Manufacturing, Trades, and Transportation
Get Skills to Succeed in Hands-On Careers
Our newly redesigned, state-of-the-art laboratories give you the hands-on, real-world experience you need for many high-demand careers.
Our programs last anywhere from nine months to two years, depending on the type of degree you’re pursuing, which means you can learn your skills and enter the workforce quickly.
Kirkwood partnered with Snap-on tools to become one of first certification training centers in the nation, as well as partnering with the Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Contractors Association to develop curriculum.
Plus, we have scholarships for everyone, including more than 30 individual scholarships just for students in industrial technology-related programs.
Automation & Instrumentation Technologies
Our industry-guided curriculum combines with practical hands-on lab experience, where you’ll use state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge simulation software.
Automotive Technology
Rev up your career with Kirkwood’s Automotive Technology program. You’ll learn about body electrical, engine electrical, and computerized fuel delivery systems.
Aviation Maintenance Technology
Turn your passion for mechanics and aviation into an exciting career. This two-year program includes hands-on instruction at the Eastern Iowa Airport.
Advanced Welding Technologies
Join passionate, certified instructors at one of the top weld testing and instructional facilities in the state and learn on top-of-the-line technology, including virtual reality welding.
CNC Machining Technology
CNC students study quality control methods known as statistical process control, using coordinate measuring machines and other specialized equipment.
Construction Management
This two-year program offers the entry-level skills and knowledge you need to pursue one of the many careers available in the construction industry.
Diesel Ag Technology
Find great local career opportunities in agriculture equipment or heavy equipment maintenance and repair.
Diesel Truck Technology
Get high-tech training in diesel truck and diesel-powered equipment maintenance and repair.
Energy Production & Distribution Technology
Learn the technical fundamentals necessary for a career in the energy industry, focusing on utility-scale turbine repair and maintenance.
HVAC Installer
The training you'll need to install heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.
Industrial Maintenance Technology
Prepare for a broad range of careers using industry-guided curriculum combined with practical hands-on labs.
Plumbing Pre-Apprenticeship
Training and internships with nearly 100% employment placing.
Water Environmental Technology Online
This innovative online-only program prepares you for a career in municipal water and wastewater treatment plants.
Looking for more options?
Check out our Program Areas
Program Areas are a collection of Kirkwood’s academic program options organized by similar career/interest categories. If you’re not ready to commit to a specific program yet, a Program Area is perfect for you! You can also customize any of our programs to meet your transfer needs, if that’s your goal.
Explore Industrial Tech at Kirkwood
Kirkwood Community Colleges Industrial technology programs are training tomorrows workforce today. Some students take classes to re-position themselves at their current jobs, others are learning about careers in green technology. You can get a great career in two short years!
Industrial Tech Certificates & Diplomas
1-Year Diploma
Automotive Collision Repair teaches students the theory and practices of metal forming and shaping.
1-Year Diploma
The Carpentry program prepares students to enter the skilled building trades. Students are given a hands-on intensive introduction to the skills used by carpenters.
1-Year Diploma
The HVAC Installer program prepares students to enter the skilled trade of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning installation.
1-Year Diploma
The Plumbing Pre-Apprenticeship program provides entry-level skills and knowledge for students preparing to enter the plumbing industry.
Career Academies (HS Dual Credit)
A fast-paced, highly technical environment that blends hands-on skill development in a variety of areas to offer students a competitive edge in today’s workforce.
Unique, hands-on laboratory and classroom experiences in basic architecture, construction, and engineering skills.
A unique, hands-on learning experience provided in a state-of-the-art transportation lab, working side-by-side with industry certified technicians.
