DUAL ONLINE CENTER

Bank of Good Practices in Social Inclusion through WBL

Targeted Heavy Equipment Training Aligned with Labor Market Needs

Overview
The program was created in response to labor market demand for skilled heavy equipment operators in Georgia. Many construction companies face a shortage of qualified workers, and traditional vocational programs do not always provide targeted, short-term training that meets immediate industry needs. It supports vocational education students, jobseekers, and young people interested in construction careers. Local construction companies and employers also benefit by gaining access to a pool of qualified operators trained according to industry requirements. The program aims to quickly equip learners with practical heavy equipment operation skills that increase employability and career prospects. By offering short-term, accessible training, it lowers entry barriers for individuals from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds who may not be able to commit to longer programs, thus fostering inclusion and equity in work-based learning. The program is implemented in Georgia within the Construct2 vocational training framework, in cooperation with construction companies and labor market stakeholders.
Objectives
The main goal is to deliver short-term, labor-market-driven training that provides students with practical heavy equipment skills and ensures rapid entry into employment. By offering short, intensive, and practice-oriented training, the program makes WBL accessible to individuals who face financial, social, or time constraints that prevent them from joining longer programs. It reduces barriers by aligning training with labor market demand, ensuring high employability upon completion, and offering a flexible, short-term format that accommodates a wider range of learners.
Implementation
The program was designed in collaboration with USAID to address labor market demand for skilled heavy equipment operators. As part of the initiative, CAT simulators were provided to deliver practical, hands-on training in a controlled environment. The short-term, practice-focused program emphasizes skill development and real-world application. Special attention is given to making the program accessible to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds by lowering entry requirements and providing guidance and mentoring. Close collaboration with employers ensures that graduates are connected to job opportunities, promoting social inclusion, equity, and employability in vocational education.
Innovative features
Digital learning tools to improve access, Specialized training tailored to different learner needs
  • Country
    Georgia
  • Sector
    Construction Engineering
  • Target group
    People at risk of poverty or social exclusion
Leading organisation
USAID
Date
2023-2025
Key stakeholders
• VET providers and training centers
• Employers and business networks
Number of beneficiaries
100

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

Project Number:
101104680-HABITABLE-ERASMUS-EDU-2022-PEX-COVE