Central Wyoming College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Wyoming / Central Wyoming College
Central Wyoming College – Riverton, WY
Programs Offered
- Welding Technology (Certificate and Associate of Applied Science)
- HVAC and Refrigeration Technology
- Construction Technology (Carpentry and Building Trades)
- Electrical Apprenticeship and Industrial Maintenance Programs
Program Overview
Central Wyoming College (CWC) provides career-focused technical programs designed to meet the state’s workforce needs in construction, energy, and skilled trades. The Welding Technology program equips students with essential skills in MIG, TIG, and Stick welding, as well as blueprint interpretation and metal fabrication. The HVAC and Refrigeration Technology program prepares students to install, maintain, and troubleshoot heating and cooling systems used in residential and commercial buildings. The Construction Technology program covers carpentry, blueprint reading, framing, and site management, ensuring students gain both technical skills and supervisory knowledge.
Each program combines classroom study with hands-on training in modern facilities, giving students practical experience that translates directly to the job site.
Hands-On Training
Students at CWC receive practical training in fully equipped shops and labs designed to simulate real-world work environments. Key training components include:
- Welding Labs: Practice welding in multiple positions using TIG, MIG, and Stick processes on plate and pipe materials.
- HVAC Labs: Work with industry-standard heating and cooling systems to diagnose and repair components, test efficiency, and ensure proper installation.
- Construction Projects: Build structural components, install electrical systems, and apply project management principles on supervised job-site projects.
Certification & Licensing Prep
- Welding curriculum aligns with American Welding Society (AWS) certification standards.
- HVAC program prepares students for EPA Section 608 certification for refrigerant handling.
- Construction students gain experience aligned with OSHA safety certifications and residential building standards.
Career Paths & Salary Outlook
- Welder / Fabricator: Join metal fabrication, manufacturing, and construction sectors.
- HVAC Technician: Install, maintain, and service heating, ventilation, and cooling systems in commercial or residential environments.
- Construction Technician / Carpenter: Work in framing, remodeling, or project supervision across building trades.
- Maintenance Technician: Apply multi-trade skills in electrical, plumbing, and mechanical maintenance roles.
Program Length
- Certificate Programs: Typically 9–12 months of full-time study.
- Associate of Applied Science Degrees: Approximately 2 years of full-time coursework.
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Ability to collaborate effectively in lab and field settings
- Commitment to safety, teamwork, and hands-on learning
Cost & Financial Aid
Central Wyoming College offers affordable tuition and participates in federal and state financial aid programs. Students may qualify for FAFSA grants, scholarships, and workforce training assistance. The college also provides financial counseling and career placement services to support graduates entering the workforce.
Location
Located in Riverton, Wyoming, with outreach centers in Jackson, Lander, and Dubois, CWC serves students across central Wyoming. Its trades and technical programs are supported by modern facilities, industry partnerships, and apprenticeship pathways that connect education with employment opportunities.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Central Wyoming College (Riverton, WY) — U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Program Type: Primarily Certificate or Associate Programs
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Median Earnings (10 yrs)
Time to Earn It Back
ROI Grade
About this data: Tuition and earnings are averages from federal College Scorecard data for comparable programs at Central Wyoming College. Actual costs may vary by program length, residency, and supplies. Earnings reflect median salaries ten years after entering the institution. This helps estimate how quickly your training can pay off in real-world wages.