Hands-On. Job-Ready.

School of Skilled Trades

Hands-On Training for In-Demand Skilled Trades

The Rockford Career College School of Skilled Trades is where hands-on learners turn drive into life-long skills. Whether you’re drawn to HVAC/R, Electrical, Welding, or Construction Administration, our programs are built to deliver the technical training that fuels real careers. With expert instructors and practical, job-site-ready education, you’ll graduate with the confidence to step into in-demand skilled trades careers.

Many programs can be completed in as little as 10 months, giving you a fast track to a career that builds, powers, and maintains the world around us. That’s the Rockford advantage.

Skilled Trades Programs

Associate Degree

Construction Administration

Already have a diploma or credits in a skilled trade? Take your experience to the next level with an AAS in Construction Administration. Learn project planning, budgeting, safety management, and team leadership in a 100% online program designed to help you move into supervisory roles across residential, commercial, and industrial construction sectors.

Length

7 Months

Format

100% Online

Credits

109.5

Career Options

Construction Project Manager, Construction Superintendent, Construction Estimator, Construction Inspector, Construction Scheduler, Construction Safety Manager, Building Inspector

Diploma

Electrical Technician

Train to work with residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems. Learn to install and repair wiring, read blueprints, follow safety codes, and work with various types of electrical equipment. This program prepares you for entry-level opportunities in construction, maintenance, or industrial settings.

Length

10 Months

Format

On-Campus

Credits

64

Career Options

Inside Wiremen, Outside Linemen, Residential Lineman, Installer Technician, Renewable Energy Technician, Engineering Technician, Engineering Technician

Diploma

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Understand how heating and cooling systems work—and how to install, troubleshoot, and maintain them. In this hands-on program, you’ll gain experience with real HVAC/R equipment and prepare for entry-level roles in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities.

Length

10 Months

Format

On-Campus

Credits

64

Career Options

HVAC Technician/Installer, HVAC Engineer, HVAC Sales Representative, HVAC Project Manager, HVAC Maintenance Supervisor, HVAC Energy Auditor, HVAC Instructor/Trainer

Diploma

Welding

Develop foundational welding skills, including MIG, TIG, Stick, and Flux-Core methods. You’ll learn to read blueprints, understand welding symbols, and apply your skills in lab settings that simulate real-world conditions. This program helps prepare you for welding roles in construction, manufacturing, and fabrication.

Length

10 Months

Format

On-Campus

Credits

64

Career Options

Welder, Welding Instructor, Welding Inspector, Welding Technician

Ready to Get to Work?

Supporting Your Success

How Rockford Works For You!

100% Online Learning – Our online programs allow you the flexibility to study from anywhere while balancing your personal and professional commitments.

Collaboration with Local Employers – Rockford Career College collaborates with local employers for industry insights to ensure your training aligns with real-world needs and student career opportunities.

Career-Focused, Hands-on Training – Gain practical experience through comprehensive training designed to develop marketable skills that are in demand in the animal care industry.

Expert Career Services Support – Receive guidance and support throughout your program from our dedicated career services team. Get resume help, job search assistance, interview prep, and more—before and after graduation.