Finishing high school brings a big question: What comes next?
For many graduates, waiting four years to start working does not feel right. If you want to build real skills, learn with your hands and start pursuing jobs sooner, trade school programs can offer a faster path.
But it’s important to truly understand what trade school has to offer before committing to enrollment.
Keep reading to learn more about how Universal Technical Institute (UTI) offers focused training built around speed, skill and industry needs.1
The Benefit of Short Trade Programs
Short trade school programs are designed for students who want to start working sooner. Instead of spending years on general education courses, students focus on the technical skills employers need right now. This faster timeline can help graduates be ready for the workforce earlier and is why some fast trade school programs last just months instead of years.
At UTI, even with a shorter length, the training quality stays high. Our programs pack industry-relevant instruction with every minute spent in a classroom or lab, with instruction aligned to current demand. UTI works with industry leaders so our training reflects real tools, real technology and real expectations.
Programs That Last Under One Year
The trade school programs below highlight some of our fastest training options, all designed to be completed in under one year.7 Each focuses on hands-on skills aligned with real industry needs.
These are just a selection. We’ve also got other career training pathways to explore.
Advanced Non-Destructive Testing
- Program Length: 9 months
Start with precision. Learn to inspect aircraft, pipelines and critical infrastructure using advanced techniques that find flaws others cannot see. Students practice magnetic particle, ultrasonic and radiographic testing to prepare for inspection work that protects people, equipment and systems.
CNC Machining
- Program Length: 9 months
Turn raw materials into exact parts that power modern industries. CNC machinists create components used in engines, aerospace and advanced manufacturing. In this program, students can learn to program and safely operate high-tech machines that help shape the world around us.
Collision Repair & Refinish Technology
- Program Length: 9–13 months*
Dependent on program
Bring damaged vehicles back to life. This fully hands-on program teaches students how to repair and refinish cars from the frame up using the same tools and techniques found in real body shops. It is a strong fit for mechanically minded students who enjoy creative problem-solving.
Diesel Technology
Exact program title varies by campus.
- Program Length: 11–12 months*
*Dependent on location
Train on the engines that keep the world moving. Students can learn to service heavy-duty engines used in commercial trucks, construction equipment and generators. In less than a year, you can build skills employers look for and prepare to test for ASE certification.7
HVACR Technician
- Program Length: 9–10 months*
*Dependent on location
Learn to install, maintain and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Training covers electrical components, diagnostics and OSHA and EPA standards in hands-on labs that mirror real job sites.
Industrial Maintenance Technician
Some campuses offer an upgraded version of this program that includes additional electrical and electronics training.
- Program Length: 7–10 months*
*Dependent on program
Build skills for a high-tech career in under a year. Through focused instruction and hands-on practice, students can learn to maintain and repair the machines that keep manufacturing and energy facilities running. This path is ideal for those curious about how systems work.
Welding Technology
Exact program title varies by campus.
- Program Length: 9–10 months*
*Dependent on location
Learn the four major arc welding processes used across construction, shipbuilding and pipeline work. Students practice in individual welding booths and receive one-on-one guidance from instructors to graduate career-ready.
Wind Turbine Technician
Some campuses offer an upgraded version of this program that includes additional electrical and electronics training. Exact program title varies by campus
Program Length: 7–10 months*
*Dependent on location
Train for a career that stands out. Students can learn to service the towering wind turbines that generate clean energy. Coursework covers turbine operation as well as climb and rescue skills, making this program a strong fit for adventurous learners.
Manufacturer-Specific Specialized Training
Graduating from certain core trade school programs can open the door to manufacturer-specific training.11 These programs are developed with manufacturers of leading brands and focus on the exact systems seen on the job. Specialized training can help graduates stand out to employers and build deeper expertise.
If you already have prior technical training in a related field, you may be able to start directly in specialized training. An Admissions Representative can help determine eligibility and next steps.
