Articles - CAT® SIMULATORS

8 09, 2022

Avoid Tire Damage on Heavy Equipment

Heavy equipment tires are expensive and must be maintained to get the most life and value out of them. Operators should complete a walkaround inspection every day including checking for damage and wear on tires. Beyond the daily inspection, operators must know how to drive, brake, shift and maneuver equipment correctly. Training is the only way to ensure operators are using equipment correctly. Here are some examples of why heavy equipment tires may need to be replaced sooner than a planned life cycle.

Damage from Punctures & Cuts

Construction sites often have nails, screws, glass, rebar, chunks of concrete and other types of debris that can lead to tire damage. Operators may be unable to avoid running over these objects, which makes an inspection even more important to catch tire damage before machines hit the worksite and possibly cause damage to another machine part.

Mine haul roads are culprits for tire damage when it comes to debris and potholes. Operators should avoid running over rocks, other types of spillages, large potholes or any pools of water that the bottom cannot be seen. It may be unclear how deep a crevice runs underneath the water. Support machines like dozers and graders can help keep haul roads clear for trucks and loading machines.

Under-Inflation or Over-Inflation

Be sure operators check the tire pressure regularly to make sure tires are not under or over-inflated. Tires can typically lose pressure every month possibly due to temperature changes or worn valve stems. An under-inflated tire can lead to tire failure. Under- and over-inflated tires can lead to diminished fuel efficiency. Follow the recommended guidelines set by manufacturers for tire pressure.

Mixed Tires

Follow the manufacturer’s recommended guidelines for tires. Do not mix tires, especially with different tread depths. Even a small difference in tread depth can lead to premature tire wear.

Mixing tires from different manufacturers or adding new tires with worn tires is a mismatch.
A mismatch can be caused by mixing different diameter tires, especially from one manufacturer to another. The smallest differences can cause additional wear.
Differences in tire pressures among tires (even those that match in manufacturer and specifications) is considered a third type of mismatch. Check tire pressures regularly.

Tire Applications

Choose the right tire to match the job at hand. Premature wear or damage can be caused by using the wrong tires. Check and follow the manufacturers’ recommendations for tires. Everything from tread depth and strength to tire material and more can impact the life of the tire. For example, the type of tire needed for a Mining Truck is different than needed for an over-the-road semi-truck. Manufacturers will identify the right tires to use for the machine application.

Uneven Wear Patterns

Tires can be worn prematurely from running the same routes, braking, suspension wear, or from an overuse of torque (in addition to over- or under-inflation). Rotate tires regularly to even out tire wear patterns.

Tire Storage

Improper storage of tires can diminish their quality before they are ever installed on machines. Store tires in a dry environment, in moderate temperatures and away from direct sunlight. Never store tires in the same area as chemicals.

The operator is the key to avoiding debris contact, proper operation and inspecting assigned machines every day. Tire use affects maintenance costs and fuel economy. Operators must be correctly trained to best understand how to perform machine inspections, applications and techniques. Tire inspection is only one of the fault points covered in Cat® Simulators machine walkaround module. Additionally, each simulator focuses on applications developed with Cat expert operators that are specific to the machine. Step-by-step instructions and authentic Cat controls provide operators with effective hands-on training making the transition to the real machine seamless. Train operators on proper machine inspections, applications and good techniques—and reap the benefits.

9 08, 2022

Western Piedmont Community College Heavy Equipment Operator Program Continues to Grow and Attract Students

Sitting amongst green, lush trees on 300 acres of rolling hills, Western Piedmont Community College (WPCC) in Morganton, North Carolina, offers more than 36 associate science degrees in healthcare, business, education and industry. Among its many curricula is the Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) program which includes courses designed to prepare students for entry-level jobs in the construction industry.

WPCC Dean of Applied Technologies, Michael Daniels, explained the college recognized the need for students to be trained on heavy equipment after talking with local contractors, subcontractors and builders in the area. “They couldn’t find anybody who could run a backhoe, excavator or dozer. That’s when we decided the heavy equipment operator program would be a perfect addition to our suite of programs,” said Daniels. “We knew Cat® equipment was the gold standard of machines and so were Cat Simulators. We knew they would be a perfect fit.”

