Piedmont Technical College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in South Carolina / Piedmont Technical College
Piedmont Technical College – Greenwood, SC
Program Information
Piedmont Technical College in Greenwood, South Carolina is a leading institution for hands-on technical education in the Upstate region. The college is part of South Carolina’s extensive technical college system and provides comprehensive, workforce-aligned training for students entering skilled trades such as HVAC, Welding, Automotive Repair, and Plumbing. With modern laboratories, industry-standard equipment, and strong employer partnerships throughout the region, Piedmont Technical College offers practical, career-focused programs designed to prepare students for immediate entry into high-demand technical fields.
The HVAC program offers in-depth training in residential and commercial heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Students learn system installation, maintenance procedures, refrigerant handling, ductwork fabrication, electrical controls, heat pump systems, and diagnostic techniques. The curriculum emphasizes energy efficiency and modern HVAC technologies used in today’s buildings. Graduates are prepared to service HVAC units, install systems, and troubleshoot mechanical and electrical components found in both small residential units and large commercial systems.
The Welding program provides extensive instruction in MIG, TIG, Stick, and flux-core welding, preparing students to work in construction, manufacturing, fabrication, and industrial repair. Coursework includes blueprint reading, material preparation, structural welding, pipe welding fundamentals, metallurgy basics, and welding safety practices. Students train in full-scale welding labs where they complete real fabrication tasks, giving them the practical experience needed to qualify for AWS certification testing and entry-level welding positions across South Carolina’s manufacturing sector.
The Automotive Repair program teaches students how to diagnose, repair, and maintain modern vehicles using industry-standard diagnostic equipment. Students study engine performance, drivetrains, brake systems, suspension and steering, electrical and electronic systems, climate control systems, and computerized vehicle diagnostics. Training occurs in full automotive bays equipped with lifts, diagnostic scanners, and advanced testing tools. Graduates are prepared for entry-level technician roles in auto shops, dealerships, and fleet maintenance operations.
The Plumbing program introduces students to residential and commercial plumbing systems, including water supply lines, drainage systems, venting, gas piping, fixture installation, and plumbing code compliance. Students practice pipe sizing, cutting, joining, soldering, and system layout using actual plumbing materials and tools. The program prepares students for apprenticeships and entry-level plumbing roles, with an emphasis on safety, accuracy, and professional work practices.
Program Length
- Certificate programs: typically 1 year
- Associate degree programs: generally 2 years
- Programs blend classroom instruction with extensive lab-based training
Hands-On Training
Piedmont Technical College provides immersive hands-on training across all trade programs. Students gain experience through:
- Working on fully operational HVAC and refrigeration systems
- Performing MIG, TIG, Stick, and flux-core welding in professional welding labs
- Diagnosing and repairing engines, electrical systems, and drivetrains in automotive service bays
- Assembling plumbing systems, installing fixtures, and practicing piping layouts
Program Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Basic math and mechanical aptitude
- Ability to meet physical requirements for hands-on technical work
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- Preparation for EPA 608 HVAC certification exams
- Readiness for AWS welding certification testing
- Training aligned with ASE automotive technician standards
- Career pathways include HVAC technician, welder, automotive technician, or plumbing apprentice
Location
Piedmont Technical College
620 North Emerald Road
Greenwood, SC 29646
Serving the Lakelands region of South Carolina with industry-focused technical education.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Piedmont Technical College (Greenwood, SC) — U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Program Type: Trade or Technical Training
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 Piedmont Technical 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.