Skilled Trades Degree and Training Programs
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Skilled Trades
The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program in Skilled Trades provides students with specialized training in transportation and construction fields. This program offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, with the flexibility to choose from two primary concentrations:
- Transportation
- Construction
Each concentration includes targeted coursework that allows students to focus on specific career pathways.
Skilled Trades Training Programs
Our skilled trades training programs are designed to provide industry-recognized credentials and practical skills for immediate workforce entry or career advancement. Explore our range of training programs below:
Automotive Repair
Prepare for work in the automotive field with training aligned to Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications. Complete individual classes or combine them for comprehensive training.
- Automotive Engine Repair (ASE A1)
- Engine diagnosis and repair.
- Automotive Engine Performance (ASE A8)
- Advanced engine systems.
- Automotive Brake Systems (ASE A5)
- Brake system maintenance and repair.
- Automotive Electrical Systems (ASE A6)
- Electrical system diagnosis and repair.
- Automotive Suspension and Steering (ASE A4)
- Steering, suspension, and alignment.
Construction
Based on the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) curriculum, this program includes essential skills for entering the construction field.
- Basic Construction Skills
- Safety, tools, communication, and construction math. Prerequisite for NCCER HVAC and welding programs.
Diesel Technology
A comprehensive program designed to prepare students to inspect, repair, and service diesel engines. Prepares for ASE Medium-Heavy Truck Certification Tests (T2, T6, T8).
- Module I
- Safety, tools, and diesel engine introduction.
- Module II
- Diesel engine systems.
- Module III
- Cooling, intake, and exhaust systems.
- Module IV
- Fuel injection and electrical systems.
- Module V
- Engine reassembly and maintenance.
Electrical
Prepare for a career in the electrical field with training in residential wiring, electrical theory, and industry safety standards.
- Basic Electrical Skills
- Residential wiring, electrical theory, and safety.
- Electrical Apprenticeship
- A four-year program combining classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Leads to Journeyman Electrician license upon completion. The Electrical Apprenticeship is offered in partnership with Independent Electrical Contractors Chesapeake (IEC Chesapeake).

Heavy Equipment Operations
Hands-on training in operating equipment like dozers, loaders, scrapers, and graders.
- Introduction to Heavy Equipment Operations
- Site Work and Grading
- Enhanced Site Work and Soils
- Excavation Math and Civil Drawings
HVAC/R
Based on the NCCER curriculum, this program provides foundational HVAC training.
- Module I
- Trade math and electricity.
- Module II
- Heating and cooling.
- Module III
- Air distribution and piping.
- Module IV
- Soldering, brazing, and EPA guidelines.
- HVAC/R Apprenticeship
- Maryland state-approved four-year program leading to a Journeyman license. The HVAC/R Apprenticeship is offered in partnership with Heating & Air Conditioning Contractors of Maryland (HACCMD).

Marine Service Technology
Training aligned with the American Boat & Yacht Council standards. Covers engine maintenance, marine electrical systems, and industry regulations. Prepares students to earn a Marine Service Technician Certificate.

This program is partially supported by funding from the Upper Shore Regional Council.
Pest Management
Prepare for a career as a Pest Management Technician through a 16-week program that combines classroom learning with an externship, allowing you to help customers solve pest problems in both residential and commercial settings.
Utility Training
Offered in partnership with Delmarva Power. Hands-on training in electric operations, vegetation management, and customer care.
Welding
Based on NCCER curriculum, this program prepares students for entry-level welding positions.
- Module I
- Safety, cutting, and welding basics.
- Module II
- Beads and fillet welds.
- Module III
- SMAW welding techniques.
- Module IV
- Groove welds.
- Module V
- Open root groove welds.
Additional welding classes:
- Shielded Metal ARC I & II
- Advanced techniques.
- MIG & TIG
- Popular industry welding techniques.
For more information or to register, please contact Amanda Pringle at (443) 907-1379 or skills4u@nullcecil.edu.
For information about course fees, class times, and location, please visit the Continuing Education and Workforce Development Non-Credit Course Schedule.