March 13, 2025

Washington County High School Launches Heavy Equipment Operation Program

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News Summary

Washington County High School in Tennille, Georgia, has introduced a Heavy Equipment Operation (HEO) program in partnership with GDOT. Spanning 27 weeks, it combines classroom learning with hands-on experience using advanced Caterpillar equipment simulators. The program aims to equip high school students with essential skills for stable careers in the construction industry, addressing the industry’s demand for nearly eight million workers annually. With a capstone exam scheduled for May, students are poised for immediate employment opportunities in the field.

A Rising Force in Construction: Washington County High School’s Heavy Equipment Operation Program

In the quaint town of Tennille, Georgia, Washington County High School is booming with excitement as its students engage in an innovative Heavy Equipment Operation (HEO) program. This unique initiative, a partnership with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), aims to equip high school seniors and sophomores with essential skills tailored for a burgeoning career in the construction industry.

Training Ahead of the Game

Spanning an intensive duration of 27 weeks, the HEO program offers a comprehensive training method that incorporates the use of high-tech Caterpillar equipment simulators in the classroom. This cutting-edge appraoch allows students to grasp the fundamental mechanics and operations of heavy machinery in a risk-free environment before hitting the field.

As students emerge from the classroom, they transition to real-world experiences directly at GDOT’s Tennille headquarters. This hands-on training not only enhances their technical skills but also provides a unique insight into the daily operations of highway construction and maintenance. Upon successfully passing a challenging capstone hands-on exam in May, participants will earn their heavy equipment certification, solidifying their readiness for the workforce in the construction sector.

A Job Market Ready for Action

The construction industry demonstrates a voracious demand for labor, necessitating nearly eight million workers each year. This fact is a beacon of hope for students in the HEO program, guaranteeing them job opportunities right after graduation. Many have reported securing positions at GDOT, stepping straight into stable careers thanks to the robust training and certification they receive through this initiative.

Voices from the Future

Students have shared diverse insights regarding their experiences. Senior Thomas Duggan reflected on the clarity and depth perspective he gained from practical operations compared to the simulator experience. Meanwhile, sophomore Clark Trussell engaged with the mechanics of heavy equipment, expressing enthusiasm towards its role in the construction of roads, bridges, and infrastructure. However, not all experiences come without challenges. Fellow sophomore Cameron Johnson admitted to struggling with the adjustment to the scale of the massive equipment, showcasing the learning curve that comes with mastering heavy machinery.

The Guiding Hand of Education

Jon Walraven, the dedicated teacher of the HEO program, commented on the remarkable trajectory of student success within this initiative. He noted the program’s effectiveness in steering students toward a future filled with opportunities in stable careers. With approximately 40 students participating since its inception just two years ago, the program has already made significant waves in the community and beyond.

Capstone Exam: A Gateway to Employment

The culmination of the HEO program features an eagerly anticipated capstone exam event in May, where contractors from across the state will observe students’ skills in action. This not only serves as a test of their learning but also positions graduates for immediate employment, as contractors may be ready to offer job opportunities on the spot.

Enthusiasm radiates within the student body as they passionately operate machinery, with many eager for more knowledge and experience. As they step forward into the future of construction, students at Washington County High School’s Heavy Equipment Operation program are not just learning, but building a solid foundation for fulfilling careers.