Limestone County Schools - Engage. Enlighten. Empower.

This week it was announced that the Limestone County Career Technical Center was chosen as one of four schools in the state selected to participate in the inaugural Next Gen Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) program.

This is a new statewide workforce development initiative designed to prepare Alabama high school students for rewarding careers in the road and bridge construction industry. Through a partnership with the Alabama State Department of Education, participating school systems, and the Alabama Road Builders Association member companies, the program will introduce students to heavy equipment operation through simulator-based training, industry engagement, and career exploration opportunities.

“We’re pleased that the legislature approved the funding for the heavy equipment simulators for our Career Tech Center,” Limestone County Schools Superintendent Dr. Randy Shearouse said. “This will provide increased opportunities for our students as we continue our great relationships with area contractors.”

Roads and bridges are part of daily life, but the careers involved in building them are often less familiar to students. By bringing this program to the Career Tech Center, Career Tech Director Dr. John Wilson feels this program will help make those opportunities more visible to Limestone County families.

“We are so fortunate in Limestone County to have partnerships with entities like the Alabama Road Builders Association and Grayson Carter Construction,” he said. “This program captures what CTE is all about- sparking students’ interest and turning that excitement into skills and careers that help them provide for themselves and their families. North Alabama is booming, and the timing couldn’t be better to connect our students with opportunities that support our local and regional workforce and economic growth.”

While still in the planning phase, Wilson said he hopes the program will be ready to launch in early 2027.