The Louisiana Technical College Teche Area Campus is offering a tuition-free Heavy Equipment Operator program through the Rapid Response Training grant.  This 418 hour, non-credit program will be offered on Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.  Classes will start on June 1, 2009 and end on August 31, 2009.  Space is available for 12 participants interested in preparing for a career as a heavy equipment operator.  Students who enroll in the program must be at least 18 years of age; have a valid Louisiana driver's license; pass a drug screen; and score at least a 3.0 on the WorkKeys exam.  There is no charge for tuition for this program; however, participants are responsible for all books, supplies, and testing fees.  Students will also pay a $100 lab fee that is refundable upon the student's completion of the program.

The Heavy Equipment Operator program is designed for individuals wishing to a pursue career as a professional heavy equipment operator.  Upon completion of the program students will be equipped for entry level jobs operating various pieces of equipment such as bull dozers, excavators, backhoes, and forklifts.   Positions as Heavy Equipment Operators offer competitive wages (starting $10-$18 per hour) and excellent benefits.    Upon successful completion of the program students will earn a certificate of completion and NCCER credentials.  The NCCER credential allows students the portability of training accomplishments, gives students more flexibility in their career path planning, and insures that their training accomplishments will be recognized wherever they go.

Individuals interested in enrolling in this program should call (337) 363-0011 or visit the Teche Area Campus located at 609 Ember Drive, New Iberia, LA to fill out an application.