Houston Community College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Texas / Houston Community College
Houston Community College – Houston, TX
Program Information
Houston Community College is one of the largest community college systems in Texas, serving the Greater Houston area through multiple campuses and specialized workforce training centers. HCC’s technical and construction-related programs are designed to support the region’s energy, manufacturing, commercial construction, and facilities maintenance sectors. Instruction is delivered through a combination of classroom coursework and extensive hands-on lab training that reflects the scale and complexity of Houston’s industrial and commercial environment.
The Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning program at Houston Community College prepares students to work with climate control systems commonly used in large residential developments, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities throughout the Houston metro area. Coursework introduces refrigeration fundamentals, electrical controls, airflow principles, and system diagnostics. Students gain practical experience installing, servicing, and troubleshooting HVAC systems in lab settings designed to simulate real service and maintenance conditions. Training emphasizes safety, system efficiency, and proper use of tools and test equipment.
HCC’s Welding Technology programs focus on skill development for fabrication, construction, and industrial welding environments. Students receive hands-on instruction in welding processes such as MIG, TIG, and Stick welding, along with training in cutting methods, joint preparation, and metal fabrication techniques. Coursework includes blueprint interpretation, measurement, and welding safety practices. Instruction is structured to help students develop consistent weld quality while understanding how welding standards apply across manufacturing, energy, and construction projects common in the Houston region.
Electrical Technology programs at Houston Community College introduce students to residential and commercial electrical systems, with an emphasis on installation practices, circuitry fundamentals, and troubleshooting methods. Students learn to interpret diagrams, apply electrical codes, and work safely with wiring systems and electrical components. Lab-based instruction allows students to practice hands-on installation and testing tasks in controlled environments that mirror professional electrical work settings.
Construction Management programs at HCC are designed for individuals interested in supervisory and coordination roles within the construction industry. Coursework covers construction methods, blueprint reading, jobsite safety, scheduling, and project coordination. Students learn how construction projects move from planning through execution, with attention to communication, documentation, and compliance requirements. This program supports career pathways into construction supervision, project coordination, and related management roles.
Houston Community College integrates workforce development services into its technical programs. Students may have access to internships, employer partnerships, and career services that support job placement and professional development. These connections reflect HCC’s role as a major workforce pipeline for Houston-area employers.
Program Length
Program length varies based on the credential and field of study. Many workforce certificate programs are designed for completion within approximately nine months to one year. Associate degree pathways typically require two years of full-time study. Completion time may vary depending on course sequencing, enrollment status, and whether a student attends full-time or part-time.
Program Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Submission of an application for admission to Houston Community College
- Basic math and communication skills appropriate to the selected program
- Physical readiness to participate in hands-on lab and technical training
- Additional program-specific requirements may apply
Houston Community College’s technical programs are structured to support entry into high-demand trades while allowing flexibility for working adults and career changers. Training emphasizes practical skill development, safety awareness, and professional work habits aligned with employer expectations across the Houston metropolitan area.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Houston Community College (Houston, TX) — 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 Houston 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.