Students can now receive hands-on training on the college’s Cat® Simulators systems which WPCC Coordinator HEO/Instructor Terry Adams credits to Rick Furse, WPCC Dean of Workforce Development. Furse’s insight into the Cat Simulators program has proven invaluable to Adams who assembled after watching the Simformotion, LLC. assembly video. “I didn’t have to call information or tech support because it flowed together pretty easily,” explained Adams. “A lot of it was already set up for me. And everything was identified and marked which made it easy to finish assembling. I just had to make sure I was doing everything according to the video which was very informative.”

Simformotion™ Support Services Team

Simformotion, the licensee for Cat® Simulators for Caterpillar Inc., offers installation for customers. Should customers request installation, the Simformotion Support Services team will travel to the customer’s site to set up and install the Cat Simulators systems. Additionally, customers can also receive on-site or virtual training on a multitude of topics, including each exercise’s training objectives; how to use SimU Campus™ to its fullest capabilities; how to position the controls, pedals, monitors correctly and more.

Shortly after Adams finished setting up the simulators, Simformotion Support Services team member Dany Sarraf traveled to WPCC to familiarize Adams with the Manager’s Workstation and SimU Campus, the system’s records management software.

“Terry was my very first install and training customer,” explained Sarraf who travels the world training and educating instructors on Cat Simulators. “Terry was awesome to work with because he was so engaged and eager to learn. Good customer relationships are crucial to our success.”

“Part of my job for the past four years has included the initial, on-site set-up and training of Cat Simulators which has given me unique opportunities to work side-by-side with our customers,” said Sarraf. “After the initial set-up, our Support team is available 24×7 to assist in anyway necessary which can include remote sessions, video chats or even a simple phone. My goal is to quickly solve our customers’ issues so they can get back to using their simulators to their fullest potential.”

During his three days at WPCC, Dany reviewed SimU with Adams and helped network the two simulators via the Workstation. “Dany was very informative. He made me set up the computer and the monitors, then made me tear one down,” explained Adams. “It was a great hands-on experience.”

“After the initial set-up, our Support team is available 24×7 to assist in anyway necessary which can include remote sessions, video chats or even a simple phone. My goal is to quickly solve our customers’ issues so they can get back to using their simulators to their fullest potential.”
-Dany Sarraf, Simformotion Support Services

Convenience of Workstation and Convertible Cat® Controls

The Workstation’s convenience has proven invaluable to Adams. “I have the Workstation in my office and the simulators in another room. It’s very convenient and works very well that way. I’m able to make all the changes in my class rosters and more. It’s pretty self-explanatory.” Adams continued, “I also can track my students’ attendance and see who’s been on the simulators if they do the exam mode. I can look on the workstation and see how long they stayed on and what they did. I don’t have to take their word for it. I can see it.”

In addition to the Workstation, Adams also appreciates the authentic, convertible Cat controls and how easily he can convert the college’s two simulators into four different machine models: the hydraulic excavator, dozer, small wheel loader and advanced dozer. “I can change the convertible controls out in 20 minutes,” said Adams.

The ability to change the simulator from one model to another quickly makes a difference to Adams when he demonstrates the simulators at local high schools. Students from as young as seventh grade have taken part in the demonstrations. “I do demonstrations with the simulators allowing younger students to be able to see it, operate it and feel the controls,” explained Adams. “They get to see exactly what the different pieces of equipment do in construction.”

Cat Simulators at WPCC’s Construction Rodeo Trades Competition

Recently more than 100 students from 10 local high schools had the opportunity to experience the college’s two simulators at the WPCC’s Construction Rodeo Trades Competition. “A few years ago, we realized one of the many challenges to attracting students to the construction industry is that students don’t get excited about working in the trades, so we decided to make it very much like a sports event where the different schools come together and have fun competition,” said Daniels who organized the rodeo. “The students spend the day competing for prizes at various stations that align with what the schools are teaching like carpentry and plumbing.”

The simulators were one of 10 stations that students could visit and try their hand at during the day-long rodeo. “The Cat Simulators were a big hit,” said Daniels. “The students were able to spend time on each simulator and experience what operating the equipment is like.”

Students had the opportunity to experience operating one of the two Cat Simulators while competing at the
WPCC Construction Rodeo Trades Competition.

Daniels explained the college also invites local industry partners such as contractors and plumbing businesses as well as companies like Lowe’s and DeWalt to be part of the Construction Rodeo. He continued, “They set up booths to meet and talk with the students. And in some cases, they literally interview the students and make job offers that day. The best students get direct leads that can lead to employment almost immediately.”

