How To Become a Technician with Boyd CAT

 

Are you looking to embark on a fulfilling career in the heavy equipment and diesel industry? Boyd CAT, a leading Caterpillar dealership, offers a range of comprehensive training programs designed to nurture your skills and provide you with the necessary expertise to thrive in this exciting, fast-growing field.

Let’s explore the various programs Boyd CAT offers to help you kickstart your career.

START Program

The Student Technician Apprentice Real-World Training (START) program is an ideal entry point for individuals with little to no formal training in heavy equipment and diesel mechanics. This comprehensive program includes classroom instruction at Boyd CAT’s Learning & Career Development Center in Louisville, Kentucky, coupled with a paid internship to help you gain real-world experience.

Upon successful graduation from the START program, students transition into our accelerated Apprentice Technician career path. This progression takes them through the roles of Shop Technician, Shop Technician I and eventually Field Technician, providing a clear and structured career trajectory.

ThinkBIG Program

Boyd CAT’s ThinkBIG Technician Training Program is a prestigious two-year associate degree program hosted at Illinois Central College (ICC). This program is for individuals who have some prior education or knowledge in the field and want to explore Caterpillar Dealership Service Technician roles. Selected candidates are sponsored through ICC’s Associate in Applied Science degree program.

ThinkBIG combines classroom lectures with state-of-the-art labs and real-world experience gained through paid internships at Boyd CAT locations. Students delve into topics such as engine fundamentals, machine hydraulics, Caterpillar fuel systems, machine electrical systems, transmissions, torque converters, and undercarriage/final drives.

During the two-year program, sponsored students alternate between attending classes at ICC and working alongside experienced technicians during internships at Boyd CAT’s dealership service facilities. This hands-on experience allows students to gain valuable insights into their future careers.

Upon successful completion of the ThinkBIG program, students transition into the role of a Shop Technician and with continued commitment and in-house training, they can advance to the coveted position of Field Technician.

Apprentice Technician Co-op

The Apprentice Technician Co-op program at Boyd CAT is designed for students pursuing a degree in an approved post-secondary Diesel Technology program. Our co-op program offers students the opportunity to work part-time at a Boyd CAT location while attending school. Under the direct supervision of experienced technicians, students perform tasks related to maintenance, repairs, and rebuilding of Caterpillar and allied heavy machinery.

Scholarships are available for select post-secondary programs, although they’re not mandatory. However, it’s highly recommended for students to consider scholarships as they offer financial support while pursuing their education.

Upon graduation from their respective post-secondary programs, students enrolled in the Apprentice Technician Co-op program transition into a full time Technician position. Subsequently, they undergo in-house training to advance to Shop Technician, Shop Technician I, and with dedication, can aspire to become a Field Technician.

Apprentice Technician

Boyd CAT’s Apprentice Technician program provides individuals with on-the-job training opportunities. Under the direct supervision of experienced, highly qualified technicians, participants engage in maintenance, repair, and rebuilding activities for various types of equipment. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing the practical skills required for a successful career in the heavy equipment and diesel Industry.

Apprentice Technicians follow Boyd CAT’s well-structured career development path, which includes quarterly scheduled training sessions. These sessions encompass formal classroom training, on-the-job learning, and skills training. As a result, Apprentice Technicians gradually progress to roles such as Shop Technician, Shop Technician I and ultimately Field Technician.

The Perks of a Technician Career

Many individuals opt for a traditional four-year college education, but perhaps you’ve made a different choice for various reasons. On the other hand, some may immediately seek unskilled work upon graduating from high school, only to discover that many of today’s promising career opportunities demand additional education, skills, and training beyond the high school level. If you’re in search of a well-paying career with long-term prospects, what’s your next step?

Consider entering the field of heavy equipment and diesel technology. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to work on some of the largest, most industrious, and technologically advanced machinery globally, all manufactured by industry leaders. This career path will transform you into a highly skilled and technically proficient professional, in high demand and poised for career advancement.

When you choose a career at Boyd CAT, you’ll enjoy:

• Competitive compensation
• A supportive work environment
• Continuous training opportunities
• Great benefits
• And more!

Jumpstart Your Career with Boyd CAT

Boyd CAT offers a diverse range of training programs tailored to individuals at different stages of their journey into the heavy equipment and diesel Industry. Whether you’re a novice or possess prior knowledge of the field, Boyd CAT’s programs provide a clear pathway for you to cultivate your skills, gain hands-on experience, and advance in your technician career.

Your journey to becoming a skilled technician starts here.