Belmont, NY – February 8, 2022 – In early February, Heavy Equipment students from the CA BOCES CTE Center at Belmont received a day of advanced training on visiting CAT equipment simulators.
The CAT heavy equipment simulators deliver dynamic training technology and outstanding safety results through the power of state-of-the-art virtual training. The simulators are chosen as training solutions in such markets as mining, contracting, government, forestry, and trade and vocational schools, like CA BOCES.
Matt Hopkins, CA BOCES Student Services/Work Based Learning Coordinator, said that the simulators were top-of-the-line and will help prepare students for real-life training scenarios in the classroom and beyond. “This was such a great opportunity for our students,” he said. “Being able to offer this level of training and technology helps increase the future safety of our students and affords a unique link for them to the future of heavy equipment as the industry begins the transition to electric powered equipment. These simulators are an investment, and CA BOCES will continue to pursue all available resources to hopefully secure a simulator in the future for our programs.”
Hopkins additionally thanked staff for coordinating the training. “I must also thank Derek Decker, CTE Center at Belmont Heavy Equipment instructor, for coordinating this opportunity. He worked with CAT representatives through the month of January to bring them to Western New York, and we are grateful.”
As the regional leader in education services, CA BOCES offers state-of-the-art programs for learners of all ages and abilities as well as cost-effective shared services for 22 component school districts. CA BOCES empowers students to achieve their maximum potential by offering a wide variety of innovative programs and support that include special education, career and technical education, adult and continuing education, technology support, and instructional support services.