“We also offer Work-based Learning which is a formal class that’s customized by the student, employer and college,” explained Daniels. “They all agree on what the student will do during their time on the job. The best-case scenario is that the student really likes the employer, and the employer likes the student which leads to full time employment.”

Daniels added, “We try to prepare students for real-life jobs by integrating soft skills into the Work-based Learning like arriving on time, working as a team player and going the extra mile so the students will be successful.”

“We try to prepare students for real-life jobs by integrating soft skills into the Work-based Learning like arriving on time, working as a team player and going the extra mile so the students will be successful.”
-Michael Daniels, WPCC Dean of Applied Technologies

Preparing Students for Construction Industry Jobs

The Construction Rodeo is just one of several ways WPCC promotes its HEO program. The college recently held a four-day HEO Simulator Academy where students learned hands-on about the medium hydraulic excavator, its controls and how to operate it safely. On the final day, students had the opportunity to use their new skills and knowledge to operate a real mini excavator.

“I explain to my students that the simulator’s purpose is to get them familiar with the controls and for them to get some experience operating heavy equipment virtually.” He continued, ”At first getting on the simulator is a little intimidating for the students. I have to coax them into sitting in the seat and explain they’re not going to get hurt or hurt anything. They’re not going to tear anything up or crash it. Then they get more comfortable and start learning.”

To date, 20 students have completed WPCC’s HEO course and five are currently learning how to operate the hydraulic excavator. “The simulators are very user-friendly,” said Adams. “Spending time on the simulators and completing the exercises really teaches the students and prepares them to operate heavy equipment. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

WPCC Skilled Trades Solution Center

In April 2021, through the North Carolina Community-Based Grants Initiative, the Golden LEAF Board of Directors awarded WPCC $1.5 million to construct the Skilled Trades Solution Center to train students skilled trades to meet the projected demand of more than 3,700 positions over the next five years.

The 30,000-square-foot facility will sit in the front of the beautiful, rolling, countryside campus with mountains in the background and will address the regional shortage of skilled trades workers, explained Daniels. “It will support the training needs of students from the surrounding counties in construction, plumbing, electrical, heating and air conditioning and heavy equipment.”

The Skilled Trades Solution Center building is scheduled to be completed by early summer 2023 with students in the new facility by fall 2023.

12 07, 2022

Maintenance Tips for Maximum Uptime Series: Wheel Loader

Avoid unnecessary downtime and extra depreciation by properly maintaining your Wheel Loader. Most important is to teach operators to complete a pre-operation walkaround inspection before every shift. Identifying issues before they become major problems can alleviate unplanned costs and missed production days.

Beyond the walkaround inspection and adhering to a regular maintenance schedule, follow these tips to help maintain your Wheel Loader.

If the turbocharger fails during engine operation, severe damage to the turbocharger compressor wheel and the entire engine can result. Turbocharger bearing failures can cause large quantities of oil to enter the intake system and the exhaust system. Loss of engine oil can result in serious engine damage. Do not continue to operate the engine when a turbocharger bearing failure is accompanied by a significant loss of engine performance. Engine smoke and speeding up of the engine with no load are characteristics of a loss of engine performance.

Tires should not be over or under inflated. Check the recommendations from the tire manufacturer. Look for missing tread and avoid running over large rocks and debris piles that could cause tire damage.

Properly learning to use the brakes, including the parking brake, can help in maintaining the brake system over its expected life.

Performing load and carry operations with a Small Wheel Loader usually means traveling at higher speeds for production purposes. Higher speeds will result in additional brake wear due to quickly slowing down the machine at either the loading or stockpile areas. Letting off the accelerator pedal earlier will allow the engine and transmission to assist in slowing down the machine, helping reduce brake wear. Using the auto shift feature can assist with this also.

The impeller clutch/brake pedal should not be used for downhill braking on any size loader. Using the impeller clutch/brake pedal will disengage the engine from the power train. This action will increase the load on the service brakes, increasing the risk of significant wear and/or damage to the service brakes and final drives.

Be sure to inspect the bucket cutting edges and end bits.
- If a missing tooth is noticed, get it replaced immediately to avoid further damage to the cutting edge.
- Never let a cutting edge wear to the base edge.

Learn the load limits for the size of machine and do not overload the bucket. Overloading can cause tipping or spillage around the worksite. Running over spillage can cause tire damage.

Avoid collisions with the truck when performing loading operations. Keep the work area platform level and clean to reduce spillage and help reduce the possibility of colliding with the side of the truck. When material spills, puddles or piles up, it could be run over and cause the machine to tip. Additionally, when the bucket is positioned high in the air or the machine is driven into a hole, the loader could become unstable and tip. The potential of collision damage, both to the loader and truck, can be very expensive.

