Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin – Heavy Equipment Operating Apprenticeship
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Wisconsin / Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin – Heavy Equipment Operating Apprenticeship
Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin – Heavy Equipment Operating Apprenticeship (Madison & Rhinelander, WI)
Programs Offered
- Heavy Equipment Operating Apprenticeship (3-Year Program)
- Hands-on Training with Construction Machinery and Equipment
- Pathway to Journeyman Heavy Equipment Operator Certification
Program Overview
The Heavy Equipment Operating Apprenticeship Program through the Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin (ABC WI) provides comprehensive, hands-on training in the operation and maintenance of heavy construction equipment. Apprentices learn to safely operate cranes, bulldozers, excavators, and other machinery used in the construction of roads, bridges, and building sites. The program blends classroom instruction with on-the-job experience in a variety of environments and terrains.
This program is perfect for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, have mechanical aptitude, and want to build a rewarding career in the construction and infrastructure industries.
Hands-On Training
Apprentices gain real-world experience through supervised training, including:
- Operating heavy machinery such as excavators, cranes, bulldozers, and backhoes.
- Maintaining and inspecting machinery to ensure safe and proper operation.
- Reading and interpreting construction plans and site layouts.
- Applying safety protocols for various terrain and weather conditions.
- Troubleshooting mechanical and operational issues on equipment.
Certification & Licensing Prep
- Completion qualifies apprentices for journeyman heavy equipment operator status in Wisconsin.
- Includes safety certifications and equipment operation standards recognized in the industry.
- Graduates are prepared for advanced operator or supervisory positions within construction companies.
Career Paths & Salary Outlook
- Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice: Earn wages while completing field and classroom training.
- Journeyman Operator: Eligible for full trade pay upon program completion.
- Advanced Roles: Opportunities to move into foreman, site supervisor, or equipment maintenance management roles.
Program Length
- 3-year apprenticeship program.
- Includes classroom instruction and on-the-job training through partner contractors.
Admission Requirements
- Completion of the online apprenticeship application.
- High school diploma, GED, or verified equivalent (transcript or documentation required).
- Copy of driver’s license or transportation plan to access training and job sites.
- Ability to work safely in outdoor environments and varying conditions.
Compensation & Benefits
Apprentices earn a percentage of the journey-level wage that increases annually—60% in the first year, 65% in the second year, and 70% in the third year. The average skilled wage rate for heavy equipment operators in Wisconsin is approximately $36.96 per hour, plus benefits such as healthcare and retirement contributions.
Cost & Financial Support
The apprenticeship is tuition-free. Classroom and on-the-job training are provided through the Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin and the Northcentral Apprenticeship and Training Center (NATC). Apprentices earn wages while receiving professional training at no cost.
Location
Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin
Northcentral Apprenticeship and Training Center (NATC)
Madison & Rhinelander, WI (block class format)
Training coordinated through ABC WI’s statewide apprenticeship network.
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
This is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you will earn while you learn.
- Paid on-the-job training with increasing wages
- Classroom or technical instruction provided by the program
- No tuition costs — apprentices are paid during training
- Nationally recognized credential upon completion
Because apprenticeships are managed through the U.S. Department of Labor, College Scorecard data for tuition and earnings does not apply. Apprenticeships provide real-world experience and a direct path to journeyman-level wages without student debt.