“Job placement services, including recruiting and resumé development, have always been available to graduating students, but we are extending the policy to ensure graduates understand that now these services are for life,” said Chris Roth, CEO and owner of NTI. “The pandemic hit home for everyone in our community and we realized that not everyone was able to keep their jobs. By making this commitment to our graduates, not only are we offering job assistance when it could be most needed, but we are also providing peace of mind in knowing that we have their backs; and we have all learned how important that can be.”
Now is a great time to enter the trades
For job seekers looking to start a new career, now could be the perfect time to consider learning an essential trade. According to the Copper Development Association (CDA), more than one half of plumbers in the United States are close to retirement age with statistics forecasting three out of every four trade professionals will retire by the year 2030. Additionally, trade jobs have been deemed essential by federal guidelines from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), and as a result, plumbers, electricians, and other service providers who maintain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences were considered essential through the coronavirus pandemic.
“The trades are experiencing a serious skills gap with all industries impacted. It is especially true right now for plumbers, who are in great demand. In fact, most of our plumbing students are hired before they even graduate, so there is literally a job waiting for them when they finish school,” said Chris Roth, CEO and owner of NTI.
Each program runs for a 12-week semester, equaling a total of 192 hours with classes scheduled Monday through Thursday either in the morning or evening. The school offers students practical skills with 30 percent of lecture learning and 70 percent hands-on lab learning, as well as a HVAC Fusion Training Program consisting of online classes and in-person training. Graduates of the plumbing program earn the certificate of Entry Level Plumbing Technician. With classes accommodating only 40 students, many applicants are unfortunately wait-listed, so it is important to apply early.
To enroll, students must be 18 years or older and provide proof of high school graduation or equivalent. Please contact admissions for more information on program start dates.
Boasting an average graduation rate of 98%, NTI fully prepares graduates to enter the workforce with high earnings potential. According to the U.S. Bureau Labor of Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, the average salary is $48,730 for HVAC installers and mechanics, $55,160 for plumbers, and $56,180 for electricians.
From the start of the pandemic in March through September, 83.2% of NTI graduates who reported employment and completed training this year have been hired by notable service providers throughout the valley.
Career and Technical Education Month is a public awareness campaign that takes place each February to celebrate the value of career and technical education and the achievements and accomplishments of career and technical education programs across the country.