College Catalog

Students will develop the knowledge and skills needed to safely operate selected heavy construction equipment and use specialized equipment for site layout. Additional knowledge will be gained in preventative maintenance, efficient machine operation, cost estimating and management techniques.

Career Opportunities

Heavy construction equipment operator for a construction company, mine or quarry operation, leasing company, solid waste or heavy construction equipment dealership, field sales representative for equipment distribution.

Recommended High School Subjects

Four years of English, two years of algebra and one year of chemistry/physics.

Remediation Strategies

All entering students will be tested for English, math, and reading deficiencies. Students are expected to remediate any deficiencies as explained in this catalog (see http://www.pct.edu/catalog/PlacementTesting.htm ).

Transfer Procedures

This major is subject to the transfer standards established by the College (see http://www.pct.edu/catalog/TransferringCredits.htm ). Exceptions must be approved by the school dean.

Program Goals

A graduate of this major should be able to:

• use approved safety procedures in various work situations.
• correctly and safely use hand tools, specialty tools and test equipment.
• identify and explain the operation of various engine, power train, electrical and hydraulic components.
• properly use transit, hand level, laser and global positioning equipment as they relate to construction site preparation.
• safely operate selected machines representing the heavy construction equipment industry.
• correctly use blueprints to layout a construction site and/or project.
• explain the procedures for testing compaction of soil and asphalt.
• develop a soil erosion control plan for a construction site.
• perform routine preventative maintenance on heavy construction equipment.

Curriculum