ThinkBIG Student - Earthmoving (Fall 2027)

ThinkBIG Scholarship Program - Earthmoving Heavy Equipment Thompson Tractor partners with South Georgia Technical College (SGTC) to offer the Caterpillar ThinkBIG Scholarship Program. The ThinkBIG Scholarship is a paid, two-year college-level program that combines courses and hands-on training at one of our local branches. Participants earn an Associate's Degree in Applied Diesel Technology while gaining real-world experience through paid internships, Caterpillar-specific training, and advanced diagnostics on heavy equipment. The program emphasizes a combination of machine diagnostics and repair including engines, hydraulics, powertrains, and fuel systems. What’s Included Paid, rotating 8-week internships8-week classroom and lab sessions at SGTCCaterpillar-specific technical trainingTools, toolbox, and uniformsTuition, books, and lab fees covered by Thompson Tractor Program Focus Heavy equipment enginesMarine propulsion systemsPower generator repair Eligibility Requirements Age 18+High school diploma or equivalent required at the start of the program. Valid driver’s license & clean driving recordAbility to pass drug screen, physical, and background checkMeet SGTC and Thompson Tractor admission standardsQualifying ACT, SAT, or ACCUPLACER scores After Graduation Upon graduation and successful completion of the program, students are offered guaranteed employment at Thompson Tractor. Graduates begin their career as a technician with Thompson Tractor, with growth opportunities ranging from shop or field technician to leadership and management roles. Paying For The Program After you are accepted and enrolled into the program, Thompson Tractor covers the cost of tuition, books, lab fees and graduation fees for the full two-year course of study. The cost of room and board, deposits, as well as personal transportation will be yours to pay. Experience Preferred Mechanical/technical aptitude preferred. No previous work experience required. Education Required High School or Equivalent or better Skills Preferred Self MotivatedTime ManagementVerbal CommunicationWritten CommunicationTechnicalMechanical Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.