Indian Hills Community College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Iowa / Indian Hills Community College
Indian Hills Community College – Ottumwa, IA
Program Information
Indian Hills Community College offers an extensive selection of skilled trades and technical programs designed to prepare students for in-demand careers across Iowa and the Midwest. Popular trade pathways include Welding Technology, Automotive Technology, Advanced Manufacturing, Carpentry, HVAC, Diesel Technology, Electrical & Renewable Energy, and Construction Technology.
The college emphasizes hands-on learning with modern labs, industry-grade tools, simulators, and real-world project work. Welding students train on MIG, TIG, Stick, and Flux-Core processes, while Automotive and Diesel students work in full-service shop environments equipped with diagnostic computers and professional-grade equipment. Construction and Carpentry programs focus on framing, finish work, blueprint reading, and jobsite safety. Many programs are developed with input from local employers to ensure strong job placement opportunities after graduation.
Indian Hills also partners with regional industries for internships, apprenticeships, and direct employment pipelines, making it a leading technical training institution in Iowa. Students may pursue short-term certificates for rapid entry into the workforce or continue into Associate of Applied Science degrees for more advanced roles.
Program Length
- Certificate Programs: Approximately 1 year
- Associate of Applied Science Degrees: Approximately 2 years
- Stackable credentials allowing students to build skills progressively
Hands-On Training
Depending on the program, students gain real-world skills in:
- Welding processes (MIG, TIG, Stick, Flux-Core) and metal fabrication
- Automotive repair, diagnostics, electronics, and powertrain systems
- Construction technology, framing, finish carpentry, and jobsite safety
- HVAC installation, maintenance, and EPA 608 certification preparation
- Electrical systems, renewable energy concepts, and troubleshooting
- Diesel engine repair, hydraulics, drivetrains, and fleet maintenance
Program Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Completed application
- Basic math and technical aptitude
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- Preparation for entry-level positions in welding, construction, automotive, HVAC, manufacturing, or electrical trades
- Opportunities for industry-recognized credentials, including AWS, ASE, and EPA certifications
- Strong partnerships with Iowa employers support high job placement rates
- Graduates are qualified for apprenticeships, technician roles, and skilled trades employment statewide
Location
Located in Ottumwa, Iowa, Indian Hills Community College serves students across Southern Iowa with modern facilities, on-campus housing, and multiple technical training centers. The college maintains a strong reputation for delivering quality workforce education that leads directly to high-demand, well-paying careers in the skilled trades.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Indian Hills Community College (Ottumwa, IA) — 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 Indian Hills 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.