Training Leader Looks to Fill the Technology Gap on Heavy Equipment
As a company that prides itself on adapting to the needs of students and employers, Major Training Group, one of Australia’s oldest registered training organisations, is pushing the boundaries again.
Since its founding in 1998, Major Training has supported the construction industry by providing training and certification services to individuals and companies across Queensland, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Ipswich and The Gold Coast. Heavy equipment ticketing is a large part of its services, with training on excavators, front-end loaders, dozers, graders, backhoes, skid steers and compact track loaders.
In partnership with Trimble and SITECH, the Trimble authorized dealer, Major Training is expanding its comprehensive training and certification curriculum to include technology, specifically the GNSS-enabled navigation and control of heavy machinery.
It’s an essential progression, according to Amelia Cunningham, Client Experience and Marketing Manager for Major Training. She added, “Not long ago, we realized that there was a gap in the market with regard to advancing technology. Contractors around the world are moving to more advanced solutions on machines to improve efficiency and accuracy on jobs. There’s a lot of need at jobsites to use the technology such as grade control—but few new operators have a way to learn how to use these systems.”
As part of the partnership, Trimble has installed the Trimble technology on Major Training’s machines and will provide a training package on how to use the system.
Under Major Training’s Plant Operator ticketing courses, the first phase of the Major Training/Trimble technology program will include an optional module for students in the standard excavator training course. In the class, students will learn how to use the Trimble Earthworks Grade Control Platform in both 2D and 3D modes.
Some curriculum points include:
- User interface, system operation and site setup
- Selecting projects and designs
- Creating projects and in-field designs
- Basic checks and troubleshooting
In the coming months, Major Training will be hosting Open House days for people to try out the software and talk to experts on capabilities. The company also plans to produce a series of one- to two-minute videos about specific features, functionality and troubleshooting that will provide our operators with continuing educational opportunities.
Cunningham concluded, “We have 6,000-8,000 students coming through our programs, and a high percentage are looking for heavy equipment training. Through this partnership, we can expand our students’ knowledge on purpose-built technology in real-world applications. It’s a wonderful opportunity to give these individuals a competitive edge in an increasingly technology-driven marketplace.”
About Major Training
Founded in 1998, Major Training Group is a nationally recognized registered training organisation (RTO) registered by ASQA to deliver VET services. Major Training provides apprenticeships and traineeships for a range of skills in the mining, construction and transport industries across Queensland, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Ipswich and The Gold Coast