Heavy Equipment Operations Program Certificate

New enrollments into this program are restricted as of Fall 2026. Please contact an academic advisor about alternative options. Degrees Offered: AAS, Program Certificate Limited Enrollment: Yes Program Begins: Fall Delivery Method: On Campus Phone: 701-224-2429 Email: bsc.cet@bismarckstate.edu The Heavy Equipment Operations Program is an industry-led program designed to prepare students to enter the construction industry as heavy equipment operators. Students will be introduced to various pieces of equipment, including (but not limited to): dozers, backhoes, graders, excavators, skid steers, etc. Students will learn the essential operation of these pieces of equipment, including start-up and shutdown procedures, controls, uses, and basic maintenance techniques. Students will also be introduced to other valuable skills for a job site, including the basics surrounding safety, hand tools, first aid, and primary work-site considerations. As part of this program, students earn OSHA 10 Certification and First Aid/CPR Certification. Admission occurs in the Fall. Students are encouraged to apply early as openings are limited. Awareness of these technical standards may help students determine suitability for this career. Students who complete the curriculum requirements earn a Program Certificate in Heavy Equipment Operations. Additional coursework may lead to an Associate in Applied Science degree. Students must have a specified tool set and books by the first day of class. Students are also responsible for the cost of OSHA 10 and First Aid/CPR Certification. The Heavy Equipment Operations Associate in Applied Science may stack into the following Bachelor of Applied Science degree: Heavy Equipment Operators are valuable members of the construction industry and are needed in various work projects including new home construction and renovation, commercial projects, infrastructure improvement and maintenance, etc. Expansion in the construction industry ensures there will always be a need for people with this skill set. Upon graduation, Heavy Equipment Operations students will be able to: