Yes. The GI Bill can cover vocational training programs, including crane operator certification courses, as long as the training school is approved by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). What Type of Crane Training is Eligible? Most VA-approved crane operator programs fall under vocational and technical schools offering crane or heavy equipment training—apprenticeship or On-the-Job Training (OJT) programs with construction companies or unions, Short-term certification courses for NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) or similar certifications. If the program is approved, your GI Bill can help cover: Tuition and fees, Books and required materials, Certification or licensing exam costs (such as NCCCO exams).. Which GI Bill Programs Apply to the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)?Can pay up to 100% of tuition for approved training. Provides a monthly housing allowance (MHA) during training. Pays for books and supplies (up to $1,000/year). Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 30 & 1606) pays a monthly education benefit to you while in training. How to Check if a Crane Training School is GI Bill Eligible: Go to the VA’s WEAMS Institution Search: https://inquiry.vba.va.gov/weamspub/ Enter the school name or zip code where you plan to train. Confirm it lists “Non-College Degree (NCD)” or “Vocational” as approved. Can the GI Bill Cover NCCCO Certification Exams? Yes. If you are pursuing NCCCO or other crane certifications, you can use your GI Bill to reimburse the exam fees. Apply through the VA Licensing and Certification program. Visit: https://www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/how-to-use-benefits/test-fees/

1. Possess Recognized Knowledge and Skills: Must know the necessary skills to rig the load for a lift correctly. Must understand rigging equipment, including: Slings (wire rope, synthetic web, chain) Shackles, hooks, and eyebolts Hoist rings, spreader bars, and rigging hardware Must know proper hitch configurations (vertical, choker, basket) and load distribution. 2. Be Capable of Recognizing Hazard: Ability to identify and avoid hazards such as: Pinch points, Shock loading, Swinging or shifting loads, Damaged or defective rigging gear. Understand Load Control and Capacity. Must be able to determine load weight and center of gravity.Must select appropriate rigging gear with a sufficient working load limit (WLL). Must understand load charts and safe lifting angles. 4. Be Qualified Through One of Two Methods. OSHA does not require a formal certification. Still, the rigger must be qualified by either: Possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing. Example: NCCCO Rigger Level I or II, or equivalent training certificate. Extensive knowledge, training, and experience. Demonstrated ability to successfully perform rigging tasks safely.Key OSHA Reference 29 CFR 1926.1401 defines a qualified rigger as: “A rigger who meets the criteria for a qualified person: possesses a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or has extensive knowledge, training, and experience, and can successfully demonstrate the ability to solve or resolve problems relating to rigging the load.”

Why Being a Certified Operator Does Not Make You a Qualified Rigger. In crane and lifting operations, safety depends on having the right people for the right roles. While both certified crane operators and qualified riggers are essential to safe lifts, these positions require different skill sets and cannot be assumed to overlap. A certified crane operator is trained and tested to operate a crane safely. Their duties include performing pre-operational inspections, interpreting load charts, controlling crane movement, and executing lifts according to the lift plan. Certification ensures they understand the machine’s operation and capacity limits, but it does not cover the full scope of rigging knowledge.A qualified rigger, as defined by OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1401, must have training, experience, or certification in rigging tasks. Riggers are responsible for selecting and inspecting rigging gear, calculating sling angles, determining load weight and center of gravity, and securing the load properly. Errors in rigging can cause load drops, shifts, and serious injuries, which is why OSHA requires demonstrated competency beyond crane operation skills. In short, crane operation and rigging are separate specialties. A certified operator is not automatically a qualified rigger, and employers must verify competency before assigning rigging duties. Treating these as distinct roles reduces accidents, ensures compliance, and protects everyone on the jobsite.

Under OSHA’s Final Rule for Cranes and Derricks in Construction (29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC), construction crane operators must be certified or qualified. Here’s the breakdown: 1. Certification Requirement: Effective November 10, 2018, OSHA requires all crane operators on construction sites to be: Certified by an accredited crane operator testing organizationExample: NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators)Qualified through an audited employer programThe employer can provide a program meeting OSHA standards and documentation requirements.2. Employer Evaluation Requiremen Since February 7, 2019, employers must also evaluate each operator to ensure they are qualified to operate the specific crane they will use. This evaluation must cover the crane’s configuration, attachments, and work conditions. Employers must document the evaluation and make it available at the job site. 3. Certification vs. Qualification Certification proves the operator passed written and practical exams from an accredited body. Qualification means the operator has demonstrated the skills and knowledge to safely operate the specific crane and configuration on that job site, as verified by the employer.OSHA Final Rule Key Point: Operators must be certified and evaluated as qualified for the specific crane they will use. Certification alone is not enough without the employer’s qualification evaluation.

The difference between “qualified” and “certified” in the world of crane and rigging operations, according to OSHA and industry practice. Certified Definition: Certification means the individual has passed a written and practical exam from a recognized or accredited third party or employer program. Purpose: Confirms that the person met an industry-standard level of knowledge and skill. Who Issues It: Third-party organizations like CCO, an employer program audited and approved by OSHA. Example: A worker holds an NCCCO Mobile Crane Operator Certificate. A rigger has an NCCCO Rigger Level I Certification. Certification = proof of testing and passing a recognized standard. 2. Qualified Definition: A qualified person is someone who has extensive knowledge, training, and experience, and can demonstrate the ability to safely perform the work. Purpose:
Demonstrates the worker's ability to perform tasks safely on the job site. Who Determines It: Employer, based on evaluation and documentation. Does not require a formal certificate if competency is proven. Example: A worker with 10 years of rigging experience who can rig and lift loads safely is a qualified rigger, even without a formal certificate. Qualification = demonstration of competence, often verified by the employer. Key Difference Certification is official recognition through testing. Qualification is a practical demonstration of competence, which may or may not include certification.

3P Safety: Nationwide Training Excellence Through Trusted Partnerships. At 3P Safety, we are proud to operate nationwide, delivering comprehensive safety solutions and workforce development programs to industries that demand the highest level of skill and compliance. Our mission is to empower workers, enhance workplace safety, and support employers in meeting and exceeding OSHA and industry standards. By partnering with over 100 trusted training providers across the country, we ensure that our clients receive accessible, top-quality training wherever they are located. This extensive network allows 3P Safety to offer specialized programs in crane operation, rigging, and signalperson qualification, scaffolding, aerial lift operations, OSHA compliance, and a wide range of heavy equipment and construction safety courses. Our partnerships are built on expertise, reliability, and results. Every program we deliver is designed to meet current regulatory requirements, integrate hands-on instruction, and provide participants with the skills and confidence to perform their work safely. From small businesses to large corporations, our nationwide presence ensures that safety training and operator qualification are consistent, professional, and effective across all job sites. Whether it’s on-site, online, or through one of our partner training centers, 3P Safety is committed to raising the bar for safety and performance in the workplace. With a network that spans the country and a dedication to protecting workers and preventing incidents, we are your trusted partner in nationwide safety training and compliance.