(251) 422-9123
At South Alabama Crane, we’re dedicated to building a stronger, safer workforce industry-wide. As a trusted leader in crane and rigging training, we provide hands-on instruction and certification programs that meet or exceed OSHA, CCO, and industry standards.
Whether you’re new to the trade or a seasoned operator looking to advance your credentials, South Alabama Crane Specialists is your partner in professional growth, safety, and success.
With over 45 years of real-world experience, our instructors move beyond the classroom to provide the intensive hands-on training essential to a successful career. By learning directly from seasoned professionals who have spent decades in the seat, you gain practical insights and essential safety habits that textbooks simply can't provide.
Veteran-Owned Business
Stephen Hudson II
Owner/Instructor/Inspector
South Alabama Crane Specialists was built from more than a business idea—it was built from a lifetime in the crane industry and a passion for helping others succeed.
My journey began in the military, where I was first introduced to crane operations. I learned from experienced operators who emphasized hard work, discipline, safety, and doing the job the right way. Those lessons became the foundation of my career.
Over the next fifteen years, I worked in shipyards, industrial facilities, commercial construction, steel erection, and marine environments. Along the way, I witnessed a growing shortage of qualified crane operators.
I knew there had to be a better way.
That's why I founded South Alabama Crane Specialists—to provide hands-on, real-world training from someone who has spent years in the seat of a crane, preparing students not only to earn their certifications but to build safe, successful, and rewarding careers.
Today, our mission is simple: to provide industry-leading crane and rigging training that develops safe, skilled, and confident operators while helping meet the workforce needs of Alabama and the Gulf Coast.
This company has never been about selling classes. It's about investing in people, creating opportunities, and passing on the knowledge and values that were shared with me throughout my career.
TLL, TSS, LAT, Inspector
Gene Novay
Gene operated his first crane, sitting in his father's lap at 8 years old, on his grandpa's Koehring 50 Ton Crawler at their family business, Novay & Sons Welding.
His career started off at a crane rental company, sweeping floors at 17, where he worked his way into the operator seat 2 years later.
Experienced in cranes from a 1/2-ton all the way up to a 1,000-ton. There aren't many machines or scenarios Gene hasn't seen in his 28 years as an operator.
He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our classroom, giving our candidates invaluable real-world knowledge. Along with holding many CCO Certifications, Gene is an instructor and practical proctor.
TLL, TSS, LAT, Inspector
Instructor/Inspector
Trey Rector
Instructor
Trey began their journey with heavy machinery in the U.S. Navy, operating nearly every piece of equipment in the fleet, including the Terex. After retiring from military service, Trey attended a heavy equipment certification college, where she discovered a true passion for crane operation. Over an 11-year career, Trey has experienced firsthand the educational gaps that can exist between standard training and real-world field conditions. This insight drives her passion for teaching. Understanding the critical nature of the work, Trey is committed to equipping every student with the essential skills to maintain safety on job sites, ensuring everyone returns home safely. With a strong foundation in military discipline, practical experience, and a steadfast commitment to safety, Trey provides candidates with the real-world knowledge needed to thrive in the industry.
TLL, TSS, LAT, TWR, RIG1, SIG
Training for Success
We believe that thorough training ensures not only compliance with safety regulations but also the development of confident, skilled operators who can thrive in competitive environments.