Heavy Construction Equipment Technology: Caterpillar Equipment Emphasis
Students develop the skills necessary to maintain and repair several types of heavy construction equipment. Students gain additional skill development in the servicing, repairing, and testing of late-model Caterpillar equipment. Advanced equipment maintenance techniques and principles are applied in diagnosing malfunctions and prescribing corrective action. Specific instruction in equipment systems includes engine overhaul, manual transmission repair, chassis maintenance, hydraulic component testing and overhaul, hydrostatic and powershift transmission repair, electrical troubleshooting, electronic controls diagnostics and preventative maintenance. The student is exposed to all facets of the industry with emphasis on problem solving and transferability of skills. Each student must successfully complete an internship with a Caterpillar dealer.
Program Specs
- Application/Major Code: CH – view in catalog
- School: Natural Resources Management
- Degree Type: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
About the curriculum
Classes
View the classes you will be attending in the College Catalog.
Accreditation & Industry Connections
The Caterpillar program at Penn College has strong industry support from both the CAT dealers and the Caterpillar Foundation. Since 1994, CAT dealers have contributed more than $1.63 million in cash, tuition, scholarships, and in kind contributions to the college. The Caterpillar Foundation has contributed more than $875,000. Penn College offers a unique Caterpillar-sponsored curriculum. With Caterpillar developing new products, resulting in global expansion and opportunity, it is an exciting time to begin this program of study at Penn College. The Heavy Construction Equipment Technology: Caterpillar Emphasis program is one of eight programs in the United States accredited by the Associated Equipment Distributors Foundation (AED).
After graduation
List of jobs via the College Catalog.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics median hourly wages of mobile heavy equipment mechanics were $20.59 in May 2008, higher than the $18.60 per hour median for all installation, maintenance, and repair occupations. The middle 50 percent earned between $16.71 and $24.85. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $13.61, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $30.57.
| Industry | Wage |
|---|---|
| Local government | $21.93 |
| Machinery, equipment, and supplies merchant wholesalers | 20.49 |
| Other specialty trade contractors | 19.83 |
| Commercial and industrial machinery and equipment rental and leasing | 19.39 |
| Commercial and industrial machinery and equipment (except automotive and electronic) repair and maintenance | 18.93 |
*Statistics reported in May 2008
Special Admissions Requirement
First you need to apply to Pennsylvania College of Technology and enroll in the Heavy Construction Equipment Technology program (HE) to reserve a seat in the major. Then you need to work with your local dealership to secure sponsorship. Once we have received the agreement from you and the dealer you will automatically transfer into the Caterpillar Equipment Emphasis program.
Internship Requirement
Read more about the required internship.
Performance Standards
Students enrolled in this program must:
- maintain a 2.5 grade-point average
- demonstrate positive leadership skills
- serve an industry internship
- attend professional training workshops provided by the college
Transfer Procedures
View general transfer procedures via the College Catalog.
Tools, Uniforms & Supplies
Tools
You are expected to purchase your own tools which can be purchased at the College Store or through a dealer such as Sears or Snap-on. The advantage to purchasing your own tools is that the tools are yours to use during your time as a student and later as an employee. Larger specialty tools such as those used in diagnostics and testing are purchased by the College or donated by the Caterpillar dealer program for use by all students enrolled in the program.
Uniform (required for all labs)
- long sleeve coveralls
- glasses, safety, clear lens/black frame
- leather work shoes or boots
Uniforms and tools are available for purchase through The College Store.
Clubs & Activities
Service and Operation of Heavy Equipment Association (S&O)
View the entire student organizations listing or Greek Life listing.
Heavy Construction Caterpillar Equipment Emphasis Advisory Committee
Advisory committees, which act as recommending bodies to the faculty and administration, consist of in-field professionals who act as partners in the development of curriculum. Their curricular and equipment advice as well as their industry connections and internship opportunities are invaluable to our students and to the growth of our institution.
