In This Issue
- Building the Republic of Georgia’s Workforce: Zestaponi Vocational College “Construct 2.”
- New SimScholars® Curriculum Available for Cat® Simulators’ Next Gen Excavator (Monitor System)
- Cat Simulators Motor Grader Walkaround Inspection Infographic
- Cat Simulators Different Learning Styles Video
Building the Republic of Georgia’s Workforce: Zestaponi Vocational College “Construct 2”
College students in the Republic of Georgia have the opportunity to learn how to operate heavy equipment at the Zestaponi Vocational College “Construct 2.” Led by Director Tamara Zakarashvili and Deputy Director Tamta Kvinikadze, the college has emerged as a central hub for workforce development, due to its focus on the construction industry and targeted programs that meet industry needs.
“Our project is a public-private partnership,” explained Zakarashvili. “This partnership helps us understand the construction industry’s needs.”
Developed in direct response to industry demand and extensive research, and in consultation with construction companies, the 4.5-month, 600-hour training course, which features Cat Simulators Motor Grader, Backhoe Loader and Hydraulic Excavator systems, has become one of its most sought-after offerings.
“We’re giving students access to real machines and real environments. The Cat Simulators prepare them for full immersion on real construction sites,” said Kvinikadze.
The program’s impact is already being felt across the region. The program has begun to address a critical skills gap in Georgia’s rapidly growing construction sector—especially in regions around Zestaponi, where infrastructure projects, such as highway development, are accelerating by providing:
- Rapid Employment Pathways: Graduates are being connected directly with employers, with most securing job placements within one to two months of completing the program.
- Industry-Led Curriculum: The program was built on rigorous consultation with construction companies and guided by Ministry of Education policy.
- USAID-Funded Innovation: The use of Cat Simulators systems has elevated the program’s technical sophistication. Students gain hands-on experience on state-of-the-art simulators, preparing them for careers as skilled operators.
- Regional Economic Development: By producing skilled operators locally, the program reduces reliance on foreign labor, supports long-term sustainability of Georgia’s construction boom and provides a pathway for students in a high-demand sector.
Learn more about the Zestaponi Vocational College “Construct 2” heavy equipment operator program and the results it’s achieving by training students with Cat Simulators systems.
New SimScholars® Curriculum Available for Cat® Simulators' Next Gen Excavator (Monitor System)
The new SimScholars® Next Gen Excavator (Monitor System) curriculum is now available for use in tandem with the recently released Cat® Simulators Next Gen Excavator (Monitor System).
As with every SimScholars curriculum, it aligns directly with each of the simulator’s hands-on training exercises. By integrating the curriculum into heavy equipment operator training programs, learners can benefit from a blended learning experience before they step onto the iron.
The curriculum introduces learners to the machine’s integrated Cat® Technologies systems. From Cat 2D Grade to Cat Swing Assist to E-Fence to Cat Payload, operators will gain a better understanding of the technologies’ benefits as well as how to use them to trench, load and work around obstacles more efficiently.
“With demand for skilled operators continuing to rise, simulation-based training is becoming essential,” said Vanessa Price, Vice President of Simformotion. “SimScholars curriculum enables educators to provide consistent, high-quality instruction while allowing learners to practice safely and build confidence with modern machine technologies.”
Contact us to learn how you can integrate the new SimScholars® Next Gen Excavator (Monitor System) curriculum into your heavy equipment program.
Cat® Simulators Motor Grader Walkaround Inspection Infographic
Performing a pre-operation walkaround inspection at the start of each shift is crucial for safety and efficiency. A thorough inspection helps detect mechanical issues early, preventing costly repairs. Download and share our free infographic that highlights the key components to check during a Motor Grader walkaround.
Contact us to learn how to add Cat Simulators systems to your training program.
Cat® Simulators Different Learning Styles Video
Different people learn in different ways. Whether someone learns best by doing, seeing, hearing or reading, an effective training program should support all four major learning styles to help boost learners’ confidence, improve retention and develop real-world skills.
Cat® Simulators and SimScholars® curriculum bring those styles together in one blended heavy equipment operator (HEO) training experience. Learners gain hands-on, kinesthetic practice in a safe, realistic virtual environment that features authentic Cat controls, machine sounds and movements, and structured computer-based learning materials. The result is a comprehensive learning experience that prepares students to become safe, efficient, and job-ready operators.
Download the free animated infographic and share it on your organization’s website to show learners that they can learn how to operate heavy equipment – their way
