Delaware, Action Plan for Implementation
Delaware has limited dedicated heavy equipment operator (HEO) training programs due to its small size. Options include a community college workforce program, vo-tech adult education tied to apprenticeships, a regional union apprenticeship (training often in nearby Pennsylvania), and private hands-on providers. Programs cover machinery like excavators, dozers, loaders, backhoes, skid steers, and graders, with certifications such as NCCER, OSHA 10, and flagging.
Many residents pursue opportunities through the IUOE Local 542 (covering Delaware and Pennsylvania) or on-the-job training with employers.
Apprenticeship Programs
| Institution/Provider | Program/Courses Offered | Key Details | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| IUOE Local 542 (covers Delaware & Pennsylvania) | Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship | Multi-year earn-while-you-learn program; paid with benefits; extensive hands-on training at dedicated site (e.g., Glenmoore, PA facility); registered in Delaware; applications periodic (often fall) at district offices; requires age 18+, driver’s license, fee | https://www.iuoe542.com/ (check Apprenticeship tab) or https://www.iuoe.org/training/local-542-heavy-equipment-operator-training-school |
Community College & Vo-Tech Programs
| Institution/Provider | Program/Courses Offered | Key Details | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware Technical Community College (DTCC) – Owens Campus | Heavy Equipment.Operator Training (Non-credit) | 18 weeks (198 hours, evenings); hands-on with simulator + live operation (skid steer, backhoe, excavator, loaders, dozers); NCCER curriculum; certifications: OSHA 10, ATSSA Flagger, forklift; developed with industry; cost ~$4,000 (financial aid/WIOA possible); location: Georgetown | https://www.dtcc.edu/continuing-education/workforce-training (or go.dtcc.edu/workforcedevelopment; contact 302-259-6364) |
| New Castle County Vo-Tech (NCCVT) Adult Education | Heavy Equipment Operations (HEO) | 3-year (450 hours total, 150/year); evenings (Mon/Wed, hybrid); foundational skills + operation of utility tractors, forklift, loader, dozer, motor graders; NCCER-certified; supports DOL apprenticeship requirements; location: Hodgson Vo-Tech, Newark | https://www.nccvtadulteducation.com/apps/pages/HeavyEquipment (contact 302-683-3652) |
Private Training Providers
| Institution/Provider | Program/Courses Offered | Key Details | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Purpose Heavy Equipment Training | Machine-specific hands-on courses (e.g., Skid Steer, Backhoe, Loader, Excavator, Dump Truck, Bulldozer, Grader) | OSHA-compliant; real-world jobsite training + evaluation; flexible scheduling (individual/group, on-site possible); certifications available; location: Middletown area | https://allpurposeheavyequipmenttraining.com/locations/de/heavy-equipment-training-middletown-de.php |
| Total Equipment Training | Custom/On-Site Heavy Equipment Operator Training | Tailored programs for all levels; certified trainers; on your equipment or group training; statewide availability (e.g., Wilmington focus) | https://totalequipmenttraining.com/ |
Programs vary in cost (union/state often lower or funded; private higher), duration, and requirements (e.g., age 18+, driver’s license, drug screen for apprenticeships). No in-state Job Corps center offers dedicated HEO (nearest options in neighboring states). Contact providers directly for current schedules, eligibility, funding (e.g., WIOA via Delaware Workforce Development Board), or applications, or check Delaware JobLink/Department of Labor for additional opportunities. Delaware residents may also access training in nearby PA/NJ for broader options.