Thompson Tractor offers scholarships from the Caterpillar ThinkBig program which is a two-year college education program. Thompson Tractor and other dealers in the Southeast are partners with South Georgia Technical College (SGTC) to teach you how to service Caterpillar equipment using cutting-edge diagnostics, advanced technologies, and high-tech tools. Earn a Heavy Equipment Dealers Service Technology Associate Degree and begin your great career with Thompson Tractor.
With locations across Alabama and Northwest Florida, there are opportunities where you want to work.
Click on the map to find a location near you!
About the Scholarship
The major emphasis of the ThinkBig program is on heavy equipment engines, with a minor focus on marine propulsion systems and power generator repair theory and practical application. Upon completion of the program you will receive The Heavy Equipment Dealers Service Technology Associate Degree.
The ThinkBIG scholarship program is a two-year program and is outlined fully on our website, and includes:
Rotating eight-week blocks of on-the-job paid internships
Rotating eight-week blocks of classwork and lab work
Caterpillar-specific training
Tools and tool box
Uniforms
Tuition and book expenses
Qualify for a scholarship
The ThinkBIG scholarship program application guidelines are on our website, and include:
Must commit two consecutive years to complete the program
High school diploma or equivalent
18 years old or older
Meet admission and academic requirements of Thompson Tractor and SGTC
Submit drug test, physical, and background check
Demonstrate commitment to the industry and profession
Have valid driver’s license and good driving record
Pre-Admission Testing
ACT – 17 in Reading; 16 in English; 19 in Math SAT – 450 in Reading; 440 in Math COMPASS – 79 in Reading; 62 in Writing; 37 in Algebra ACCUPLACER – 64 in Reading; 70 in Sentence Skills; 57 in Algebra
Work to receive a diploma
Scholarship recipients are expected to consistently comply to the guidelines
Meet on-the-job internship expectations
Participate in all required learning activities
Maintain acceptable academic standards
Adhere to the SGTC academic policies
Meet Thompson Tractor employment standards
Pay for program and housing costs, excluding tuition
Wear Thompson Tractor uniforms and safety gear
Graduate with The Heavy Equipment Dealers
Service Technology Associate Degree
Earn a job with Thompson Tractor
Upon completion of the ThinkBig program you will receive The Heavy Equipment Dealers Service Technology Associate Degree, at which time you begin a successful technician career at Thompson Tractor! Your commitment to your career track may lead you to a variety of opportunities, such as a shop or field technician, to a supervisor or manager role, and beyond!
With locations across Alabama and Northwest Florida, there are opportunities where you want to work.
Paying for the program
After you are enrolled into the program, Thompson covers the cost of tuition, books, lab fees and graduation fees for the full two years of the course of study. The cost of room and board, deposits, as well as personal transportation will be yours to pay. However, during your paid internships you should earn enough money to cover these expenses.
