Harford Community College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Maryland / Harford Community College
Harford Community College – Bel Air, MD
Program Information
Harford Community College (HCC) serves as a major workforce and apprenticeship training hub for Harford County and the surrounding northeastern Maryland region. Located near Aberdeen Proving Ground, major distribution corridors, and a strong base of construction and industrial employers, HCC’s trade and technical programs are designed to directly support local hiring needs rather than abstract academic outcomes.
HCC offers career-focused training in Electrical Apprenticeship-related instruction, HVAC, and Welding, with programs structured to support both new entrants to the trades and individuals already working in the field who need formal classroom hours, certifications, or skill upgrades. Instruction emphasizes applied learning, safety, and alignment with employer and apprenticeship standards used throughout Maryland.
The Electrical training at Harford Community College is closely aligned with registered apprenticeship pathways. Students receive classroom instruction that complements on-the-job electrical work, covering electrical theory, blueprint reading, wiring methods, grounding and bonding, and National Electrical Code (NEC) concepts. This structure makes the program especially valuable for apprentices who need approved classroom hours while working under licensed electricians.
HCC’s HVAC program prepares students to install, maintain, and troubleshoot heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems used in residential and commercial settings. Training includes electrical fundamentals, refrigeration cycles, system controls, diagnostics, airflow, and energy efficiency. Students gain hands-on lab experience with modern HVAC equipment and are prepared for EPA Section 608 refrigerant certification, which is required for employment in the field.
The Welding program at Harford Community College focuses on developing practical skills for fabrication, construction, and industrial maintenance environments. Students train in MIG, TIG, and Stick welding processes while learning metal preparation, joint design, blueprint interpretation, and welding safety. Instruction takes place in dedicated welding labs designed to reflect real shop conditions, preparing graduates for entry-level welding roles and industry certification testing.
A key strength of HCC’s trade programs is the college’s emphasis on real-world experience and employer engagement. Many students participate in internships, cooperative education opportunities, or apprenticeship placements that allow them to apply their skills in actual job environments. Strong partnerships with local contractors, manufacturers, and service companies help connect graduates directly to employment opportunities throughout the region.
Program Length
- Most certificate programs can be completed in approximately 1 year
- Advanced or apprenticeship-aligned coursework may extend beyond one year
- Programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on lab training
Hands-On Training
Students at Harford Community College gain practical experience in:
- Electrical wiring practices and code-aligned installation techniques
- HVAC system installation, diagnostics, and refrigerant handling
- MIG, TIG, and Stick welding processes
- Blueprint reading and technical documentation
- Tool operation, safety procedures, and jobsite best practices
Program Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Completed admissions application
- Basic math, reading, or mechanical aptitude depending on program
- Commitment to hands-on, physically active trade training
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- Preparation for EPA 608 and welding-related certifications
- Electrical coursework aligned with Maryland apprenticeship requirements
- Career paths include electrician apprentice, HVAC technician, welder, and industrial support roles
Location
Harford Community College
Bel Air, MD
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Harford Community College (Bel Air, MD) — 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 Harford Community 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.