Celebrating Excellence at the Global Operator Challenge in 2025/2026

The Caterpillar 2025/2026 Global Operator Challenge (GOC) is the place to celebrate operators’ contribution to the construction industry.

This international competition brings together operators from over 40 countries to showcase their expertise on Cat® equipment featuring the latest technologies. Whether it’s placing objects with precision, driving in tight spaces, all the tasks are designed to push operator skills to the limit. The challenge begins with local events hosted by Cat dealers, continues through regional semifinals, and concludes with the finals during ConExpo in Las Vegas where the worldwide winner is crowned.

The GOC is more than a contest. It’s a celebration of the people who build our world—those who often work behind the scenes, yet are essential to every milestone. Operators are not just machine handlers; they are problem-solvers, innovators, and safety champions.

The GOC also highlights the evolving role of operators in a tech-driven industry. With smart machines and digital tools becoming standard, today’s operators are adapting rapidly—blending traditional skills with modern technology to deliver exceptional results.

Caterpillar’s commitment to recognizing these professionals is clear: the GOC is open to all operators, regardless of the brand they typically operate, creating a unique diverse environment where participants may not speak a common language, but they all speak ‘machine’ – a universal language of passion and expertise.

By celebrating operators, the 2025/2026 Global Operator Challenge inspires diversity, fosters community, and it is where legends are born. Because behind every powerful machine is a person with the skill to make it perform—and that’s worth celebrating.

Learn more here