Heavy Construction Equipment Technology: Operator Emphasis

Associate of Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.)

About this program

When it comes to operating heavy construction equipment, there’s more than meets the eye. This comprehensive program lays the foundation for success—digging into everything from tools, hardware, and safety to site engineering and layout. And thanks to built-in electives, you can customize your experience with things like a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) license prep course, quarry operation courses, or business management and marketing lessons.

45+

Machines for Student Use

125

Acre Operations Site

48,000

Square Feet of Lab Space

Careers

Heavy construction equipment operator
Field sales representative

Courses

At Penn College, we believe your educational experience should go beyond specialized skills. Real-world ready means taking a broader approach that builds communication skills, inspires collaboration, and encourages exploration of arts, history, and science.

Specialization requires in-depth knowledge and high-level proficiency. Students learn and apply major-specific concepts, skills, and methods.

Tools, Hardware, and Basic Safety (HEO100)
Diesel Engine Fundamentals and Maintenance (HEO111)
Heavy Equipment Electrical Systems (HEO141)
Earthwork Site Preparation (HEO131)
Site Engineering and Layout (HEO120)
Introduction to Heavy Duty Powertrain and Brake Systems (HEO152)
GPS for Earthmoving (HEO161)
Hydraulics for Operators (HEO171)
Safe Operating Techniques for Heavy Equipment (HEO181)
Blueprints & Grade Stakes for Earthwork (HEO202)
Bulldozer and Trackloader Operation (HEO211)
Operation of Trenching Equipment (HEO220)
Haul Truck and Final Grade Equipment Operation (HEO231)
Directed Elective Heavy Construction Equipment Technology (HYE)

Perspectives are points of view, offering a variety of ways of understanding, interacting, and influencing the world. Students identify, explain, and utilize the approaches used by academics and professionals to study, analyze, or understand problems, and offer solutions.

Environmental Science (SCI100) or
Physics Survey (PHS103)
Core Arts Perspective (ARP) or
Core Applied Arts Perspective (AAP) or
Core Global and Cultural Diversity Perspective (CDP) or
Core Historical Perspective (HIP) or
Core Social Science Perspective (SSP)

Foundations are the practical, intellectual, and social skills: communication, collaboration, critical and ethical thinking, quantitative thinking, and technological literacy that are crucial to every student at every stage of education and at every stage of life.

Information, Technology, and Society (CSC124)
Technical Algebra and Trigonometry I (MTH124) or
College Algebra and Trigonometry I (MTH180)
English Composition I (ENL111)
Technical and Professional Communication (ENL201)

View Goals & Course List

Virtual Tour

Being a heavy equipment operator is more than just moving dirt. In this video, you’ll meet instructor Ryan Peck, dig into program details, check out the latest equipment, and get a bird’s eye view of the 125-acre worksite.

Heavy Construction Technology: Operator Emphasis

After obtaining a solid theoretical base, develop your skills at our 125-acre worksite featuring 45-plus machines. The hands-on nature of this degree will make you a prime candidate for employers.