Heavy Equipment Operator Technology

Associate of Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.)

When it comes to operating heavy construction equipment, there’s more than meets the eye. This comprehensive program lays the foundation for success—digging into everything from tools, hardware, and safety to site engineering and layout. And thanks to built-in electives, you can customize your experience with things like a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) license prep course, quarry operation courses, or business management and marketing lessons.

 
 

Courses

Your coursework will cover classes specific to your area of specialization along with foundational concepts and lessons that invite fresh perspectives.

Please Note: The outlined curriculum assumes a fall semester start for students completing a full credit load schedule without additional developmental math requirements. Students beginning in the spring and summer, taking less than a full load, and/or requiring developmental coursework follow an altered curriculum sequence. Speak to your academic advisor or school office with questions. 

Careers

  • Heavy construction equipment operator
  • Field sales representative

45+

Machines for Student Use

125

Acre Operations Site

48,000

Square Feet of Lab Space

Featured Videos

Being a heavy equipment operator is more than just moving dirt. In this virtual tour, you’ll meet instructor Ryan Peck, dig into program details, check out the latest equipment, and get a bird’s eye view of the 125-acre worksite.

Check out how students develop their skills at our 125-acre worksite featuring 45-plus machines. And learn how the hands-on nature of the degree makes graduates prime candidates for enriching workforce opportunities.

Facilities: Hands-On Tomorrow

You will have plenty of space to hone your skills on our 125-acre heavy-equipment operations site

Tour Schedule: Seeing is believing.

Think Penn College might be a good fit for you? Make plans to visit and discover what hands-on learning is all about.

Undergraduate Open House

Saturday, July 18 9 AM - 3 PM

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Admissions Office

Scholarships

As a Heavy Equipment Operations student at Penn College, you may be elgible for 144 scholarships.

36 Program-related scholarships

108 Additional scholarships

Explore scholarships

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Students enrolled in the Summer Operations Class taught by Seth J. Welshans were busy Tuesday applying finishing touches to Penn College’s Heavy Construction…

Industry Partners: Work with experts to become an expert

Penn College's strong partnerships impact every step of your journey – from your first day in the classroom and labs, to career placement (oftentimes before graduation) and beyond.

Student Life: Lead and put your skills to the test

Service and Operation of Heavy Equipment Club (S&O)

S&O expands learning and leadership opportunities, giving students a chance to connect with and contribute to the College and the local community.

Learn more

Student Organizations at Penn College

Your college experience is about more than the classroom. Join one of 65+ clubs and organizations, or create your own.

Get Involved

Study Abroad: Gain global experience

See the world via Williamsport. Take your education abroad and get hands-on experience learning about your industry on a global scale.

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More Information

Students must acquire their own tools and laptop computer as noted below.

Required Tools, Uniforms, and Supplies

See the Tool List for this major.

Required Laptop Computer

  • Chromebooks and other devices running Chrome OS are prohibited.
  • Unless otherwise specified by your major, MacBooks and other Apple products are not recommended for coursework.
  • Windows 11 or higher (recommended).
  • Intel Core i5 or i7 or AMD Ryzen 5 or 7 processor (recommended).
  • ARM based processors are not recommended.
  • 16+ GB RAM (recommended).
  • 250+ GB Solid State Disk (SSD) drive (recommended).
  • Laptop must include a webcam and microphone (required).
  • Laptop must include a wireless network card (required).
  • Broadband Internet connection when working off campus (required).
  • Extended support agreement, including accidental damage protection (recommended).
  • Power bank suitable for your laptop (recommended).

This major is subject to the transfer standards established by the College (see http://www.pct.edu/catalog/TransferringCredits.htm ). Exceptions must be approved by the school dean.

Alternative Credit refers to academic credits earned through means other than traditional college course completion, including: credit by exam, articulation, proof of competency gained in high school, work/life experience, and advanced placement.

Visit the Alternative Credit Options page for requirements and procedures and for information on credit through Advanced Placement.

Contact Information

Related Programs: Follow your passion