TURNERS FALLS — The Adult Education Department at Franklin County Technical School is preparing to offer its fifth semester of 12-week certification courses in automotive technology, carpentry, electrical, horticulture, and welding and metal fabrication.

These courses are part of the grant-funded Career Technical Initiative (CTI), a collaboration with the MassHire Franklin Hampshire Career Center that offers industry training sessions that will give students the credentials needed to seek employment.

Karen Stinchfield, adult education program assistant at Franklin Tech, explained these opportunities are open to Massachusetts residents who are 18 years old and older. For the automotive technology program, students are not required to have a high school diploma or have passed their high school equivalency exam (HiSET), but the other four programs do require a high school education.

The classes are free for eligible applicants who do not exceed the maximum income level for the county in which they reside, which is $49,100 for Franklin County. Participants are welcome from other counties, but the maximum income will vary.

Additionally, Stinchfield said it’s an opportunity for students who haven’t attended a trade school to do so and to earn a certification.

“You can go through one of these 12-week programs, come out certified and start your technical career,” she said.

Adult Education Department staff can help with the application process.

“We’re trying to support the whole person, to make it an easier experience for them,” Stinchfield said.

The automotive technology classes will provide students with entry-level industry training and hands-on experience. Credentials include OSHA-10, Hot Work and Basic S/P2 certifications as well as the option to acquire entry-level Subaru certifications.

The 230-hour pre-apprenticeship carpentry course is designed to prepare students for entry into the Carpenters Union. The program covers the essentials of building and construction, such as foundations, framing, window and door installation, and roofing.

The electrical program is designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in electrical technology. Students will delve into the intricacies of circuits, systems and troubleshooting methods, all guided by seasoned instructors.

The horticulture course is designed exclusively for adults seeking to expand their knowledge and skills in plant cultivation. Participants will delve into the fundamentals of horticulture and gain insight into hoisting license preparation, equipping them with the knowledge needed for safe equipment operation. Additionally, the curriculum includes preparation for obtaining a pesticide license.

The welding and metal fabrication program will certify students as American Welding Society SENSE Level 1 entry-level welders. The program will include OSHA-10 and Hot Work certifications. Classroom exams will be offered as part of the certification process.

Stinchfield explained there are 12 open spots for each of the programs and applications are now being accepted for all five programs.

“It’s a commitment,” Stitchfield noted, adding that each class meets four nights a week for 12 weeks.

Still, achieving these certifications opens up opportunities for employment. She cited students having gone on to work at Rodney Hunt Inc. in Orange as an example.

The next round of courses begins Feb. 24, 2025. Program and teaching staff will host two open houses on Wednesday, Dec. 18, and Thursday, Jan. 9, from 5 to 7 p.m. Visitors can tour all five classroom areas, see demonstrations and speak with instructors.

Those who are interested in learning more about the Career Technical Initiative program but cannot attend the open house events can email [email protected] or call 413-863-6980 for more information.

Erin-Leigh Hoffman can be reached at [email protected].