Career & College Prep

Manufacturing & the Trades

Build a Bright Future

From robotics to engineering, the world of manufacturing is filled with in-demand professions focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Prepare to enter this high-tech world straight out of high school.

Heavy Machine Operations—This pathway prepares students to enter an apprenticeship training program to become a journeyman operating engineer in the construction industry. Operating engineers work as heavy equipment operators, mechanics, or surveyors. They work with a variety of construction equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, excavators, forklifts, front-end loaders, and backhoes.

This pathway is a cooperative effort with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49.

Some of the jobs include:

  • Facility maintenance manager
  • Industrial equipment mechanic
  • Automotive mechanic
  • Power plant mechanic
  • Mobile equipment maintenance manager
  • Service technician
  • Bicycle repairer

*Some of these jobs require additional education and certifications once a student graduates from high school.

construction bulldozer
K12002

**Data is from Lightcast and is updated frequently.

Which industry-recognized, in-demand certifications and exams can my student prepare for?

  • Heavy Machine Operators Pre-Apprenticeship Certification
  • ACT National Career Readiness Certification (NCRC)