How to Become a Construction Equipment Operator Hand-eye
coordination is needed to operate equipment. Many workers learn
equipment operation informally on the job, while others learn
through a formal apprenticeship or by attending private trade
schools. Many workers learn their jobs by operating light
equipment under the guidance of an experienced operator. Later,
they may operate heavier equipment, such as bulldozers.
Technologically advanced construction equipment with
computerized controls and improved hydraulics and electronics
requires greater skill to operate. Operators of such equipment
may need more training and some understanding of electronics.
Others learn their trade through a 3- or 4-year apprenticeship.
For each year of the program, apprentices must have at least 144
hours of technical instruction and 2,000 hours of paid on-the-
job training. On the job, apprentices learn to maintain
equipment, operate machinery, and use special technology, such
as global positioning system (GPS) units. In the cl