DAWSON, Ga. (WALB) - Safety is just one of the reasons a South Georgia non-profit is using a virtual simulator to train people on heavy machinery equipment. Now, people from 19 counties are using that training to improve their communities.

Golden Triangle RC&D now has a heavy equipment simulator available for anyone who wants to learn how to operate heavy machinery. They say it is all about getting people properly trained for critical jobs.

“We’ve got infrastructure, a lot of unpaved roads that in inclement weather can present a problem economically. School buses can get stuck, and if we don’t have people that are trained, that is a problem.” says Congressman Sanford Bishop Jr. of the 12th Congressional District.

Dozens of locals have already been trained, all with a wide range of experience. The training is free to anyone who wants to learn how to operate excavators, bull dozers, dump trucks, backhoes, and motor graders.

“As Georgia continues to grow, we need workers that are trained and skilled at using heavy equipment and machinery that is necessary for the projects that are the foundation for growth in our area and are crucial to maintaining our infrastructure.” says congressman Bishop.

“There are a lot of openings in Georgia for heavy equipment operators. This really kind of revolves around dirt roads, dirt road maintenance, repairs, and reclamations so those are the models that we purchased. “ says Rhonda Gordon, Executive Director of Golden Triangle RC&D. “It saves a lot of time, it also saves any issues you may have with the equipment that’s very expensive, and if you have an untrained person on one, it’s easy to damage.”

The simulator replicates on the road issues, from bad weather to distractions that can lead to injures or equipment being damaged.

“From the operators’ stations, we can actually see from a drone’s view, what the operator is doing so the instructor can give a more detail description of what needs to be done.” says James Andrews, Agriculture and Technology Manager.

Congressman Bishop helped the non-profit get a one million dollar grant to help pay for the simulator. It will also be used to train students and inmates to prepare them to enter the workforce.

The simulator is on wheels, so it’s not grounded in one place. This simulator can go to any of the 19 counties that they service to help train. To sign up for the class, contact Golden Triangle RC&D at 229-995-2027.

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