The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) plays a significant role in shaping the local economy by educating and training the future workforce and enriching the lives of Southern Maryland residents. The Center for Trades and Energy Training, located at CSM’s Regional Hughesville Campus, provides residents direct access to specialized training in career fields that have substantial growth potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the following projections are made for job growth between 2012 and 2022:
- Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Commercial Refrigeration (HVAC): Employment of HVAC mechanics and installers is projected to grow 21 percent, faster than the average for all occupations. Job opportunities for HVAC technicians are expected to be excellent, particularly for those who have completed training at an accredited technical school or through an apprenticeship.
- Electrical: Employment of electricians is projected to grow 20 percent. With greater efficiency and reliability of newer manufacturing plants, demand for electricians in manufacturing should increase as more electricians are needed to install and maintain systems.
- Construction: Overall employment of construction laborers and helpers is projected to grow 25 percent, much faster than the average for all occupations.
- Plumbing: Demand for plumbers is projected to grow 21 percent. Job opportunities are expected to be good, as some employers continue to report difficulty finding qualified workers.
The 74-acre Hughesville Campus provide offerings and programs to serve the entire region in a cost-effective and convenient way. The master plan for the regional campus, as designed and presented by Grimm and Parker Architects, is designed to create a sense of community and includes five phases of growth. The first phase was the construction of a 30,000-square-foot Center for Trades and Energy Training. Other phases proposed for the campus and reflected in the master plan include a Health Sciences building, a Fine Arts Center, a field house, and athletic fields, as well as additional class rooms.
Learn more about CSM’s Regional Hughesville Campus online at https://www.csmd.edu/about/locations/regional-campus/