Pine Technical & Community College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Minnesota / Pine Technical & Community College
Pine Technical & Community College – Pine City, MN
Program Information
Pine Technical & Community College (PTCC), located in Pine City, Minnesota, is a career-focused technical institution known for its strong emphasis on hands-on learning, small class sizes, and direct alignment with Minnesota’s workforce needs. PTCC offers highly respected skilled trade programs in Automotive Technology, Gunsmithing Technology, Welding, CNC/Machining, Construction, Industrial Maintenance, Computer Controlled Manufacturing, and HVAC-related coursework. The college is recognized for its modern labs, strong employer partnerships, and high job placement rates across the East Central Minnesota region.
The Automotive Technology program provides students with a comprehensive foundation in vehicle repair, diagnostics, and maintenance. Students train in full-service automotive bays equipped with lifts, computerized diagnostic tools, and industry-standard equipment. Coursework includes engine repair, electrical and electronic systems, steering and suspension, HVAC systems, drivability diagnostics, brake systems, and shop safety. Graduates are prepared for technician positions in repair shops, dealerships, and fleet services, with opportunities to pursue ASE certification.
The Welding program at PTCC delivers extensive instruction in core welding processes including MIG, TIG, Stick, and flux-core welding. Students also receive training in oxy-fuel cutting, fabrication, metal layout, safety procedures, and blueprint interpretation. With access to fully equipped welding booths and fabrication labs, students gain the hands-on experience needed to enter welding careers in manufacturing, metal fabrication, construction, and repair industries. PTCC emphasizes real-world practice through lab-based projects designed to meet employer expectations.
PTCC’s CNC Machining and Machine Tool Technology programs teach precision machining, CNC setup and operation, programming, blueprint reading, and metrology. Students learn to work with mills, lathes, grinders, and multi-axis CNC equipment used widely throughout Minnesota’s advanced manufacturing industry. The program prepares graduates for roles such as CNC operator, machinist, tool and die apprentice, and manufacturing technician.
Construction and Industrial Maintenance programs provide training in residential and commercial building systems, hand and power tool use, framing, blueprint reading, mechanical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, electrical basics, and preventive maintenance. These programs prepare students for entry-level roles in construction firms, maintenance departments, and production facilities that rely on skilled technicians to keep equipment and systems running efficiently.
PTCC also offers one of Minnesota’s most recognized Gunsmithing Technology programs—one of only a few accredited gunsmithing programs in the country. Students learn firearm repair, machining, metal finishing, stock making, customization, and safety. The program blends machining, welding, and precision craftsmanship, positioning graduates for careers in firearm repair shops, custom fabrication, and manufacturing environments that value specialized precision skills.
Program Length
- Certificate and diploma programs: typically 9–18 months
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees: usually 2 years
- Programs include extensive lab-based and hands-on training
Hands-On Training
Students receive direct, applied experience in:
- Automotive diagnostics, repair procedures, and vehicle electronics
- MIG, TIG, Stick welding and full-scale metal fabrication processes
- CNC machine setup, G-code programming, precision measurement, and machining operations
- Construction tools, framing techniques, building materials, and jobsite safety
- Industrial maintenance tasks such as troubleshooting, mechanical repair, and equipment servicing
- Firearm machining, fitting, modification, and finishing within the Gunsmithing facilities
Program Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Completed PTCC application
- Basic math and reading competency (placement testing may be required)
- Ability to perform hands-on technical tasks
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- Preparation for ASE, AWS, NIMS, CNC certifications, and trade-specific credentials
- Career pathways include automotive technician, welder, machinist, industrial maintenance technician, construction laborer, or gunsmithing specialist
- Strong employer partnerships support internships and job placement throughout Minnesota’s manufacturing and service sectors
Location
Pine Technical & Community College
900 4th Street SE
Pine City, MN 55063
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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.