Riverside City College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in California / Riverside City College
Riverside City College – Riverside, CA
Programs Offered
- Electrical Technology (Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Systems)
- Welding Technology (MIG, TIG, and Stick Welding)
- Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC Installation and Service)
- Automotive Technology (Diagnostics, Engine Repair, and Modern Vehicle Systems)
Program Overview
Riverside City College provides a diverse selection of skilled trades programs that prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce or continued technical education. The Electrical Technology program focuses on residential and commercial wiring, motor controls, electrical safety, and troubleshooting. The Welding Technology program offers both introductory and advanced coursework in MIG, TIG, and Stick welding, with an emphasis on blueprint reading, fabrication, and safety standards. The HVAC program trains students to install, maintain, and repair heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. Automotive Technology students gain hands-on experience diagnosing and repairing modern vehicles with advanced electronic and computerized systems.
All programs feature hands-on instruction using industry-standard tools and equipment. Riverside City College maintains strong partnerships with local employers, enabling students to access valuable internship and apprenticeship opportunities that enhance employability after graduation.
Hands-On Training
Students gain extensive lab experience in fully equipped workshops and training facilities. Each program emphasizes practical skills, including electrical panel wiring, welding fabrication projects, HVAC system diagnostics, and vehicle repairs on live equipment. Instructors bring industry expertise to ensure students are workforce-ready upon completion.
Certification & Licensing Prep
- Electrical Technology: Prepares students for California electrician trainee and journeyman licensing pathways.
- Welding Technology: Training aligns with AWS (American Welding Society) certification standards for professional welders.
- HVAC: Includes preparation for EPA Section 608 certification and NATE exam readiness for heating and cooling technicians.
- Automotive Technology: Aligned with ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification areas including Engine Repair, Electrical Systems, and Brakes.
Career Paths & Salary Outlook
- Electrician: Work in residential, commercial, or industrial wiring and maintenance. Electricians in California earn competitive hourly wages with strong growth potential.
- Welder / Fabricator: Employment in manufacturing, construction, and metal fabrication industries. Certified welders often qualify for higher-paying specialized roles.
- HVAC Technician: Install and service heating and cooling systems for homes and businesses. Technicians in California benefit from year-round job demand and stable income.
- Automotive Service Technician: Diagnose and repair modern vehicles in dealerships, independent shops, or fleet maintenance facilities. ASE-certified techs earn top pay rates.
Program Length
- Certificate Programs: Approximately 12–18 months (full time)
- Associate Degree (A.S.): Approximately 18–24 months (full time)
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Basic math and reading skills
- Physical ability to work in technical or workshop environments
- No prior trade experience required
Cost & Financial Aid
Riverside City College is a public community college offering affordable tuition for in-district and out-of-district students. Programs are eligible for federal financial aid, California Promise grants, and veteran education benefits. Workforce development and apprenticeship grants may also be available to reduce training costs.
Location
Located in Riverside, California, the college serves students from across the Inland Empire region. The campus features modern training facilities, on-site parking, and convenient access to public transportation. Daytime and evening classes are available to accommodate full-time students and working adults pursuing technical education.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Riverside City College (Riverside, CA) — 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 Riverside City 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.