Cecil College offers hands-on workforce training in skilled trades, including automotive repair, welding, electrical, HVAC/R, heavy equipment operations, and more. Programs provide industry-recognized certifications and prepare students for immediate employment or career advancement.
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 Suspension and Steering (ASE A4)
Steering, suspension, and alignment.
Automotive Brake Systems (ASE A5)
Brake system maintenance and repair.
Automotive Electrical Systems (ASE A6)
Electrical system diagnosis and repair.
Automotive Engine Performance (ASE A8)
Advanced engine systems.
Certified Manufacturing Associate
Designed for those new to the industry, the Certified Manufacturing Associate program provides you with the foundational knowledge required for high-demand, entry-level roles. Whether you are switching careers or just starting out, this program bridges the gap between no experience and a professional future.
This hybrid program offers the ultimate flexibility, combining convenient online modules with essential in-person, hands-on training to ensure you master real-world skills. You’ll learn the essentials that employers look for, including shop math, machining, assembly, inspection, and more. Earn an industry-driven certification that shows you’re not just a candidate, but a prepared professional ready for the workforce.
Certified Manufacturing Associate I
Shop safety, manufacturing processes, technical math, measurement, blueprint reading, and modern production technologies.
Certified Manufacturing Associate II
Automation, assembly operations, quality systems, and lean manufacturing principles.
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).
Diesel Technology: Module I
Safety, tools, and diesel engine introduction.
Diesel Technology: Module II
Diesel engine systems.
Diesel Technology: Module III
Cooling, intake, and exhaust systems.
Diesel Technology: Module IV
Fuel injection and electrical systems.
Diesel Technology: 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: Part I
Residential wiring, electrical theory, and safety.
Basic Electrical Skills: Part II
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
Introduction to the trade and cover heavy equipment safety, identification, and basic operational techniques.
Site Work and Grading
Introductory skills and knowledge of earth moving, grades, and utility tractors.
Enhanced Site Work and Soils
In-depth exploration of setting and interpreting grade stakes; information and instructions on controlling surface water and ground water on a job site, as well as the layout of foundations and laying of pipe.
Excavation Math and Civil Drawings
Covers basic math skills required for site excavation work and includes methods and practice in calculating the areas and volumes of various geometric shapes along with how to read site plans to calculate cut and fill requirements.
HVAC/R
Based on the NCCER curriculum, this program provides foundational HVAC training.
HVAC/R: Module I
Trade math and electricity.
HVAC/R: Module II
Heating and cooling.
HVAC/R: Module III
Air distribution and piping.
HVAC/R: 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
Cecil College’s Marine Service Technology program will provide students with an introduction to the marine service industry. Upon completion of the program, students can earn their Marine Service Technician Certification.
This hands-on program will introduce and prepare students for an exciting career in the marine industry. Using an industry standards-based curriculum from American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC), students will learn: fundamentals of marine engines, outboard and inboard engine maintenance, marine electrical systems, boat handling and safety, industry standards, and more.
This program is partially supported by funding from the Upper Shore Regional Council.
Marine Service Technician I
24 sessions, 72 hours; classes are held at Safe Harbor Bohemia Vista.
Marine Service Technician II
24 sessions, 72 hours; classes are held at Safe Harbor Bohemia Vista.
OUPV/Six-Pack Captain's License
If you are looking to offer fishing and sailing charters, become a certified instructor, or provide guide services commercially, the Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) Captain’s License is for you! Also known as the Six-Pack, this is the most popular type of captain’s license.
Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV)/Six-Pack Captain's License Prep Course Bundle
Study at your own pace with a comprehensive online curriculum covering essential maritime knowledge, including: Chart Plotting, Navigation General, Deck General and Safety, and Rules of the Road. Upon passing the exam, students will have met the written requirements for obtaining their U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) OUPV captain’s license. Individuals have one year from passing the final proctored exam to submit their complete application packet to the Coast Guard for issuance.
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.
Pest Management: Part I
This course introduces students to federal regulations and safety, introduction to entomology and insects, use of pesticides, and how to handle specific pests.
Pest Management: Part II
This course builds upon the knowledge acquired in Part I of this program and also covers topics including customer service, route management, and how to conduct inspections.
Utility Training
A tuition free program offered in partnership with Delmarva Power. Hands-on training in electric operations and customer care.
Welding
Based on NCCER curriculum, this program prepares students for entry-level welding positions.
Welding: Module I
Safety, cutting, and welding basics.
Welding: Module II
Beads and fillet welds.
Welding: Module III
SMAW welding techniques.
Welding: Module IV
Groove welds.
Welding: Module V
Open root groove welds.
Shielded Metal ARC I
Advanced techniques, part one.
Shielded Metal ARC II
Advanced techniques, part two.
MIG & TIG
Popular industry welding techniques.
More Information
For more information or to register, please contact Amanda Pringle at (443) 907-1379 or skills4u@nullcecil.edu.