3 answers
Lucy
Student
4
Questions
Updated
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Machine operations
What is the school process like for machine operations? I am a senior in high school, I will be graduating in the spring of 2026. I'm interested because my Step-dad does this and I just think it would be fun because when I help him I have a good time.
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3 answers
Dan Costigan
Application Engineer
8
Answers
Brookfield, Wisconsin
Updated
Dan’s Answer
I think you're already in a great situation - the bigger the company, the more likely they will require a college degree for this, however it is just as possible for you to find an operations job without a college degree.
First and foremost, continue to take advantage of the relationship you have with someone (your step-father) who already does this job. Continue to learn from them and remain exposed to the industry & position that you want to pursue. If his business is somewhere you'd like to work, consider asking their leaders what study path they would recommend in order for you to be most qualified for this position.
If you don't want to work for the same company, ask the same questions to prospective future employers that you'd like to work for. The best way to be qualified for what you want is to ask the people who are already doing it. Best of luck!
First and foremost, continue to take advantage of the relationship you have with someone (your step-father) who already does this job. Continue to learn from them and remain exposed to the industry & position that you want to pursue. If his business is somewhere you'd like to work, consider asking their leaders what study path they would recommend in order for you to be most qualified for this position.
If you don't want to work for the same company, ask the same questions to prospective future employers that you'd like to work for. The best way to be qualified for what you want is to ask the people who are already doing it. Best of luck!
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Lucy!
A machine operator in the USA is a skilled professional responsible for the setup, operation, and maintenance of industrial machinery. Their key responsibilities include:
Operating machinery: Starting, stopping, and controlling the operation of machines according to instructions.
Monitoring performance: Observing machine output and checking for malfunctions.
Conducting maintenance: Performing routine tasks like cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting machinery.
Troubleshooting issues: Identifying and resolving technical problems that may arise during operation.
Machine operators typically work in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and agriculture, and may require certifications to enhance their skills and job prospects.
vocationvantage.com
In the USA, schools and training programs for machine operations offer a range of options to prepare individuals for careers in the construction and heavy equipment industry. Here are some notable institutions and programs:
Associated Training Services (ATS): Offers comprehensive training for various heavy equipment types, including backhoes, bulldozers, and cranes. ATS also provides crane operator training and employment assistance for graduates.
Heavy Equipment Colleges of America (HECA): Known for hands-on training and placement assistance, HECA prepares students for careers in heavy equipment operation with a focus on practical experience.
IUOE: The International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) provides training through its apprenticeship programs, which combine paid work experience with classroom instruction.
Rock the Trades: A workforce development initiative that promotes the skilled trades as a fulfilling career path, offering certification programs for machine operators.
These institutions provide a solid foundation for those looking to enter the machine operations field, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities in this dynamic industry.
People must exercise attention and care when operating machinery. Machines can have more capacity to cause hurt if unattended!
GOD BLESS!
A machine operator in the USA is a skilled professional responsible for the setup, operation, and maintenance of industrial machinery. Their key responsibilities include:
Operating machinery: Starting, stopping, and controlling the operation of machines according to instructions.
Monitoring performance: Observing machine output and checking for malfunctions.
Conducting maintenance: Performing routine tasks like cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting machinery.
Troubleshooting issues: Identifying and resolving technical problems that may arise during operation.
Machine operators typically work in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and agriculture, and may require certifications to enhance their skills and job prospects.
vocationvantage.com
In the USA, schools and training programs for machine operations offer a range of options to prepare individuals for careers in the construction and heavy equipment industry. Here are some notable institutions and programs:
Associated Training Services (ATS): Offers comprehensive training for various heavy equipment types, including backhoes, bulldozers, and cranes. ATS also provides crane operator training and employment assistance for graduates.
Heavy Equipment Colleges of America (HECA): Known for hands-on training and placement assistance, HECA prepares students for careers in heavy equipment operation with a focus on practical experience.
IUOE: The International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) provides training through its apprenticeship programs, which combine paid work experience with classroom instruction.
Rock the Trades: A workforce development initiative that promotes the skilled trades as a fulfilling career path, offering certification programs for machine operators.
These institutions provide a solid foundation for those looking to enter the machine operations field, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities in this dynamic industry.
People must exercise attention and care when operating machinery. Machines can have more capacity to cause hurt if unattended!
GOD BLESS!
Rick Miller
Heavy Equipment Instructor
1
Answer
Graham, North Carolina
Updated
Rick’s Answer
If you just want to operate equipment, a college degree is not required. Contact your local employment assistance office at Social Services and they can point you in the right direction. There may be heavy equipment schools in your area or community colleges that offer training. The community college that I work at offers 3 levels of training, and all 3 can be completed in about 9 months. The total cost is about $700, which is much cheaper than private heavy equipment schools. Good luck!
Contact Social Services employment center
Research community colleges in your area
Rick recommends the following next steps: