Our heavy equipment operator program offers a 6-week equipment operator certification. It includes the operation of backhoes, bulldozers, excavators and five other types of equipment. With experienced, professional instructors we prepare truly valuable operators with the real world skills, knowledge and certification necessary to succeed in the nation’s fastest – and constantly – growing industry.
All HCA programs are delivered in a way that the “hands on” learner can really grasp. A dynamic combination of classroom instruction, field demonstrations and, most importantly, in-the-seat training affords students of all academic abilities the opportunity to immediately apply newly learned skills and rapidly reach proficiency.
We are continuously monitoring and adapting our curriculum to best suit our students for current industry demands. This will ensure that no matter when you attend HCA you will never be using outdated or irrelevant techniques.
Our heavy equipment training programs are the perfect place to start if you’re seeking a career in construction or a heavy equipment operator job. Upon completion of the program you will be certified on these 8 pieces of heavy equipment:
HCA is approved by the NHSAA Office to administrate VA Educational Benefits (including the Veteran Readiness and Employment-Chapter 31 program) for eligible students. The VA makes all eligibility determinations and students that believe they may be eligible for any benefits should seek determination from the VA. The ‘‘GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/education
A Leif Contingent Payment Plan (CPP) – Provides income-contingent financing with fixed, predictable monthly payments through a Contingent Payment Plan (CPP). Giving students the flexibility to plan their expenses ahead of time and spread tuition costs over fixed-monthly payments when they are in well-paying jobs.
A CPP allows students to pay back a fixed monthly amount after their program ends. Payments are only made when the student is employed above a minimum income threshold. Payments continue for a fixed number of months or until the total amount paid reaches a predetermined maximum. Preview plan agreement. To apply, click here.
We partnered with Climb because they’re focused on financing career-advancing education like Heavy Construction Academy, and helping people who want career elevation and increased earning power to own their next chapter.
Climb offers:
A 5-minute online application with the ability to add a cosigner and no impact to credit score* — so you can apply with multiple co-signers to see your best offer.
Instant decisions 90% of the time, with the ability to accept and e-sign your documents in just a few clicks
Friendly and responsive customer service available by email and instant chat from 9am to 9pm Eastern
Definitely the best program like this in the country. Instructors are skilled, extremely passionate and take it very seriously. You will learn proper skillful techniques that actually prepare you for the real world work environment, you wont just be nonchalantly pulling controls all day like a monkey. Career services are also super nice and really help you find a lot of good job leads.
Freddie Amaro
16:13 08 Sep 22
this is a very awesome school I've learned alot in the 6 weeks I attended. The staff from the Instructors to HR are great people they help out alot with a goal to teach and help find a job in this career. so far I have recommended this to multiple friends and relatives
FREDERICK LANG
08:18 15 Jul 22
Very good school with serious and well thought out curriculum. From day one it is "Hit the Ground Running" Academy simulates a real world Job site. All instructors are serious and will make sure you learn not only the machines but the Academics behind the Jobs and Machines. The Career Counselor is 100% on point along with the Travel Consultant and the Owner. I am very Thankful for my time at Heavy Construction Academy and would Highly Recommend the Academy.
Matthew Inman
01:06 30 Apr 22
Had the best time here at HCA, from the equipment we use to the instructors, The recruitment team, and to the owner thank you.
Gus Boyer
00:57 12 Mar 22
I just graduated from HCA and it was an amazing 6 weeks. I got a ton of hands on experience and made some great friends. Bill, Nate, and Rick are absolutely amazing instructors with tons of knowledge and experience to help everyone learn. I highly recommend attending this school if you plan on becoming a heavy equipment operator.
Brian Jenkins
18:26 01 Mar 22
Many Veterans have come here to ensure a smooth transition into a high paying HEO career. Can't say enough good things about the Academy and how it's helped its students become successful in finding a meaningful, enjoyable career.
Clay Webster
16:45 11 Jan 22
I attended HCA in June of 2020. It was hands down one the best experiences I’ve ever had. The course is very well structured with the majority being seat/stick time. Bill and Jordan were two of the instructors and I couldn’t have asked for any better. The other aspect that sets HCA apart is their career services FOR LIFE. Whether you’ve never operated heavy equipment before, or grew up doing it, this school is absolutely worth attending.Thank you again to everyone at HCA
Alvin Santiago
20:55 20 Dec 21
Transitioning from the military was extremely stressful but attending HCA was a huge relief. Not only are the instructors knowledgeable, they know from experience. The entire staff is there to help you and a huge thanks to the career services department, just 3 days after graduation I was able to get two on the spot job offers. Great school, great instructors, great staff.
Peter Byrne
22:56 08 Oct 21
Great school with a good curriculum and equipment for each student. Teaches you the ins and outs of each machine and the career field basics. Great location as well!
Tyler Gaskill
14:39 29 Jun 21
The school was an awesome experience and I highly recommend it to anyone trying to get into this career field. The instructors and staff are great people and are willing to help you.
Chef Loui V
16:31 13 May 21
GREAT Experience overall!!!!! The Academy is designed to simulate Heavy Construction work environments. You gain the knowledge, skills and technique!!!!! You will graduate with everything you need! Enroll Now!
Aaron Hernandez
10:24 23 Apr 21
If you are thinking about attending this school, I highly encourage you to do so, this is the best decision I’ve ever made in my life, the instructors take pride in everything they do, if your worried about no having experience on equipment trust me you don’t need it, I didn’t know a single thing about equipment and now I feel very confident in my ability to operate, Nate, chad and bill are great guys thank you again.
Brett Taylor
03:53 13 Apr 21
Instructors are knowledgeable and make the curriculum both easy to follow and understand. Like 90% veteran class made me feel at ease and comfortable. Forgot something the other day, rhe instructors are passionate about their craft. That makes the subject matter interesting and the focus. Week 2 id probably die for bill already. He's pro, ill update when i have more experience with other instructors
Brett Taylor
17:00 08 Apr 21
Instructors are knowledgeable and make the curriculum both easy to follow and understand. Like 90% veteran class made me feel at ease and comfortable
Brandon Mullins
07:22 02 Mar 21
The instructors and staff are very good at what they do. They're entire job revolves around you. You can tell through time there, that each one of the instructors and staff members enjoy giving class after class valuable knowledge that those students such as myself, will take with them forever. Because of attending this school I've got opportunities that I would have never found. I highly recommend this academy and I am thankful for their dedicated staff.
Michael Rodriguez
22:03 14 Jan 21
Heavy Construction Academy is a very good school if you want to get into the Heavy Equipment industry. The instructors are very well trained in all the equipment. They give you an opportunity to learn at your own pace and are always giving you positive feedback while you are learning to operate the equipment. You can have 0 experience in this industry and by the time you graduate, you will have the confidence and knowledge to get into any job. The Career Service department is great. They work very hard to help you find a promising career and will always help you. Even years after you have graduated from the Academy. So if you are truly interested in operating any Heavy Construction Equipment, please call this school and attend. Thank you Heavy Construction Academy.
Randy Redmon
23:00 24 Nov 20
This is by far the best vocational school ever. The instructors are very knowledgeable and extremely helpful. You get to operate your own machines. No sharing. Theres minimal classroom time once you get past week one. Just all around a great place and I would recommend anyone interested in the Heavy Equipment Occupation to give this place a shot.
Tony
14:10 12 Nov 20
Great school. Have been doing excavation, underground utilities, and hauling heavy equipment every since attending this school. Gives you all around great basic knowledge of the machines and definitely helps knowing how to maintain them. If I could tell anyone to add to their heavy equipment experience, get your class a cdl with it and you’ll have way more fun.
Clancy Jonez
04:11 21 Sep 20
H.C.A is like a dream came through for me. I must say these instructors are the most humbled and patient set of individuals, especially to coach and mentor King Author, and their expertise is second to none. This is a good course and money well spent. Career service is also useful; they are good at there job. Trust me, if you are focus and determination is to become a Heavy Equipment Operator, this is the place to be.
David Roy
14:11 25 Aug 20
Disclaimer**** This is a review about calling the place, not about attending****When I contacted Heavy Construction Academy on Facebook, they got back to me within a day. Then after about a half hour, one of their staff members called me. They did leave a message since I couldn't pick up. Then when I called back, I connected to Wes and I got all the information that I needed... starting from, the cost of the tuition, (which is pricey, but they do have a loan office) all the way to them telling me that they help you find a job, they provide lodging and that you will be certified for 8 different heavy machinery. Thank you Wes, you have been a great help. I look forward to attending the school next summer.
Zak Silva
19:19 10 Aug 20
Best decision I ever made. Extremely knowledgeable staff and instructors. Exceptional equipment with plenty to go around. And an expert career services team that helped me get an amazing job. I cant even begin to express how happy I am with this school.
Brandon Mullins
16:19 09 Jul 20
The instructors and staff are very good at what they do. They're entire job revolves around you. You can tell through time there that each one of the instructors and staff members enjoy giving class after class valuable knowledge that those students such as myself, with take with them forever. Because of attenting this school I've got opportunities that I would have never found. I highly recommend this academy and I am thankful for their dedicated staff.
Joey Lugo
01:59 13 Jun 20
It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. All of the instructors were great. Lot of knowledge hands on and classroom. I’d love to do it all over again.
Voodoo Hunta
17:16 14 May 20
Plenty of other reviews tell you more about the school in-depth. I'm on here to tell you, if you have any thought of going here, do it. It is worth the time, and is an awesome experience. Veterans and active soldiers, it is the most painless process to get here, they know how to walk you through it.
Chad Mulverhill
19:09 22 Apr 20
I just wanted to send a quick follow-up. I hired one of your graduates and he has been an absolutely outstanding equipment operator for us! He is steady and deliberate in his movements, takes great care of our equipment/customers and has kept an outstanding attitude as we teach him our methodologies and strategies in how we operate our business. He is currently running the sales loader position at our busiest location and is doing a great job…I’ll take 2 more if him if you have them!Thanks again…
Adam Rodriguez
18:33 01 Jan 20
From day one you new you where in a great school, they keep exceeding that as the 6 weeks went along, instructors are knowledgeable, they give you all the basics and skills you need. Great school.
eric anthony
20:27 20 Nov 19
This school has gone more in depth then the military has. Lots of hands on/ stick time on all the equipment. If you have a question about something the instructors will help you to get that question answer. The instructors are very knowledgeable on all the equipment.
Danielle Knight
02:35 05 Nov 19
Heavy construction academy is an awsome experience, fun helpful staff, and lots of hand on training. Well worth the time and money. Thanks again hca
Darrell Davis
22:09 04 Nov 19
This is a good school to attend, they have great instructors who are very knowledgeable and very helpful career services who assisted me in getting a job immediately after graduation
Terrence Anderson
18:42 18 Sep 19
Money well spent,instructors are very knowledgeable and patient.they will teach you everything you need to know and more.also shout out to the career services ladies for them bomb resumes and those job offers.im leaving this school with 5 interviews next week. THANKS HCA!
Julio A Clavell Jr
18:47 16 Sep 19
Instructors are very Knowledgeable, and lessons are easy to follow. We don't share equipment so we learn on them all day. 6 weeks long but every day you learn effectively. If you are a Veteran they help you apply for the GI Bill.
Rodney Harrington
20:40 25 Jul 19
Was the best thing I've ever done... Instructors were great, gained lots of knowledge and experience and met a lot of great people.... Career services also was a huge help as far as helping find the right place to be for work..... Would do it all again in a sec!!!!!
RICHARD BARTON
14:42 25 Jul 19
The school was really understanding when I was just there. The teachers are there for you with firm teaching understanding and great time management. The hotel was cool as long as we didn't get out of hand. Over all I would do the program again in a min.
Nathan White
13:13 19 Jul 19
I went to this training several years ago. They paid for the flight there and back, the hotel while attending, the hotel had breakfast for us every morning and lunch was provided for us at the training facility. The only thing you are responsible for is your dinner and on the weekends. The hotel we stayed in while there was close to Walmart so that we could get food while there as well as other restaurants. The training is 6 weeks and most people think that 6 weeks is a long time but with the very informative instructors in the class room and out in the field in your own equipment that 6 weeks goes fast. Each piece of equipment has a radio and at anytime you got a question instead of shutting down your machine and getting out to go ask the instructor you can just talk to him directly without anyone else knowing you are talking to them. The instructors set up exercises where they will test your knowledge and operating skills to make you a better operator. At the end of the program no you will not be a master of each piece of equipment but you will have the knowledge of that equipment and can build on that yourself in your career as a heavy equipment operator. I went to work for my local city and after 2 years I made crew chief and in the process now of becoming a field operations supervisor. I have to give credit to Heavy Construction Academy and their staff for the help along the way.
Kolby Beauvais
16:35 18 Jul 19
Excellent program, instructors are extremely knowledgeable and provide a really good learning environment both in the classroom and in the field. A majority of the time in the course is spent in your own piece of equipment which gives a lot of hands on experience.
raheem Wesley
21:37 15 Jul 19
Helped with resume and finding a job and even called long after finding a job to tell me of other jobs. Awesome place
brent mansfield
13:05 18 Apr 19
It's been almost two years since I graduated from heavy construction Academy I can truly say it was the greatest decision I ever made in my entire life I was able to gain Financial stability I was able to land in the operator engineer Union I was able to pay for my wedding and my second home I owe everything to this program and they're amazing instructors push you every day to be a great operator so truly thank you Bill and Jim I hope you're both doing well say every morning how much I really miss school and how much fun I truly had so if you're having any thoughts about checking out this program I highly recommend you do is it really will change your life
Joshua Hall
02:42 12 Apr 19
To be honest I don’t know what was better the instructors or the stick time. The instructors try their best to keep things interesting. I learned most of what I have needed from Bill and Nate in level 1 and Jim and Rick in level 2. One of the best choices I have made, minus the -19 degree weather in the winter, but even then they were very accommodating for us that weren’t use to the cold like them. Overall 5 out of 5 stars hands down. Oh and they helped me find a awesome job making killer pay for where I live.
Alex Labier
19:24 28 Mar 19
This school is top notch I have had the best experiences here between the instructors, equipment, training, safety and accommodations. I would recommend this school to anyone who is looking to learn a skill that will provide you with the opportunity to have a career that is not only rewarding but pays well. I know this school has given me purpose, drive, and the comradery that I was missing since leaving the service but most importantly it’s given me a chance to make a better life for myself and my family!Thanks HCA sincerely Alex LaBier
James Fitzpatrick
13:49 25 Mar 19
This is a great program for veterans I went here and it gave me the basic knowledge to get into the career I wanted. The instructors are very knowledgable and have no problem taking the time to show you something if you have a question. I wasnt lucky enough to get a job right out of school but was able to get in construction as a laborer operator and get some seat time .I currently do water main services making 56.00 an hour. I highly recommend this program keep up the good work guys
Rich Blackman
22:02 28 Feb 19
School was awesome an the instructors an the whole staff. I was just trying to gain knowledge but i gained lifetime relationships with great people HCA really saved my life an im forever thankful for everyone who helped me become a better man an father with a career now so i can show my family an friends its more to life then the streets.... Im a heavy equipment operator now ✊💪💯
