ThinkBIG Student - Electric Power Generation (Fall 2027)

Thompson Tractor Company; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 17,000 - 23,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tools provided

Uniforms provided

Tuition covered

Paid internships

Job summary

Thompson Tractor Company, in partnership with South Georgia Technical College, offers the ThinkBIG Scholarship Program. This two-year, paid college program combines courses and hands-on training to earn an Associate's Degree in Applied Diesel Technology while providing real-world internship experience.

Participants receive Caterpillar-specific training, tools, uniforms, and tuition coverage. Upon graduation, employment opportunities are guaranteed within Thompson Tractor, with potential growth

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required at start of program.
• Age 18+ and valid driver’s license with clean driving record.
• Ability to pass drug screen, physical, and background check.

Responsibilities

• Participate in paid 8-week internships and classroom sessions.
• Gain hands-on experience in generator operation, engine technology, and transfer switch troubleshooting.
• Complete Caterpillar-specific training and apply skills in real-world settings.

Skills

Self Motivated

Time Management

Verbal Communication

Written Communication

Technical

Mechanical

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Job description

ThinkBIG Scholarship Program - Electric Power Generation (EPG)

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 local branches. Participants earn an Associate's Degree in Applied Diesel Technology while gaining real-world experience through paid internships and Caterpillar-specific training. The program emphasizes a combination of generator operation, engine technology, and automatic transfer switch troubleshooting and repair.

What’s Included

• Paid, rotational 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 requirements
• 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.

Experience

Preferred

• Mechanical/technical aptitude preferred.
• No previous work experience required.

Education

Required

• High School or Equivalent or better

Skills

Preferred

• Self Motivated
• Time Management
• Verbal Communication
• Written Communication
• Technical
• Mechanical

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.