What is a Technical Training Program?
Specialized technical training programs in Delaware are designed to equip students with the specific skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in in-demand trades or technical fields. These programs typically combine classroom instruction with hands-on learning and on-the-job training (OJT), preparing them for immediate entry into the workforce or advancement in their current careers. Visit CareerOneStop to explore in-demand occupations. Here’s a breakdown of what these programs offer and what you can expect:
Where are they offered?
These programs are typically available through:
Local adult education centers: These centers around Delaware offer specialized training tailored to local job market needs.
Community colleges: Provide programs focused on specific trades or career skills.
Training program providers: Includes private organizations, non-profits, or government-funded workforce development programs.
What do you learn?
Students can expect the following
Classroom instruction: Concentrates on the practical skills required for the trade or career, with limited emphasis on general education. The goal is to equip students with the knowledge needed for their chosen field
On-the-job training (OJT): An approved and structured form of technical training provided by employers to employees to perform the tasks and skills necessary for a trade or field. Work experience is not the same as on-the-job training.
How long are the programs?
The duration of these programs vary, typically falling into one of the following categories.
Short-term or “rapid” training programs: Typically 12 weeks to under a year, these are ideal for quickly gaining skills for entry-level positions (e.g., Certified Nursing Assistant programs).
Long-term training programs: Over a year, offering more comprehensive training in specific trades (e.g., Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)).
What happens after I complete the program?
Most students earn:
Certificates, credentials, or licensure: These qualifications demonstrate proficiency in the trade and readiness for employment. These are industry-recognized qualifications that validate your skills and readiness to work in the field.
College Credit: Some programs may allow the technical training to count toward college credit, which can help in your further education.
How to choose the right program
Rapid entry into workforce: Opt for short-term “rapid” training programs if you want to gain skills quickly for entry-level positions.
In-depth skill development: Choose a long-term training program if you seek more comprehensive training and potential apprenticeship opportunities in the future.
Learn more about apprenticeships here. Pathways to Success: Apprenticeship >
Apprenticeships may require background knowledge, experience, and skills. Visit the Apprenticeship Finder to learn more including apprenticeship requirements per program.
If you are interested in earning an associates degree from a college in a specific in-demand career: Consider a DTCC Associates Degree Program
Become familiar with our Work Based Learning Glossary as you explore more.
Delaware’s Technical Training Centers 
Delaware adult education centers (AECs)
There are four adult education centers across Delaware — one in each county, with two in New Castle County:
- Ideal for students with minimal experience or mastery of a skill.
- Focuses on rapid training programs to quickly prepare students for specific trades.
- Providing skills training to unemployed or underemployed residents to create a pathway to an in-demand career.
- Offers diverse technical programs training tailored to the needs of local industries.
- Providing superior adult education instruction to empower all students to achieve their goals.
- Provides comprehensive programs in various trades, preparing students for in-demand careers.
- Empowering individuals to reach new heights through education, training, and career development.
- Serves southern Delaware, offering a wide range of training opportunities.
- Over 6 decades of providing instructional services to adult residents of Sussex County and neighboring communities.
These centers offer a variety of technical training programs in the following fields, such as:
Construction: Electrical, HVAC-R, plumbing, electronic systems and construction laborer.
Education: Early childhood teacher and assistant.
Healthcare: Dental assistant, practical nursing, phlebotomy, CNA, home health aide, insurance billing, medical coding, medical assisting and pharmacy technician.
Logistics: Forklift, heavy equipment operator, warehouse operations, and CDL-A.
Maintenance: Industrial maintenance, automotive technician, diesel repair, water, wastewater, CAD, and aircraft maintenance.
Operations: Information technology and supervision, such as IT fundamentals, computer support/help desk, networking and cybersecurity.
Tuition-free opportunities: In-demand jobs are often tuition-free for eligible students. Contact the specific adult education center to learn whether you are eligible.
Delaware Technical Community College (DTCC)
DTCC offers technical and business training programs, known as workforce development, at all four campuses: Dover, Georgetown, Stanton, and Wilmington. These programs help students upgrade their skills and enter careers, such as:
Business: Real estate and bookkeeping.
Construction: Electrical, HVAC, and welding.
Healthcare: EKG technician, clinical medical assistant, and phlebotomy technician.
Logistics: Heavy equipment operator and CDL.
Maintenance: Diesel and fire protection.
Operations: Cisco networking and Java academies.
Tuition-free opportunity: Students that attend DTCC may be eligible to attend tuition-free through the SEED+ scholarship.
Technical Training Programs in Delaware
List of programs that do not require professional work experience/skills. Some programs have a limited number of seats available and are more competitive.
Financial aid 101 for technical training
When considering attending a technical training program, cost can be a concern for students and their families. This guide will help you understand the costs associated with technical training programs and explore various options to make it more affordable and accessible.
What are the common costs?
The “cost of attendance” associated with attending a technical training program can include the following:
Tuition and fees: The amount of money for instruction and other services.
Books and supplies: The estimated cost of textbooks, software, materials, and other supplies
Transportation: The cost of traveling to and from the program
Miscellaneous Costs: other potential costs such as health insurance, required technology/equipment, and loan fees.
How do most students pay for these costs?
Students pay for the cost of attendance in a variety of ways including:
Personal savings: The personal savings of the student or family. Caregiver.
Financial aid: Money to help pay for post-secondary education
What is financial aid?
Financial aid is money that students use to help them pay for college or technical training. There are two main types of financial aid: gift aid and self-help aid.
Gift aid: Money that does not have to be paid back includes grants and scholarships.
Grants: You can get grants from the federal government, your state, and your training center. Below are some common technical training grants for Delaware residents:
Blue Collar Training Grant: Covers the total tuition cost for qualified participants.
Pell Grants: These are federal funds that students can use for a limited number of eligible training programs, such as practical nursing. The award amount varies based on need, with a maximum annual award of $7,395 (the amount may change annually). You must complete the FAFSA to be eligible for Pell Grants.
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA): Grants for students who are either unemployed or underemployed. Courses eligible for this funding are labeled “WIOA” in most course catalogs. Please contact the Delaware Department of Labor for more information about applying for WIOA education and training funds at joblink.delaware.gov
Self-help aid refers to financial assistance that requires repayment, typically through loans, employment, or payment plans.
Tuition assistance: This funding is provided by your employer, state, or federal government. There are two general types of tuition assistance:
Tuition reimbursement: You would pay for tuition and fees upfront, and your employer will reimburse you up to a certain amount.
Direct tuition payment: Your tuition and fees are paid upfront by your employer or deferred by the training provider.
Common programs in Delaware
This program provides up to $10,000 to students for approved non-credit certificate programs provided by the Delaware Workforce Development Board guidance of eligible programs. Students are eligible for Elevate Delaware if they are employed by an employer with less than 51 employees and are subject to Delaware income tax. For more information visit Elevate Delaware.
Focus on Alternative Skills Training (FAST) >
This is a tuition assistance program for eligible Delaware residents enrolled in an approved certificate program. You can receive up to $10,000 in free tuition assistance to help reach your goals and find your dream job. Complete the Fast Program Interest Form or learn more here.
Areas of training include:
Automotive Technician
CDL
Diesel
Certified Nursing Assistant
Dental Assistant
Medical Assistant
Medical Insurance Billing
Phlebotomy Technician
Practical Nursing
