Transitioning from military service often means translating valuable experience into civilian credentials. For veterans pursuing careers in construction, utilities, manufacturing, maritime operations,
and other industries that rely on cranes and load handling equipment, earning professional certifications can help open new opportunities.
The good news? Eligible veterans and other qualified beneficiaries may be able to use their GI Bill® education benefits for approved Crane Tech preparatory courses leading to National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (CCO) certification. Eligible CCO certification examinations may also qualify for reimbursement through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Whether you’re preparing for your first certification or expanding your qualifications, these benefits can help reduce the cost of training while preparing you for nationally recognized credentials employers value.
Can I Use My GI Bill Benefits at Crane Tech?
Yes.
Crane Tech has been approved to offer eligible preparatory courses for veterans’ educational training, allowing qualified students to seek reimbursement through their VA education benefits for approved certification preparation courses.
Approved preparatory courses include:
- Mobile Crane Certification Preparation
- Mobile Crane Professional Operator Development (POD)
- Mobile Crane Professional Operator Development with Lattice Boom
- Articulating Boom Crane Operator Certification Preparation
- Overhead Crane Operator Certification Preparation
- Signalperson Certification Preparation
- Rigger Level I Certification Preparation
- Rigger Level II Certification Preparation
- Mobile Crane Inspector Certification Preparation
- Overhead Crane Inspector Certification Preparation
These programs prepare students for CCO certification examinations by combining classroom instruction with practical, hands-on training designed to build the knowledge and skills needed for success.
How Does the Reimbursement Process Work?
While every veteran’s benefits are unique, the general process is straightforward.
Step 1: Contact a Crane Tech Training Advisor
Before registering, speak with one of our Training Advisors. We’ll help you:
- Identify the certification that’s right for your career goals.
- Select the appropriate approved preparatory course.
- Find an upcoming class at one of our training locations.
- Explain what documentation you’ll need for reimbursement.
Step 2: Register for Your Course
Enroll in the approved Crane Tech preparatory course that meets your certification goals. Tuition is paid at the time of registration.
Step 3: Complete Your Training
Attend your course and prepare for your CCO certification examination through classroom instruction and hands-on practical training led by experienced instructors.
Step 4: Submit Your Reimbursement Request
After completing your approved preparatory course, you’ll submit the required documentation to the Department of Veterans Affairs to request reimbursement if you’re eligible.
Crane Tech will provide the official course information required by the VA, including the approved course name and training dates, to support your reimbursement request.
Why Professional Certification Matters
CCO certification is recognized throughout the crane industry and is required by many employers for crane operators and other personnel involved in lifting operations. Preparing for certification isn’t simply about passing an exam, it’s about developing the knowledge, judgment, and practical skills needed to perform work safely and confidently.
At Crane Tech, our instructors bring decades of field experience into the classroom, helping students understand not only what they need to know for certification, but also how those concepts apply in real-world jobsite conditions.
A Message to Those Who Have Served
“Veterans bring valuable experience, discipline, and a strong commitment to doing the job right. We’re proud to help those who have served use the education benefits they’ve earned to prepare for nationally recognized CCO certifications and continue building successful careers in the skilled trades.”
— Ethan Collier, Vice President, Crane Tech
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re interested in using your GI Bill benefits to prepare for CCO certification, we’re here to help.
Our Training Advisors can answer your questions, explain the reimbursement process, and help you select the approved Crane Tech course that’s right for your career goals.
Contact a Crane Tech Training Advisor today to learn more about approved courses, upcoming class dates, and how to begin using your earned VA education benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who determines whether I’m eligible for GI Bill benefits?
Eligibility for VA education benefits is determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not Crane Tech. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or available benefits, we encourage you to contact the VA or speak with one of our Training Advisors.
Can I use my benefits at any Crane Tech location?
Approved preparatory courses are available through Crane Tech’s Open Enrollment training locations. A Training Advisor can help you find the course and location that best fits your schedule.
Do the certification exams qualify for reimbursement?
Eligible CCO certification examinations may also qualify for reimbursement through the VA. Your Training Advisor can help explain how the training and examination reimbursement processes work.
Do I receive the money before I attend training?
No. Students pay for training when they register. Eligible students may then request reimbursement from the VA after completing the approved preparatory course and submitting the required documentation.