Video Games Lead to Skilled Trades
Orion Gamble’s path to the Heavy Equipment Operations program started at home. As a student who struggled with grades, Orion Gamble suspected college wasn’t for him. “I knew I was going to go somewhere using my hands,” he said. “I’ve always wanted to work outside in construction, or work in a factory, or drive a semi-truck.”
Trade School Brings Opportunities
Orion’s stepfather had attended New Castle School of Trades (NCST) years earlier, and suggested Orion take a look. It only took a campus visit to sell him on it.
He liked the idea of working with large construction vehicles, so Orion chose the Heavy Equipment Operations program, learning to operate heavy machinery—forklifts, backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, dump trucks—that create new structures like homes, commercial buildings, and bridges.
NCST’s Driving Simulator: Like Playing Video Games as a Career
Orion was surprised to find that driving heavy equipment reminded him of one of his favorite pastimes: video games.
“I’ve played video games since I was like four. When I hopped in my first machine, I immediately noticed how it is similar to playing video games,” he said. “Moving the joysticks, clicking the buttons. It really clicked with me.”
Orion got to climb into NCST’s driving simulator to practice safely operating construction vehicles. The simulator made going to school feel like playing Gran Turismo, except with big vehicles instead of sports cars.
“It was pretty fun, especially when you had to load a dump truck and then drive it up a hill,” he said. “You had to keep the truck at a certain speed and make sure the gauges were in the proper range.
Instructors who are eager to help create a positive learning environment where students can flourish. “Every teacher in here, no matter if it’s a teacher you’ve ever met before, they’re always in a good mood,” he said. “They always help, even if it’s a different instructor in a different class, and they know a quick tip that might help you a little more.”
In particular, his first quarter teacher helped him find his footing.
“Mr. B really helped me out,” he said. “He really taught me the basics. Now, every time I see him in the hallway I look forward to talking with him.”
Orion says NCST has a helpful, all-for-one mentality, where everyone pitches in to help each other when needed.
“Everybody in here is beneficial to you, no matter what course you picked, or which trade you picked up. They help you with education, they help you find a job, and if you don’t have a job even years later, you can come back, and they’ll help you find a job,” he said.
Although he enjoys working on construction sites, Orion said the program was versatile enough that he could pursue other careers if he ever wanted a change.
“Heavy equipment is phenomenal for me, but there’s an optional CDL component,” he said. “If you want to pursue a Class A CDL, they can teach you to drive semi-trucks, or there are jobs where you can take a dump truck or something like that.”
Trade School Education: A Rewarding Career Choice
Orion said anyone who struggles in “traditional” educational paths has a place to build lasting career skills and a stable, successful career. He recommends trade school as a career track, especially for people who enjoy working with their hands.
“College nowadays is expensive,” Orion said. “And the trades are not what some people say. If you find one that you’re really interested in, follow your career and your goals, and just make good decisions in life, you can take yourself somewhere or even start your own business.”
And Orion is planning to take his education to places, using his skills to become not just employable, but in-demand with employers.
“I was always told if you can figure out something with your hands, you always have a job.”
Take Control of Your Career. New Castle School of Trades can help you find a career in the skilled trades. Request more information to get started.