L&T Construction & Mining Machinery (L&T CMB) has been pivotal in upskilling the Construction and Mining sector workforce and has successfully trained close to 1,00,000 individuals through structured training programmes over the last 10 years. This extensive effort underscores L&T CMB's commitment to skill development, ensuring that industry stakeholders have the expertise to navigate modern machinery and evolving technologies.

Our training initiatives are tailored to cater to diverse industry segments, reflecting their broad impact. Among the trained individuals, 38 per cent comprise operators and mechanics working with customers, who gain essential skills in machine handling, maintenance, and safety procedures. Furthermore, government-backed programmes such as the Infrastructure Equipment Skill Council (IESC) and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL4) have enhanced industry-recognised skill development, with 20 per cent of trainees benefiting from these initiatives.

L&T CMB has also prioritised training the workforce in the segment, with employees constituting 15 per cent of those trained. Additionally, 14 per cent of trainees are dealer representatives whose enhanced skills allow them to offer superior customer support, and another 14 per cent are industry associates who acquire practical knowledge to tackle real-world operational challenges.

The Construction and mining machinery segment has traditionally been a male bastion. We have also started training women in machine operation and maintenance to bring inclusivity to the segment. Today, an all-women team confidently maintains colossal machines at a mine site for Tata Steel. This team can also assemble machines when they are delivered to the site.

Training has been deeply embedded in L&T CMB’s philosophy since the early 1950s, evolving into an industry-leading initiative. Initially, L&T executives were sent to international training centres affiliated with the machinery it introduced in India. These trained executives returned with valuable knowledge, which they shared with their colleagues, laying the foundation for an indigenous training school in Mumbai. This early commitment to skill development fostered a culture of service excellence, ensuring quality, speed, and efficiency in machine operation and maintenance.

As L&T CMB expanded, its training ecosystem grew in tandem. Establishing the Central Training Centre (CTC) in Kanchipuram, alongside Regional Training Centres (RTCs) at strategic locations, created a robust infrastructure for skill development. These centres provide comprehensive training for customers, dealers, employees, and operators, forming the backbone of L&T CMB’s workforce development strategy.

Beyond traditional training, L&T CMB offers specialised skill-building programmes for apprentices, contract employees, and specific customer requirements. Customised training initiatives, such as dumper operator training for Ultratech Corporate and service training for the Directorate General Border Roads (DGBR) on L&T 9020 wheel loaders, highlight the company’s commitment to addressing unique operational needs.

The rapid technological advancements in construction machinery necessitate continuous learning, and L&T CMB has embraced modern training methodologies. Training has transformed from traditional blackboard teaching to cutting-edge digital learning tools, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR). Training has evolved from overhead projectors to smart interactive screens and immersive simulations, ensuring operators and mechanics can effectively understand, test, and troubleshoot machinery. In fact, our training centres make extensive use of stationary and portable simulators for training before trainees get hands-on experience in operating equipment.

A significant advantage of L&T CMB’s training infrastructure is its integration with operational environments. All five training centres are located within service workshops, while the Central Training Centre is strategically positioned near the Komatsu manufacturing plant. This setup enables trainees to experience a complete learning cycle, from theoretical concepts to practical applications on real machines.

L&T CMB also recognises the importance of soft skills training for service engineers, fostering a mindset of continuous learning. The company ensures that learning remains an ongoing journey rather than a one-time achievement by equipping its workforce with technical knowledge and essential interpersonal skills.

Certification is crucial to professional growth, offering validation of expertise and opening new career opportunities. The Skill India Mission has provided a structured framework for certification, empowering operators and mechanics who previously lacked formal recognition for their skills. As an active member of the IESC, L&T CMB has been instrumental in training and certifying over 20,000 operators and mechanics under the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) since 2016.

Traditionally, machine operators learned their craft through an informal mentor-apprentice system, working under experienced operators. However, with technological advancements, a structured training approach has become essential. L&T CMB’s training programmes, conducted at customer job sites or machine locations, focus on safety, energy-efficient operation, and best practices. These training sessions are followed by rigorous assessments conducted by third-party agencies nominated by IESC, ensuring that only competent professionals receive certification. To further support aspiring operators, L&T CMB sponsors the assessment fee for trainees, making certification accessible to all.

Additionally, L&T CMB runs a 22-day training programme for unemployed youth aspiring to become excavator operators. Upon completion, participants receive NSQF Level 3 certification, equipping them with the skills needed to secure immediate employment in the industry. By imparting knowledge on modern operating techniques and leveraging the full potential of advanced machinery, these programmes enhance individual career prospects and drive greater efficiency and productivity across the industry.

As construction equipment becomes increasingly sophisticated, training and certification will play a pivotal role in bridging the skill gap. Modern advancements such as 3D Machine Guidance (3D MG) rely on satellite-based GPS signals to achieve precise earthmoving operations. Without adequately trained operators, such innovations may not reach their full potential. Recognising this, L&T CMB continues to push the boundaries of skill development, ensuring that operators and mechanics are well-equipped to harness the power of modern technology.

The company’s commitment to expanding its training ecosystem is evident in its ongoing investments in infrastructure, digital learning tools, and hands-on training facilities. By aligning training initiatives with industry demands, L&T CMB is strengthening the construction and mining workforce and shaping the future of machinery operations in India.

With 1,00,000 trained professionals and counting, L&T CMB’s training milestone is more than just a numerical achievement—it is a testament to the company’s enduring legacy of excellence in skill development and industry empowerment.

Our aim is to ensure that all equipment operators in the segment are trained. We have a long way to go, but we have made steady progress and will increase the pace over the years.

The article is authored by Arvind K Garg, Senior Vice President & Head, L&T Construction & Mining Machinery Business, L&T.