ThinkBIG Student- Earthmoving

ThinkBIG Scholarship Program – Heavy Equipment Service Technology
Thompson Tractor partners with South Georgia Technical College (SGTC) to offer the Caterpillar ThinkBIG Scholarship Program—a paid, two-year education and hands-on training pathway at our Birmingham branch, then transition into a full-time technician career.

Participants earn a Heavy Equipment Dealers Service Technology Associate Degree while gaining real-world experience through paid internships, Caterpillar-specific training, and advanced diagnostics on heavy equipment.

What’s Included:

• Paid, rotating 8-week internships


• 8-week classroom and lab sessions at SGTC


• Caterpillar-specific technical training


• Tools, toolbox, 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 & good driving record


• Ability to pass drug screen, physical, and background check


• Meet SGTC and Thompson Tractor admission standards


• Qualifying ACT, SAT, COMPASS, or ACCUPLACER scores

After Graduation:
Graduates begin their career with Thompson Tractor, with growth opportunities ranging from shop or field technician to leadership and management roles.

Paying for the Program:

After you are enrolled into the program, Thompson covers the cost of tuition, books, lab fees and graduation fees for the full two years of the course of study. The cost of room and board, deposits, as well as personal transportation will be yours to pay. However, during your paid internships you should earn enough money to cover these expenses.