Students are exposed to the basic maintenance and operation of construction equipment: Bulldozers, Excavators, Loaders, Backhoes, Dump Trucks, Graders, and Trailers. The main emphasis in the program is on safety and work ethics. Students will also learn the basics of the 1-800-DIG-SAFE system, OSHA regulations, trench safety, basic first aid, personal protective gear and clothing, hand signals for equipment control, motor carrier safety regulations, the use of fire extinguishers, basic mechanics, basic welding, the proper use of hand tools, fluids, types of soils, erosion control, contamination considerations, stump and snow removal, reading blueprints, the use of transits, leveling/grading, preventative maintenance, road design, and employment/workplace skills.