Heavy Equipment Technology

General Option

CAT Dealer Service Technician Option

47.0302

(Associate of Applied Science Degree)

The Heavy Equipment Technology program prepares individuals to perform maintenance, troubleshooting and overhaul of the major components of earth moving equipment.  Instruction is provided in the classroom on theory, inspection, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of tracks, wheels, brakes, operating controls, hydraulic systems, electrical circuitry, electronic and mechanical engines, manual and power shift transmissions. Some equipment operation is included to familiarize students with the equipment they are learning to repair.

The Heavy Equipment Technology program contributes to the green economy by updating the curriculum each year to include the latest technology used to meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations regarding emission and control systems. The newest tier of engine training, tier four, includes alternative fuels. Additional technology being developed includes hybrid powertrain systems, multi-fueled engines, and the “green” diesel engine that produces post-combustion air that is cleaner than the intake air, which positively affects the carbon footprint.

Graduates of the two-year Associate of Applied Science degree program will have the technical competencies required to be productive in an entry-level heavy equipment technician position. They can expect to find employment with construction companies, heavy equipment sales and service organizations, dealers, state highway maintenance departments and mining companies. The Heavy Equipment Technology program is accredited by the Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) Foundation. The program is also accredited by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE).

It is a graduation requirement of the Heavy Equipment Technology (HET) program for students to earn a grade of “C” or better in all “Core Curriculum” and “Program Requirements” courses.

Students who graduate with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Heavy Equipment Technology may pursue a second Associate of Applied Science degree in Electric Power Generation Technology.  A second Associate of Applied Science degree in Electric Power Generation Technology may be completed in two semesters if scheduling permits.

Program Mission
The mission of the Heavy Equipment Technology program is to provide students with the opportunity to develop the technical and interpersonal skills necessary to succeed in today’s Heavy Equipment Technology field.

Program Goals
The goals of the program are to:

• Provide the opportunity for students to develop electrical knowledge and skills needed to repair and maintain heavy equipment.
• Provide the opportunity for students to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to repair, maintain and troubleshoot diesel engines.
• Provide the opportunity for students to develop knowledge and skills necessary to repair, maintain and troubleshoot of hydraulic and drive train systems as they relate to heavy equipment.
• Provide an opportunity for students to develop and demonstrate critical thinking skills used in troubleshooting.
• Assure that students have the opportunity to develop oral and written communication skills needed in the diesel mechanic’s field.

Program Assessments

• Collegiate Assessment of Academic Proficiency (CAAP)
• CAT-On-Line  

HET 140 Introduction to Equipment Tracks, Tires and U/C. This course discusses various types of machinery. Introduction of preventive maintenance, proper starting procedure and operation. Also describes proper maintenance, adjustments and installation of undercarriage. 2 credit hours.

HET 141 Fluids and Filtration. This course discusses the purpose and characteristics of the different types of fuel, oil and lubricants. Also, the coolant system and filterization are discussed and applied. 3 credit hours.

HET 145 Engines I. Basic engine systems are the core components taught in this course. Participants will learn and discuss related component operations and their specific functions pertaining to engine performance. Activities will include engine overhaul, inspection, repair and maintenance. 3 credit hours.

HET 191 Internship I. The Heavy Equipment Technology Internship I is comprised of 640 hours of paid work experience in a heavy equipment dealership requiring the student to perform a variety of tasks. The student will be required to work eight hours per day for sixteen weeks. A training agreement between the employer, the student and the college is required. The student will submit a weekly summary of activities (tasks performed). 8 credit hours.

HET 242 Electrical Systems I. This course discusses the theory of electrical components and symbols, batteries, wiring and connector maintenance, schematic readings, starting systems, charging systems, and lighting systems. Diagnostic tooling is discussed and applied in detail. 3 credit hours.

HET 243 Electrical Systems II. This course teaches the fundamentals of electronics and computers, diagnosis and repair of electronic circuits, multiplexing, and the diagnosis and repair of electronically-controlled power train systems. Prerequisite: HET 242. 3 credit hours.

HET 244 Hydraulics I . This course discusses the theory of fluid power and hydraulics. Basic pump, motors and systems are explained. 3 credit hours.

HET 245 Hydraulics II. This course describes different types of hydraulics systems, schematic reading ISO symbols, diagnostic tooling, hoses and couplings. Prerequisite: HET 244. 3 credit hours.

HET 246 Power Train I. This course describes various transmission, torque converters, differentials, final drives and proper use of tooling. 3 credit hours.

HET 247 Power Train II. This course teaches assembly, disassembly rebuilding and troubleshooting of various makes and models. Prerequisite: HET 246. 3 credit hours.

HET 250 Failure Analysis. This course describes in detail how to analyze parts and system failures. 3 credit hours.

HET 251 Job Estimating, Diagnosis and Field Repair. This course will enable you to estimate jobs, diagnose equipment and perform field repairs. 4 credit hours.

HET 255 Engines II. This course will concentrate on advanced engine systems including ignition starting, charging, and fuel with emphasis on multi-fuel components and electronic engine control. Instruction includes the use of the latest computerized test equipment utilized in engine diagnostics. The course also includes instruction on mechanical and electronic governor control systems. Prerequisite: HET 145. Corequisite: AMT 145. 3 credit hours.

HET 299 Special Topics in Heavy Equipment Technology. HET 140 Introduction to Equipment Tracks, Tires and U/C. This course discusses various types of machinery. Introduction of preventive maintenance, proper starting procedure and operation. Also describes proper maintenance, adjustments and installation of undercarriage. 2 credit hours.