Mark Saggus, a Mobile Crane Instructor at HEC, knows the value of education as a means to better yourself. Whether you’re searching for your calling or want to switch paths, getting an education is a great place to start. Take it from Mark, who started off as a student himself learning about cranes but now teaches students how to operate them. Read more about it in our heavy equipment faculty spotlight below.
From Working on Helicopters To Working With Cranes.
Pull Quote: “… I enjoy watching guys come into the classroom, not really having a whole lot of knowledge about a crane, and then watching them grow, develop, and things like that. [Then] getting several calls months down the road from them saying, ‘Hey, I got the job.’” – Mark Saggus
Before teaching, Mark was a member of the Army, where he worked as a helicopter mechanic. When he left the military, it took him some time to find a career worth settling into. He was faced with a choice: stick with his current career, or get an education to start a new path. That’s when Mark realized that HEC was that new path, and one of their six locations was located close to him. Now he helps other veterans make the transition to civilian life.
When asked what excites him about being HEC Instructor, Mark had this to say:
“… I enjoy watching guys come into the classroom, not really having a whole lot of knowledge about a crane and then watching them grow, develop, and things like that. [Then] getting several calls months down the road from them saying, ‘Hey, I got the job.’”
Why HEC?
Starting in January of 2021, Mark became a member of the faculty with Heavy Equipment Colleges of America. As a former student, he knows how much emphasis HEC places on having an experienced and knowledgeable instructor in the classroom. Now he uses his training and experience from HEC to prepare students for a rewarding career as a crane operator.
“And so when they get out [of the military], helping those guys learn something that is a very good trade and that’s in high demand is going to set them up for success.”
Setting students up for success is what HEC does best. Instructors like Mark have a passion for helping their students discover new career opportunities. It can be a very difficult process, especially for military members, to find a spot in the job force. With multiple locations throughout the US, HEC has programs that can help you find your fit. There are even locations specifically for veterans.
“Well, particularly about this site, you’re working directly with veterans and people that are currently active duty and getting ready to transfer out of the military. And that can be a very difficult process, all in all, for a veteran. You kind of get used to the Army way of doing things for a while, and you don’t really know what your actual big boy job is going to be.”
Why a Career In Heavy Equipment?
Traditional ways of attaining education can take years to complete. In comparison, training and certification at HEC can be done quickly.
“When you look at the time and money invested in school, you get a much quicker return.”
Complete your education and training at HEC in as little as three weeks. The hands-on training combined with in-class instruction can prepare you for a successful career in heavy equipment and crane operations. But the assistance doesn’t stop once you complete your training. HEC has a career services department whose sole purpose is assisting with employment, from sharpening your interview skills and resume writing to contacting employers on your behalf.
The crane or heavy equipment operator career path is full of opportunities—what better place to start your education than the programs at HEC!
Here are some other reasons to get enrolled at HEC!!
Why Choose a Career in Heavy Equipment?
If you are looking for an exciting, hands-on career with options, growth, and good pay, then the heavy equipment industry could be for you. Read
Reasons to Become a Crane Operator
If you’re exploring various options to kick-start a new career or if you have been involved in the construction business and you’re looking to upgrade
5 Benefits of Heavy Equipment Training
Whether you’re new to heavy equipment or a seasoned operator, a training program can boost your career. Here are the top five benefits.
Find Opportunities With the Heavy Equipment Colleges of America.
Get hands-on training from expert class instructors who will set you up for a successful career in the heavy equipment industry. A quick certification process and career services are just some of the benefits HEC students enjoy. Find locations and programs near you. Discover your potential—apply to Heavy Equipment Colleges of America.
