seat time and the need for significant supervision during hands-on crane practice.
“ We still do instructor-led training, but the simulator adds a whole new level of preparation,” Bieber explained further.“ Operators can get hands-on time without needing to set up a real crane, which frees up resources and increases their confidence before getting into the real thing.”
Bay uses two ITI motionbased crane simulators to train over 100 operators, one at its main yard in Corpus Christi and another in West Texas. The simulators are equipped with a belly box for realistic operator training and can simulate nine different crane models, enabling operators to develop skills across various equipment types.
Assessing New Hires Hiring crane operators comes with the challenge of needing to assess an operator’ s actual skill level, Bieber noted. To address this, Bay Ltd. has integrated crane simulators into its hiring process, using a fully immersive 360-degree Virtual Reality( VR) experience to gauge mechanical aptitude and onthe-job decision-making.
“ Unlike traditional methods, simulators allow operators to react to real-world scenarios, including failures and midlift complications, providing a higher level of evaluation,” Bieber said.“ When someone applies for a crane operator position, we can’ t just take
By practicing in a controlled, immersive environment, operators develop the skills and procedures needed to anticipate and avoid hazards on the job.
their word for it when they say they have experience. The simulator helps us verify their skills in a safe and controlled environment.”
By running new hires through the simulator, Bay can spot weaknesses early and provide targeted training before operators handle realworld projects.“ It’ s helped us catch things we might not have seen otherwise,” Bieber related.“ If someone struggles with a particular skill, we can work on that before they’ re out in the field where mistakes can have serious consequences.”
Safety Success
With many projects taking place in high-risk environments such as refineries, construction sites and wind farms, safety is a cornerstone of Bay Ltd.’ s operations. By practicing in a controlled, immersive environment, operators develop the skills and procedures needed to anticipate and avoid hazards on the job, Bieber noted, experiencing realistic challenges without real-world risks.
“ Proper training is essential to prevent accidents and ensure safe operations,” Bieber said.“ The crane simulator is an invaluable tool in refreshing important safety lessons and helping operators recognize and avoid common crane-related dangers like two-blocking, outrigger failures and operating with a lack of situational awareness.
“ The simulator mimics real-world scenarios, allowing operators to experience potential hazards in a controlled environment that looks like the real thing,” Bieber added.“ This realistic training helps build situational awareness, which is critical for preventing dangerous incidents.”
Supporting Career Growth
Bay Ltd. requires its operators to complete four hours of training each year to keep their skills up to date. While taking operators off the job for training can be challenging, the ITI simulators make it more manageable and costeffective by enabling on-site training that doesn’ t disrupt project schedules.
The company is also dedicated to providing its employees with growth and career advancement opportunities. The simulator plays a role in helping riggers and aspiring operators develop their skills and climb the career ladder.
“ Anyone who wants to learn
12 August 21, 2026 www. contractorshotline. com