Mechanized Logging Operations and Forest Trucking “MLOFT”

Our Mechanized Logging Operations and Forest Trucking (MLOFT) program, that was developed in collaboration with three Maine Community Colleges, addresses the growing demand for skilled operators in the logging industry. This comprehensive program is tailored to kickstart your career as an equipment operator, providing you with the expertise needed to excel with modern logging equipment. We focus on training you to become a proficient, safety-conscious operator and an integral member of a high-performance harvesting team.
Why Apply?
- Become skilled in equipment operation and maintenance, and earn your CDL
- Tuition is FREE for qualified candidates, 100% grant-funded by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment, and Training Administration.
- Gain hands-on experience within the forest environment and expand your skill set in this dynamic industry-recognized program.
- Knowledge gained will give you a competitive edge in securing employment and advancing your career while allowing you to work in the outdoors, anywhere in Maine, with the tools for higher earning potential.
- This program will prepare you for the operation and maintenance of the most current equipment available and teach you to drive log and chip trucks to begin your career in the logging and forest trucking industry.
- Participants if the program are highly sought after by employers and often have employment offers to consider before completion.
Want to learn more about the program? Email Donald Burr at mloft@plcloggers.org or APPLY HERE!
Is a Career in Logging for You?
Although logging is a challenging and demanding profession, it is also consistently ranked as one of the most satisfying careers in the United States. The opportunity to work in the outdoors every day while earning good wages and contributing to the rural economy sets the profession apart from most others. If the idea of making your “office” the outdoors appeals to you, logging and forest trucking could be the right choice for you.
Who is eligible?
Participants must be 18 or older, have earned a high school diploma or HiSET/GED, and have an immunization record verifying vaccination (or titer results indicating immunity) for MMR and Diphtheria/Tentanus administered within the past ten years. Screening of suitable applicants will include an interview with the selection committee, review of the applicant’s driving record, pre-entrance-controlled substance testing, and a physical agility screening.
The MLOFT program would not be possible without the generous support of:








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PLC urges Vermont legislative support for targeted sales tax exemption and grant-funded cost-share program as logging industry struggles
Regional impact study shows Vermont logging industry remains critical to state but is under severe strain MONTPELIER – The Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast (PLC) is urging Vermont legislators to support two initiatives designed to help the state’s logging and forest trucking industry weather difficult financial times while continuing proactive and responsible practices on timber…
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Economic impact study reveals Northeast loggers and forest truckers contributed an estimated $1.3 billion to the region’s economy in 2024
First-ever study for the region reveals an industry of critical importance in crisis AUGUSTA, ME – The Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast (PLC) today released results of a comprehensive study of the economic impact of Northeast logging and forest trucking, showing the industry contributed an estimated $1.3 billion to the regional economy in 2024. The study, The Economic Contribution of Logging and Trucking in the Northeast, conducted by Wallace…
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New scholarship opportunity for Vermont residents and companies seeking career training for logging and forest trucking
Funds help cover living expenses to attend 20-week certificate program in Maine A new scholarship opportunity for Vermont residents and/or companies interested in training in the logging and forest trucking industry is now available thanks to funding from Vermont’s Working Lands Enterprise Initiative. Administered by the Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast (PLC), the opportunity…
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New Cost-Share Program Now Available to Support Vermont Logging Contractors Seeking Master Logger Certification®
75% cost-share will support responsible, verified harvest practices Vermont logging contractors who have not previously participated in the Master Logger Certification Program®(MLCP) have access to a significant new cost-share opportunity designed to reduce financial barriers to certification. Under the newly established cost-reduction program, eligible Vermont logging contractors can receive a 75 percent cost share on the…
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SLoCAMP Grant Opportunity For Loggers Working in Vermont Extends Deadline for Project Completion to Nov. 30, 2026
Cost-share program aids proactive water quality protection and climate adaptation practices on timber harvest sites. $290,000 in funding remains available. MONTPELIER, VT – A grant-funded cost-share program created by the Vermont General Assembly in 2024 to help logging contractors that work in Vermont implement proactive water quality protection and climate adaptation practices on their harvest sites has been extended. …
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PLC Hires New Marketing and Digital Content Coordinator
Michelle Tibbetts brings strong marketing, graphic design and social media experience to the role AUGUSTA, ME – Michelle Tibbetts of Augusta, Maine has been hired as the new Marketing and Digital Content Coordinator for the Professional Logging Contractors (PLC) of the Northeast. Michelle joined the PLC in January 2026. She brings a strong mix of experience…
