Course Codes by Semester: 8616/8617
Grades: 11-12
Prerequisites: None for 8616; Utility/Heavy Construction I for 8617
One-Year Program
Credits: One and a half (1.5) 1^st semester; One and a half (1.5) 2^nd semester

Students who want to work improve their community, enjoy working independently, have a strong sense of responsibility, possess good eye-hand-foot coordination, and work well in an outdoor setting, should explore exciting training and career opportunities in utility/heavy construction!

The Utility/Heavy Construction (UHC) program is a one (1) year program that prepares students for entry-level employment, and/or entry into post-secondary education programs. The program will provide both the knowledge and the hands-on skills needed to secure employment as a construction equipment operator. Students will learn about site grading and development, excavation, pipe laying, road building, surveying, reading blueprints, and construction safety. They will gain experience in operating excavators, bulldozers, and backhoes.

The program is designed to prepare students to take the National Center for Construction Education (NCCER) and Research and the Workplace Readiness Skills for the Commonwealth Certifications, pending a successful outcome on the exams.

Occupations: Construction Equipment Operators; Construction Laborers; General Contractor; Project Manager; Construction and Building Inspector; Carpenter

Typical Salary in Virginia: $30,660-$83,190 depending on education level and specialization
National Estimated Salary: $46,990

Employment Outlook: Overall employment of construction equipment operators is expected to grow 15 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. Spending on infrastructure should generate many jobs for construction equipment operators. Workers with the ability to operate multiple types of equipment should have the best job opportunities.

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