If you live in Georgia, Oklahoma, California, or Washington and want to become a crane operator, find a comprehensive training program at Heavy Equipment Colleges of America (HEC). We offer training courses for tower cranes to hydraulic boom cranes and everything in between. Keep reading to learn about the history of cranes, various crane types, and crane safety. Table of
Backhoes are versatile pieces of heavy machinery, capable of drilling, digging, ripping, breaking, plowing, and more. Instead of using a fleet of machines to accomplish each of these tasks, construction crews will rely on backhoes. How does one machine do so much? This blog will cover the various attachments that allow backhoes to get so much work done. Table of
Heavy equipment operation isn’t something anyone off the street can do right away. It takes knowledge, skills to safely operate any piece of equipment. You can get all of that by completing programs designed to prepare you for what you’d face in the field. If you’re still wondering if a career in construction is right for you, take a few
The construction industry is vital to infrastructure. Yet, without skilled laborers, most of the projects couldn’t be completed nor can heavy equipment be operated properly. Unfortunately, that’s the situation the construction industry is facing. There are several ways companies can help resolve the growing shortage. Read on to learn more. Table of Contents Construction Industry Faced Huge Worker Shortage in
Bulldozers are one of the most common pieces of heavy equipment on any construction site. They aren’t as versatile as some machines, but what they do is provide a powerful force for moving or pushing materials and debris. You’ll probably note that a bulldozer has a resemblance to a tractor. However, instead of using large tires to navigate, bulldozers use
Read this post to discover how tower cranes are safely assembled for construction sites, from their setup process to reaching towering heights
The construction industry is full of opportunities. It’s one of the fastest-growing fields in the U.S. and roles often come with good benefits (see below). However, some of the more valued roles require specialized skills, training, and certifications. Although it can seem like a barrier to starting your career in construction or as a heavy equipment operator, obtaining the proper
Operating a forklift for the first time can feel both exciting and a little intimidating. Whether you are beginning a new career in the heavy equipment industry or adding forklift operation to your skill set, learning how to drive a forklift safely is essential. Forklifts are powerful machines designed to handle heavy loads, and they can pose risks if not
A crane load chart is one of the most important tools a crane operator can have. It outlines exactly how much weight a crane can safely lift, which is determined by multiple factors. Even though today’s cranes are often equipped with digital load indicators and safety systems, understanding how to read a crane load chart is still a fundamental skill.
On any given construction site, you’ll find a litany of machines and heavy equipment, all serving a unique purpose. These machines and construction vehicles are used to break down old structures, create new ones, clear debris for new construction, haul the debris away, and more. Here is an extensive list of the different heavy equipment types and how you’d use
Learning how to operate a tower crane safely is not just about knowing the controls; it’s about understanding the machine, following proper steps, and committing to safety every single time. At Heavy Equipment Colleges of America (HEC), we’ve helped up-and-coming crane operators understand the basics of crane safety and build a successful career in the industry. This guide will help
Using poorly maintained or broken heavy equipment not only makes your project progress less efficient, but it’s also dangerous.
Take a quick look at goals, interests, and skills to see if Heavy Equipment or Crane Operation is right for you. This easy quiz will guide you through the process.