Program Details

These outstanding career development programs will help build the foundation of your future career at a Cat Dealer, whether you enjoy working in the shop or prefer the independence of traveling to work sites and interacting with customers. In time, graduates become specialized experts skilled in a wide variety of technologies such as electronically controlled engines, sophisticated computer-based diagnostics, state-of-the-art hydraulics, transmissions and more. You'll then apply this know-how to service and repair over 300 different Cat® machines and engines that work in industries as varied as agriculture, logging and forestry, power generation, construction, marine, road building, earthmoving, material handling, trucking and transport, locomotive and mining.

ThinkBIG

Our 2-year ThinkBIG program teaches you how to service Caterpillar® equipment using cutting-edge diagnostic and maintenance systems, advanced technologies and high-tech tools. ThinkBIG combines classroom work with hands-on learning in the field and in state-of-the-art labs, so students see technologies in real-world applications—solving problems and helping Caterpillar customers get their jobs done. Graduates of ThinkBIG receive an associate's degree in applied science.

Classes
Program coursework is comprehensive, specialized, and well-rounded. Your course areas may include: English, composition, speech, psychology, lab science, social science, and math.

  • Electronics Powertrain and transmissions
  • Air conditioning, welding, construction, and agricultural equipment studies
  • Engines
  • Undercarriage
  • Hydraulics

Internships
All programs also offer on-the-job training at local Cat® dealerships. You will have the opportunity to work directly with Cat machines and engines, assist trained technicians, and experience first-hand how it feels to be a valuable member of the Cat dealer family.

ThinkBIGGER

ThinkBIG participants are offered the opportunity to extend their education and training with our ThinkBIGGER program, located at the Pittsburg State University College of Technology in Pittsburg, Kansas.*

Like the 2-year program, ThinkBIGGER gives you complete, hands-on training for a real-world job as a Cat Dealer Service Technician. However, this 4-year program also equips you with engineering technology, theory, logic and business skills to broaden your knowledge, better prepare you for management opportunities and make you a more versatile employee. Graduates of ThinkBIGGER receive a bachelor of science degree in science and technology.

Classes
Program coursework is comprehensive, specialized, and well-rounded. Your course areas will include those similar to the types you took in the ThinkBIG program, but with an emphasis in the following career paths:

  • Service Management
  • Manufacturing Management
  • Diesel and Heavy Equipment

*All ThinkBIG graduates (with a minimum of 3.0 GPA) can automatically transfer up to 60 college credits to Pittsburg State.