Terry Hellerer
20:56 04 Feb 19
Fantastic experience, Awesome instructors such as ...Bill, Nate, Jim, and Rick. They gave me alot of 1 on 1 training to hone in my skills as an operator. From everything I learned to everyone in career services, this school is everything I was looking for in a trade school. Every student is in their own piece of equipment everyday, and rotate equipment everyday as well. This school will teach you everything you need to know about being a safe/quality operator. But nothing they teach you means anything unless you apply yourself both in class and in career Services. If you read a bad review on this school its because that person didn't apply herself/himself and didn't take it seriously. But all things aside, I would recommend this school to anyone who is serious about starting a new career and new life as a heavy equipment Operator. I also want to wish the school continued success in the future, I appreciate the opportunities given to me as well. Thank you HCA, your school definitely changed my whole outlook on life as an operator!!!! - Terrence Hellerer class of February 2019
David Grimsley
04:18 02 Feb 19
Congradulations to the graduating class of February 1st 2019 at the heavy construction academy brentwood N.H . Wish i could've been there today . Also i wish to throw out a special thank you to the 4 great instructors i had the opportunity to have been guided and trained by . To Bill and Nate the instructors of level 1 ...aswell asTo Jim and Rick the instructors of level 2Thank you guys for setting the foundation of our (my) learning experience as well as helping to build confidence in operating heavy equipment from the first to the last peice of equipment you trained us(me) on in level 1 & level 2 . It helped 100% getting our class ( me) ready for any carreer as an operator that will follow after we (i) leave to find our (my)way onto the worlds jobsite. Thank you to Jim and An extra special thank you to Rick for acting as a councilor for me(even though thats not in the job decription) in a dark time when i needed to hear positive things surrounding my family medical situation . Everything was taken in and you helped me to ease the pain i was feeling deeply about . Ps i hope they fix your bus 😁Also the career services department,Dr. Anderson and Sheila were very informative and helpful . Even though my computer skills are very under par the worked with me and never gave up trying to help me to navigate the searches and getting my resume out into the hands of prospective employers online myself . Thank you to everyone at heavy construction academy .David Grimsley
DJ 517
13:53 10 Dec 18
This is the best operating school in the nation. Period. You are always in a machine, learning from the best. If you want to get into the industry and start making a name for yourself, or are just looking for a new direction, whatever brings you here, this is the place to learn heavy equipment. It is a 10/10. A+. You get what you put in, so if you come here to learn and work hard, you're on track to become a real operating talent.Go to HCA, you won't regret it. Daniel Carney(Graduating class of November 2017)
Serena Daley
12:45 02 Nov 18
I enjoy going to see Sheila, Chris and Ken up in Career Services. They always had possible job leads for me, were very patient when I was unsure on where I wanted to end up, and helpful with the cold calling. They also create a sick resume for you in the first week. What!?!?!?! Thanks guys!
CJ Hardesty
23:17 14 Oct 18
The instructors are beyond patient. Bill, Nate, Jim, and Rick. Thank you all for your time and commitment to getting us as much seat and stick time as possible. This wouldn't have been possible without you guys. Thank you to career services for your hard work in finding leads. If you are interested in HEO, come here.
Christopher Cunningham
22:57 20 Jul 18
Very Great school graduated in December 2015. I Have been running equipment every since was the best decision I ever made to go and get the knowledge from HCA. I would recommend this school to anyone that doesn't mind getting a little dirty and have a great career not just another job in the construction industry. Thanks for everything HCA
jontae jernigan
19:53 18 Jul 18
My experience here at the HCA was tremendously adequate. I enjoyed every single aspect of the time spent here. From the classroom modules, to the outside field projects. The instructors were hands-on. They really cared about your success and about how to make you as successful as possible. I would recommend this academy to any and everyone that's considering the engineering field. Its an excellent way to get your foot in the door and get started on a great career.
