School of Advanced Manufacturing and Skilled Trades

Manufacture your own skills.

Are you interested in technology? Do you prefer hands-on instruction? MTC's School of Advanced Manufacturing and Skilled Trades offers many career options, from the automotive industry to graphic design production, machine tooling, welding technology, and many other skilled trades courses. This is more than a trade school. Our programs prepare you for great careers in two years or less with individual training courses and academic transfer programs.

Automotive Technology Commercial Driver's License Commercial Graphics Construction Electrical and Electronics Forklift Operator Heavy Equipment Operator HVAC/R Industrial Mechanical Maintenance Mechatronics Plumbing Precision Machining Production Welding

3 Ways Technical College Can Improve Your Future

Technical college can help you figure out your career path, get hired, and earn more, while still being affordable. Sign up for a short series so we can prove it and help you make an informed decision on whether an associate degree or career certificate could make all the difference in your life.

First Name

Automotive Technology

Automotive professionals work in shops and garages and are skilled in the building and repairing of engines.

Automotive Technician

Whether you’re planning to enter the field as an automotive technician or would like to advance your career with certifications in specialty areas, MTC has the path that’s right for you. MTC provides up-to-date training in both automotive theory and operational skills, supported by intensive classroom and hands-on lab training utilizing state-of-the-art tools for diagnostics and repair.

Associate Degree

Automotive Brake, Suspension, and Steering Repair

Students receive hands-on training on each phase of brake service, suspension, and steering repair while preparing to become certified in Brakes and Steering and Suspension by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (A.S.E.).

Academic Certificate

Automotive Drive Train Repair

Students develop up-to-date knowledge on drive train repair while preparing to become certified in Automatic Transmission/Transaxle and Manual Drive Train by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (A.S.E.).

Academic Certificate

Automotive Electrical Systems Repair

Automotive students complete an up-to-date training program that prepares them to become certified in Electrical Systems by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (A.S.E.)

Academic Certificate

Automotive Engine Performance

Students develop knowledge of engine performance while preparing to become certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (A.S.E.).

Academic Certificate

Automotive Engine Repair

Students will be prepared to become certified in Engine Repair through an up-to-date training program that will develop their knowledge of automotive engine repair through hands-on training.

Academic Certificate

Automotive Heating and Air Conditioning Repair

Students receive hands-on training in repairs while preparing to become certified in Heating and Air Conditioning Systems by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (A.S.E.).

Academic Certificate

Small Engine Repair

In about six weeks, students can have a working knowledge of types and operation of small engines, engine service, and repair of outdoor power equipment. Work for yourself or for a small business repairing gas trimmers, chainsaws, push and riding mowers. Small engine repair professionals can earn over $20 an hour with experience.

Training Certificate

Commercial Driver's License

Commercial truck drivers transport goods and materials locally and across the country. A CDL (Class A Commercial Driver’s License) is required for many jobs in this field.

Commercial Driver

Five weeks to fast wages! This course will prepare students to sit for the CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) exam and go to work as a truck driver. Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers transport goods from one location to another. Most tractor-trailer drivers are long-haul drivers and operate trucks with a total weight exceeding 26,000 pounds for the vehicle, passengers, and cargo. These drivers deliver goods over inter-city routes that sometimes span several states.

Training Certificate

Commercial Graphics

Commercial graphics technicians work in highly technical industries, designing and producing various types of printed materials.

Commercial Graphics

At the completion of this program, students will have the skills to begin a career in a number of different graphic-production industries including screen printing, offset lithographic production, and vehicle wrapping. These skills can be showcased on a variety of substrates such as t-shirts, banners, car wraps, and paper.

Associate Degree

Construction

Construction managers plan, financially monitor, and supervise projects and personnel on various construction sites.

Building Construction

This program is designed to prepare students for a wide range of career opportunities for the construction industry in South Carolina including homebuilders, superintendents, job site personnel, building inspectors, and contractors. Training is based on a set of detailed skills standards from the nation's leaders in the construction industry. Students are encouraged to become a professional in the construction industry. Students learn to build with a "zero-defect" construction philosophy. This means that a commitment to flawless workmanship and unparalleled quality is the heart of all training activities. Students will experience training in print reading, layout, frame assembly, door and window installation, estimating, scheduling, and other job site duties.

Associate Degree

Carpentry

The Carpentry-Qualified Framer certificate is designed to train the next generation of skilled workers needed in the construction industry by enabling the student to learn a specialized carpentry sub-craft. This certificate can provide multiple avenues to enter the construction industry without a degree in building construction technology. Students will experience training in print reading, layout frame assembly, door and windows installation, estimating, scheduling, and other job site duties.

Academic Certificate

SC Residential Builder Exam Prep

Students will learn about preparing sites and foundations, general framing, and managing employees and sub-contractors. This program prepares students for the Residential Builder and Business Management and Law exams required for licensure in S.C.

