NCCCO Foundation Opens Scholarships for Crane Operator and Rigger Training
- Meagan Wood
- Mar 1
- 3 min read
30-Second Takeaway
The NCCCO Foundation is offering scholarships to support individuals pursuing crane operator, rigger and signalperson training and CCO certification. The Initial Crane Operator Training and Certification Scholarship provides up to $10,000 in financial assistance, with applications for the Spring 2026 cycle open until April 1, 2026.
NCCCO Foundation Opens Applications for Crane Training Scholarships
The NCCCO Foundation has opened applications for its Initial Crane Operator Training and CCO Certification Scholarship, designed to support individuals seeking entry into the crane and lifting industry. The scholarship provides financial assistance for candidates pursuing professional training and first-time CCO certification as crane operators.
Applications for the Spring 2026 scholarship cycle are now available, with a submission deadline of April 1, 2026.
Applicants can download the forms in PDF or fillable PDF formats to begin the application process.
Financial Support for Crane Operator Training
The Initial Crane Operator Training and CCO Certification Scholarship provides up to $10,000 in financial support.
The funding helps cover the cost of:
Professional crane operator training programs
Certification preparation courses
Testing and certification fees
The goal of the program is to help individuals obtain first-time CCO certification, enabling them to begin careers in crane operation. Full scholarship requirements, eligibility criteria and the application process are outlined within the application documents.
Entry-Level Pathways Through Rigger and Signalperson Training
For individuals with little or no experience in the lifting industry, the NCCCO Foundation recommends first pursuing the Initial Rigger and Signalperson Training and CCO Certification Scholarship.
This program helps candidates build foundational knowledge and practical skills required for entry-level positions in the lifting sector.
The scholarship provides up to $4,000 in financial support for individuals pursuing training and certification as:
Riggers
Signalpersons
These roles are critical for safe lifting operations and often serve as entry points into the crane industry.
Applications for Rigger and Signalperson Scholarships Opening Later in 2026
Unlike the crane operator scholarship, the Initial Rigger and Signalperson Training and Certification Scholarship will open later in 2026.
Applications for this program will be reviewed separately and will focus on individuals seeking to:
Enter the lifting industry for the first time
Develop technical rigging and signalling skills
Advance their careers while improving safety standards
The NCCCO Foundation encourages interested candidates to monitor upcoming announcements and social media channels for updates when applications become available.
Supporting Workforce Development and Safety
By providing financial assistance for training and certification, the NCCCO Foundation aims to support workforce development within the lifting industry while promoting higher safety standards.The scholarship programs help reduce barriers for individuals entering the profession and encourage proper training for key roles involved in lifting operations.
These initiatives contribute to developing a skilled and safety-focused crane workforce across the United States.
About the NCCCO Foundation
The NCCCO Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing safety, education and workforce development within the crane and lifting industry. The foundation supports research, training initiatives and scholarship programs that help individuals pursue careers in lifting operations.
Website: https://www.ncccofoundation.org
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NCCCO crane operator scholarship?
The Initial Crane Operator Training and CCO Certification Scholarship provides financial assistance for individuals seeking professional crane operator training and first-time certification.
How much financial support is available?
The crane operator scholarship offers up to $10,000, while the rigger and signalperson scholarship provides up to $4,000.
What is the application deadline for the crane operator scholarship?
The deadline to submit applications for the Spring 2026 crane operator scholarship is April 1, 2026.
Who should apply for the rigger and signalperson scholarship?
The scholarship is intended for individuals with little or no experience who want to develop entry-level skills in lifting operations.
When will rigger and signalperson scholarship applications open?
Applications for the Initial Rigger and Signalperson Training and Certification Scholarship are expected to open later in 2026.