Dusty worksites are the norm in some areas of the world. Keep windows clean and clear. Keep in mind that dust can affect the radiator, filters, cooling systems, fans and other parts.

Spend time as part of the operator training plan, teaching operators how to conduct a pre-operation walkaround and how to identify potential maintenance issues. Operators should know how to identify faulty parts and understand warning alarms so when in the field, they can do their part to keep Wheel Loaders working. One option for training is Cat® Simulators. Each simulated machine features a virtual walkaround that can teach operators how to perform the same inspection they would perform in the real world. Whatever type of training plan your organization uses, discussing machine maintenance should be part of it.

28 06, 2022

Making a Difference in Incarcerated Prisoners’ Lives One Training Program at a Time

While driving to work in 2019, Henry Sanders, former Career and Technical Educational Coordinator for the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections, noticed construction work happening in the area. It was nothing new. It happened all the time. Then he spotted women operating heavy equipment. And that’s when Sanders had an idea, not just an idea – a big idea. What if women prisoners could train to become heavy equipment operators in a reentry program?

“We’ve always had reentry programs for the women, but not really innovative programs,” explained Sanders, whose responsibilities included creating and managing new reentry programs for men and women. “In Louisiana, we try to keep our female inmate population on parity as much as possible with the males.” He continued, “Traditionally, programs try to get employment opportunities and training for the male population because the female population is only about 6% of all the inmates.”

Sanders knew a women’s heavy equipment operator training program would break that tradition, but he also knew the program could not afford to purchase real machines. “That’s when I thought about simulators,” explained Sanders who started investigating heavy equipment simulators.

Sanders explained the Louisiana Legislature had recently passed the “Louisiana Justice Reinvestment Package” which meant, for the first time in his 38-year career, a line of funding was dedicated to develop and or expand existing reentry programs to reduce recidivism. “It opened up a line of funding so that we could actually develop programs,” said Sanders.

“The three-year recidivism rate in Louisiana is 34.1%. Louisiana has the highest incarceration rates overall in the country of 683 per 100,000.”
– Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement

Under the leadership of Secretary Jimmy Le Blanc, Sanders’ new big idea came to fruition when the Department purchased Cat® Simulators systems complete with motion systems and convertible, authentic Cat controls. The simulators meant women at two facilities, the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women (LCIW) and the Elayn Hunt Correctional Center, could learn how to operate a Hydraulic Excavator, Small Wheel Loader, Dozer and Motor Grader. They could also earn National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) knowledge-based certification which would make them more likely to be considered for a job upon their release.

“The simulators are going to play an incredible role in letting the women get literally hundreds of hours of practice. And time is money. We’re going to make sure they spend time on the simulators to get the practice they need before they operate real machines so they can earn the full certification.”
-Henry Sanders

Initially, Sanders was satisfied with knowledge-based only certification, but not for long. Since then, he has developed a plan to provide the women with real machines so they can earn full NCCER certification like the men. “COVID gave us a little time to think about how we’re actually going to get the women more than knowledge-based only certification,” said Sanders who now plans to rent real machines for the women’s program.

“But we can’t rent a real machine for a month or two. That costs money. That’s where the simulators come in,” explained Sanders. “The simulators are going to play an incredible role in letting the women get literally hundreds of hours of practice.” He continued, “And time is money. We’re going to make sure they spend time on the simulators to get the practice they need before they operate real machines so they can earn the full certification.”

Inmates Tutor Inmates

Sanders explained for any of the inmate, men or women, to receive certification or college credit in vocational-technical training fields, the program had to employ NCCER-certified instructors. Historically, the Louisiana Office of Reentry and Education had a partnership with the Louisiana Community & Technical College System (LCTCS) which provided instructors for the training programs.

However, due to funding issues, instructors were no longer available. To keep the training programs running, Sanders’ team started problem solving and looking for a solution. “We had male inmates who were career and technical education (CTE) tutors and always helped the LCTCS instructors. We realized the inmate tutors knew as much as the instructors did,” explained Sanders whose team vetted eight male inmates’ experience and started the certification process for them to become tutors to replace the LCTCS instructors.

