Flathead Valley Community College has renamed its Occupational Trades building the FVCC Trades Institute.  

The change is part of the college’s commitment to serving as the premier hub for workforce training and skills-based education in Northwest Montana, according to a release, and reflects the evolution of FVCC’s trades programs over the past decade and signals a bold future of innovation, technical training and career readiness.

FVCC’s Executive Director of Workforce Development, Lisa Blank, described how the timeline to becoming career-ready has evolved to meet changing workforce demands.  

“At FVCC, we’re constantly listening to the needs of our community and building programs that help people advance in their careers, earn a livable wage and support their families,” Blank said. “Some of our programs take two years, while others can launch you into the workforce in a matter of weeks. This flexibility helps our learners access the skills they need, when they need them.” 

The majority of FVCC Trades Institute programs can take anywhere from two semesters to complete a certificate program to two years to earn an associate of applied science degree.  

Many programs offer several tracks for students to choose from based on their educational and career goals. Degrees and certificates are offered in electrical technology, electronics technician, electrical apprentice, firearms technologies, HVAC, heavy equipment operator, industrial machine technology, surveying, welding and fabrication technology and welding technology.  

Program durations are designed to accommodate students just beginning their college journey as well as students returning to college after time in the workforce. To better support a wide range of student needs, FVCC’s workforce group developed "career-credential" short courses, which offer flexible options for varying schedules and circumstances. Local employers play a crucial role in shaping FVCC programs by highlighting the need for specifically trained workers. 

In response, FVCC is actively partnering with area businesses to create a variety of tailored training opportunities. 

“The goal behind FVCC’s career credential courses is to provide short, targeted training that helps people quickly gain practical skills,” Blank said. “These courses offer a fast, flexible path for anyone looking to advance in their current job or start a brand-new career. Students can earn a credential quickly that is recognized by employers, leading to a skilled workforce and higher wages.” 

FVCC’s career credential courses are intended to be stackable. This means students can complete multiple short courses over time and apply those credits toward a degree or certificate if they choose. It allows learners to build their education step-by-step while gaining valuable, employable skills along the way, according to the college.  

Courses include accelerated CNC essentials, carpenter apprenticeship, Commercial Driver’s License training, construction trades fast track, HVAC fundamentals, HVAC installation technician, introduction to construction trades, keys to kitchen career credential and registered plumbing apprenticeship.  

Evening class times are designed to accommodate students balancing work and other commitments. These programs and courses provide practical, hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials.  

Explore the FVCC Trades Institute at “Night of the Trades” on Oct. 2. This free event includes specialized sessions geared toward each career area within the Trades Institute and access to FVCC’s expert instructors. Watch for more information and the link to register for sessions at fvcc.edu/trades.