Learn How RDO Equipment Co. and MSU are Providing Hands-On Grade Control Training
RDO Equipment Co. and Montana State University (MSU) are joining forces to train the next generation in machine control and survey technology. The two recently announced a partnership to provide hands-on training on the latest equipment in real-world scenarios.
“Universities sometimes focus just on theory, but MSU aims to provide authentic exposure to jobsite experiences whenever possible,” said Bret Martin, an associate professor in MSU’s civil engineering department. “This four-week course with RDO provides practical skills students will use on a daily basis besides raising their awareness of tech solutions, so they’ll be better decision-makers in their future roles.”
How did this partnership happen? The press release explained:
Jake Michels, RDO’s technology solutions manager and MSU alum, first connected with Martin nearly eight years ago and presents a construction technology talk to senior-level civil engineering students nearly every year. Last fall, Michels and Martin came up with the idea to develop a course module focused on practical, hands-on training using Topcon Positioning Systems.
Adam Gilbertson, RDO’s senior vice president for Mountain construction equipment and field technology, explained MSU and RDO are members of Montana’s Headwaters Tech Hub, a consortium of leaders in industry, education and state government. Michels and Martin recognized this course as an organic opportunity to deliver not only the latest surveying equipment but the training and experience to the next generation of leaders on Montana contractors’ jobsites.
“Topcon donated about $185,000 worth of gear, including four base and rover sets with accessories used during this and future semesters,” Michels explained. “Once we knew we would be able to deliver surveying equipment, we then went to customers like Williams Civil and several others to request jobsite visits.”
From there, Michels, along with Rob Andrew, a construction technology specialist at RDO, provided a complete overview of surveying and grading solutions to set up machine control for various machines like a John Deere excavator. According to the press release, RDO team members provided presentations and training for the following tasks:
- Jobsite layout and setup
- Machine control training on jobsites
- Practical job setup at Williams Civil’s quarry site near Bozeman
“In the second week, we partnered with Williams Civil in Bozeman to simulate a jobsite setup,” Andrew said. “Students learned how to set up a base station, localize the project and stake out lines and points — tasks they’ll likely perform as field engineers.”
Even More Experience
RDO also brought John Deere’s SmartGrade equipped machines so students could transfer data from sensors to the machines. Students then had the opportunity to operate several John Deere machines to move dirt to its accurate grade — under the guidance of Andrew and Michels.
Students were then tested on their grade control setup by Martin. They had to localize and transfer a project file into the machine control system to engage the 3D SmartGrade, which uses GPS to create the designs features. They did this on several jobsites.
“At almost every jobsite, many students asked if they could stay later and RDO team members like Andrew and Michels were often obliged to stay until the sun went down,” Martin said. “These students were energized from these jobsite trainings, saying it was the best class they’ve taken.”
So, what’s next? Both Michels and Martin said they expect to build off this machine control module and possibly offer a two-credit standalone course in future semesters. With that, students can take a deeper dive into machine control training to potentially receive professional certifications. Stay tuned.
Pam Kleineke is managing editor of Compact Equipment.