The women’s program proved to be more challenging though. “None of the women had operated heavy equipment before, so we couldn’t find a qualified tutor. Then along came COVID,” sighed Sanders. “Now three years later, we’re just getting our women certified to be tutors, then we’re going to be off and running. But without the simulators, it couldn’t have happened.”

Sanders estimates that approximately 10 to 12 women will participate in the heavy equipment operator program. “They’ll do it. They’ll make it,” said Sanders confidently.

Reentry Program Participation

“Those women inmates must score a National Reporting Score (NRS) of a 4 or greater in reading on the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) and be disciplinary infraction-free for a minimum of 90 days before they can apply for the reentry programs, explained Kelsey Osman, current Career and Technical Education Coordinator of Reentry and Education. “We prioritize them if they have a high school equivalency or high school diploma when we consider our enrollment. But then oftentimes, you don’t get a full class, just going that route.”

She continued, “The second option is dual enrollment where we enroll them in high school equivalency courses simultaneously with their training program. And the third option is if they have a short release date (approximately two years) and need training to go out and get a job. We’ll look at enrolling them directly into training programs. We have 135 credentials that they can earn.”

“The men and women appreciate the programs and what we are doing for them. They don’t take it for granted. They volunteer to be in the programs because ultimately it’s going to affect their lives.”
-Kelsey Osman

More Than a Training Program

“The men and women appreciate the programs and what we are doing for them,” said Osman. “They don’t take it for granted. They volunteer to be in the programs because ultimately, it’s going to affect their lives.”

Osman explained that offering non-traditional fields for the women will prove to be more lucrative for businesses who hire the inmates as heavy equipment operators when they are released. “The businesses can show they are diverse, and they’ll provide opportunities for males and females in a dominant male area,” said Osman. “This opportunity that Doc (Sanders) has provided the women in the heavy equipment operator program will give them a leg up when they get out. They know that. And they see that. It’s pretty amazing to see the women operate heavy machines and how well they do it.”

“The impact that we make on these incarcerated people is unbelievable. You get to see it in live time. You get to see it happening right in front of you,” commented Osman. “They pass their exams. They earn the certifications. You see them get paroled with the opportunity to get jobs.”

Sanders added, “The main measure is they get NCCER certified. That means they’ve met a standard that’s accepted in the construction industry. So, if they get certified as a level one heavy equipment operator, they know how to do work. And we did a good thing. That’s a win for us.”

The Workforce Portal – the “Indeed” for Corrections

Connecting with potential employers is key for anyone seeking a job. The reentry program participants have the opportunity to do just that through a portal called the Workforce Portal. “It’s still very much in the early stages, but the Workforce Portal is the ‘Indeed’ for corrections,” explained Osman. “The inmates are approved to be a part of the portal then they put in their profile, just like on any other job search website.”

“The potential employers enter the specific criteria for what they need and seek out inmates who meet those fields.” Osman concluded, “Our ultimate objective is for the trained inmates to have an interview before they’re released. Then once they’re released, they go directly into a job.”

7 06, 2022

National Trench Safety Month

In addition to being National Safety Month, June is also Trench Safety Month. Throughout the month, the National Utility Contractors Association (NUCA) educates the public and non-NUCA industry companies about the importance of job site safety for employees who work underground or in and around trenches.

“In this industry, the safety of our employees on the job site is our top priority,” remarked Doug Carlson, NUCA CEO. “Making this June “Trench Safety Month” emphasizes the valuable training and experiences our member’s employees are gaining through the Trench Safety Stand Down week also held annually in June by our members.” For training and safety information, visit the NUCA website: https://www.nuca.com/tsm

1 06, 2022

National Safety Month

June is National Safety Month—the National Safety Council’s (NSC) annual observance to help keep everyone safe. In 2020, preventable workplace deaths totaled 4,113 according to Injury Facts®. As America’s leading nonprofit safety advocate, the NSC hopes to eliminate the leading causes of preventable injuries and deaths by providing safety resources and guidance to organizations, companies and individuals. Training workers how to stay safe and prevent accidents can help reduce injuries and fatalities in the workplace. As part of its initiative, the NSC offers safety courses to help organizations and companies reduce injuries, build a safety culture and stay compliant. For safety information, visit: https://www.nsc.org/work-safety/get-involved/national-safety-month.

24 05, 2022

From Good To Goat: Quick Wins For Operators

Michael Jordan. Serena Williams. Tom Brady. Simone Biles. Your mileage may vary, but most experts consider these athletes to be the GOAT — greatest of all time — in their respective sports. How’d they earn that title? Natural talent, for sure, but also lots of practice and commitment.

