ThinkBIG Student - Earthmoving (Fall 2027)

Thompson Tractor Company, Inc.; Panama City (FL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition covered

Books and lab fees covered

Tools, toolbox, and uniforms

Paid internships

Guaranteed employment after graduation

Job summary

Thompson Tractor Company, Inc. partners with South Georgia Technical College to offer the ThinkBIG Scholarship Program. This paid, two-year college-level program blends classroom study with hands-on training, culminating in an Associate’s Degree in Applied Diesel Technology and paid internships.

Participants gain real-world experience through Caterpillar training and advanced diagnostics on heavy equipment, preparing for roles from shop to leadership within Thompson Tractor.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Age 18+.
• Valid driver’s license with clean record.
• Ability to pass drug screen, physical, and background check.
• Mechanical/technical aptitude preferred; no prior work experience required.

Responsibilities

• Participate in 8-week paid internships at Thompson Tractor/SGTC.
• Earn an Associate’s Degree in Applied Diesel Technology.
• Receive Caterpillar‑specific training and hands-on diagnostics experience.
• Graduates are offered employment opportunities at Thompson Tractor upon program completion.

Skills

Self Motivated

Time Management

Verbal Communication

Written Communication

Technical

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Job description

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 localbranches.

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 internships
• 8-week classroom and lab sessions at SGTC
• Caterpillar-specific technical training
• Tools, toolbox, and uniforms
• Tuition, books, and lab fees covered by Thompson Tractor

Program Focus:

• Heavy equipment engines
• Marine propulsion systems
• Power generator repair

Eligibility Requirements:

• Age 18+
• High school diploma or equivalent required at the start of the program.
• Valid driver's license & clean driving record
• Ability to pass drug screen, physical, and background check
• Meet SGTC and Thompson Tractor admission standards
• Qualifying 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.

Qualifications

Education

High School or Equivalent (required)

Experience

Mechanical/technical aptitude preferred. (preferred)

No previous work experience required. (preferred)

Skills

• Self Motivated (preferred)
• Time Management (preferred)
• Verbal Communication (preferred)
• Written Communication (preferred)
• Technical (preferred)

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.