In an effort to bring greater attention to the importance of training and safe crane operation, Maximum Capacity Media will host the MCM Crane Operator Rodeo during ConExpo show hours. As part of the Association of Equipment Manufacturers’ (AEM) focus on providing additional value to show attendees, the Rodeo is open to anyone registered for the show.
“The Rodeo is designed to promote education and safety in crane operations as well as provide a hands-on operational experience. We appreciate AEM’s support in encouraging an environment for learning where safety is top priority,” said Guy Ramsey, MCM president and publisher of Crane Hot Line, Lift and Access, and Industrial Lift and Hoist magazines.
“New OSHA regulations have put increased priority on the certification of crane operators and as such, ConExpo is the perfect venue in which to provide large numbers of crane operators and fleet managers with information about training and certification,” he said.
“Providing ConExpo-Con/Agg attendees with state-of-the-art education is a key goal of the show, especially with an emphasis on safety and training,” said Megan Tanel, AEM vice president of exhibitions and events. “The Rodeo gives an added dimension to the show’s offerings and strengthens the educational options for attendees,” she said.
The MCM Crane Operator Rodeo will feature an LTF 1045-4.1 truck crane sponsored by Liebherr-Werk Ehingen, Germany and mobile crane simulators provided by Crane Institute Certification (CIC), Sanford, Fla. Mats used in setting up the mobile crane are sponsored by Gulf Coast Mats, Houston, Texas, and The Crosby Group, Tulsa, Okla., is the official rigging sponsor. Slings are sponsored by Slingmax, Aston, Pa.
During the week of March 22-26, 2011, ConExpo-Con/Agg attendees can test their skills on the simulators, which will be staffed by Crane Institute of America trainers. To operate the Liebherr truck crane, show attendees must either first show proficiency on the simulators before advancing to the mobile crane course or show officials a current mobile crane operator certification card from any of the three third-party crane operator certification providers (CIC, NCCCO, or NCCER).
The mobile crane course is being designed for the MCM Crane Operator Rodeo by Mike Parnell, president of Industrial Training International, Woodland, Wash. The course will be a modified version of one used for CIC practical examinations. Technical staff from Liebherr will be on hand to help familiarize operators with the crane.
A high-score winner will be announced at the conclusion of the show in both the simulator and mobile crane categories. Winners will receive a Top Gun Trophy.
The Crane Operator Rodeo will be located adjacent to the Liebherr booth (G370) in the Gold Lot. For more information, go to www.crcconexpo.com and click on the Crane Operator Rodeo tab.
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