North Country Electrical Line and Heavy Equipment School

Escanaba, Michigan | Hands-On Training Since 1999 | GI Bill® Approved

Build a Solid Career in the Trades – Fast & Hands-On! Train on real machines and equipment with expert instructors. Small classes, over 90% seat time, and pathways to high-demand jobs. GI Bill® friendly — students from all 50 states welcome!

Apply Online | Call 906-789-3123 (Toll-Free: 800-377-5567)

Our Programs

Electrical Line Technician Program

16 Weeks (640 Hours) – Pre-Apprenticeship

Comprehensive hands-on training to become a skilled Line Technician AKA Lineman. Master pole climbing, electrical theory, safety, and heavy equipment like bucket trucks, digger derricks, knuckle boom cranes, and log truck loaders.

Class A CDL training included
Certifications: OSHA-10, CPR/First Aid, Pole Top Rescue
Prepares for utilities, co-ops, contractors, IBEW paths

Apply for Electrical Line

Heavy Equipment Operator Training

Two separate courses for flexible, progressive training:

Level I (120 Hours) — Entry-level foundations: Safe operation, basic controls, intro tasks on key machines. Ideal for beginners building core skills.
Level II (120 Hours) — Advanced techniques: Precision work, complex maneuvers, efficiency, troubleshooting. Build on Level I for pro-level confidence.

Take one or both — each is intensive and over 90% hands-on!
Machines You’ll Operate: Excavators (compact & full-size), articulated front-end loaders & motor graders, 6-way dozers, extendahoe backhoes, compact track loaders, log truck loaders, tandem dump trucks, and more.

Perfect for construction, logging, mining, excavation careers. Small classes (limited spots) for personalized instruction.

Apply for Heavy Equipment Level I

Apply for Heavy Equipment Level II

Why North Country?

Real Hands-On — Year-round facilities, tons of seat time on actual equipment
Veteran Support — Approved for GI Bill®, Voc Rehab, Montgomery GI Bill®, National Guard
Proven Track Record — Training operators since 1999 with job placement help
Flexible & Fast — Separate Levels for customized training, classes start regularly

Get Started Today!
Spots fill quickly – contact us now:
Phone: 906-789-3123 or toll-free 800-377-5567
Email: admissions@ncheschool.com
Address: 2929 16th Avenue North, Escanaba, MI 49829

Request More Info Apply Online

Testimonials and Reviews

North Country Electrical Line and Heavy Equipment School

233 Google reviews

Write a review

Tyler Randoloh

The heavy duty equipment course is definitely a class to take. The instructors Bob, Dennis and Don did such an amazing job at teaching and showing what needs to be done and how things should be done correctly. They take the time to make sure you understand what you’re doing. I couldn’t have asked for a better set of teachers to teach this class. I have learned a lot, and I’ve learned a lot more than what I thought I was going to learn while taking this class. The class is truly hands-on class. I would truly recommend this class to thinking about getting into the heavy equipment field

Wisconsin Wrench

North Country Heavy Equipment school has found some of the best instructors in the field. Don, Bob, and Dennis were all exceptional at conveying not only the knowledge they have but how to use it in real world situations. Safety first always They also have infectious positive attitudes. I would recommend this to anyone looking to expand their skills list.

Dave Zdroik

Highly recommend Bob, Dennis, and Don are great instructors.

daddy logan

Great course, staff is very friendly and the instructors are very knowledgeable! You can learn a lot from attending any of the courses they offer. I’d recommend learning with north county if you are looking for a school to attend!

Mark Christensen

Admissions process and paperwork was easy. Lots of time in the equipment daily and instructors went back over anything we had questions on. Numerous times if needed. Had a great time

eric H

I had a great time at north country heavy equipment school. The teachers were great. I would recommend this school to anyone who wants to get in this field of construction.

Randi Hrdlovich

The instructors here are great!! They are a good mix of being able to have fun but also being serious when need be. I learned a lot from this course and highly recommend it to anyone wanting to start or further their knowledge in this field!

Nick Apsey

I recently had the privilege of attending the North Country Heavy Equipment Operator training in Escanaba MI, and I must say, it was an absolutely phenomenal experience. From start to finish, the program exceeded my expectations in every way possible. First and foremost, the hands-on training provided by School is unparalleled. I was amazed by the amount of actual seat time we got on a variety of heavy equipment including dozers, excavators, motor graders, front loaders, compactors, and skid steers. This was not a simulated or virtual practice – we were out in the field, getting real-world experience that is invaluable for anyone aspiring to become a proficient operator. What truly sets this training apart is the emphasis on practical application. It’s one thing to learn how to operate the controls of these machines, but at North Country Heavy Equipment School, we were taught how to use them in real-world scenarios. From creating drain fields with precision to grading, digging trenches for pipe laying, excavating house septic pumps, and loading dump trucks, every aspect of the training was geared towards preparing us for the demands of the job site. The number one best part of this school is the instructors. Especially Mr. Don and Mr. Dennis, very lively, cheerful, funny gentleman. The vast knowledge and the experience of how to work with the students individually is the best part. I highly recommend choosing this school for the training and experience.

