Charter College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Montana / Charter College
Charter College – Montana (Billings / Missoula)
Programs Offered
- Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC/R)
- Welding Technology
- Associate of Applied Science in Applied Technology
Program Overview
Charter College’s Montana campuses, located in Billings and Missoula, provide career-focused training in skilled trades alongside business, healthcare, and technical programs. Their trade track emphasizes practical, hands-on instruction to get students job-ready in high-demand fields. For example, students in HVAC/R and Welding receive training that aligns with industry standards and employer expectations.
The institution emphasizes a direct pathway into employment by offering training in core trade areas, flexible scheduling, and support services that help students transition from training into the workforce.
Hands-On Training
Students gain classroom instruction combined with lab or shop-based training to build competence and confidence. Key training components include:
- Installation, maintenance and repair of HVAC/R systems
- Operation of refrigeration equipment, heat pumps and duct systems
- MIG, TIG and Stick welding techniques, including metal fabrication
- Blueprint reading, welding symbols and shop safety practices
- Industry-standard tools, safety protocols and job-site simulation
Certifications & Career Preparation
- Preparation for HVAC technician credentials and EPA Section 608 Certification
- Preparation for welding certifications such as those offered by the American Welding Society (AWS)
Program Length
- Trade Certificate Programs: Typically 9–12 months (varies by program)
- Associate of Applied Science in Applied Technology: Approximately 2 years
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED (many programs require this)
- Basic math and reading comprehension skills
- Interest in pursuing a hands-on technical career
Financial Aid & Student Support
Charter College offers financial aid for eligible students, including federal grants, scholarships and flexible payment plans. On-campus advisors assist with company placement support, tutoring and other resources to help graduates succeed.
Location
With campuses in Billings and Missoula, Montana, Charter College serves students throughout the state seeking fast-track training in trades and technology. The campuses are designed to provide the facilities and equipment needed for skilled trade training.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Charter College (Anchorage, AK) — U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Program Type: Trade or Technical Training
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 Charter 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.