Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC) is offering a new Heavy Equipment Operator training program at its Sabine Valley Campus, providing local residents with an opportunity to gain hands-on experience and industry-recognized credentials for careers in construction and heavy equipment operation.
The program, offered through BPCC’s Workforce Solutions division, is designed to prepare participants for employment operating machinery commonly used in construction, site development and infrastructure projects.
The 9½-week course includes approximately 380 hours of instruction, combining classroom education, equipment simulators and practical, hands-on training.
Participants will learn essential job-site safety procedures, blueprint reading, equipment operation and techniques for moving dirt, grading construction sites and performing other tasks associated with heavy equipment operation.
Training will include experience with skid steers, backhoes, loaders, excavators and bulldozers.
The program is made possible in part through a partnership with Earth Movers Construction of Many, which is providing equipment, fuel and training space. The collaboration allows students to gain practical experience operating machinery used in the construction industry.
Upon successful completion, participants will receive industry-recognized credentials intended to strengthen their qualifications when seeking employment.
The total cost of the program is $6,400. However, eligible participants may qualify for tuition assistance through Louisiana’s MJ Foster Promise Program, which can cover tuition costs for individuals who meet program requirements.
The Sabine Parish Chamber of Commerce recently highlighted the training opportunity as a pathway for residents interested in entering the construction workforce without pursuing a traditional four-year college degree.
Enrollment is currently open, with classes expected to begin soon.
Individuals interested in enrolling or learning more about the program can contact BPCC Workforce Solutions by emailing workforcesolutions@bpcc.edu, calling 318-678-6015 or visiting www.bpcc.edu/workforce.