Career and Technical Programs
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Curriculum that delivers a skilled workforce to the community.
Elgin Community College's Career and Technical Programs provide training similar to local trade schools but with the added benefits of resources and opportunities available at a local community college. These include access to scholarships, grant funding, internships, apprenticeships, wellness and career services, student life activities, and more. We specialize in automotive technology, truck driving, HVAC, and child care, offering focused education that equips students with practical, hands-on skills directly relevant to their chosen career paths. Explore the certificates and degrees below to find what suits your interests.
Degree Programs
- Education - Early Childhood
- Energy Management
- Renewable Energy
- Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration
- IST/Maintenance Technology
- Welding Fabrication Technology
Certificate Programs
- Arc Welding
- AutoCAD
- Auto Heating Air Conditioning
- Automated Electronic Systems
- Automotive
- Automotive Electrical Specialist
- Brake and Suspension Specialist
- CDL Truck Driving
- Certified Forklift Operator
- CNC Operator
- CNC Programmer
- Computer-Aided Design
- Computer Integrated Manufacturing
- CREO (PTC Creo)
- Education - Early Childhood
- Energy Management
- Engine Mechanical Repair Specialist
- Engine Performance Specialist
- Forklift Operator
- HVAC
- IST/ Maintenance Technology
- Industrial Manufacturing
- Light Commercial HVAC Service Technician
- Machine Tool Operations
- MIG Welding
- Mold Making
- Refrigeration Service Technician
- Sheet Metal Mechanics
- SolidWorks
- Supply Chain Management
- Tool and Die Making
- Transmission Drivetrain Specialist
- Truck Driving
- Welding
Plan of Study and Course Descriptions
Please refer to the ECC catalog for program details and course descriptions.
Why choose community college over trade school for vocational training?
By opting for a community college over a trade school, students can enjoy the advantages of a large campus with diverse activities. This creates a dynamic social environment where individuals can explore their interests, partake in shared experiences, and connect with peers, fostering friendships that enhance their college journey and support personal growth.
How long does it take to complete a degree or certificate at ECC?
Our programs frequently allow you to start working and earn a salary sooner, but the completion time depends on the program. If you’re interested in earning while you learn, our work-study apprenticeships are particularly attractive to individuals interested in gaining hands-on experience by dividing their time between work and the classroom. You’ll gain the essential skills and knowledge to work in your chosen field.
Do you offer scholarships for classes?
More than $350,000 in scholarships await to support your college expenses. You can apply for over 200 scholarships with just one application, making the process efficient and accessible. Completing the application takes only 30 minutes, and the potential rewards are significant, with the possibility of receiving $1,000 or more in financial support.
Can I take night classes after a full day of work?
Absolutely! At ECC, we understand the need for flexible scheduling. We offer evening, weekend, and online classes to accommodate various lifestyles. Additionally, ECC is committed to meeting our region's high demand for skilled manufacturing workers. Our programs provide the necessary knowledge and training to fulfill the needs of local employers.
A caring community where you belong.
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Practical experience through internships or practicum placements
Programs in early childhood education or child care provide students with specialized training in caring for and educating young children. ECC Lab School is used for observation and field experience. These programs often cover child development, age-appropriate learning activities, behavior management techniques, and health and safety protocols. Students gain practical experience through internships or practicum placements in child care centers, preschools, or daycare facilities. Use the link below to visit our classrooms at the ECC Early Childhood Lab School via virtual tour.
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A lab right on campus
At ECC's Early Childhood Lab School, aspiring caregivers gain valuable child care experience. With an Illinois ExceleRate Silver Circle of Quality rating, it upholds high standards in early childhood education. Students work with children aged six weeks to 5 years, honing their skills in nurturing young learners with furniture and equipment specific to their learning area. Use the link below to visit our Early Childhood Lab School using our virtual tour.
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Get under the hood with an expert in the field
Like a trade school, ECC offers truck driving programs to teach students the safe and effective operation of commercial trucks. Training includes hands-on experience with 48' and 53' dry vans, covering driving regulations, vehicle maintenance, and safe practices. ECC graduates can pursue careers as professional truck drivers in transportation, logistics, and delivery services.
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Scholarships to make it easier to complete a program
Scholarships are open to students at all stages of their ECC journey. Through a single application process, you can fill out the universal application to access multiple scholarships and financial aid options tailored to your needs for a variety of ECC programs. Use the link below to visit our study spaces around campus using our virtual tour.
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Prepare for a Career in Automotive Technology with Hands-On Training
Hands-on experience with various automotive systems, such as engines, transmissions, brakes, and electrical components like the one shown here are similar to what you'll find in the field. You'll be well-equipped to pursue a career as an automotive technician, mechanic, or service advisor in settings like dealerships, repair shops, or automotive manufacturing facilities. Use the link below to visit our automotive lab using our virtual tour.
