This 380-hour workforce training program prepares individuals for entry-level heavy equipment operator positions across construction, infrastructure, and industrial work environments. Instruction combines classroom learning, simulator-based training, and hands-on operation of industry-standard equipment.
Topics include National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Core Curriculum, construction site safety, heavy equipment identification, basic operating techniques, earthmoving and grading, site work, soils, and interpretation of civil drawings. Students gain practical operating experience with utility tractors, skid steers, loaders, backhoes, dozers, excavators, and conventional forklifts.
Upon successful completion, students will earn industry-based credentials including NCCER Core Curriculum, NCCER Heavy Equipment Operations Levels 1 and 2, and National Safety Council (NSC) Forklift Operator certification.
Through a first-of-its-kind partnership with EarthMovers Construction, LLC, BPCC’s Heavy Equipment Operations (HEO) program provides students with industry-aligned training designed to meet workforce needs in Northwest Louisiana.
EarthMovers provides the training site, heavy equipment, maintenance, and fuel needed for hands-on instruction. Students build foundational knowledge through classroom, theory, and simulator training at BPCC’s Sabine Valley Campus, then put those skills into practice on real equipment at EarthMovers’ training site, located just over a mile from campus.
This innovative partnership connects education and industry to prepare students for careers in heavy equipment operations.
Read more about BPCC's partnership with EarthMovers Construction.
Tuition: $6,400 — All-Inclusive
Tuition includes classroom instruction, simulator training, and hands-on experience with real-world heavy equipment at the training site.
Tuition Assistance: The Heavy Equipment Operations program is fully eligible for the M.J. Foster Promise Program. For students who qualify, M.J. Foster funding may cover the full cost of tuition.
All program participants are required to complete the M.J. Foster Promise Program application to determine eligibility for tuition assistance.
Average Salary: Heavy equipment operators in Louisiana earn an average annual salary of $49,650, according to Lightcast data.
Job Demand: Demand for heavy equipment operators in Louisiana has grown 13% since 2016, reflecting continued need for skilled professionals in the field.
Source: Lightcast, 2016–2026
CONTACT INFORMATION
For general inquiries and to register, contact the Sabine Valley campus at 318-508-5503.
Director - Center for Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering, and Technology (CAMET) (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
Dean - Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics; Ed.D. - American College of Education; B.S., M.S. - West Texas A&M University