Case Construction Equipment recently partnered with Team Rubicon to train volunteer heavy equipment operators.
Last fall, Case asked its dealers to help support a new initiative with Team Rubicon: train more volunteers to operate heavy equipment for its veteran-led humanitarian organization that serves global communities before, during and after disasters and crises.
The pilot program commenced this year with two Case dealers: the Indiana-based RPM Machinery and Lawrence Equipment in Virginia.
On a monthly basis, the dealers provide machines for Team Rubicon volunteers to train, an indoor classroom and outdoor operating space.
“As soon as we heard about the need to help train more heavy equipment operators, we raised our hand,” said Dustin Cole, Executive Vice President of Lawrence Equipment.
“We’re very active in our local communities and want to ensure Virginia is prepared if disaster strikes, as well as help train volunteers to deploy wherever they are needed throughout the U.S. and Canada.”
Case and its parent company’s foundation, CNH Industrial Foundation, have been long-time supporters of Team Rubicon. Case deploys machinery through its dealer network to numerous disaster response and community service projects across North America, while the Foundation has supported efforts with monetary support.
“The work that Team Rubicon does aligns with the company’s sustainability goals and the CNH Industrial Foundation’s priorities,” said Michelle Javaherian, Community Impact Manager at CNH Industrial.
The Team Rubicon Greyshirts
Team Rubicon’s volunteers, known as “Greyshirts,” register for the monthly training and learn how to operate compact track loaders and excavators.
“One of the most critical tasks after disasters strike is getting much-needed resources to that area. Our Greyshirts, including sawyers and heavy equipment operators, help clear trees and debris from roads, allowing first responders and survivors to regain access to the community,” said William Porter, Director of Operations Support at Team Rubicon.
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Greyshirts must undergo a background check and complete a brief online Team Rubicon training course. If within 725 km of a participating Case dealer location, they receive a notice through the Team Rubicon newsletter and social media channels, encouraging their participation in heavy equipment training.
“Case’s purpose is to build communities and — when disaster strikes — rebuild them,” said Rebecca Bortner, marketing director, CASE Construction Equipment.
This training has been used by Team Rubicon in all phases of the disaster cycle, including wildfire mitigation, hurricane response and long-term storm recovery.
CASE and Team Rubicon plan to expand the number of dealers participating in this heavy equipment operator training program in 2024.
To become a Greyshirt and pursue a path of heavy equipment certification for their missions, view this step-by-step roadmap.
