With Career in a Year at Tri-County Community College, you can train for an in-demand career in one year or less. These short-term programs give you practical, hands-on experience both in the classroom and on the job, so you feel confident and prepared when you enter the workforce. You’ll earn industry-recognized credentials that can lead directly to stable, high-wage career opportunities in our region.
These programs are built to fit your life. You may qualify for financial aid, apprenticeship options, or even earn credit for prior learning. High school students can take advantage of Career & College Promise (CCP) pathways, and adult learners benefit from flexible schedules and multiple start dates throughout the year. Whether you're starting a new career, building new skills, or looking for a fresh start, Career in a Year gives you a fast, supportive path forward.
Please contact Laryssa Rowland for more information about these programs at lrowland@tricountycc.edu or (828) 835-4304.
Click each program for more information!
Have any questions about Career in a Year?
TCCC Main Campus at 21 Campus Circle Murphy, NC 28906If you’re interested in this program or have any questions, we strongly encourage you to visit our campus! Stop by the TCCC Main Campus at 21 Campus Circle in Murphy, NC, and meet with an advisor to discuss your next steps. Our team is here to guide you, talk through your goals, and help you take the next step toward a career you’ll be proud of.
The ACF path to certification program enhances a chef’s career prospects and earning potential through recognized, stackable credentials. Certification is based on education, experience, successful completion of written and practical exams, and completion of internship requirements, establishing the industry standard for professional culinary excellence.
Basic Fundamentals I (Knife skills, stocks, sauces, soups, and basic cookery), ServSafe, Nutrition
Basic Fundamentals II (Meat, poultry, and seafood fabrication, mother sauces, and short-order cooking), Supervisory, Baking (Breads, quick breads, custards and desserts)
Cost
Contact
This course provides hands-on training in residential carpentry using the NCCER curriculum. Students learn framing, installation, blueprint reading, and safety practices. Successful completion leads to NCCER certification and prepares students for carpentry careers.
Credential
Semester 1
OSHA, Blueprint reading, Foundations
Semester 2
Floor System, Framing
Semester 3
Roof Systems, Interior finish
Cost
Instructor
Allen Hayes
Contact
This course provides instruction in the principles and practices of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) systems. Topics include safety, tools, electrical fundamentals, system installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Training follows NCCER standards, preparing students for industry-recognized certification and entry-level HVAC careers.
Credential
Semester 1
OSHA, Electrical Fundamentals, Introduction to Heating
Semester 2
Cooling and Distribution systems
Semester 3
Piping systems, Soldering and Brazing
Cost
Contact
This course provides hands-on training in the safe operation and maintenance of heavy equipment following NCCER standards. Students learn equipment controls, earthmoving techniques, safety procedures, and site preparation skills to prepare for NCCER certification and entry-level operator positions.
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3
Cost
Contact
This course introduces precision machining using NIMS standards. Students learn blueprint reading, measurement, and safe operation of lathes, mills, and grinders while producing metal parts to specification and preparing for NIMS certification.
Credential
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3
Cost
Contact
