This pathway prepares students for careers maintaining and operating heavy equipment used in forestry operations throughout Georgia's forest regions. Students study forestry mechanics, equipment operation, hydraulic systems, and preventive maintenance essential for harvesting, processing, and transportation equipment. The program combines forestry knowledge with technical mechanical skills demanded by forest products companies and timber harvesting contractors. Georgia's substantial timber industry provides consistent employment opportunities for skilled equipment technicians.
Curriculum covers forestry-specific equipment operation, including skidders, feller-bunchers, and processing machinery. Students develop diagnostic skills for identifying mechanical problems and executing repairs or directing professional service. Safety protocols and environmental compliance receive emphasis throughout. The pathway prepares graduates for positions operating equipment, managing equipment maintenance programs, or advancing to equipment sales and service roles. Students gain exposure to GPS navigation and emerging precision forestry technologies.
Field experiences with forestry contractors and equipment dealers provide authentic learning environments and direct industry connections.
Forest Mechanical Systems at a Glance
3
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Georgia standards require competency in forestry equipment operation, hydraulic and mechanical systems, preventive maintenance, and safety protocols. Students must understand equipment specifications and recognize mechanical problems.
Courses emphasize practical troubleshooting alongside theoretical understanding of mechanical systems. Certifications in equipment operation and basic maintenance are integrated throughout the pathway.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course | Code |
|---|---|
| Basic Agricultural Science | 02.47100 |
| Forest Science | 03.45100 |
| Agricultural Mechanics Technology I | 01.42100 |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓NOCTI Agriculture Mechanics
- ✓NOCTI Agricultural Production
- ✓ServSafe Food Handler
- ✓ServSafe Manager
- ✓Certified Veterinary Assistant
- ✓Certified Horticulture Professional
- ✓Certified Landscape Technician
- ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Equipment Operator
Entry LevelSalary range: $44,620 - $64,310
Equipment Maintenance Technician
ExperiencedSalary range: $37,790 - $58,950
Equipment Supervisor
ExperiencedSalary range: $62,400 - $160,030
Equipment Sales Representative
Entry LevelSalary range: $46,470 - $99,030
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Work-based learning with forestry contractors, equipment dealerships, timber processing facilities, and forest management companies throughout Georgia.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in National FFA Organization, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Georgia CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
Georgia Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with Georgia's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Georgia standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in Georgia
Agricultural Mechanics Systems
This comprehensive pathway prepares students for careers repairing, maintaining, and troubleshooting all types of agricultural equipment throughout Georgia. Students master mechanical fundamentals, hydraulic systems, engine operation, and equipment diagnostics essential for modern farms and agricultural operations. The program combines mechanical knowledge with agricultural context, preparing graduates for positions at equipment dealers, on farms, or mobile repair services. Georgia's equipment-dependent agriculture creates consistent demand for skilled mechanics. Curriculum covers small and large engine repair, hydraulic systems, electrical troubleshooting, and equipment maintenance. Students learn diagnostic procedures, preventive maintenance schedules, and safety protocols protecting workers and equipment. The pathway emphasizes problem-solving and technical communication. Students understand equipment manuals, technical drawings, and specifications. Field experiences with equipment dealers and farm operations develop practical expertise. Students engage with Georgia's agricultural industry and equipment manufacturers. The pathway prepares graduates for well-paying careers with advancement to shop management or sales. Georgia's agricultural sector and equipment-dependent operations provide abundant employment and advancement opportunities.
Agriculture, Food & Natural ResourcesForest/Natural Resources Management
This comprehensive pathway prepares students for careers managing forest ecosystems and natural resources with emphasis on conservation, sustainability, and environmental stewardship across Georgia's diverse landscapes. Students study forest ecology, wildlife management, water resources, and conservation practices that balance economic uses with environmental protection. The program addresses growing demand for professionals managing public lands, private conservation properties, and restoration projects throughout the state. Students develop understanding of both traditional resource management and emerging conservation approaches. Curriculum integrates ecology, environmental science, and land management principles. Students learn inventory methods, habitat analysis, and restoration techniques. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) training enables data-driven decision-making. Students understand regulatory frameworks, including federal and state environmental laws. The pathway connects to careers in government agencies, nonprofit conservation organizations, consulting firms, and private landowner services. Students engage with Georgia's natural resource professionals and conservation programs. Field experiences with public lands, wildlife sanctuaries, and restoration projects provide authentic environmental learning and career exposure.
Agriculture, Food & Natural ResourcesForest/Renewable Energy
This innovative pathway combines forest management with renewable energy development, addressing Georgia's growing interest in sustainable resource utilization and clean energy production. Students study forest ecosystems, timber harvesting, and biomass conversion technologies that transform forest products into energy sources. The program positions graduates to work at the intersection of traditional forestry and emerging renewable energy industries expanding across rural Georgia. Students understand both conservation principles and energy production economics. Curriculum covers forestry fundamentals, including tree identification, stand assessment, and harvest planning alongside renewable energy technologies like biomass systems and solar installations. Students learn environmental regulations, market analysis, and project planning essential for forest-based energy ventures. The pathway responds to industry interest in utilizing forest residues and sustainable timber management for energy production. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) training enhances career readiness. Field experiences with forestry operations and renewable energy facilities provide exposure to modern resource management. Georgia's forestry industry and clean energy sector partner with secondary education programs.
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