Heavy Equipment Careers May Get Six Year Boost

If Barack Obama gets his way then heavy equipment careers are likely to see some stability over the next six years. In fact, there is a good chance that we will once again see a shortage of skilled operators in the industry. The President is a proposing a $50 billion program that will see 150,000 miles of roads, 4,000 miles of railways and 150 miles of airport runways affected by some form of construction or maintenance program. That’s a lot of dollars and a lot miles to work on – even if it is spread out over six years.

For heavy equipment operators, or those looking to enter the industry, the news is most welcome. Even if you’re not directly affected by these types of programs, you will feel the spin-off effects. Operators will come from all areas looking to participate in these programs. This will leave a shortage of operators in many areas, particularly regional areas. Operators not directly involved will then be in a position to fill local vacancies caused by these programs.

If you are looking at heavy equipment as a possible career option, I suggest you keep your eyes on what is happening in Washington. Better yet, act now and complete your training before any of these programs are set in concrete. If you wait too long, you will be trying to start a career at the same time as many others – having a head start could see you in the box seat once demand starts to increase.