Training Certificate

Electrical and Electronics

Individuals in the electrical field test, troubleshoot, install, and repair electrical components. Electricians specialize in either residential or commercial electricity.

Basic Electrical Wiring

The Basic Electrical Wiring Certificate provides fundamental knowledge of electrical wiring and AC and DC circuits. Students become familiar with electrical codes, ordinances, print reading, and electricity fundamentals. Courses taken in this program may be applied toward the Diploma in Industrial Electricity if students elect to pursue this program.

Academic Certificate

Industrial Electricity

Graduates of this program are ready for positions with local electrical contractors, industrial plants, hospitals, power companies, government agencies, and other related businesses. These programs emphasize theory and hands-on training in residential and commercial electrical wiring and troubleshooting; various residential, commercial, and industrial applications; PLC programming and troubleshooting; and renewable energy applications like solar electricity.

Diploma Training Certificate

What's the difference?

Only academic programs provide college credit, transfer to four-year colleges and universities, and are eligible for federal financial aid (FAFSA). Training programs can be completed in a matter of weeks or months. These are not eligible for federal financial aid, but they may qualify for other scholarships and grant funding.

Renewable Energy Technician

The Renewable Energy Technician Certificate provides fundamental knowledge of electrical wiring, particularly as it applies to the growing field of alternative energy. Students are also given hands-on training in both roof-mount and ground-mount solar panel installation, energy storage installation and management and other alternative energy options. Students become familiar with electrical codes, ordinances, print reading, and electricity fundamentals. Courses taken in this program may be applied toward the Diploma in Industrial Electricity if students later elect to pursue this program.

Academic Certificate

Forklift Operator

Forklift operators drive industrial trucks that transport materials in warehouses and on job sites. Forklift operators can be trained in as little as one day.

Forklift Operator

In just one day, students will be trained to operate a forklift and receive a three-year certificate in forklift safety, preventative maintenance, and driving/operation skills. As a trained forklift operator, graduates can start earning up to $15 an hour. This course will also prepare you to work as a material handler or warehouse operator at any number of manufacturing, supply, or logistic companies. Safety requirements prohibit open-toe, cloth, and high heeled shoes. Students must be 18 years of age in order to operate a forklift.

Training Certificate

Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operators operate and maintain motorized heavy equipment to complete transportation and public works maintenance, work as part of a team in new construction projects, and work in other fields such as mining and forestry. Operators use a variety of equipment including bulldozers, excavators, motor graders, backhoes, and loaders.

Heavy Equipment Operator - Comprehensive

Combining all four types of heavy equipment, including the dozer, excavator, backhoe loader, and motor grader, the comprehensive heavy equipment operator program will train students using a state-of-the-art Caterpillar simulator to enter the workforce knowing how machinery operates, safety procedures, and how to perform certain maneuvers.

Training Certificate

Heavy Equipment Operator - Construction

Want to help build a warehouse or home? The construction pathway will lay a foundation for students to understand what skills and maneuvers are standard on a dover and excavator when helping build one’s future.

Training Certificate

Heavy Equipment Operator - Transportation and Public Works

Communities need successful infrastructure and public works in order thrive. This program pathway will teach students about the different types of environments and situations they may be exposed to when using a backhoe loader and motor grader.

Training Certificate

HVAC/R

Heating and air conditioning systems, as well as refrigeration and ventilation systems need HVAC mechanics and installers to repair and install air quality devices for homes and buildings.

Entry Level HVAC Technician

Heating and air conditioning systems control the temperature, humidity, and overall air quality in homes, businesses, and other buildings. By providing a climate-controlled environment, refrigeration systems make it possible to store and transport food, medicine, and other perishable items.
When installing or repairing air conditioning and refrigeration systems, technicians must follow government regulations regarding the conservation, recovery, and recycling of refrigerants. The regulations include those concerning the proper handling and disposal of fluids and pressurized gases.

Training Certificate

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning/Refrigeration

Technicians from this program are prepared for careers in residential and commercial air conditioning, refrigeration, and heating equipment installation and maintenance. These programs offer hands-on training as well as classroom instruction, preparing the student for any HVAC career.

Associate Degree Academic Certificate Diploma

Industrial Mechanical Maintenance

From troubleshooting to preventative maintenance, an industrial maintenance technician installs, repairs, and maintains industrial and commercial machinery in a variety of settings.

Industrial Mechanical Maintenance

This program gives students the entry-level skills needed to start earning around $20 an hour as a mechanical maintenance technician. Manufacturing companies and mechanical contractors are looking to fill these important positions which are in high demand. The program can be completed in just 11 months.

Training Certificate

Mechatronics

Advanced automated manufacturing requires skilled maintenance and repair professionals. This program focuses on the engineering of electrical, mechanical, and computer systems to solve technical problems and maintain automated equipment.

