Caterpillar Turns 100, Announces $100M Workforce Pledge for the Next Century

A Century in the Dirt. A Future in the Cloud.

Caterpillar is marking its 100th anniversary with more than nostalgic machinery and centennial swag. The construction giant just announced a giant $100 million investment aimed at developing the next generation of skilled workers — an ambitious move that pairs perfectly with its milestone year. The five-year pledge focuses on equipping the global workforce with the digital and technical skills needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving construction landscape. Think artificial intelligence, automation, data modeling, robotics and augmented reality — not just wrench-turning and backfilling — noting those are still important too. This isn’t Caterpillar’s first step into workforce development, but it might be its biggest. From the press release:

“We are excited to celebrate Caterpillar’s centennial with this investment that will empower the workforce of tomorrow,” said Caterpillar Chairman and CEO Jim Umpleby. “This pledge reinforces our commitment to building a world where technology and human creativity can work hand in hand to create a more resilient workforce. Together, by empowering individuals with the skills and resources they need to thrive, we can make that world our reality.”    

$100 Million to Build a Smarter Workforce

Today’s construction careers demand more than muscle and machine know-how. The future jobsite is digital, connected and tech-enabled. To help workers keep pace, Caterpillar’s pledge will support training initiatives, technical programs and new pathways into high-skill roles. The investment builds on established efforts like:

• ThinkBIG: A two-year technician training program that pays students while they learn.
• STEM outreach programs: Introducing K-12 students to careers in manufacturing and construction.
• Global Dealer Technician Challenge: Highlighting the demand — and opportunity — for skilled techs.
• Global Operator Challenge: Celebrating machine mastery and operator finesse with tech-integrated challenges worldwide.

This effort underscores Caterpillar’s belief: the future of construction isn’t just about machines — it’s about people who can master the machines of tomorrow.

“As an industry leader, Caterpillar understands the urgency of preparing the next generation with the capabilities required for the jobs of tomorrow,” said Jaime Mineart, chief technology officer at Caterpillar, and pledge executive sponsor. “This pledge, our first of its kind, reflects our dedication to collaborating with our global stakeholders to devise the best training solutions.”

Digital Skills Are Now Construction Skills

Caterpillar’s announcement follows insights from the Future of Jobs Report 2025, which predicts 170 million new jobs emerging globally over the next five years — most tied to technology. These roles demand expertise in automation, digital twins, IoT, AR/VR systems, data analytics and more. For an industry long associated with iron and earth, the pivot toward silicon and code is real. Caterpillar’s pledge is about making that pivot achievable — not just aspirational.

“Whether it is Caterpillar investing in the future of work, or Caterpillar employees volunteering, the company’s culture has always been about supporting communities where its employees live and work,” said Asha Varghese, head of corporate social responsibility at Caterpillar. “This ongoing commitment to serving communities helps create an environment in which everyone can thrive.” 

Celebrating 100 Years at bauma — and Beyond

The $100 million pledge hasn’t been the only headline during Caterpillar’s birthday year. At bauma 2025 in Munich, Cat hosted a 9,000 m² exhibit showcasing the company’s history and future — all part of a global centennial tour. We were there to tour it, and it was amazing. Inside Hall B6, the booth offered:

• 48 machines, including 17 new introductions
• Battery-electric compact equipment, like the 301.9 mini excavator and 906 compact wheel loader
• Advanced safety and telematics tools, such as Cat Detect and VisionLink
• Live tech demos, including an electrified jobsite simulation

And yes — there were grey machines.

Those Cool Grey Machines

To celebrate the occasion, Caterpillar is promoting limited-edition grey equipment across select product lines. From dozers to excavators, these heritage-inspired machines nod to Cat’s origins while integrating its most advanced technologies to date.

From Mike Rowe to Munich

Caterpillar’s workforce advocacy has never been performative. The company’s long-running partnerships — including past campaigns with trades champion Mike Rowe — have consistently spotlighted the value of skilled trades. Whether it’s Dirty Jobs, dealer challenges or live operator competitions, Caterpillar makes it clear: careers in construction deserve celebration. Today’s $100 million commitment continues that tradition, modernized for a tech-first era. For more information about Caterpillar’s centennial, please visit caterpillar.com/100. 

Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.

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