06/10/2025
BRCC’s new heavy equipment operation (HEO) simulator training room is officially open! The classroom is anything but a traditional space, and instead features multiple training stations for a safe, but hands-on, experience.
HEO instructor, Mike Bird says that the space provides training that, “looks and feels real, and is just another way for the student to build confidence before ever hitting the dirt.”
Safe environment – Simulators allow students to practice in a risk-free environment before operating real equipment, which should reduce the chance of accidents on working jobsites. Students are scored on how safely the machine was operated during each exercise.
Developing Skills Faster – Students build confidence and competence with hands-on practice in a controlled setting, accelerating their readiness for real-world operation. Their productivity is scored after each simulation to help identify areas for improvement.
Cost Savings – Training on simulators reduces fuel use, wear and tear on equipment, and downtime. Maintenance is another category that is scored after each simulation exercise, which helps the student understand the benefits of operating the equipment properly.
Skill Assessment – Simulators provide measurable performance data, helping instructors track progress and tailor instruction more effectively. Real time feedback after each simulation exercise shows students areas of success and those that need more training.
Collectively, all of the simulators can provide a Collaborative Worksite Training option which is a virtual worksite with other students while operating different types of equipment. Students can work as a team, much like they would on a real jobsite to complete a job. Equipment such as the excavator, bulldozer, and articulated haul truck are integrated into the simulation, allowing students to rotate through different roles and responsibilities. This hands-on experience helps them better understand the expectations and challenges they may face on any given day in the field.
“Through this training, students develop essential skills including effective communication, equipment positioning, safe operation around others, and best practices for completing assigned tasks,” explained Bird.
Virtual Reality Headsets are also used so students can immerse themselves in a realistic jobsite, providing better depth perception and a more realistic feel for their surroundings.
To see the list of upcoming HEO classes, visit go.brcc.edu/wce-heo.