Kirkwood Community College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Iowa / Kirkwood Community College
Kirkwood Community College – Cedar Rapids, IA
Program Information
Kirkwood Community College is well-known throughout Iowa and the Midwest for its strong Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, offering hands-on training that prepares students for immediate employment in high-demand skilled trades. The college emphasizes real-world learning through modern labs, industry-standard tools, and partnerships with employers across the region. Students benefit from experienced instructors with years of professional field knowledge, ensuring they receive practical guidance that aligns with current industry expectations.
The Automotive Technology program provides instruction in diagnostics, engine performance, brakes, electrical systems, and modern computerized vehicle technologies. Students work directly with industry-standard equipment and tools through partnerships with companies like Snap-On, giving them a competitive edge when seeking employment at dealerships, repair shops, and service centers. Graduates often leave with multiple certifications that improve their career readiness and earning potential.
Kirkwood’s Carpentry and Construction Management programs equip students with skills for residential and commercial building projects. Training includes blueprint reading, framing, finishing, site layout, project scheduling, and safety procedures. These programs are ideal for individuals looking to enter the construction workforce or pursue supervisory roles in project management. The curriculum aligns closely with industry needs, ensuring graduates are prepared for jobsite responsibilities from day one.
The HVAC Installer program trains students to install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. With increasing demand for qualified HVAC technicians, Kirkwood emphasizes refrigeration fundamentals, electrical controls, system diagnostics, and energy-efficient technologies. Students gain hands-on experience servicing residential and commercial equipment, preparing them for certification exams and long-term career opportunities.
The Welding program provides comprehensive training in MIG, TIG, Stick, and Flux Core welding. Students also learn blueprint interpretation, fabrication techniques, and safety standards that are essential for manufacturing, construction, and repair industries. Kirkwood’s welding labs offer modern equipment that mirrors real jobsite conditions. The Plumbing program teaches installation, repair, and maintenance of water systems, piping, and fixtures. Students receive practical field-based instruction supported by partnerships with organizations such as the Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC), ensuring training meets professional standards.
Across all programs, Kirkwood Community College combines technical instruction with hands-on learning to ensure graduates are workforce-ready, confident, and equipped with the practical skills employers value.
Program Length
Programs generally take 1 to 2 years to complete, depending on the field.
Program Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Completed application
- Basic math skills
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Kirkwood Community College (Cedar Rapids, 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 Kirkwood 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.