Cathy and Danny Bell Workforce Development & Trades Center
A Bold New Chapter Begins at Howard Community College
Opening Fall 2026, the Cathy and Danny Bell Workforce Development & Trades Center (BTC) will redefine hands-on career and trades education in Howard County.
Enroll Now
Skilled trades programs are now enrolling for the fall semester. Register for an upcoming information session to learn more about your career options, or complete the Student Interest Form to stay informed and connect with an admissions representative.
Skilled Trades Information Sessions
Purpose-Built for the Future
Designed for innovation and hands-on learning, the BTC will be home to programs in automotive technology, manufacturing, and construction trades. With flexible classrooms, cutting-edge labs, and collaborative spaces, the center represents HCC’s commitment to student success and addressing a growing statewide shortage of skilled workers in trades and technical fields.
The BTC will also be a model of environmental stewardship. As an all-electric, bird safe, energy efficient building with a goal of achieving LEED v4 Silver-certification, it reflects the college’s investment in a sustainable education facility.
Student Programs Powering Opportunity
When doors open in Fall 2026, students will have access to programs for in-demand careers with strong earning potential, including:
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Automotive
Automotive service technicians and mechanics inspect, maintain, and repair gasoline and electric cars and trucks and larger diesel vehicles. With hands-on training, you’ll be ready for a career that’s always in demand. HCC offers two unique options for students to prepare for success in automotive jobs. The A.A.S. Degree is ideal for students who plan to eventually pursue a bachelor’s degree. The 60-credit program can be completed in as little as four semesters.
Automotive Technology A.A.S. DegreeThe Certificate Program allows students to earn a valuable credential now, while keeping the option open to apply the 33 credits toward an associate degree.
Automotive Technology Certificate Program -
Manufacturing
Manufacturing technologists, also known as industrial engineering technologists, apply their knowledge of factory operations to solve production and layout challenges. Hands-on training will prepare you for a career that increasingly depends on technology and digital skills. HCC offers two unique options for students to prepare for success in manufacturing technology. The A.A.S. Degree is ideal for students who plan to eventually pursue a bachelor’s degree. The 60-credit program can be completed in as little as four semesters.
Manufacturing Technology A.A.S. DegreeThe Certificate Program allows students to earn a valuable credential now, while keeping the option open to apply the 32 credits toward an associate degree.
Manufacturing Technology Certificate Program -
Mechatronics
Interested in working with advanced machines and robotics? As an electro-mechanical or mechatronics technician, you’ll learn to operate, test, and maintain high-tech equipment. With hands-on training, you’ll be ready for a career that’s always in demand. HCC offers two unique options for students to prepare for success in mechatronics. The A.A.S. Degree is ideal for students who plan to eventually pursue a bachelor’s degree. The 60-credit program can be completed in as little as four semesters.
Mechatronics Technology A.A.S. DegreeThe Certificate Program allows students to earn a valuable credential now, while keeping the option open to apply the 33 credits toward an associate degree.
Mechatronics Technology Certificate Program -
Welding
Welders use specialized equipment to join, repair, and cut metal parts and products. Now is the time to gain the welding skills employers need—and secure a future in a growing field. HCC offers two unique options for students to prepare for success in welding, soldering and brazing jobs. The A.A.S. Degree is ideal for students who plan to eventually pursue a bachelor’s degree. The 60-credit program can be completed in as little as four semesters.
Welding Technology A.A.S. DegreeThe Certificate Program allows students to earn a valuable credential now, while keeping the option open to apply the 33 credits toward an associate degree.
Welding Technology Certificate Program -
Registered Apprenticeships
Registered apprenticeships combine classroom instruction with paid, hands-on training—allowing students to "earn while they learn."
The following apprenticeship programs are established and will soon find their home in the Workforce Development & Trades Center (BTC):Electrical Registered Apprenticeship
HVACR Registered Apprenticeship
Plumbing Registered Apprenticeship
To view all HCC registered apprenticeship programs, please visit the Apprenticeship landing page.
Built for Our Community
The BTC is more than a building—it's a shared investment in Howard County’s future. A well-trained workforce fuels economic growth, and this new center will provide residents from all backgrounds with the tools to gain valuable skills, secure meaningful employment, and achieve long-term stability.
While our capital campaign funded construction, we welcome ongoing donations to support specialized equipment and expanded student services.