Logging Equipment Simulator for FVCC

Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC) is investing in the future of logging, pooling resources from several grants to purchase a brand-new training tool – the $100,000 Vortex Edge Plus. This portable machine simulates logging scenarios to teach students how to operate logging equipment without risking bodily harm or damaging actual structures. The technology also quickly assesses the skill level of its operators, a critical tool when instructing beginners.

The machine will help students build breadth and depth of knowledge in a low-pressure and low-cost environment. The department believes that giving students the opportunity to make mistakes on the logging simulator will ultimately make them better employees in the field.