Virtual Training (Simulators)
Recognizing that learning the controls of a new machine is always the first step towards mastery of that machine, the Ohio Operating Engineers Apprenticeship & Training Fund has designed and produced in-house its own computer simulators. Built with “real” seats and controllers, the simulators use state-of-the-art software developed in Montreal, Canada. The training program offers introductory level training on mobile cranes, tower cranes, excavators, and machines for the forestry industry. Mobile crane controls can be configured for any hydraulically operated crane with up to four levers so that even experienced crane operators can get “seat time” with controls they are unfamiliar with. The tower crane module was developed with the help of Liebherr, Int’l. and simulates the controls of the tower crane at the Richfield Training Center. Its use is recommended prior to attending the 40 hr. Tower Crane class. The excavator software was developed in conjunction with Caterpillar’s Equipment Training Solutions Group and can be configured with Cat or John Deere controls Also available is a Ditch Witch Directional Drill Simulator. All of these programs have many, many exercises designed with increasing difficulty as the student progresses through the training modules.