A new heavy equipment program launched by Jefferson State Community College and more than 20 business and industry partners will help address the need for more certified construction and heavy equipment workers for infrastructure projects throughout the state.
The program’s inaugural class of 12 students graduated Thursday at Jeff State’s Chilton-Clanton campus.
“Alabama’s community colleges across the state are at the table with business and industry leaders to identify solutions to the state’s workforce needs,” said Alabama Community College System Chancellor Jimmy Baker. “The heavy equipment operator program at Jefferson State is a prime example of identifying a need and working with industry to address it in a timely manner through a short-term training solution yielding qualified, certified students who are ready to work on day one.”
The 12-week program helps students obtain three nationally recognized certifications for heavy equipment operators, training them both in the classroom and at job sites. The inaugural class was funded by the Craft Training Board of Alabama.
“Working alongside our business and industry partners creates positive outcomes for everyone and we’re eager to expand on the success of this pilot program,” said Jefferson State President Keith Brown. “The heavy equipment operator program will increase the number of skilled operators to help meet industry demands and it will help individuals acquire valuable jobs to make a better life for themselves and their families.”
Jefferson State’s next heavy equipment operator class will begin on May 25.