Automotive & EV Technology
From engine builds to electric vehicle systems, Automotive & EV Technology training prepares students to keep modern vehicles on the road while getting ready to test for ASE certification. Graduates may also qualify for brand-specific advanced training such as:
- BMW FastTrack
- Program length: 12 weeks8
- Brands included: BMW
- Credentials earned: Graduates of the BMW FastTrack program may earn factory credentials and have an opportunity to achieve a BMW Associate Level III Certification after completion of BMW-specific ASE testing and hands-on assessments.
Ford FACT
- Program length: 15 weeks8
- Brands included: Ford Motor Company
- Credentials earned: 14 Ford instructor-led credentials plus more than 100 web-based credentials and completion of 13 Ford specialty certification areas.
General Motors Technician Career Training
- Program length: 12 weeks8
- Brands included: Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac
- Credentials earned: GM course credits toward Bronze, Silver and Gold certification levels.
Mercedes-Benz DRIVE15
- Program length: 17 weeks8
- Brands included: Mercedes-Benz
- Credentials earned: Qualification to pursue Systems Technician roles at authorized dealerships.
Mopar TEC Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training
- Program length: 12 weeks8
- Brands included: Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM and FIAT
- Credentials earned: Over 70 Stellantis e-Learning certifications and 75% of Stellantis Dealership Technician Skill Area certifications, including Engine, Chassis, Electrical & Body, A/C & Heating, and Diesel.
NASCAR Technician & Pit Crew Training
- Program length: 15 weeks8
- Brands included: NASCAR
Porsche Technology Apprenticeship Program (PTAP)15
- Program length: 23 weeks8
- Brands included: Porsche
- Credentials earned: Bronze certification during the first year on the job as a Porsche technician.
Diesel Technology
Heavy equipment demands advanced skills. Diesel Technology training prepares students to work on commercial trucks, construction equipment and power systems. Graduates may qualify for specialized trade school programs such as:
Cummins Engines46
- Program length: 12 weeks9
- Credentials earned: Cummins service and repair qualifications for heavy-duty engines
Cummins Power Generation46
- Program length: 12 weeks9
- Credentials earned: 9 Cummins Power Generation certifications and CMI Level 1 Technician status
Daimler Truck North America Finish First
- Program length: 12 weeks9
- Credentials earned: Professional Level Technician status and six certifications
Peterbilt Technician Institute (PTI)15
- Program length: 12 weeks9
- Credentials earned: 9 Peterbilt certifications
Trade School Program FAQs
1) What are trade school programs, and how do they work?
Trade school programs are career-focused training paths that teach hands-on skills for specific job types.1 Many programs combine classroom learning with lab time so students practice on real equipment.18
2) What are the fastest trade school programs at UTI?
Some of UTI’s fastest trade school programs are designed to be completed in under one year, depending on program and location. Options include areas like welding, HVACR, CNC machining, diesel and industrial maintenance.
3) How long do short trade programs usually take?
Short trade programs can range from about 7 to 12 months depending on the field and campus. Some programs may require longer than one year to complete, especially if you add specialized training or choose a different track.
4) Do fast trade school programs lead to technician jobs?
Fast trade school programs can help students build job-ready skills for entry-level roles. Job titles and hiring needs vary by location, employer and the program you complete.1
5) What is manufacturer-specific specialized training, and who can qualify?
Manufacturer-specific specialized training is advanced training developed with certain brands and focused on the systems used on the job. Eligibility often depends on completing a qualifying prerequisite program and requirements can vary by program.
Explore Fast Trade School Programs at UTI!
Fast trade school programs can help you move from high school through hands-on training in less than a year. If your goal is to build skills, learn with real equipment and prepare for entry-level roles quickly, these programs are built for speed and focus.
Ready to take the next step? Call an Admissions Representative at 1-800-834-7308 or through the “request info” button below to talk through programs, locations and start dates. If you’re already ready to enroll, apply now!
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.