Heavy Equipment Technology

Welcome to the Heavy Equipment Technology program at the WMCTC:

This course will teach shop safety, work habits, and the technical skills necessary to successfully pass the Michigan State Mechanics Certification tests in Diesel Engine Repair, Electrical, and Braking Systems. Second-year students can also take the student ASE tests for diesel engine repair, electrical, and brakes. Instruction and training will focus on diesel engine repair, braking systems (air and hydraulic), electrical and electronic systems, and preventive maintenance. Exposure to suspension and steering, drive train, air conditioning, and hydraulics will also be included. The Heavy Equipment Mechanics program is certified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). This demands a very exhaustive curriculum in specific areas of certification.

The Heavy Equipment Technology Field:

Increased use of heavy equipment in the agricultural, trucking, construction, and power industries has created a widespread demand for qualified heavy equipment technicians. Additionally, as the current workforce ages, technicians are retiring four times faster than new technicians are replacing them. This means there are many good paying jobs available in this field well into the foreseeable future. Since the demand is universal, the opportunities are not limited to large cities but include rural as well as urban areas. Businesses spend millions of dollars on diesel-powered equipment each year and rely on quality, well-trained technicians to keep their investment running properly.

Former students are employed at the following businesses: Cummins Sales and Service, Ellen’s Equipment, Fox Motors, Grand Traverse Diesel, Ina Store, and Michigan CAT to name a few. These businesses and many more are looking for graduates from our program with many hiring students upon graduation.

Student Organizations/Community Enrichment:

Students have the opportunity to be involved in SkillsUSA where they potentially compete at the regional, state and national level. Also, with instructor recommendation, students returning for the second year may have the opportunity for co-op employment with local repair facilities. This further enhances the student’s training experience in the Heavy Equipment field.