Brandon Copeland
19:55 12 Jul 18
This school is wonderful. They are very patient, they teach everything you'll need to know to get you started. I graduated in April of 2018....i know have a job in Colorado...making REALLY good money. Thank you for everything.
Patrick Noonaneggeman
23:34 09 Jul 18
An absolutely amazing school. The teachers know everything you need to know and will answer every question. 10/10 would recommend.
Tanya Perkowski
15:06 31 May 18
I would absolutely recommend the heavy construction academy to anyone interested in this career field. From the instructors to the career center and finance office, you are taken care of every step of the way. They want you to succeed, but you will have to put some work in, yourself if you truly want to be successful.
Brian Martin
18:24 03 May 18
Congratulations to the 2018HCA430 Graduates! And setting a record on graduates leaving with jobs! Well done.
dabbin alaskin
00:04 17 Apr 18
It was a great experience. I now have the knowledge of safety operation of heavy equipment and base of blueprint and excavation math. I now have a great career path based on being certified operator
Amanda Ovington
18:57 22 Mar 18
I came to the HCA in January to change my career path and it's one of the best decisions I've made. The instructors take the time to make sure you know what you're doing and encourage you to ask your questions. They have great senses of humor and will laugh with you. If you're in a piece of equipment and are unsure about what you're doing, there's a radio so you can talk to the instructor, and that radio was my best friend for my first few weeks when everything was so new. (Poor Bill. He and Kevin were incredibly patient.) I had an awesome group of classmates and have made some lifelong friends. I was the only woman in a class of 23, but I felt welcome and accepted from Day 1. The instructors and my "pack" really brought out the best in me. The Career Services office was a great help in finding work in a new field, and Lori was fantastic as we worked together on my resume. My biggest fear before deciding to enroll was whether I'd be employable, but I had a job offer the day before graduating the program. I start my new job soon, and I'm wicked excited!
nicholas fetsko
18:53 22 Mar 18
Thank you for reaching out and handling what happened during my time there in a professional manner. I very much appreciate the coverage of all the expenses and thank you for doing so. In light of this, I will happily change my rating.
Patrick Hannigan
15:48 20 Mar 18
Best decision I’ve ever made. Great school if you like to get your hands dirty and operate equipment everyone there is very open minded and will step out of their way to help you find a job and help you do basically anything that needs to be done!! Thank you guys for giving me a wonderful opportunity. I hope everyone thinking about going goes you won’t regret it!
Charles Ganoung
14:59 20 Mar 18
This was an amazing school! The instructors Bill, Nate, Jim and Craig are top notch! They explained everything clearly and made it all understandable. If you have a question they do not hesitate answering and taking the time that you understand. Career services is stellar when it comes to writing resumes and helping in job searching I came home after 6 weeks to a job with other perspective employers wanting to interview for other operating positions. If you're interested do it! It's worth the effort! It'll change your life for the better
Kevyn Alexander
21:00 02 Mar 18
Great school! The instructors are amazing and have so much knowledge they can answer any and all questions you may have! Career services do an outstanding job with your resume and assisting in your job search!
Michael Marmion
20:39 26 Aug 17
The school is a very professional atmosphere. Every aspect of the of the program was well designed and completely helpful. From the beginning Michelle helped me with my VA package to get me enrolled and was exceptionally knowledgeable with the whole process. The instructors were professional and knowledgeable with the field and were very approachable with any and all questions. Each instructor complemented the others teaching style which made the learning very comfortable, especially the field experience. Ralph, the owner was genuinely concerned with the learning experience of the students and the quality of the education. I would highly recommend this program to anyone who is interested in the field and who wants to come out of it with a feeling of confidence for getting a job. I have several companies competing for my employment!
Our heavy equipment operator program offers a 6-week equipment operator certification. It includes the operation of backhoes, bulldozers, excavators and five other types of equipment. With experienced, professional instructors we prepare truly valuable operators with the real world skills, knowledge and certification necessary to succeed in the nation’s fastest – and constantly – growing industry.
