If you’re new to machine control—or have a new operator on the jobsite—you know training is essential. But how do you keep it from slowing your workflow and impacting productivity?
The team at ABTECH US, a trusted technology dealer for Leica Geosystems in the Northeastern United States, has a proven answer. With expertise in both machine control and training, ABTECH has conducted hundreds of sessions, helping contractors integrate this technology seamlessly into their operations.
Lesson 1: Skip the Classroom and Train on the Jobsite
ABTECH firmly believes the best way to learn is on the job—your job.
“We’ll come out to your jobsite and conduct a day of training,” says Tyler Sweeney, director of sales. “You’re not losing the day. We’re in the field, doing your job, and helping your team—or even a single operator—deploy machine control.”
By training in a real-world context, contractors avoid downtime while ensuring operators gain practical, hands-on experience.
Lesson 2: Focus on the Key Tasks You'll Be Doing Every Day
ABTECH customizes each training to fit the contractor’s needs.
“We ask about your specific workflow—what you’re using the equipment for,” says Ryan Sweeney, operations director. “We like to target the key tasks you’ll be doing daily, whether it’s as-builts, checking elevations, or cuts and fills.”
This targeted approach ensures operators can confidently execute basic workflows immediately, maximizing productivity from day one.
Lesson 3: Build Muscle Memory Through Practice
As training progresses, ABTECH instructors gradually shift from hands-on guidance to letting operators take the lead.
“You need to engage their muscle memory,” says Ryan. “Repetition helps operators perform tasks automatically over time.”
This method ensures that operators develop the skills necessary to use machine control efficiently and effectively.
Lesson 4: Supplement with Online Training
ABTECH offers live, online training sessions during the winter months, allowing operators to expand their knowledge without the pressure of jobsite performance.
“At the initial training, we cover the 10% you’ll need to know extremely well,” says Tyler. “The other 90% can be covered in winter training, without jobsite performance pressures.”
This complementary approach ensures operators are well-prepared for both immediate tasks and long-term mastery.
Lesson 5: Know Where to Get Support
Before training wraps up, ABTECH ensures every contractor knows how to get support when they need it.
ABTECH’s technical support technicians are on call 24/7 through a dedicated support number. With the Leica ConX cloud platform, support technicians can log in to machines remotely and walk operators through many issues in real time. For issues that require in-person support, ABTECH maintains a team that can deploy to a site quickly for field service.
Lesson 6: Invest in Ongoing Training
Ongoing training helps contractors manage workforce turnover and stay up to date with new features or software upgrades.
“We have several customers who schedule a refresher every spring,” says Ryan, “to go over new features or more advanced tasks they are interested in pursuing.”
Regular training sessions ensure operators remain confident and up-to-date, driving long-term success with machine control technology.
Lesson 7: Reap the Payoff of Faster and More Accurate Jobs
Once your team is trained, the benefits of machine control become clear: faster job completion and unmatched accuracy.
“Almost every contractor sees the value of machine control immediately,” says Tyler. “Jobs that took four days now take one day.”
ABTECH’s commitment to free training and ongoing support ensures contractors see maximum returns on their investment.
“When customers are happy, they’re going to use it more, and they’re going to see greater benefits from the productivity and efficiency gains,” adds Ryan.
Machine control training isn’t just a necessity—it’s a strategic advantage.
To speak with a heavy construction expert who can guide you on your technology journey, contact us.
