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ThinkBIG Program

Jump-start your diesel technician career with ThinkBIG

Two years of classroom education mixed with hands-on experience in a Butler shop

Caterpillar Inc. and Butler Machinery have partnered with North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) in Wahpeton, ND, and Lake Area Technical College (LATC) in Watertown, SD to offer this program, designed to develop entry-level diesel service technicians. If you have a great attitude, strong work ethic, and basic mechanical skills, you can begin your journey to become a diesel technician through the ThinkBIG Caterpillar Dealer Technician Program.

ThinkBIG students receive up-to-date technical training on Cat equipment and systems through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on laboratory learning. During the program, students get a paid internship at a Butler dealership location in North or South Dakota to further the learning away from the classroom. Upon completion of the ThinkBIG program, graduates earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Diesel Technology, an official Caterpillar endorsement, and the opportunity to become a full-time diesel technician with a Butler Machinery dealership location.

Jump-start your career with ThinkBIG

ThinkBIG applications by state

Hear more about the ThinkBIG program from the Butler Machinery team

Half-time on campus, half-time completing a paid internship

ThinkBIG students receive up-to-date technical training on Cat equipment and systems through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on laboratory learning, and a paid internship at a Butler Machinery dealership location to further the learning from the classroom and lab. Upon completion of the ThinkBIG program, graduates earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Diesel Technology, and an official Caterpillar endorsement. Graduates will have the opportunity to become a full-time diesel technician with a Butler Machinery dealership location and great potential for career advancement within the company.

Earn while you learn

Students accepted into the program are eligible to receive scholarship funding from Butler Machinery in addition to earning a way for time spent working at a Butler location.

STAY ON BOARD AS A BUTLER TECH

Following completion of the ThinkBIG program, graduates will have the opportunity to step into full-time employment with a Butler Machinery dealership location.  Complementing the competitive pay and benefits of a full-time position, Butler provides 8% of annual wages in a retirement account, paid overtime starting at 8+ hours in a day, and great potential for career advancement within the company.

Still have questions?

If you have questions about a technician career at Butler, or have any trouble with the application process, please email becomeatech@butlermachinery.com

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