Given the ongoing labor shortage in construction, you may think your chances of finding GOAT-level equipment operators are slim to none. Good news: There are some simple steps you can take to turn good performers into great ones.

Don’t underestimate seat time. Michael Jordan practiced shooting free throws until the day he retired. Equipment operators need practice time, too. Give them the opportunity to get comfortable in their “office” — to figure out what a machine can and cannot do. This is true for new operators as well as experienced operators getting used to a new piece of equipment or onboard technology. Don’t want to pull a machine from your fleet or jobsite for training? Leverage Cat Simulators to train operators while saving fuel and wear in a controlled environment.
Tap into digital resources. Send an operator home with a hard copy of an operation and maintenance manual and you’ll likely put them to sleep. Good thing more and more machines today incorporate that information into the in-cab monitor. That makes it easy for operators to get answers to specific questions on the fly. And features like Operator ID let individuals set and store operating preferences, so they can just jump in the cab, push a button and start working efficiently.
Take advantage of assist features. Remember the days before cruise control or power steering? You could still drive a car, but now it’s so much simpler. Same with today’s equipment. Lift Assist and Grade Assist for excavators, Slope Assist for dozers and Stability Assist for articulated trucks are just a few examples of technologies available to help operators get work done faster, safer and more accurately.
Bring in the experts. With so many new tools and technologies on modern equipment, it’s asking a lot of operators to become proficient on day one. They may need someone to show them all the different features — where they are, how to turn them on, when it makes sense to use them and when it doesn’t. Get in touch with your equipment dealer and ask them to send a demo operator or trainer to your site for a day.
Know their talents. You’re going to have all kinds of personalities on the job site, and that’s a good thing. It’s up to you as a manager to understand your operators’ strengths. For example, good finish blade hands tend to have more patience and finesse than bulk excavator operators, who may take a more aggressive approach. When you put individuals in a position to excel, they perform better.
Encourage them to communicate. There may only be one person in the cab, but equipment operation is a team sport. When every operator knows what every other operator is up to, the work gets done more accurately and efficiently. It’s a good idea to get your crew together at the beginning or end of each day and talk about the plan for the next shift. It only takes a few minutes to get everyone on the same page, and the result is a better end product.

GOAT-level performance is possible — it just takes some time and commitment from both you and your operators. These quick wins are a great starting point. For more advice on turning operators from good to great, tune into this episode of The Contractor’s Best Friend podcast.

Original Article by: Lonnie Fritz, Caterpillar | For Construction Pros | May 22, 2022 | https://www.forconstructionpros.com/business/labor-workforce-development/article/22223748/caterpillar-cat-from-good-to-goat-quick-wins-for-operators

18 05, 2022

Four women inmates at LCIW Jetson to become certified heavy equipment instructors, teach other inmates

Four inmate-offenders at the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women Jetson have recently been getting hands-on experience with heavy equipment, including a backhoe and Bobcat brand skid steer, after going through Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) classroom work and training on a CAT heavy equipment simulator, in preparation for becoming the first four women there to be fully certified NCCER ( National Center for Construction Education and Research) instructors for future training of other offenders at LCIW Jetson. The offenders-teaching-offenders approach is a cost-effective way to give skills to offenders for their successful reentry, helping level the jobs playing field for them when they are released, said Kristy McGovern, LCIW Jetson’s Education Coordinator. HEO is just one of many education programs offered at LCIW Jeteson.

Recently, five offender-students at LCIW became the first women in the state to pass their coursework and state exams to become Licensed Cosmetologists while incarcerated, McGovern said.

Sheila Jenkins, an inmate-offender at the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women Jetson, trains Thursday, May 12, 2022 on a backhoe, getting a day on real real heavy equipment after going through Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) classroom work and training on a CAT heavy equipment simulator, in preparation for becoming fully certified NCCER ( National Center for Construction Education and Research) instructors for future training of other offenders at LCIW Jetson. She’s one of the first four taking the course. The offenders-teaching-offenders approach is a cost-effective way to give skills to offenders for their successful reentry, helping level the jobs playing field for them when they are released, said Kristy McGovern, LCIW Jetson’s Education Coordinator. HEO is just one of many education programs offered there. Recently, five offender-students at LCIW Jetson became the first women in the state to pass their coursework and state exams to become Licensed Cosmetologists while incarcerated, McGovern said.

