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On-the-Job Education and Experience

For motivated individuals interested in learning Caterpillar’s Technician trade, Boyd CAT offers The Student Technician Apprentice Real-World Training (START) program, designed to provide on-the-job education and experience for those with little to no formal training in heavy equipment and diesel mechanics.

An entry-level, early-career opportunity, the START Program develops skilled Shop Technicians through Boyd’s Technician Career Development Path.

How You'll Learn

This comprehensive program includes classroom instruction at Boyd CAT’s Learning and Development Center in Louisville, Kentucky, coupled with a paid internship to help participants gain real-world experience.

Each Student Technician Apprentice builds technical education and technical work experience to further develop specific technical skills through a defined curriculum of on-site technical studies, online courses and on-the-job training.

START on Schedule

After 4 weeks of instruction in the Louisville Learning Center, START Program students rotate to a hosting Boyd CAT location.

The course of study includes a total of 8 weeks unpaid classroom instruction and a 4-week paid internship.

KickSTART Your Career

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.

Program Requirements

Successful START participants must:

  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Maintain a current, valid state driver’s license
  • Pass a drug screen and background check
  • Be willing to learn and be trained
  • Have excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills

Build Your Career Here

Apply to the START Program

Search for “Student Technician Apprentice” on the Boyd CAT careers page. Identify a location with a posted opening and fill out the online application.

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