News9.com - Oklahoma City, OK - News, Weather, Video and Sports | Class demonstrates crane operation

Class demonstrates crane operation

Posted: Updated:
Safety is priority one, school officials said. Safety is priority one, school officials said.
The six-week class costs about $11,000, The six-week class costs about $11,000,
An entry level crane operator can reportedly make between $25 and $30 an hour. An entry level crane operator can reportedly make between $25 and $30 an hour.

Alex Cameron, NEW 9

If you've been following the national news lately, you may know there have been a number of accidents involving cranes, some of them fatal.

There's an institution in Oklahoma City -- a pretty new one -- that is helping prevent crane accidents in the future.

What looks like any typical day at one of Oklahoma City's many construction sites is now a typical day in the Oklahoma College of Construction's crane operator training class.

"It's a very intense six-week program," College President Jerry McGinnis said.

McGinnis said the school opened its doors less than three years ago, but being one of just five such training facilities in the country, they get students from Texas to Michigan.

"Our primary student base is individuals that have never been on a piece of equipment, coming in brand new, wanting to learn how to operate equipment to launch a career," McGinnis said.

Bobby Ray, of Midwest City, sees a bright future for himself as a crane operator provided he can make it through the class and get his operator certification.

"Operating the crane's not so hard as learning all the laws and safety producers and stuff like that," Ray said.

A bulletin board in the hall is filled with reminders of what can happen when safety procedures aren't followed.

"They need to realize that there are dangers out there, and when they realize those before they leave here, then it's preventable," Senior Instructor Forster Barners said.

Corpus Christi's Mark Rivera is excited about becoming a crane operator, but tempers his excitement with a dose of reality.

"I believe the way you went into work is the way you should come out of work, and safety they preach here is really great," Rivera said.

The class may be pricey, but the payoff can make it well worth it.

You must be logged in to rate this story. Login or register
Comments
Terms of Use: Terms of Use: We welcome your participation in our community. Please keep your comments civil and on point. You must be at least 13 years of age to post comments. In addition, by submitting a comment, you recognize that your comment may be read or discussed on one or more television news broadcasts on NEWS 9 and you consent to any such use. By submitting a comment, you agree to these Terms of Service
You must be logged in to leave a comment. Login or register
See all comments
Close windowBranding

Class demonstrates crane operation

Close window

Local News More>>

6 Murder Counts Filed in Multiple Homicide Case

A former Marine faces six counts of first-degree murder in the fatal shootings of four people whose bodies were found inside a burning house. More>>

Metro Musician Provides Harp Therapy

A local musician is offering her own form of health care to those in need. She's using her harp and its soothing melody to help patients at a metro hospital. More>>

Charges Expected Against Nichols Hills Doctor Next Week

Investigators expect charges to be filed next week against a Nichols Hills doctors accused of fatally stabbing his 9-year-old son. More>>

Cop Impersonator Sexually Assaults Woman

Oklahoma City police are seeking the public's help finding a man accused of police impersonation. More>>

Links Mentioned On NEWS 9 More>>

The economic turmoil is taking its toll on Oklahoma. News9.com tracks unemployment and layoffs in the state.    More>>

Follow NEWS 9 on Twitter

Twitter fans can now follow the NEWS 9 staff. More>>

Online Express Check-in Will Save Time at H1N1 Clinics

The Oklahoma City-County Health Department has announced a section on their Web site titled "Easy Check In" will now be available for those intending to attend H1N1 clinics. More>>

Black Friday Deals Online Early

The Black Friday deals are normally released in the Thanksgiving Day ads, but some shoppers are getting a head start by looking online. More>>

My 2 Cents

Catch Kelly Ogle's opinion on today's news and events!

Making A Difference

People that make a difference in your everyday life.

Your Life Your Way

Amy McRee's insight on life's issues.

Consumer Watch

Find relevant information on the latest products!

Your Vote Counts

Debates on issues important to you the viewer!

Tech Talk

Fast facts on technology for today's consumer!

Stay informed on all of Oklahoma's weather.

Powered by WorldNow
All content © Copyright 2000-2009, WorldNow and KWTV. All Rights Reserved.
For more information on this site, please read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. Help Page.