SOWELA Announces Short-Term Training for Spring 2026

 

SOWELA Technical Community College's Office of Workforce Solutions will offer short-term training options this spring. Training includes CDL, EMT, Fiber Optic, HVAC and Pipefitting. All classes are open to the public, and scholarships and financial aid are available for those who qualify.

 

Clinical Medical Assistant: The four-month training starts on Monday, May 4, and prepares students for employment in care facilities, home health agencies and hospitals where basic bedside nursing care is needed. After the training program, Medical Assistant students take exams for OSHA-10 Bloodborne Pathogens, Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, Phlebotomy, EKG and Basic Life Support (CPR). Class meets Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and costs $3,999.

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Training: The Class A license training program is a comprehensive 245-hour classroom and behind-the-wheel program. Curriculum covers Louisiana Department of Transportation (DOT) rules and regulations, pre-trip inspection, backing pad and on-the-road skills. Start dates for the seven-week class include February 2, March 9 and April 13. Students meet Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. at SOWELA’s Lake Charles campus, and the program costs $5,950. 

 

State-approved examiners administer the final skills test necessary to receive a state license. Completers who obtain their state license are qualified to drive tractor-trailers, dump trucks, tow trucks, delivery trucks, tanker trucks and flatbed trucks.

 

Emergency Medical Training (EMT): Training begins Tuesday, January 13, at the SOWELA Oakdale site and Tuesday, January 27, at the SOWELA Lamar Salter site in Leesville, LA. Students meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-10 p.m. The program covers the emergency medical service system, the role and responsibilities of the Emergency Medical Technician, anatomy, physiology, patient assessment, basic cardiac life support and more. The program investment is $250 for a limited time, a $1,700 savings.

 

Fiber Optic Training: The course combines hands-on theory with hands-on activities to prepare students for the certification exams. Successful completers earn three certifications, including Fiber Optics Technician (CFOT), Fiber Optics Specialist in Testing and Maintenance (CFOS/T) and Fiber Optics Specialist in Splicing (CFOS/S). Training runs Monday-Friday, February 9-13, and tuition is $2,955.

 

HVAC Training: The 18-week program includes residential and commercial heating, ventilation and air conditioning training. SOWELA’s day class starts Monday, March 23, and the evening HVAC class begins Tuesday, March 24. Successful completers earn 10 hours of OSHA-authorized training and are prepared to test for the EPA Universal 608 license and the Ready to Work NATE certification. At completion, students clock a total of 695 hours. The cost of the program is $5,575.

Pipefitting Training: The Pipefitting Training Program gives students a comprehensive introduction to the pipefitting trade, including core job responsibilities, safety principles, career pathways and the tools and materials commonly used in the field. Participants learn essential skills in installing and repairing high- and low-pressure pipe systems found in manufacturing facilities, power generation, and building heating and cooling systems.

Successful completers earn an OSHA 10-hour safety credential and are prepared to pursue NCCER Pipefitting certifications. The program begins February 16 and tuition is $2,950.

To learn more or register, visit www.sowela.edu/workforce. If you have questions, contact SOWELA's Office of Workforce Solutions at (337) 421-6560 or email [email protected]. 

 

According to the Louisiana Workforce Commission, SOWELA’s programs lead to 4- and 5-star jobs based on educational requirements, salary and occupational outlook. SOWELA is ranked the #1 community college in Louisiana by WalletHub based on Cost and Financing, Education Outcomes and Career Outcomes.