This blended learning course will provide students with both self-guided online modules, a virtual class with the instructor (on Zoom), and an in-person class with hands-on time with a grader.

Students will learn how to create a proper crown, shape a road, ditching, slope control, scarification techniques, blade pitch, grader articulation, and other things associated with operation of motor graders. All students will be given an opportunity to operate a grader and shape a roadway in the in-person class.

IMPORTANT: The virtual class will be held on May 11, 2023. The in-person hands-on grader training for this class will take place on May 16, 2023.

The following self-guided Online Modules portion of the course MUST be completed prior to the virtual class on May 11, 2023.

Online Modules:

• Module 1: Course Introduction
• Module 2A: Grader Operation
• Module 2B: Grader Operation Cont.
• Module 3: Course Conclusion
• Zoom Link & Next Steps

Information for the virtual class on May 11, 2023 can be found in the confirmation email you receive after registering or in the “Zoom Link & Next Steps” online module. Please only use the link for the date assigned to your session.

Target Audience

This course is for anyone involved in gravel road maintenance whether or not you operate a grader. Supervisors will learn what skills to look for in an operator.

Class size is limited to 8 students, so sign up early, as this class fills very quickly.

Attendees will not receive full credit for this course until they complete the in-person, hands-on training.

For technical questions throughout the course, please contact the UMass Transportation Center at admin@umasstransportationcenter.org. 

This event is accessible to people with disabilities and individuals with limited English proficiency. If you need a reasonable accommodation (such as American Sign Language Interpreters, assistive listening devices, handouts in alternate formats, etc.) and/or language assistance (such as translated documents or an interpreter) to fully participate, please contact the UMass Transportation Center at 413-545-2604 or admin@umasstransportationcenter.org at least 14 days prior to the event.  Such services are provided free of charge.