OPERATORS around the world are being invited to put their skills to the test by competing in Caterpillar’s third Global Operator Challenge.
Thousands of machine operators are expected to put their agility, resilience and versatility to the test on a range of construction equipment and technology.
More than 140 Cat dealer competitions were held during the 2022-2023 challenge, which attracted more than 10,000 operators from 32 countries. The 2025-2026 challenge aims to include more events, countries and operators than ever before.
“For nearly 100 years, our customers have been pushing the limits with our machines,” said Caterpillar Construction Industries group president Tony Fassino. “This challenge helps showcase and celebrate the exceptional skills of the expert men and women in this important profession as they forge their legacies of being the best operators in the world.”
Operators are invited to compete in local challenges facilitated by Cat dealers during the first round, which takes place January–September 2025. The competitions will feature at least three different challenges on at least three separate pieces of equipment. Scoring is based on skills, safety, efficiency, and competence in using integrated technology such as payload, grade control and operator ease-of-use features to enhance the machine’s performance.
Winners from local dealer events will advance to regional semi-finals before nine finalists make it through to the final competition in March 2026, held at Caterpillar’s outdoor Festival Grounds exhibit during CONEXPO-CON/AGG in Las Vegas. The winner receives either a $10,000 cash prize or an equal value trip for two where Caterpillar has a location worldwide.
For more information and official rules about the Global Operator Challenge, including how to participate, visit www.cat.com/operatorchallenge.
