Our Programs

Hands-On Training for In-Demand Careers

Learn by doing! At Orleans Technical College, our hands-on training programs will provide you with technical knowledge needed for a successful career in the Building Trades. As a student, you’ll learn the job skills employers are looking for, and you’ll train under experienced instructors with years of industry experience.

Our Philadelphia Building Trades Programs

Earn your Trades Diploma either full or part-time in one of the following training programs:

• Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Heating
• Building Maintenance
• Carpentry
• Plumbing and Heating
• Residential and Commercial Electricity

Program Objectives

Our Building Trades training programs prepare students with the fundamentals to enter and succeed in their chosen field. Our training programs are all about hands-on, practical instruction using the latest technologies, equipment and tools of the trade.

Employment Opportunities

When you complete one of our trades training programs, our on-site employment specialists work with you one-on-one, offering job search assistance and access to unadvertised positions with employment partners throughout the region. Our graduates are employable in entry-level positions in their chosen field.

Career Outlook

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment is projected to grow between 2019 to 2029 in the following trades:

• Employment of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers is projected to grow 14%.
• Employment of general maintenance and repair workers is projected to grow 6%.
• Employment of carpenters is projected to grow 6%.
• Employment of plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is projected to grow 12%.
• Employment of electricians is projected to grow 14%. Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, “Occupational Outlook Handbook,” 2019–20 Edition

Industry Certification

Graduates of our Building Trades programs are eligible to receive industry-recognized certification from the NOCTI upon successful completion of certification exams.

Train Green at Orleans

We’ve enhanced each Trades curriculum with green skills training. Get prepared for the “green workforce” by learning evolving green technologies, methods, energy-efficiencies and conservation at Orleans Technical College.

Veterans Training Benefits

Orleans Tech’s hands-on, job training programs are approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Orleans proudly welcomes military servicemembers and veterans to use their G.I. Bill educational benefits, such as The Post-9/11 GI Bill or Montgomery GI Bill. To learn more, click here for our flier or contact our Veterans Training Certifying Official at 215-728-4733 or orleanstech@jevs.org.

Women in the Trades

WANTED: A Few Good Women! If you are a motivated woman with the drive to work in the Trades, check out Orleans Tech’s career training programs. We provide a hands-on learning environment with industry-experienced instructors who support and mentor future tradeswomen. In addition, our convenient evening classes are available for busy women who are balancing family life and going back to school. To learn more, click here for our flier »

Financial aid is available for those who qualify. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, and valid driver’s license. Orleans Tech is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).