Heavy Equipment Technology

  • Instructor James Mack | East Campus | CIP Code 47.0302

    The Heavy Equipment Technology Program is designed to provide students with the theory and hands-on skills relevant to repair fundamentals and maintenance of various types of heavy equipment found on construction sites. Specialized classroom and lab experiences are designed to provide instruction in systems and components of heavy equipment. This program is recognized by the Association of Equipment Dealers Foundation (AED).

    Students begin with safety, tools/fasteners and preventive maintenance basics. Students also learn to inspect, repair and replace components of the suspension, steering, brake, engine, cooling, fuel, electrical/electronic, air intake and exhaust, clutches, transmissions, air conditioning systems, hydraulics/hydrostatics as well as drive lines/rear axles/final drives, and drive motors. Welding processes and safety techniques are also taught. Students will be taught computer diagnostic skills as a tool to troubleshoot electronic problems. Students may achieve certification in air conditioning and/or Pennsylvania Safety Inspection. In their final year, students also learn the safe basic operation of trucks, tractors, skid steers, backhoes, dozers and excavators.

    Graduates of this program are well prepared and find exciting careers as diesel engine specialists, heavy equipment mechanics and apprentice technicians.

    Career Pathways:

    Diesel Engine Specialist
    Field Service/Lube Technician
    Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanic
    Heavy Equipment Mechanic – Maintenance Repairer
    Industrial Machinery Mechanic
    Farm Equipment Mechanic & Service Technician

    CAREER PATHWAYS CAN LEAD TO:*

    Field Service Advisor
    Instructor
    Mechanic Apprentice
    Service Manager
    Service Technician
    Stand-by Power Technician

    *Requires post-secondary training.
Heavy Equipment Technology

  • Industry Certifications:

    Section 609 Certificate for Refrigerant Recycling & Recovery
    S/P2
    OSHA/CareerSafe 10-hour certification
    Outdoor Power Equipment Technician Certificate
    Certified Safety Inspector – Cat I
    Certified Safety Inspector – Cat III
    *A student may take the Certfied Safety Inspector Cat I &/or Cat III test; however, PennDot holds the certificate until the student is 18 years old; CDL License (at reduced student cost; student must be 18 years old to take the CDL class)

    College Advanced Credits:

    Pennsylvania College of Technology - Up to 2 credits
    SUNY Cobleskill - Up to 3 credits

    Program Requirements/Costs:

    There are specific costs for text-books, tools, supplies, uniforms,  certifications; and for some pro-grams, medical and criminal clear-ances that students are obligated  to pay upon acceptance.

    Program Entrance Recommendations:

    ο Reading at grade level
    o Algebra I or Geometry
    o Problem-solving/ troubleshooting skills
    o Ability to work independently and in a team
    o Hand-eye coordination
    o Mechanical aptitude