Northcentral Technical College

Northcentral Technical College – Wausau, WI

Program Information

Northcentral Technical College (NTC) in Wausau provides hands-on technical education designed to prepare students for skilled trade careers that are essential across central Wisconsin and the greater Upper Midwest. The college’s Welding, Automotive Technology, HVAC, and Diesel Mechanics programs are built around applied learning, allowing students to spend substantial time in lab environments that reflect real job settings. Rather than focusing solely on theory, instruction emphasizes practical skills, safe work habits, and an understanding of how technical decisions impact performance, reliability, and safety in the field.

The Welding program introduces students to core fabrication skills such as material identification, cutting, fitting, and joining, with progression into multiple welding processes used in industrial and manufacturing environments. Students learn to read blueprints, interpret weld symbols, and produce consistent, quality welds while maintaining safety and efficiency. Automotive Technology students develop a structured approach to vehicle service, learning how to diagnose and repair systems related to brakes, steering and suspension, electrical and electronic components, drivability, and climate control. Instruction reflects the realities of modern vehicles, including the use of diagnostic equipment and exposure to hybrid and electric vehicle technologies.

Diesel Mechanics training focuses on the systems that power and support larger equipment and vehicles. Students gain experience with diesel engines, fuel and air management systems, cooling and lubrication, and drivetrain components. Emphasis is placed on troubleshooting and preventative maintenance, skills that are critical in fleet service, transportation, construction, and agricultural settings. The HVAC program prepares students to work with heating, cooling, and ventilation systems used in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Coursework and lab activities cover system operation, airflow, controls, and refrigeration principles, helping students understand how environmental systems perform in demanding climates like those found in Wisconsin.

Hands-On Training & Facilities

Hands-on training is a central part of every technical program at NTC. Students work in dedicated labs equipped with industry-standard tools and equipment that support skill development through repetition and practice. Welding labs allow students to refine technique and consistency, while automotive and diesel labs simulate service environments where diagnostics, repairs, and inspections are part of daily workflow. HVAC labs provide opportunities to work directly with components and systems, reinforcing safe installation and service procedures. This applied approach helps students build confidence and familiarity with the tools they are likely to encounter on the job.

Career Preparation & Technical Skills

Across all programs, NTC emphasizes career readiness through the development of technical and professional skills. Students practice interpreting technical manuals, schematics, and service documentation, as well as following structured troubleshooting processes. Attention is given to accuracy, efficiency, and communication—skills that are valued in fabrication shops, repair facilities, maintenance departments, and construction environments. Graduates leave with experience performing common industry tasks and an understanding of how their work fits into larger operational systems.

Learning Environment

The learning environment at NTC supports students who benefit from a balance of classroom instruction and hands-on application. Courses are typically organized to introduce concepts in a structured setting and then reinforce them through lab-based activities. Instructors bring practical experience into the classroom, helping students connect technical theory with real-world outcomes. This approach encourages problem-solving, accountability, and steady skill progression throughout the program.

Who These Programs Are Designed For

NTC’s technical programs are well-suited for individuals who prefer active, hands-on learning and practical skill development. Students may include recent high school graduates, adults entering the workforce, or individuals changing careers who want training that leads directly into skilled trade roles. These programs are particularly appropriate for those interested in working with tools, machinery, mechanical systems, and technical equipment in structured work environments.

Program Length

Program length varies depending on the credential and area of study. Certificate and technical diploma programs are often designed to be completed in approximately one year, while associate degree options typically take about two years. Actual completion time may vary based on course load, scheduling, and whether a student attends full-time or part-time.

Programs Offered

• Welding
• Automotive Technology
• HVAC
• Diesel Mechanics

Program Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• Program-specific requirements may apply
• Ability to follow safety procedures and work in hands-on lab environments
• Basic math and reading skills for measurements, manuals, and technical documentation

Apply/Contact