Clover Park Technical College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Washington / Clover Park Technical College
Clover Park Technical College – Lakewood, WA
Program Information
Clover Park Technical College (CPTC) is a long-established public technical college in Lakewood, Washington, with roots dating back more than 85 years. The college plays a significant role in workforce training for Pierce County and the South Puget Sound region, serving a diverse student population that includes recent high school graduates, adult learners, career changers, and military-connected students from nearby Joint Base Lewis-McChord. CPTC is known for its practical, employment-focused programs designed to align closely with regional labor market needs.
CPTC offers a broad mix of skilled trades, technical, and professional programs, including HVAC, Welding, Automotive Technology, Construction Trades, Electrical, Machining, and Industrial Maintenance, along with public service and healthcare programs. Trades and technical programs emphasize applied learning, with students spending a significant portion of their time in labs and shop environments that reflect real jobsite conditions. Curriculum is guided by industry advisory committees to ensure training stays current with employer expectations.
The HVAC program prepares students to work with residential and commercial heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Training covers electrical fundamentals, system diagnostics, refrigerant handling, airflow measurement, and energy-efficient technologies. Students train on industry-standard equipment and are prepared for entry-level technician roles and EPA 608 certification.
CPTC’s Welding program provides instruction in MIG, TIG, Stick, and flux-core welding, along with metal fabrication, blueprint reading, and safety procedures. Students gain hands-on experience using professional welding equipment and learn techniques applicable to construction, manufacturing, shipbuilding, and industrial maintenance. Additional construction-related programs introduce students to framing, jobsite safety, and core building practices used in residential and commercial construction.
A distinguishing feature of Clover Park Technical College is its strong connection to workforce transition and re-entry. Many programs are structured to support veterans, working adults, and individuals seeking retraining, with flexible scheduling options and student support services that help learners balance education with work and family responsibilities.
Program Length
- Certificate programs typically completed in under 1 year
- Technical diplomas and associate degrees generally take 1–2 years
- Programs emphasize lab-based instruction and applied skill development
Hands-On Training
Students gain practical experience in:
- HVAC system installation, diagnostics, and maintenance
- MIG, TIG, Stick, and flux-core welding techniques
- Automotive repair, diagnostics, and mechanical systems
- Construction safety, tools, and jobsite practices
- Blueprint reading and industry-standard procedures
Program Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Completion of admissions application
- Program-specific placement or prerequisites may apply
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- Preparation for EPA 608, welding certifications, and trade credentials
- Career paths include HVAC technician, welder, automotive technician, and construction trades roles
- Employer partnerships support job placement and workforce entry
Location
Clover Park Technical College
4500 Steilacoom Boulevard SW
Lakewood, WA 98499
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Clover Park Technical College (Lakewood, WA) — 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 Clover Park Technical 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.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.