Portland Community College – Swan Island Trades Center
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Oregon / Portland Community College – Swan Island Trades Center
Program Information
Portland Community College’s Swan Island Trades Center is a 20,000-square-foot facility located in Portland, Oregon. The center houses PCC’s Apprenticeship and Trades department, offering a range of programs designed to prepare students for careers in various skilled trades. The facility provides classroom and lab space for career technical education (CTE) courses and professional development classes.
Programs Offered
- Facilities Maintenance Technology – Associate of Applied Science degree
- Facilities Maintenance Technology – Certificate of Completion
- HVAC Installers – Certificate of Completion
- Apprenticeships:
- Millwright
- Industrial Mechanics
- Limited Maintenance Electrician
- Manufacturing Plant Electrician
- Stationary Engineer
- Limited Building Maintenance Electrician – Training Program
Program Length
Program durations vary:
- Associate degrees typically require two years of full-time study.
- Certificates of Completion can often be completed in less than a year.
- Apprenticeship programs combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction over several years, depending on the trade.
Certifications & Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for careers in various trades, including facilities maintenance, HVAC installation, and electrical work. Completion of apprenticeship programs can lead to journey-level status in the respective trades, enhancing employment opportunities in the industrial and construction sectors.
Program Requirements
Admission requirements may include:
- High school diploma or GED
- Placement tests or prerequisite courses
- Application to PCC and specific program enrollment
Specific requirements vary by program; prospective students should consult PCC’s admissions resources for detailed information.
Application Process
Interested individuals can apply online through PCC’s website. The application process involves:
- Completing the PCC admissions application
- Attending an information session for the desired program
- Meeting with an academic advisor to plan coursework
Some programs may have additional steps or limited entry; applicants should review program-specific guidelines.
Financial Aid & Support Services
PCC offers financial aid options, including federal grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Support services available to students encompass academic advising, career counseling, tutoring, and access to resources aimed at promoting student success.
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
Portland Community College – Swan Island Trades Center is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you can earn while you learn through paid on-the-job training in Carpentry.
- Paid on-the-job training with step increases as you progress
- Classroom / technical instruction is part of the program structure
- Training costs are often low — but you may still pay for tools, books, or fees
- Credential earned at completion is recognized by employers in the industry
Registered apprenticeships are overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Agency. Because these programs aren’t traditional colleges, College Scorecard tuition and earnings data usually doesn’t apply.
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.