Dakota County Technical College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Minnesota / Dakota County Technical College
Dakota County Technical College – Rosemount, MN
Program Information
Dakota County Technical College (DCTC) is one of Minnesota’s leading career and technical institutions, offering a wide range of hands-on programs that prepare students for high-demand skilled trade careers across the region. Located in Rosemount, DCTC focuses on practical, workforce-ready training supported by strong employer partnerships, modern facilities, and experienced instructors with real industry backgrounds. The college maintains active collaboration with Minnesota businesses and trade employers to ensure that its curriculum stays aligned with current industry expectations and job requirements.
DCTC offers highly respected programs in automotive technology, heavy duty truck technology, welding technology, electrical construction and maintenance, HVAC/R technology, construction management, and building trades. The automotive program trains students in engine diagnostics, electrical systems, brake systems, drivetrain components, hybrid technology, alignment, and advanced computerized diagnostics. Students work directly with industry-standard equipment in fully equipped auto labs, preparing them for ASE-aligned certification opportunities and entry-level technician roles in dealerships and independent shops.
The Heavy Duty Truck Technology program provides in-depth training with diesel engines, hydraulics, air brakes, preventive maintenance, and fleet operations. Students learn on industry-grade trucks and equipment, gaining experience with electrical systems, drivetrains, emissions systems, and modern diagnostic technology used in commercial transportation. This program is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled diesel technicians within trucking, agriculture, and equipment service industries.
The Welding Technology program emphasizes hands-on practice across welding processes including MIG, TIG, Stick, flux-core, and oxy-fuel applications. Students develop skills in fabrication, blueprint reading, weld inspection, metal cutting, metallurgy, and safety procedures. The program uses individual welding booths and fabrication stations to simulate real industrial shop environments. Graduates are prepared for entry-level welding positions in construction, metal fabrication, manufacturing, and industrial maintenance.
The Electrical Construction and Maintenance program prepares students to install, maintain, and troubleshoot electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Students learn circuit design, wiring systems, conduit bending, motor controls, programmable logic controllers, electrical theory, code compliance, and safety procedures. Labs replicate real job-site environments with working panels, advanced tools, and electrical equipment commonly found in the field.
DCTC’s HVAC/R program covers installation, repair, and maintenance of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Students learn refrigerant handling, load calculations, electrical controls, system diagnostics, ductwork, furnace operation, heat pump systems, and commercial cooling systems. Training aligns with EPA 608 certification requirements and prepares graduates for entry-level technician roles.
Program Length
- Diploma and certificate programs: typically 1 year
- Associate of Applied Science degrees: generally 2 years
- Some programs offer evening or part-time schedules
Hands-On Training
Students train in industry-level environments, including:
- Automotive bays with diagnostic computers, lifts, and advanced testing systems
- Heavy duty diesel labs with full-size trucks and commercial equipment
- Welding booths and fabrication shops equipped with modern industrial machinery
- Electrical labs featuring live panels, conduit systems, motors, and control equipment
- HVAC/R systems for hands-on training with residential and commercial heating and cooling units
- Construction and building trades facilities replicating real job-site conditions
Program Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Completed admissions application
- Basic math, reading, and mechanical aptitude recommended for trade programs
- Ability to meet physical demands of hands-on technical work
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- Preparation for ASE, AWS, NCCER, EPA 608, and manufacturer-specific certifications
- Career paths include automotive technician, diesel mechanic, welder, HVAC/R technician, electrician apprentice, and construction trades roles
- Strong hiring demand through employer partnerships, internships, and job placement support
Location
Dakota County Technical College
1300 145th Street East
Rosemount, MN 55068
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Dakota County Technical College (Rosemount, MN) — 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 Dakota County 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.