Caltrans Heavy Highway Construction Trades Academy offers hands-on training for students

BLUE LAKE - Students recently took part in Contractor Day at the Blue Lake Rancheria, supplementing their classroom education with hands-on experience. The training enabled Caltrans industry partners to evaluate trainees' proficiency in operating heavy equipment and gauge their potential value to their organizations. Participants gained experience operating a range of equipment, including dozers, loaders, excavators, rollers, skid steers and backhoes. During training, students also had opportunities to network with contractors and Caltrans officials.

"Contractor Day is a vital bridge between our students and the local construction industry," said Sandy Mitchell, Program Manager, Baker Technical Institute. "It gives contractors the chance to see the skills these students are developing firsthand, while also opening doors for our graduates to step directly into careers that help fill critical workforce needs across Humboldt County."

The Heavy Highway Construction Trades Academy is a seven-week initiative to address the high demand for skilled workers. Twenty students are receiving free tuition for the comprehensive training program. Caltrans has partnered with Baker Technical Institute, the Federal Highway Administration and the Humboldt County Workforce Development Board for the academy.

This specialized academy provides customized training for individuals with diverse experience levels, from those with minimal experience in operating equipment and construction trades to those seeking to improve their skills. By utilizing advanced technology, including heavy equipment simulators and instructor-guided equipment operation, participants will develop the skills essential to achieving success in their careers.

A graduation ceremony is planned for Thursday, Aug. 28, in the Sapphire Palace at Blue Lake Casino. The next Heavy Highway Construction Trades Academy is scheduled to be held in Fresno County from October 27 to December 18.

To learn more about the program, visit https://dot.ca.gov/programs/civil-rights/workforce-development-branch/heavy-highway-construction-trades-academies or call (541) 524-2651.

Watch a video of Contractor Day at Blue Lake Rancheria.

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