Frequently asked questions
If you're thinking about training as a heavy equipment operator, you probably have questions. We have answers! The HEO questions we hear the most are below. Don't see yours? Just ask - it's that easy!
The courses at Carolina Equipment Training are competitively priced. Visit our all courses summary page for a quick look at current heavy equipment training prices.
Yes. Carolina Equipment Training accepts Visa®, Mastercard® and Discover®.
Carolina Equipment Training offers no in-house financing or payment plan. If you need help paying for training, we encourage you to ask a local NCWorks Career Center or Vocational Rehabilitation Services office about possible grant programs.
Your training fee includes tuition, registration and books. You will need OSHA approved steel toe boots and hard hat (bring your own or available for purchase). Students are provided with a reflective safety vest. The fee for each program can be found on the course pages for: excavator training and forklift training.
Heavy Equipment Operators average $42,900 a year according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Entry level wages start out lower and may vary depending on your specific location. Visit our HEO Jobs + Pay page for more details.
Yes! Our training programs are based on OSHA safety standards. These guidelines are recognized as the Gold Standard by companies hiring and overseeing heavy equipment operators nationwide.
We assist when possible. Companies are eager to hire our graduates. Employers appreciate the level of hands-on training at Carolina Equipment Training. While other training programs utilize simulator training, Carolina Equipment Training is committed to providing students with actual in-the-seat training. Our graduates are better prepared for the real world situations often encountered on the job.
Yes. You must be at least 18 years of age.
Yes. The only requirement for our program at Carolina Equipment Training is a minimum age of 18.
No problem. The vast majority of our students at Carolina Equipment Training have no experience with heavy equipment. We actually prefer students with no experience since they will only learn the correct, safe way to operate heavy equipment.
Yes. We offer optional lodging and dining services for out-of-area students. Visit our Excavator course page for current price information.
No. Your driving record is of no consideration for training. However, it might be an issue with future employers. We will work with you to find employment opportunities (when available) with our job partners.
Yes, you can train to operate heavy equipment. Keep in mind, operators must be alert and be able to pass a drug test (during training and at work). As you might expect, your past may limit employment opportunities. That said, some companies do hire ex-offenders.
Yes. To train and work as a heavy equipment operator you must have the physical ability to withstand strenuous and dangerous work environments. This includes appropriate strength to operate heavy and power-driven equipment along with executing hand and foot coordination. You must also be able to endure extreme hot or cold environmental conditions.
We offer training for the safe operation of excavators and forklifts. Visit our HEO Courses page for a summary of available classes.
There is no night schedule but we do offer Saturday training based on demand.
The 120 hour HEO program at Carolina Equipment Training is completed in 12 training days. The program provides entry-level operators 40 classroom hours and 80 machine training hours for excavators. Participants learn how to safely operate and maintain the machines as well as receive valuable information on the industry and job opportunities.
Topics include personal safety, machine safety and work area safety. Participants learn how to maintain an excavator by locating, identifying and describing functions of the engine, power train, steering, braking and hydraulics. Participants also learn how to complete walk-around inspections, locate, identify and describe operator controls, switches and gauges including warning levels.
NO — our students have the advantage of hands-on training on ACTUAL equipment. Stick-time training includes equipment startups and shutdowns, brake tests and basic operating procedures in various practical applications. All equipment at Carolina Equipment Training is newer and state-of-the-art in function and design. This best prepares you for the real world application ahead. This real life preparation CANNOT be achieved with just the use of a simulator.
Our HEO class sizes are small to help give each student the personal attention they deserve. One teacher for every four students is our standard ratio.
We are a locally owned and operated family business with 20+ years experience in technical training. We treat our students like family. Our up close and personal attention to detail is very different from larger national training providers. Carolina Equipment Training takes a personal interest in the long-term success of every student. Your success is our success.
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