Vocational Trades — RISE Academy
Vocational Trades

Build Something Real.

Every RISE student masters a hands-on trade alongside their academic coursework. Choose from 8 disciplines — each with industry certifications, real project portfolios, and clear career pathways.

8
Trade Disciplines
12+
Hours/Week Hands-On
100%
Industry Certification
Building & Infrastructure

Carpentry & Construction

From blueprint reading to finish work, students master the full arc of residential and commercial construction. This trade integrates structural engineering principles, project management, and sustainable building practices.

2 years
$52,000 – $95,000+
Demand: High
NCCER Core Curriculum + Carpentry Level I

Core Skills

  • Blueprint reading and structural design
  • Framing, sheathing, and roofing systems
  • Interior and exterior finish carpentry
  • Project estimation and management
  • Building codes and safety compliance
  • Sustainable and green building methods

Career Pathways

  • General Contractor
  • Construction Project Manager
  • Structural Carpenter
  • Building Inspector
  • Custom Home Builder
Building & Infrastructure

Electrical Systems

Students develop deep competency in residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems. The curriculum covers theory, code compliance, diagnostics, and emerging smart-home and renewable energy technologies.

2 years
$58,000 – $105,000+
Demand: Very High
NCCER Electrical Level I–II

Core Skills

  • Residential and commercial wiring
  • National Electrical Code (NEC) compliance
  • Circuit design and load calculations
  • Panel installation and service upgrades
  • Low-voltage and smart systems
  • Solar and renewable energy integration

Career Pathways

  • Licensed Electrician
  • Electrical Contractor
  • Systems Integrator
  • Renewable Energy Technician
  • Electrical Inspector
Food & Hospitality

Culinary Arts

A rigorous culinary program that goes beyond technique to encompass nutrition science, food entrepreneurship, and global culinary traditions. Students operate a real kitchen and develop menus, cost structures, and service standards.

18 months
$45,000 – $90,000+
Demand: Moderate
ServSafe Manager + ACF Student Member Certification

Core Skills

  • Classical and contemporary cooking techniques
  • Baking, pastry, and confectionery
  • Nutrition science and dietary planning
  • Kitchen management and food costing
  • Menu development and food styling
  • Food safety and sanitation protocols

Career Pathways

  • Executive Chef
  • Pastry Chef
  • Food Entrepreneur
  • Nutritional Consultant
  • Restaurant Manager
Health & Medicine

Healthcare Fundamentals

Students gain foundational clinical knowledge and patient care skills that serve as a launchpad for nursing, medicine, physical therapy, and allied health careers. Anatomy, pharmacology basics, and clinical communication are core components.

2 years
$38,000 – $75,000+
Demand: Very High
CNA Certification + CPR/AED/First Aid

Core Skills

  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Patient assessment and vital signs
  • Clinical documentation and communication
  • Basic pharmacology and medication safety
  • Emergency response and first aid
  • Medical ethics and patient advocacy

Career Pathways

  • Certified Nursing Assistant
  • Medical Assistant
  • Pre-Nursing Pathway
  • Emergency Medical Technician
  • Healthcare Administrator
Technology

Technology & Coding

A full-stack technology program covering software engineering, systems thinking, cybersecurity fundamentals, and cloud infrastructure. Students build real applications and develop the problem-solving mindset that defines great engineers.

2 years
$65,000 – $130,000+
Demand: Very High
CompTIA IT Fundamentals + AWS Cloud Practitioner

Core Skills

  • Full-stack web development (HTML, CSS, JS, React)
  • Python and data structures
  • Database design and SQL
  • Cloud computing and DevOps basics
  • Cybersecurity fundamentals
  • Agile project management

Career Pathways

  • Software Engineer
  • Web Developer
  • Cloud Solutions Architect
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Product Manager
Transportation

Automotive Technology

Modern vehicles are sophisticated systems requiring both mechanical expertise and digital diagnostics. Students learn engine systems, drivetrain, brakes, electrical, and the computerized diagnostic tools that define today's automotive industry.

2 years
$48,000 – $88,000+
Demand: High
ASE Student Certification (A1–A8 pathway)

Core Skills

  • Engine diagnosis and repair
  • Brake systems and suspension
  • Electrical and electronic systems
  • OBD-II diagnostics and scan tools
  • Transmission and drivetrain service
  • Hybrid and electric vehicle fundamentals

Career Pathways

  • Automotive Technician
  • Service Advisor
  • Fleet Maintenance Manager
  • EV Specialist
  • Auto Shop Owner
Manufacturing

Welding & Fabrication

Welding is both a science and an art. Students master MIG, TIG, and stick welding processes alongside structural fabrication, blueprint interpretation, and metal artistry. This trade opens doors in manufacturing, construction, and custom fabrication.

18 months
$50,000 – $92,000+
Demand: High
AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Certification

Core Skills

  • MIG, TIG, and stick welding processes
  • Blueprint reading and weld symbols
  • Structural steel fabrication
  • Pipe welding and fitting
  • Weld inspection and quality control
  • Metal artistry and custom fabrication

Career Pathways

  • Structural Welder
  • Pipe Welder
  • Fabrication Specialist
  • Welding Inspector
  • Custom Metal Artist
Building & Infrastructure

HVAC Systems

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning is one of the most in-demand trades in the country. Students learn system design, installation, maintenance, and repair — with growing emphasis on energy efficiency and smart building integration.

2 years
$55,000 – $98,000+
Demand: Very High
EPA 608 Certification + NATE Core

Core Skills

  • Refrigeration principles and EPA compliance
  • Residential and commercial system installation
  • Ductwork design and fabrication
  • Electrical controls and thermostats
  • Preventive maintenance and diagnostics
  • Energy efficiency and green systems

Career Pathways

  • HVAC Technician
  • Refrigeration Mechanic
  • Energy Auditor
  • Building Systems Engineer
  • HVAC Contractor
The Process

How Trade Integration Works

01

Choose Your Trade

During the admissions process, students select their primary trade based on interest, aptitude, and career goals.

02

Foundation Year

Year one builds core skills, safety protocols, and theoretical knowledge alongside academic coursework.

03

Applied Practice

Year two focuses on real-world projects, client work, and industry-standard production environments.

04

Certification & Portfolio

Graduates leave with industry-recognized certifications and a documented project portfolio.

Ready to Master Your Trade?

Apply to RISE and choose the trade that will define your capability — alongside an education that will define your mind.