Coastal Pines Technical College (CPTC) is now the first and only educational institution in the state of Georgia to own a Cat Simulator to help assist in training students. The Cat Simulator training provides a safe, hands-on experience for learners. Each simulator teaches heavy equipment operations using the same OEM controls and machine applications as found on real-world worksites. Cat® Simulators are the only Caterpillar-licensed simulators on the market.
The CPTC Timber Harvesting Operations Program (THOP) recently installed the simulator in the lab for students to learn operational skills before entering the worksite portion of the program where they operate real machinery in the woods. The equipment has both a log loader and track feller buncher simulator, which are skills that students learn during their time in the program. The simulator has motion sensors that simulate the real movement of machinery, training exercises, benchmarks for students to track progress, as well as the option to recreate dangerous scenarios for safety training.
“We are very excited about having this equipment for our students. As a College, we pride ourselves on teaching students extensive safety measures and providing “hands-on” training. This new simulator will allow us to expand on that training for our Timber Harvesting program and have students better prepared for entering the workforce.” states Lonnie Roberts, President of Coastal Pines Technical College.
The Timber Harvesting Operations Program is available for students through the Dual Enrollment program. It is a two-semester program that trains students on basic timber harvesting operations, operating machinery, safety precautions, and a general overview of the timber industry. For more information on this program, visit www.coastalpines.edu.
Lonnie Roberts, President, tries out the new Cat Simulator.