Meet The Staff

Lonny Land joined IUOE Local 701 in December 2004, beginning his career as a concrete pumper before transitioning into crane operations. From 2004 to 2008, he operated tower cranes on major new construction projects. He then worked extensively with lattice boom crawlers and hydraulic cranes on wind energy projects throughout Eastern Oregon from 2008 to 2012, before returning to tower crane operations through 2017.

In 2017, Lonny joined the Operating Engineers Training Center as a crane instructor, working alongside Kevin Miller. His leadership, industry expertise, and commitment to member development quickly led to his promotion as Training Director. Lonny brings extensive tower crane knowledge and real-world field experience to the Training Center, ensuring members are prepared for today’s evolving construction industry.
 

Clint Johansen became a member of IUOE Local 701 in 1999. He joined the Operating Engineers Training Center staff in March 2020 as a crane instructor and NCCCO Practical Examiner.
Prior to becoming an instructor, Clint worked for several crane rental contractors, operating a wide range of mobile cranes in the field. His hands-on experience across multiple crane types and job-site environments provides students with practical, real-world insight that strengthens both their technical skills and professional confidence.
 

Chad Oathout joined IUOE Local 701 in 2016 and later brought his field experience to the Operating Engineers Training Center as a supporting crane instructor in 2022. He also leads CDL classes for both Oregon and Washington members and teaches a variety of specialty courses, including Forklift, Rigging & Signaling, and Overhead Gantry.

In 2024, with the launch of the Machinery Movers Apprentice Program, Chad stepped into the role of Head Instructor. His broad skill set and dedication to hands-on instruction help prepare members for safe, efficient, and highly skilled performance across multiple disciplines.
 

Joe Ploium brings decades of hands-on experience to his role as a crane instructor at the Operating Engineers Training Center. He joined Local 701 in 1984, where he built a strong foundation in the trade, primarily working in pile driving.

In the fall of 2024, Joe transitioned to a staff position at the Training Center, where he now shares his knowledge and expertise with the next generation of operators. He works with members at every stage of their careers, including journeymen, apprentices, and pre-apprentices.

In addition to crane instruction, Joe is a certified aerial lift license instructor, helping ensure members are trained to operate equipment safely and effectively.

 

Charlie Pardee brings over 36 years of experience in the heavy equipment industry, including more than two decades as a member of IUOE Local 701. He began his career operating rollers and compactors in road construction, later expanding his skills to include backhoes, loaders, and excavators.

Since joining Local 701 in 1996, Charlie has developed extensive expertise in excavation and grading equipment, including JD and CAT excavators, long boom operations, backhoes, and compactors. He is also trained in Grades and Stakes instruction and completed OSHA 510 training in 2018.

After 22 years in the IUOE, Charlie transitioned into teaching to give back to the membership. He takes pride in sharing his knowledge and helping members build strong technical foundations in excavation and grading.
 

David Sanders joined IUOE Local 701 in 1989 and has been an instructor at the Training Center since 2011. With decades of industry experience, he trains apprentices and journeymen to safely and efficiently operate rubber-tired backhoes, loaders, dozers, excavators, and graders.

David is a certified OSHA Outreach Trainer and First Aid/CPR/AED instructor. He is passionate about safety, professional growth, and helping operators refine their skills. He believes that commitment and personal accountability are essential to excellence in both training and field performance.
 

Jeff Rabourn joined IUOE Local 701 in 1998 and brings more than 30 years of experience in heavy equipment repair and maintenance. His background includes work as a heavy equipment mechanic, loader operator, asphalt plant operator, and plant maintenance specialist. He has extensive experience with excavation equipment, underground drilling equipment, and paving machinery.

Jeff joined the Operating Engineers Training Center as a mechanic and instructor in September 2017. He is certified in air brake inspection through Haldex and NAPA and has completed advanced Train-the-Trainer coursework in welding technology. His deep mechanical expertise provides members with critical knowledge in heavy repair, diagnostics, and equipment maintenance.
 

Marissa Baseel has been a valued member of the Operating Engineers Training Center since November 2022, serving as Executive Assistant to the Training Director. In this role, she supports a wide range of essential operations, including scheduling journeyman during their training season, coordinating pre-apprentice programs, and assisting with apprenticeship training sessions.

Marissa plays a key role in both the day-to-day functions and behind-the-scenes organization of the Training Center. Her attention to detail, adaptability, and commitment help ensure everything runs smoothly. Whether working directly with trainees or managing logistics in the background, Marissa’s contributions are vital, and she has quickly become an indispensable part of the team.