Sheila Jenkins, left, an inmate-offender at the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women Jetson, talks with LCIW Warden Kristen Thomas, right, as fellow offender Dawn Bennett, center, demonstrates the use of a CAT heavy equipment simulator, in preparation for becoming fully certified NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) instructors for future training of other offenders there, Thursday, May 12, 2022. They’re two of the first four taking the course, doing Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) classroom work, training on the simulator and then on real heavy equipment. The offenders-teaching-offenders approach is a cost-effective way to give skills to offenders for their successful reentry, helping level the jobs playing field for them when they are released, said LCIW education coordinator Kristy McGovern. HEO is just one of many education programs offered at LCIW Jetson. Recently, five offender-students at LCIW became the first women in the state to pass their coursework and state exams to become Licensed Cosmetologists while incarcerated, McGovern said.

Cynthia Anderson, an inmate-offender at the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women Jetson, trains Thursday, May 12, 2022 on a Bobcat brand skid steer, getting a day on real real heavy equipment after going through Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) classroom work and training on a CAT heavy equipment simulator, in preparation for becoming a fully certified NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) instructor for future training of other offenders at LCIW Jetson. She’s one of the first four taking the course, including Dawn Bennett, right, working as her spotter. The offenders-teaching-offenders approach is a cost-effective way to give skills to offenders for their successful reentry, helping level the jobs playing field for them when they are released, said Kristy McGovern, LCIW Jetson’s Education Coordinator. HEO is just one of many education programs offered there. Recently, five offender-students there became the first women in the state to pass their coursework and state exams to become Licensed Cosmetologists while incarcerated, McGovern said.

Cynthia Anderson, an inmate-offender at the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women Jetson, trains Thursday, May 12, 2022 on a Bobcat brand skid steer, getting a day on real real heavy equipment after going through Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) classroom work and training on a CAT heavy equipment simulator, in preparation for becoming a fully certified NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) instructor for future training of other offenders at LCIW Jetson. She’s one of the first four taking the course, including Dawn Bennett, left, working as her spotter. The offenders-teaching-offenders approach is a cost-effective way to give skills to offenders for their successful reentry, helping level the jobs playing field for them when they are released, said Kristy McGovern, LCIW Jetson’s Education Coordinator. HEO is just one of many education programs offered there. Recently, five offender-students at LCIW Jetson became the first women in the state to pass their coursework and state exams to become Licensed Cosmetologists while incarcerated, McGovern said.

Apparatus that makes the CAT heavy equipment simulator into a ‘different machine, at the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women Jetson,Thursday, May 12, 2022.

Tiffany Byrd, an inmate-offender at the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women Jetson, trains Thursday, May 12, 2022 on a backhoe, getting a day on real real heavy equipment after going through Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) classroom work and training on a CAT heavy equipment simulator, in preparation for becoming fully certified NCCER ( National Center for Construction Education and Research) instructors for future training of other offenders at LCIW Jetson.

Tiffany Byrd, an inmate-offender at the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women Jetson , trains Thursday, May 12, 2022 on a backhoe, getting a day on real real heavy equipment after going through Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) classroom work and training on a CAT heavy equipment simulator, in preparation for becoming fully certified NCCER ( National Center for Construction Education and Research) instructors for future training of other offenders at LCIW Jetson. She’s one of the first four taking the course.

Dawin Bennett, an inmate-offender at the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women Jetson, demonstrates use of a CAT heavy equipmemt simulator, Thursday, May 12, 2022.

Sheila Jenkins, an inmate-offender at the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women Jetson, talks about going through Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) classroom work training on a CAT heavy equipment simulator and real heavy equipment, in preparation for becoming fully certified NCCER ( National Center for Construction Education and Research) instructors for future training of other offenders at LCIW Jetson. She’s one of the first four taking the course.

Sheila Jenkins, an inmate-offender at the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women Jetson, trains Thursday, May 12, 2022 on a backhoe, getting a day on real real heavy equipment after going through Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) classroom work and training on a CAT heavy equipment simulator, in preparation for becoming fully certified NCCER ( National Center for Construction Education and Research) instructors for future training of other offenders at LCIW Jetson. She’s one of the first four taking the course.

Sheila Jackson, right, an inmate offender at the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women Jetson, spots for Tiffany Byrd as she trains Thursday, May 12, 2022 on a backhoe, getting a day on real real heavy equipment after going through Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) classroom work and training on a CAT heavy equipment simulator, in preparation for becoming fully certified NCCER ( National Center for Construction Education and Research) instructors for future training of other offenders at LCIW Jeetson. They’re two of the first four taking the course.

