PPSC Associates Degrees through the PTECH Program

Students remain at PTEC for up to two additional years, AKA years 13 and 14, to receive an AAS tuition-free, through the P-TECH program. All general fees, course fees, and textbooks are the student's responsibility. The COF (Colorado Opportunity Fund) will automatically be applied to the P-TECH AAS degree each semester.

A. AAS Machining Technology (Advanced Manufacturing Emphasis)

Advanced Manufacturing Emphasis is designed to provide individuals with entry-level machining and technology skills, as well as address the needs of those seeking upgrade training to continue employment, employment upgrades, and/or promotions.

The Advanced Manufacturing emphasis will provide training in technology using software such as SolidWorks, MasterCAM, 2D and 3D, and Cam Works. The emphasis also offers courses in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerance (GD &T) and 3D Printing for prototyping.

B. AAS Architectural Engineer/ Construction Management

This degree will split out. Students will pick between Architectural (drawing and design) versus Construction Management (manager of job crew on a job site). The building construction industry is very broad and encompassing, offering many diverse and satisfying career options where students can explore and discover their fitting involvement. The program provides the technical training and preparation for students to participate as valuable contributors in architectural, engineering, and construction firms.

Career opportunities include architectural and engineering technician, draftsperson, certified document technician, construction project engineer, quantity surveying, and sales. With additional equipping and/or education, additional career options include licensed professional architect, engineer, landscape designer, urban planner, general contractor, construction estimator, project manager, and building inspector.

C. AAS Building and Construction Technology (Emphasis on Carpentry, Electrical, Masonry, or Plumbing)

Students will need to pick their emphasis from the beginning of this degree. This degree allows a person to be a foreman or job crew leader and still be part of the hands-on. The Building and Construction Technology program is a program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to residential and commercial building construction and remodeling. Including instruction in construction equipment and safety; site preparation and layout; construction estimating; blueprint reading; building codes; framing; masonry; heating, ventilation, and AC; electrical and mechanical systems; interior and exterior finishing; and plumbing.

D. AAS Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology

This program prepares students to enter the heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration field. This field of work involves different trade disciplines. The two-year program of core courses trains students in residential and commercial heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration. The emphasis will be on the servicing and maintenance of equipment found in residences, commercial buildings, and large facilities.

E. AAS Computer Aided Drafting (Robotics and Automation Emphasis)

The Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) program prepares students to enter the workforce as skilled CAD technicians who are equipped with a solid foundation for drafting positions in manufacturing, engineering, and other areas requiring production-ready drawings and 3-dimensional or 3D models for fabrication using the latest releases of multiple CAD software. In addition, students will acquire skills in the subject matter of design principles, industry standards, fabrication materials, manufacturing applications, tolerance methods and analysis, problem-solving techniques, and general organizational skills.

F. AAS Computer Aided Drafting (HVAC Emphasis)

In the HVAC emphasis, students are prepared for entry-level careers as CAD technicians in the heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration field. This field of work involves different trade disciplines in residential and commercial heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration. This includes drafting technician positions in mechanical, electrical, and heating systems while learning basic refrigeration, fundamentals of gas heating, and electricity for HVAC systems for both residences and large facilities.

G. AAS Computer Aided Drafting (Mechanical Emphasis)

H. AAS Robotics and Automation Systems

The Robotics & Automation Systems Technology degree is designed to prepare individuals for entry-level technician careers in the robotics and automation field. Graduates become qualified to work in electronic automation and control systems environments. Students in this program focus on the principles behind robotic and automation technology. Instruction focuses on principles of robotics, design, programming, operation of robotic systems, and robotics system maintenance. Automation systems include topics such as Programmable Logic Controllers, Sensors and Transducers, and Fundamental of DC/AC. Other classes focus on robotic language control, system repair, robot computer systems, and design. A lab course is a mandatory component of this robotics degree program, allowing the students to work one-on-one with various types of robots and automation systems.

I. AAS Welding

Training in welding is offered to those who wish to learn basic welding skills or to upgrade their knowledge in welding and fabrication. All welding courses are offered on a self-paced basis. Classes use course outlines, books, videos, and instructor-assisted instruction with practical hands-on training. Various types and thicknesses of material are welded in all positions with different welding processes. Courses in ornamental ironwork are also available. The degree program provides students with additional competencies in welding which will enhance their upward mobility.

J. AAS Automotive Technology

The Automotive Technology program leads to an interesting and challenging career in the repair, service, sales, and supply fields. Automotive Technology Degree has a specific focus on automotive service and repair. Students will demonstrate mechanical aptitude, the ability to read and follow detailed instructions and enjoy precision work, and problem-solving. With a certificate or degree from PPSC in Automotive Technology, students are prepared for gainful employment as automotive service professionals.  Automotive Technology studies lead to interesting careers in repair, service, sales, and supply like Master Mechanic, Vocational and Education Teacher, Business Consultant, Automotive Engineering Technician, and Automotive Specialty Technician. With the continual improvement in technology on vehicles, keeping up with the latest automobile technology allows a student to be ahead of the field.

K. AAS Diesel Technology

PPSC's Diesel Technology program can prepare you with the knowledge and skills required for employment in the medium and heavy-duty diesel equipment, vehicle repair, and parts-supply industry. Students will demonstrate mechanical aptitude, the ability to read and follow detailed instructions and enjoy precision work, and problem-solving. The program prepares students for entry-level positions in the field of heavy-duty diesel vehicle repair and parts supply. Students have the option to pursue a variety of automotive and diesel certificates as well. Areas of emphasis are engine repair, fuel supply and management, suspension and brakes, hydraulic systems operation, lighting, and instrumentation. The program provides students with a broad foundation in the diesel repair field employers are looking for.

L. AAS Collison Technology

The Automotive Collision Technology degree at PPSC will prepare students to enter into or upgrade skills in, auto collision repair. Students have the opportunity to develop skills in non-structural metal repair, structural repair, and all aspects of refinishing. Students who complete a certificate program are prepared to enter a specific area of the collision repair industry. The degree program provides students with a broader background and training in all areas of auto collision repair. Students completing the degree should have little difficulty in finding employment. The program utilizes late-model vehicles for training purposes and is certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

M. AAS Fire Science Technology

The Fire Science Technology degree is designed to prepare individuals who have little or no experience with the firefighting profession for entry-level positions in the fire service industry. The mission of the Fire Science Technology degree program is to provide students with the essential knowledge and skills required to succeed in the fields of fire protection, emergency management, firefighting, and wildland firefighting. The goal is to equip students with the fundamental knowledge required to work effectively in entry-level positions in the fire service industry; to provide a program curriculum, both instructive and practical, that encompasses basic firefighting knowledge and skills; and to incorporate the needs of the area fire departments by providing advanced classes to enhance current firefighters’ knowledge and skills.

N. AAS Fire Science Wildland

The Fire Science Wildland degree is designed to prepare individuals who have little or no experience with the firefighting profession for entry-level positions in the fire service industry. The mission of the Fire Science Wildland degree program is to provide students with the essential knowledge and skills required to succeed in the fields of firefighting through the interdisciplinary career and profession in firefighting, emergency management, and natural resources. This degree will prepare students to operate in multiple agency jurisdictions, apply standardized wildland firefighting principles as identified by the National Wildland Coordinating Group; introduce them to the principles of emergency management preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery; and prepare them to attain a career and to enhance a career in wildland firefighting and related disciplines.

AAS degrees are tuition-free for PTEC students who qualify. Families are responsible for general fees, course fees, miscellaneous fees, and books.