Upper Valley Career Center
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Vermont / Upper Valley Career Center
Upper Valley Career Center – White River Junction, VT (HVAC and Welding)
Program Overview
Upper Valley Career Center in White River Junction offers hands-on technical education in both HVAC and Welding Technology. These programs are designed to prepare students for entry-level employment in skilled trades through a blend of classroom instruction, lab experience, and real-world application. Upper Valley emphasizes safety, precision, and professionalism—ensuring students graduate with the technical expertise required by employers across Vermont and New England.
Both programs are guided by experienced instructors with extensive field experience and focus on the latest technologies, tools, and industry standards.
Hands-On Training
Students gain practical experience in modern workshops designed to replicate real job sites. The training includes:
- Installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems
- Energy efficiency testing and system diagnostics
- MIG, TIG, and Stick welding processes for structural and fabrication work
- Blueprint reading, metal cutting, and materials safety
- Industry safety standards and OSHA compliance
By graduation, students will be proficient in both theory and application, prepared to step directly into the workforce or pursue advanced certifications.
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- HVAC graduates are prepared for roles such as HVAC Installer, Service Technician, or System Specialist
- Welding graduates qualify for positions in fabrication, construction, and industrial maintenance
- Certifications available include EPA Section 608, OSHA Safety, and AWS Welding Certifications
- Job placement support and industry partnerships help graduates connect with local employers
Program Length
- HVAC Program: Approximately 1 year
- Welding Program: 6–12 months depending on certification level
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Interest in mechanical and technical trades
- Ability to meet physical demands of hands-on training
Financial Aid & Support
Upper Valley Career Center offers various financial aid and scholarship opportunities for eligible students. Career counseling, academic advising, and workforce development resources are also available to help students transition smoothly into the job market after graduation.
Location
Located in White River Junction, Vermont, Upper Valley Career Center serves as a leading regional hub for skilled trade education. Its campus features state-of-the-art labs, experienced faculty, and partnerships with employers across HVAC, construction, and manufacturing industries.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Upper Valley Career Center (Piqua, OH) — 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 Upper Valley Career Center. 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.