r/cranes • u/Major-Fly556 • 3d ago

Getting started/basic info

Hey y’all, I live in the us, basically just looking for I for on how to get started on becoming a crane operator, I’ve read starting out as a rigger is the way to go, do you need certs for that as well? How did you get started?

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u/Next-Handle-8179 3d ago

Only one option in my mind. Find the nearest iuoe hall and sign up to join the apprenticeship. It’s that simple. What state do you live in?

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u/Major-Fly556 3d ago

Oregon, we have a training facility that offers ncco training in a nearby town, is that the same thing you’re talking about?

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u/Occams_RZR900 3d ago

No, you’re probably talking about either West Coast Training in Woodland Washington or Overton Safety. They’ll get you certified, but you pay for it. The Union apprenticeship program is on the job training that pays you to learn and get certified.

Both have their advantages and disadvantages.

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u/Next-Handle-8179 3d ago

You should join the iuoe.

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u/Major-Fly556 3d ago

How do I go about that? Long wait list?

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u/Next-Handle-8179 3d ago

Go to the nearest hall. Not sure on waitlist(I’m in California) but sign up regardless.

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u/No-Two3042 3d ago

Honestly I applied to the iuoe in oregon and I had no connections I just tried my best to get every point possible on there application which is really not that hard to do compared to other unions and I got called up I had no experience at all

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u/Major-Fly556 3d ago

Did you apply in person?

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u/No-Two3042 2d ago

You have to, to drop off all your application stuff. They open every January or February

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u/Major-Fly556 1d ago

Thank you

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u/Ryanisme23 3d ago

Look, go to the nearest crane company and tell them you’re willing to do whatever it takes. They might start you out as a yard hand and from there, submerge yourself into the industry. Be ready to work for it. You gotta earn it through some really hard work. Be ready and understand what you’re asking for..

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u/RaymundoParlour 3d ago

I work in CA and I’d try to find a job as a yard tech first. Learn the basics and start mixing in your training, starting with a CDL if you want to do truck crane. Apprenticeship opens a few times a year so always be on the lookout and prepare.

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u/chapozuniga23 3d ago

A CDL is your ticket into the crane world because without a connection it’s hard to get in a crane rental company in your area are always looking for drivers

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u/chapozuniga23 3d ago

Also people always say get on with your local union but depending on where your at most unions take years to get into for apprenticeships or you need to know someone I tried that route but couldn’t get in so I went non union got my cdl and rigging certs and I was golden but I know most people get in with just a CDL and start by driving

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u/Significant_Phase467 Operator 3d ago

I went non union, rigged for 5 years, got my CCO, didnt get a CDL, and still was fine. I did end up getting on with a crane rental outfit who covered for my CDL though. I was just operating on some turnarounds with them temporarily and they picked me up and basically gave me a free CDL. 🤷‍♂️

I dont think theres a WRONG way to go about it, besides going from a non-crane related trade or just paying for certs via a school without any experience (crane related experience, aka rigging (full time rigging too, not just doing BS rigging as a tradesperson), signalling, oiler, etc etc).

And having a good resume actually goes a long way. Most people I know talk about how you dont need em, and thats true, but I've found good opportunities via resume. And have good references as well.

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u/chapozuniga23 3d ago

That’s true brother everyone has a different path

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u/ProLiftRigging 2d ago

Our company has a Heavy Rigging Trainee program that we are currently hiring for in a few different branches. Check out our website: Heavy Rigging Trainee