CAT Lift Truck (CEC)

The CAT Lift Truck (CLT) Career Enhancement Certification is designed exclusively for the student who is seeking a career as a service technician at a Caterpillar Lift Truck dealership. The Caterpillar-specific curriculum is produced by MCFA. It prepares the student for a career as a Caterpillar Lift Truck Technician by providing Caterpillar Lift Truck’s core certification courses that are needed for advancement at a CAT Lift Truck dealership.

The CLT curriculum is a blend of classroom theory and hands-on lab assignments. The curriculum follows OSHA and Industrial Truck Association (ITA) guidelines. CLT-specific classes are scheduled to run on selected Fridays throughout each semester, including the summer, and are a full day in length.

Major code: 2263
Business, Engineering, and Information Technologies Division  
Automotive, Transportation, and CDL Technologies Department

The catalog in force is assigned to students based on the academic year they first applied to the college, and changes only when students change their major or request the change in writing.  Refer to Policy No. 3357:15-13-28.

2026-27 Catalog
Effective Summer 2026

Some courses listed within the program may require a prerequisite or co-requisite.
Pre/Co-requisites will be listed within each course hyperlink below.
Refer to Policy No. 3357:15-13-04 and 3357:15-13-05

AUT121Automotive Technical Skills2
AUT123Engine Diagnosis and Major Service4
AUT125Automotive Electrical and Accessory Systems4
AUT181Introduction to CAT Lift Trucks1
AUT182CAT Operator Safety Training1
AUT183CAT Service Information System1
AUT184CAT Hydraulic Systems1
AUT185CAT Internal Combustion Engine2
AUT186CAT Masts and Lift Mechanisms1
AUT187CAT Electrical Systems3
AUT188CAT Steering Systems1
AUT189CAT Braking Systems1
AUT281CAT Differentials and Front Axles1
AUT282CAT Transmissions2
AUT283CAT Fuel Systems (LP, Gasoline)2
Total Hours27

Student Advising Notes

Academic Advising

Students should make an appointment to see their advisor before registering for classes each semester. They should have prepared a completed registration form, including courses they wish to take, prior to this meeting.

Plan of Study Grid
First SemesterHours
AUT121 Automotive Technical Skills 2
AUT123 Engine Diagnosis and Major Service 4
AUT125 Automotive Electrical and Accessory Systems 4
 Hours10
Second Semester
AUT181 Introduction to CAT Lift Trucks 1
AUT182 CAT Operator Safety Training 1
AUT183 CAT Service Information System 1
AUT184 CAT Hydraulic Systems 1
AUT185 CAT Internal Combustion Engine 2
 Hours6
Third Semester
AUT186 CAT Masts and Lift Mechanisms 1
AUT187 CAT Electrical Systems 3
AUT188 CAT Steering Systems 1
AUT189 CAT Braking Systems 1
 Hours6
Fourth Semester
AUT281 CAT Differentials and Front Axles 1
AUT282 CAT Transmissions 2
AUT283 CAT Fuel Systems (LP, Gasoline) 2
 Hours5
 Total Hours27

The classes in this certificate also apply toward the completion of an Automotive Technology Degree (2250).

Program Learning Outcomes

This program is designed to prepare students to demonstrate the following learning outcomes:

  • Demonstrate the ability to perform comprehensive maintenance and repair tasks on Caterpillar forklift trucks, including diagnostics, troubleshooting, and corrective actions for mechanical and electrical systems.
  • Analyze and service hydraulic systems within Caterpillar forklift trucks, demonstrating the ability to identify hydraulic issues, perform repairs, and ensure optimal functionality of hydraulic components.
  • Diagnose and repair electrical systems in Caterpillar forklifts, including wiring, battery management, and control systems, ensuring compliance with industry standards and safety protocols.
  • Effectively utilize specialized service tools, equipment, and diagnostic software to assess forklift performance, implement repairs, and enhance service efficiency in a professional maintenance environment.