The Warren CAT ThinkBIG Technician Intern program can help you meet the challenge with training in the specific requirements of Warren CAT and Caterpillar®.
Warren CAT – in conjunction with Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology in Okmulgee, OK – has developed ThinkBIG, a cooperative two-year college-level technician education program leading to an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science. Students accepted to the OSU IT program have the opportunity to work with their head and their hands on the most advanced and powerful machines designed and built by Caterpillar, the world’s leading manufacturer of power systems and construction equipment.
This two-year college program combines classroom and hands-on learning, teaching students how to service diesel heavy equipment using cutting-edge diagnostic and maintenance systems, advanced technologies and high-tech tools. No more sitting in class wondering if what you’re learning is relevant; you’ll use everything you learn and you’ll know why it’s important. Students will spend half their time on campus for technical instruction while the rest of the time is spent getting real-world training through a paid internship at a Warren CAT dealership.
The purpose of the ThinkBIG program is to upgrade the professional and technical competency of incoming Warren CAT technicians. Students are trained to analytically diagnose, service and maintain Cat products using recommended procedures, special tools and service information.
The course content enables successful graduates to advance as heavy equipment technicians after additional experience and to understand new systems and components as they are introduced. Those who complete the program become a part of a team that helps to get important work done in our world such as energy production, major building projects as well as road, highway and infrastructure construction.
ThinkBIG Program Benefits
Students accepted into the ThinkBIG Technician Intern program not only have the opportunity to work on equipment from the world’s leading heavy equipment manufacturer, but the program also provides a number of additional educational and financial benefits to participants including:
- Teaching from expert instructors with extensive real-world experience and knowledge in current industry best practices and standards
- Tuition reimbursement (80% over four years)
- In-state tuition rate and financial aid
- Provided toolbox for program duration and tools ($6500) fully owned by employee after year two
- GPA pay-for-performance
- Pay rate increase each semester during the program
- Accredited by the Associated Equipment Distributors (AED)
The ThinkBIG Intern program also includes a four year post-graduate commitment. Warren CAT takes the hiring process seriously. Not only do we make sure you are right for this program, you need to make sure this program is right for you. As a Warren CAT technician, you’ll work on some of the biggest, hardest-working machines in the world. As a graduate of the ThinkBIG program, you’ll be a highly-skilled, technically-trained, in-demand member of the worldwide Cat dealer family. If you have the right attitude, work ethic and skills, it’s time you consider your career options with Warren CAT.
More Information
For more information about the Warren CAT ThinkBIG Intern Program, visit the OSU Institute of Technology website at osuit.edu. For general program questions, contact us at techintern@5675n.com.
ThinkBIG Internship Frequently Asked Questions
Where Is The Training Located?
Program training consists of two parts:
- Split curriculum training at Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology in Okmulgee, OK consisting of classroom instruction and hands-on-sessions lasting approximately two years.
- A Warren CAT paid internship where you put your education to work. This is one of the most important elements of the program. The Warren CAT branches that currently sponsor students are located across West Texas and Oklahoma.
Where Will I Live While I Complete The Program?
While attending the program, the sponsoring colleges will offer (at a cost) on-site, campus housing for students attending classes. While performing your internship responsibilities, you will be working as close as possible to your hometown.
What Will I Do During My Internship?
During your internship, you will work directly with machines and trained technicians, and learn how it feels to be a valuable member of the Warren CAT family. You will work with mentors in all areas of the dealership main shop. Students work while classes are not in session. This includes opportunities for extra hours and income during semester and holiday breaks when available.
What Tooling Do I Need To Acquire?
We want to make sure you have the tooling necessary to be a successful Warren CAT technician. A set of tooling is provided on site at the college and at the shop at the beginning of the program. Upon graduation and after an offer of full-time employment is made, a Warren CAT tool allowance program is available to assist purchasing the required tools for employment.
What Are The Requirements For Admission Into The Program?
The requirements for admission are as follows:
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Pass basic mechanical aptitude testing
- Have earned or will earn a high school diploma or equivalent
- Be 18 years of age or older by the time of your first internship
- Be able to meet college admission requirements, which include placement testing and an application and interview process with Warren CAT
- Pass a drug screening and physical
You must be accepted by both Warren CAT and OSU IT to participate.
What Is The Cost of The Program?
Warren CAT will pay for a portion of the tuition cost depending on the college you attend. You will also receive an hourly wage for all hours worked in the sponsoring branch. There are opportunities to make enough money during internships to pay for many of the costs associated with the program, including living expenses.
After applying for Financial Aid through your sponsoring college, Warren CAT will provide tuition assistance in your name. Payment is made directly to the school on your behalf, and requires that you maintain a 2.5 GPA.
What Is The Student Selection Process?
Students who wish to become members of the Warren CAT technician internship program should make application early in the spring semester (January – March), if possible. This allows time for processing financial aid packages, identification of preparatory class needs, sponsorship acquisition, etc.
The application process includes the following:
- Completed resume and/or contact information emailed to techintern@5675n.com
- Completed college application for admission (visit the sponsoring college website for forms and details)*
- Completed student assessment process; includes placement testing (SAT)
- Completion of preparatory class needs prior to program start
- Signed and returned Release of Information Form
- Interview and mechanical aptitude testing with Warren CAT for students who successfully complete the admission process. Interviews and testing are conducted at a local Warren CAT location.
After acceptance by a sponsoring college and passing the Warren CAT interview and pre-employment testing requirements, the student will be formally admitted.
*NOTE: OSU IT requires that ALL students be sponsored by a Dealership to attend the ThinkBIG Intern Program.
Who Do I Contact For More Information?
For more information about the Warren CAT technician internship program, visit the OSU IT website. For general program questions, email techintern@5675n.com.