Hayden Avery

Top notch training with very knowledgeable instructors. I went through the course at 18 years old and I wasn’t treated like I’m the new guy who knows nothing. It’s not a long class but you gain tons of experience, knowledge, and confidence. Highly recommended checking out if you’re the slightest bit interested

John Helms

Instructors shared their work experience and gave demonstrations on situations that you can’t learn from books. I was there through February. Winter gives different situations. I can return in the summer and train on equipment free of tuition. 👍🏼

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North Country Electrical Line and Heavy Equipment School

5.0

Based on 26 reviews

review us on

Josh Steadman

17:25 28 Jan 26

recommendsThis is a great school to attend, the biggest part for me was the hands on learning and operating with experienced journeyman lineman with you every step of the way.
An amazing experience and the need to know for the trades. I learned more than I expected and loved going into class every day.
Thanks to all the amazing staff for everything they do!

Colton Pagess

02:23 03 Jan 26

recommendsFirst thing that comes to mind is how easy it is to get along with other people in the class and make friends which in turn makes the whole class easier for you because of Dennis, Emil, and Don. They break the ice great the first day and crack jokes that really breaks any tension. I actually wish I could keep going for a few more weeks because I enjoyed my time and felt like I was getting better everyday. If you are thinking about going and are held back by anxiety, GO, GREAT people.(I did the... heavy equipment course)read more

Aidan Earl

22:24 17 Jul 25

recommendsThe instructors were great with teaching and fun to work with and learned a lot about the equipment

Jery Love

12:26 20 Jul 23

recommendsIt’s a great place all the people are great to be around I’ve learned. Lot in the past 4 weeks and north country im glad I took this step to come here and not somewhere else because it’s be great lots of memories and knowledge thanks to my instructors and everyone and north country heavy equipment school

Bernard Lawry

16:43 24 May 23

recommendsVery knowledgeable instructors I have operated equipment for a long time , but I learned a lot from the instructors . I very much recommend this school no matter your experience you will learn a lot

Brandon Shafer

02:11 16 Dec 21

recommendsawesome school the best instructors you could ask for you can tell they really want you to succeed

Chance Grimm

12:52 10 Dec 21

recommendsAwesome time learn a lot new things even tho I’ve been around heavy equipment I recommend this school to anyone who looking to get into this trade the instructors Kevin and Emil helped with everything without hesitation. 10/10

Jared Besteman

12:52 10 Dec 21

recommendsInstructors always knew how to make things easier and keep you safe while operating. Had a lot of fun learning how to operate these machines. Was better than I expected. 10/10 recommended

Tyler Brown

18:45 23 Aug 21

recommendsVery nice instructors great place to learn how to operate heavy machinery definitely best bang for your buck

Danny Judd

07:19 21 Aug 21

recommendsAwesome place to learn heavy equipment, recently just finished this course with my son , opened up a lot of doors for us both , Emil our instructor is very knowledgeable on all the equipment and spends time one on one with you to make sure you understand each piece of equipment,the office staff makes it a breeze to get signed up to also. I definitely recommend this place for sure !! Thanks Josh ,Kyle and Shawna for everything!!

Nathan Jesse Westbrook

16:29 20 Aug 21

recommendsGreat experience with a great instructor! Lots of one on one training, learned way more than i could've imagined. Would highly recommend North Country to anyone considering heavy equipment or looking to try something new! 10 stars for Emil!

Natalie Bennett Clouse

23:19 09 Jul 21

recommendswhat a great place to train,!!! loved being here and appreciate the employment opportunities!!! thank you NCHES!!!

Robert Seymour

15:00 25 Jun 21

recommendswe have great instructor and
operator

Lyric Cavanaugh

14:59 25 Jun 21

recommendsGreat staff! Excellent at explaining everything deep in detail. Learned a lot more then I thought I would. Highly recommend it!

Larry Flanders

14:59 25 Jun 21

recommendsGreat place to learn, great people!

Bradley McEwen

14:49 25 Jun 21

recommendsIt was a really good school

Paula DeCaire

00:06 02 Jun 21

recommendsvery knowledgeable. excellent staff. they will help you thru any and all hurdles. they keep it fun even with all the learning. highly recommend. your only regret would be not choosing north country!

Stacey Marie Newton

01:33 01 Jun 21

recommendsThe instructors have many years experience, are patient with the students and understanding with the newest to the industry.

Mike Carroll

02:13 07 May 21

recommendsThe instructors are great and always take extra time to help you. Great no stress atmosphere.

Chadwick Stelmacher

07:57 06 May 21

recommendsA great learning experience !
top notch School with knowledgeable staff and great equipment !

Tim Strangfeld

12:23 02 May 21

recommendsit was a very enjoyable, and very educational experience, I learned a lot, also took the Class A CDL with them and it's a very unique opportunity to take both classes. live in their off site lodging, and make lots of new people. the Instructors for both classes are fenominal and I'm glad that I took both thanks again Midwest !

Mike Dombrowski

20:38 10 Mar 20

recommendsWe have had several operators come from this school and couldn’t be happier! A wide variety of equipment, top notch instructors that teach the RIGHT way. Thanks guys keep up the great work!!

Kristi Youngs

22:36 27 Feb 20

recommendsI would HIGHLY recommend North Country Heavy Equipment School to anyone! They were super helpful and friendly. Overall awesome experience!

Jason Johnson

23:33 01 Mar 18

recommends

Lyle Hargus

00:13 08 Sep 17

recommendsWent here almost 10 years ago absolutely loved it. The staff was so helpful in understanding the equipment. Very positive atmosphere often think back to my schooling days and remembering tips and tricks while operating unfamiliar equipment

Aaron Hanneman

14:56 05 May 17

recommendsWhen i went to the school i loved it i was just plain fun and you learned a lot too all the instructors were nice and helpful. Would send anyone here if they asked me where to go

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