In response to industry needs for skilled Heavy Equipment Operators (HEO) and Heavy Duty Repair Technicians (HDR), CEF has worked with school districts around the state to develop ways of encouraging high school students to HEO/HDR careers. These efforts include working with local industry advisory groups to identify entry-level training and skills needed for employment or further training in their region, and developing HEO curriculum, training materials, and a HEO Program of Study, based on NCCER standards.
In early June, CEF provided 2 weeks of intensive training, dubbed HEO Capstone, for 12 dedicated young Alaskans who expressed interest in heavy equipment operation or maintenance careers. The students, who were at least 18 years of age, were selected from three participating school districts: Fairbanks North Star Borough, Lake and Peninsula, and Kuspuk. This class was offered May 25 - June 6, 2015 at the Fairbanks Pipeline Training Center, and the students were housed onsite.
HEO Capstone 2015 prepared these youth for the next step in their chosen career pathway. Students who successfully completed all requirements received NCCER Core and HEO Level 1 certificates and are listed in the national registry. They also received industry credentials, including First Aid/CPR, NSTC, OSHA 10, and Forklift cards. Students also prepared a resume and career plan to encourage a smooth transition to university, registered apprenticeship or to employment.
The Fairbanks Daily Newsminer has a great article - and more pictures - about the program - read it online here.
For more information, please contact Kathleen Castle, Executive Director, Alaska Construction Academies at Kathleen@alaskacef.org or (907) 222-0999.