Heavy Equipment Technology
TC = Technical Certificate | 1 year

Heavy Equipment Technology TC = Technical Certificate | 1 year

The Technical Certificate in Heavy Equipment Technology at UA Northark prepares students for high-demand careers in the construction, excavation, and heavy equipment industries. This hands-on program provides training in the safe operation, maintenance, and inspection of construction equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, backhoes, graders, and dump trucks. Students develop practical skills through real-world equipment operation and jobsite training designed to meet industry standards.

The program teaches students how to properly operate and maintain the heavy equipment used to excavate and move earth as part of the construction industry. Students spend the majority of class time operating equipment on job sites located within UA Northark’s service area to develop the skills needed for success in the construction industry.


Students develop hands-on skills in site preparation, excavation, grading, and soil stabilization, while learning fundamental surveying, maintenance, and hydraulics principles. Instruction aligns with NCCER Heavy Equipment Operations and OSHA standards, ensuring graduates are ready for industry certification and entry-level employment in construction, highway, and utility projects.


Arkansas Future Grant

This program is Arkansas Future Grant eligible, which means the grant may cover tuition and fees.

Transfer or Stackable Options

The certificate can be used as one of the technical disciplines required for the Associate of Applied Science in General Technology.

Learning Outcomes

  • Demonstrate safe and proficient operation of a variety of construction and earth-moving equipment, including compact and large-scale machinery, while adhering to OSHA, NCCER, and industry best practices.
  • Interpret and apply mechanical, hydraulic, and control system principles to perform operational checks, identify malfunctions, and execute routine maintenance on heavy equipment.
  • Demonstrate how to read and apply blueprints, grade stakes, and survey data to complete site layout, excavation, and grading operations that meet project specifications and environmental standards.
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