Original Article by: Travis Spradling | The Advocate | May 17, 2022 | https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/multimedia/photos/collection_d253d99e-d5e8-11ec-b61a-6b785871e6ec.html#9

17 05, 2022

Howard College offers class to operate heavy equipment

BIG SPRING, Texas — Howard college in big spring is using new technology to get students ahead of the game when it comes to jobs that use heavy machinery, which applies to a lot of different jobs in our area.

The Heavy Equipment operator course at Howard College opens the door for opportunity.

“They’re going to come in and get a good basic understanding of heavy equipment and how to run it and they’re going to come here and learn the basic controls they’re going to learn how to operate them and operate them safely we’re going to learn how to maintain them and how to watch for problems on them and once they get done with the class they’ll be able to go to a job and go in there with some experience and some confidence that they’re able to run that equipment,” said the instructor for the class, Josh Caudill.

Instead of getting students out on the machines immediately, Howard College is doing something different, the class uses simulations of heavy machinery so students can learn how to use them correctly.

“It’s fun, it’s kind of like playing a video game for a whole class period,” Said one of the students, AJ Cortez.

This course provides a safe and effective way to learn how to operate machinery that can be dangerous.

“This gives them a good controlled safe environment to get in there get familiar with the controls, get them familiar with what it does without cause or concern with them damaging themselves with the equipment, or someone around them.” Caudill said.

After all is said and done, students can use the completion of their class to help them get a job and there are a lot out there.

“We just happen to live in an area of the country where it’s very industrial, there’s heavy equipment needed at every job, the refineries, down to the oil field, pipelines wind farms, you name it,” Claudill said.

Knowing how to operate heavy equipment in these industries can pay off literally.

“The average starting salary for a heavy equipment operator right now out there in this area is 30 dollars an hour,” Claudill said. “Right now with the amount of jobs there are and the skill it takes to run these pieces of equipment, they start you out pretty high and they get you out there pretty fast.”

Original Article by: Rachel Robinson | NewsWest 9 | May 16, 2022 | https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/local/howard-college-offers-class-to-operate-heavy-equipment-with-simulators/513-eb234df4-1a80-45f1-8b97-6e54193ebcca

13 05, 2022

Women learn trade skills at Louisiana Correctional Institute

BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) – Since 2016, the incarcerated population has decreased because of programs training people for jobs when they get out of prison.

It may look like normal Capital Area construction.

“Once I started it, it was just the idea of learning something new and being given an opportunity and it made me really want it,” Shelia Jenkins said.

But at Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women, inmates are practicing using heavy equipment.

“I love it and it’s something that I would pursue outside of here because you get the feel of what you’ve been training for, and we’ve been training since 2019, so now we get the feel of what we’ve really been doing, so now it feels like an accomplishment,” Jenkins said.

Jenkins and her colleagues are training to be able to teach more women how to use these machines.

“It’s a male-dominated industry, true, but I feel like it should be equal because being out here, we probably get the same feeling that they get, but it’s more invigorating because we are women, and no other women are really doing this, and we get an opportunity to make a statement to say, yeah, we could do it, to open the doors for us as well in order to get us a good paying job like them,” Jenkins said.

Before they get to the real heavy equipment, they practice on simulators.

“I can see why they do this, they simulate fighter jets and truck driving, so I see now how this really works because getting on the actual machine is so much easier because you know what they look for,” Dawn Bennet said.

Bennet is working on passing her certification exam next week.

“While we’re here right now, you can help train other people that can go home, and they can make a living, and make an honest living, they don’t have to come to prison,” Bennet said.

Since 2016, incarceration for non-violent offenses has gone down 35 percent, according to LWIC.

According to Kristy McGovern, Director of Educational Programs, that’s because of re-entry programs.

“They are going back with social skills and job employment skills as well as just character and financial ability and everything else that goes with that, so when they release, they are prepared to stay out of prison,” McGovern said.

Teaching women these professions normally dominated by men helps them break more barriers.

“I think we can do a lot of things if we would just put our mind to and focus on them. Learning overcomes obstacles. Yeah, it’s hot out there, but we’ve been having a blast out there,” Bennet said.

Original Article by: Kellie Sanchez | WAFB9 – Baton Rouge, LA | May 12, 2022 | https://www.wafb.com/2022/05/12/women-learn-trade-skills-louisiana-correctional-institute/