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Quality learning environments so you're ready to work
At ECC, our automotive shop goes beyond traditional training by providing hands-on experience that prepares you for the modern automotive industry. In today's automotive landscape, where cars are essentially computers on wheels, it's crucial to understand how to effectively interpret and utilize diagnostic reports. Use the link below to visit our automotive lab using our virtual tour.
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A State-of-the-Art Learning Hub for CDL Students
Our newly constructed trucking building is designed to provide a quality learning environment specifically tailored to the needs of our truck driving program. This facility is a collaborative learning and teamwork hub with state-of-the-art facilities and modern amenities. Within this innovative space, students can work together towards common goals, share knowledge and insights, and support each other's progress throughout their educational journey.
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A campus with opportunities for friendships
College campuses with diverse activities facilitate the formation of friendships through relaxed social settings, such as clubs and campus events. You can connect with like-minded peers by joining clubs or attending events aligned with their interests. Engaging in recreational facilities or volunteer opportunities fosters friendships based on shared values and activities. Use the link below to visit Jobe Lounge using our virtual tour.
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Teachers available to answer questions
Smaller classes offer personalized attention and instructor support, enhancing learning and job market readiness. Students can practice driving under experienced supervision and earn commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) upon completing ECC's truck driving program. With our 98% completion and CDL pass rate for program graduates, it's a tough reputation to beat. Use the link below to visit our CDL Driving Simulation Lab using our virtual tour.
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In-person, hybrid or online classes give you options
Study on campus or complete your courses from home. ECC offers both hybrid and online classes that offer flexibility to tailor your learning experience. Whether balancing work and study commitments, many of our classes can accommodate personal schedules or access education from remote locations, these flexible options empower you to pursue your academic goals on your schedule. Use the link below to visit our student study areas using our virtual tour.
ECC in the News
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Elgin Community College’s SBCT Division Begins Solar Array Project Thanks to $39K Grant
Elgin Community College’s Sustainabilty, Business, and Career Technologies Division received the shipping container unit to begin constructing a fully functioning solar array by the fall of 2024. This project is being made possible through a $39,150 grant from the Illinois Green Economy Network (IGEN).
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Virtual Reality Grant to Help Elgin Community College Students Explore Careers
Elgin Community College has received a $94,000 grant from the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) to help implement virtual reality equipment into Career and Technical Education programs.
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ECC Truck Driving Students Visit Weigh Station and Tour Trucking Company For First Time
Elgin Community College truck driving program students, led by program Director Todd Anderson, toured the I-55 southbound weigh station in Bolingbrook, Ill., Wednesday for a live commercial vehicle inspection. Following the live inspection, the group headed to GP Transco in Joliet, Ill., for a safety orientation and tour of the facility. This is ECC’s first time providing its students with this opportunity.
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Meet Esme Rodriguez
Elgin Community College student Esme Rodriguez said that as high school graduation approached, she was still unsure about which career path to take. But it turns out she didn’t have to search for long. Her passion for automotive work stemmed from a young age, and in the fall 2023 semester, she enrolled at ECC.
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ECC students place at SkillsUSA Illinois State Championship
Elgin Community College career and technical students traveled to Peoria, Illinois, to compete in the SkillsUSA State Leadership and Skills Conference on April 29-30.
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi presents ECC with $936,000 for new program
Elgin Community College’s new manufacturing center got a boost in funding on Thursday as Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi presented the college with $936,000 in federal funding for the mechatronics and automation program, one of several new programs to be housed in the $55 million-dollar facility planned for 2024.
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ECC’s SBCT division expands truck driving program
Truck driving students can get trained and on the road faster with Elgin Community College’s new 8-week CDL program. Students interested in a career behind the wheel can enroll in this new accelerated session, which provides the same comprehensive training, smaller class sizes, and behind-the-wheel training with experienced, dedicated instructors as the 16-week program.
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Taryn White: Find the right path and fight to stay on it
Taryn White, student speaker for the Career & Technical Programs Commencement Ceremony, took a risk that paid off big for her future. I walked into class every day, and they were ready to teach us. They were energetic and encouraging, and you could see their passion for what they did, and it made me want to work harder. It made me excited to wake up every day and go to class. They have instilled that passion I will carry for the rest of my life.
Take an Interactive Tour
Imagine yourself at Elgin Community College from wherever you are. View the classes and spaces you’ll walk in as a student. No matter where you are in your college search, we can help.
Contact
Admissions & Recruitment
Building B, Room B110
847-214-7385
Fax: 847-608-5458
admissions@elgin.edu
Hours
Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 7 pm
Fridays: 8 am to 4 pm
*Bilingual Admissions Coordinator: 847-214-7689