Rochester Community and Technical College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Minnesota / Rochester Community and Technical College
Rochester Community and Technical College – Rochester, MN
Program Information
Rochester Community and Technical College (RCTC) is one of Minnesota’s oldest and most established community and technical institutions, offering a wide range of hands-on trade and technical programs designed to prepare students for high-demand careers across the region. Located in Rochester, home to major employers such as Mayo Clinic and numerous manufacturing, construction, and technology firms, RCTC maintains strong industry partnerships that support job placement, internships, apprenticeships, and real-world project training. The college focuses heavily on producing workforce-ready graduates with practical experience, safety knowledge, and industry-recognized certifications.
RCTC offers several skilled trade programs, including Automotive Technology, Diesel Equipment Technician, Building Utilities Mechanic, Carpentry, Electrical Technology, HVAC, Machine Tool Technology, Welding Technology, and Construction Management. These programs combine classroom instruction with robust lab training, allowing students to apply concepts directly while working with industry-standard tools, materials, and equipment. Trade instructors are experienced professionals who bring real-world expertise into the lab environment, ensuring students understand current industry requirements and expectations.
The Automotive Technology program provides training in brake systems, steering and suspension, electrical systems, diagnostics, engine repair, transmissions, and hybrid/electronic vehicle technologies. Students use professional equipment such as diagnostic scanners, OEM computer systems, lifts, and specialty tools that mirror a dealership or independent repair shop environment. Graduates are prepared for ASE testing and employment with automotive shops, dealerships, and fleet maintenance operations.
RCTC’s Diesel Equipment Technician program trains students to diagnose, service, and repair diesel engines, agricultural equipment, heavy machinery, and transport trucks. Training includes fuel systems, hydraulics, electrical systems, emissions, drivetrains, and preventative maintenance. Both on-campus labs and regional employer partnerships help students gain hands-on experience with full-size equipment.
The HVAC and Building Utilities Mechanic programs focus on heating, cooling, refrigeration, plumbing basics, energy systems, electrical controls, and maintenance of residential and commercial buildings. Students receive hands-on experience working with furnaces, heat pumps, refrigeration systems, chillers, boilers, and ventilation systems. Coursework prepares students for EPA 608 certification and provides the foundational skills needed to enter HVAC apprenticeships, service positions, or building maintenance roles.
The Carpentry and Construction programs teach framing, interior and exterior finishing, blueprint reading, materials handling, building codes, site safety, and the use of industry-standard hand and power tools. Students train on real construction projects both on campus and with industry partners, developing practical experience in residential and light commercial building.
RCTC’s Machine Tool Technology and Welding programs introduce students to machining, CNC operation, blueprint reading, MIG/TIG/Stick welding, metal fabrication, safety procedures, and precision measuring tools. Students practice in high-quality labs designed to replicate professional fabrication and machine shops.
Program Length
- Diploma and certificate programs: typically 1 year
- Associate of Applied Science degrees: approximately 2 years
- Some programs offer accelerated or part-time pathways
Hands-On Training
Students receive hands-on experience in:
- Automotive diagnostics, repair procedures, and electronic systems
- Diesel engines, hydraulics, powertrains, and heavy equipment service
- Residential and commercial HVAC installation and troubleshooting
- Carpentry, framing, construction planning, and safety practices
- MIG, TIG, Stick welding, plasma cutting, and metal layout
- CNC machining, manual milling, turning, and blueprint interpretation
Program Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Placement testing or prior coursework for some programs
- Ability to meet physical demands of trade-specific tasks
- Interest in hands-on, technical training in a skilled trade field
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- Preparation for ASE, EPA 608, AWS, NCCER, and other industry certifications
- Strong career placement in automotive, construction, HVAC, welding, machining, and maintenance industries
- Pathways to apprenticeships, entry-level technician positions, and advanced technical roles
Location
Rochester Community and Technical College
851 30th Avenue SE
Rochester, MN 55904
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Rochester Community and Technical College (Rochester, MN) — 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 Rochester Community and 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.