
June Session
Date: June 5 – August 1, 2023
No class June 19 and July 4
Class Meets: Monday–Thursday from 8:00am–4:30pm
Location: Regional Transportation Training Center
Cost: $4,499
August Session
Date: August 14 – October 9
No class September 4
Class Meets: Monday–Thursday from 8:00am–4:30pm
Location: Regional Transportation Training Center
Cost: $4,499
Financial Assistance
This program is not eligible for federal student aid, but financial assistance may be available to individuals that qualify.
Registration
Register online for Construction Equipment Operator training. You may also complete the form below and a program coordinator will contact you to help you begin the process.
Questions? Need Help Getting Started?
Complete the form below and Hawkeye Business and Community Education will contact you to answer your questions and help you get started.