Mechatronics

Industrial Maintenance and Mechatronics programs at MTC offer excellent educational opportunities for people who desire hands-on careers, enjoy troubleshooting, and are technically inclined. The programs include classroom and hands-on instruction in electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and PLC technology.

Associate Degree Academic Certificate

What's the difference?

Only academic programs provide college credit, transfer to four-year colleges and universities, and are eligible for federal financial aid (FAFSA). Training programs can be completed in a matter of weeks or months. These are not eligible for federal financial aid, but they may qualify for other scholarships and grant funding.

Plumbing

Plumbers install, troubleshoot, and repair water, wastewater, and gas piping and fixtures in residential and commercial settings.

Entry Level Plumber

In about 6 months, students will gain the skills of a beginner plumber, helping plumbers install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems. This program was designed in cooperation with local residential and commercial plumbers to ensure the training covered meets industry needs.

Training Certificate

Propane and Natural Gas Installer

Students will learn piping, design, regulations, and ventilation for a variety of systems that use natural gas or propane in a safe and efficient manner. Following course completion, students will be able to earn a certificate from the Propane Education & Resource Council.

Training Certificate

Precision Machining

Machined parts have to be made – and a CNC operator works to program, set up, and operate computer numerical control machines while also maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety.

Computer Numerical Control (CNC)

If you are interested in computers, working with your hands, and are mechanically inclined, you could earn up to $30 an hour as a CNC operator. Basic CNC programming and applications-based training on actual CNC machines are blended together in this certificate. Complete this program in as few as ten months and bring your skills to one of many organizations that rely on CNC Mill and CNC Lathe work for production.

Training Certificate

Machine Tool

Skilled machinists are required in every facet of manufacturing. Begin a career in the rapidly advancing manufacturing industry with this course of study in machine tooling. This hands-on experience combines classroom and shop instruction where students will learn to fabricate various materials into intricate, precise, usable parts using both manual and CNC machining.

Associate Degree Academic Certificate Diploma

Production

Those that work in production transform raw materials using labor, machines, and tools into products for use or sale. Such goods may be sold to other manufacturers for the production of more complex products.

Production Technician

In eight to ten weeks, this program will give you the core technical competencies of entry-level production workers in all sectors of manufacturing.

Training Certificate

ManuFirst SC

ManuFirst SC is a state-recognized manufacturing certification designed to provide a foundation for South Carolinians needing entry-level skills for manufacturing employment.

Training Certificate

Welding

Welding is used in the shipping, automotive manufacturing and repair, and aerospace industries. Welders join metal parts through melting and fusing them into a permanent bond.

Welding and Cutting Fundamentals

This 3-semester Certificate provides students with the core skills necessary to become a professional welder. The techniques and competencies developed in this certificate are foundational in starting a welding career. This certificate awards college credit and can be stacked with the Welding Qualifications Certificate and the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Welding Technology.

Academic Certificate

Welding Qualifications

This 3-semester certificate builds upon the skills developed in the Welding Fundamentals Certificate. It is designed to prepare students for a career as a professional welder. Students will learn advanced processes and techniques while honing their skills. This certificate awards college credit and can be stacked with the Welding Fundamentals Certificate and the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Welding Technology.

Academic Certificate

Welding Technology

The first college degree in welding available in the state of South Carolina, the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Welding Technology is a 6-semester program that combines the Welding Fundamentals and Qualifications Certificates. This Academic Welding Degree Program is an in-depth training program delivered by a staff of professional welders and AWS Certified Welding Educators and Inspectors. Welders who also hold an Associate degree are more qualified to advance into higher roles within the industry.

Associate Degree

Comprehensive Welder

The Comprehensive Welder Certificate is the culmination of the individual Stick, MIG/Flux Cored, and TIG Welding certificates and prepares the individual to work for a wide range of companies in the manufacturing and construction fields.

Training Certificate

MIG and Flux Cored Welder

The MIG and Flux Cored Welder Certificate focuses on the Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) and Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) processes. In two, 8-week courses you will learn how to use both processes to weld in all positions.

Training Certificate

Stick Welder

The Stick Welder Certificate focuses on the Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) process. In three, 8-week courses you will learn how to fillet, groove, and pipe weld in all positions.

Training Certificate

TIG Welder

The TIG Welder Certificate focuses on the Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) process. In two, 8-week courses you will learn how to fillet and groove weld flat plate in all positions as well as pipe weld in the 6G position.

Training Certificate

Want more information?

Academic programs count as academic credit for a certificate, diploma or degree and may transfer toward future academic endeavors at four-year colleges and universities.
Training programs can be completed in a matter of weeks or months, are focused on career training, and provide credentials and certificates needed in the specific fields of study. Coursework does not transfer.
Not sure: Check out these resources to explore what fits your goals.

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