Not every rewarding career begins with a bachelor’s degree.

Across South Carolina, employers are looking for skilled workers who can install, maintain, troubleshoot, and support the electrical systems that keep businesses, facilities, and manufacturing operations running.

For many people in the Fort Mill and Charlotte area, Electrical Systems Technology offers a practical path into a hands-on career without spending four years in college.

If you’re interested in technology, problem-solving, and working with your hands, here’s how you can start an electrical career in South Carolina.

Step 1: Explore Careers in the Electrical Industry

The electrical field includes a variety of career paths.

Depending on your interests and employer, opportunities may involve:

• Residential electrical systems
• Commercial electrical systems
• Industrial wiring
• Manufacturing equipment
• Automation systems
• Industrial controls
• Low-voltage technology
• Building access systems
• Fire alarm systems

Many people are surprised to learn that today’s electrical careers often involve advanced technology, automation, and computer-controlled systems.

Step 2: Develop Technical Skills

Employers want candidates who understand:

• Electrical fundamentals
• Wiring concepts
• Electrical safety
• Troubleshooting
• Motor controls
• Automation systems
• Industry standards

Training can help students gain practical experience before entering the workforce.

Rather than learning exclusively through trial and error on the job, students can build foundational knowledge in a structured environment.

Step 3: Learn About Automation and Technology

Manufacturing and industrial facilities across South Carolina continue investing in automation.

Facilities increasingly use:

• Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
• Sensors
• Automated production systems
• Motor control systems
• Smart building technologies

Workers who understand these systems often bring additional value to employers.

“The combination of electrical training, troubleshooting, automation, and hands-on learning gives students exposure to multiple areas of the industry. That versatility can be valuable as they begin exploring career opportunities.”

鈥� Douglas Decker, Chief Operating Officer, Laurel College of Technology Fort Mill

Step 4: Earn Industry Certifications

Industry-recognized certifications can help demonstrate your knowledge and commitment.

Examples may include:

• OSHA 10
• NFPA 70E
• NCCER credentials

Many employers recognize these certifications when evaluating candidates for entry-level opportunities.

Step 5: Gain Hands-On Experience

Electrical careers are built through practical application.

Hands-on training allows students to:

• Work with electrical components
• Practice troubleshooting
• Understand wiring systems
• Apply safety procedures
• Develop confidence using tools and equipment

Employers frequently look for candidates who have had opportunities to work directly with equipment and systems.

Why Fort Mill Is a Strong Location for Skilled Trades Careers

Fort Mill has become one of the fastest-growing communities in the Charlotte metropolitan area.

Its location near Charlotte provides access to:

• Manufacturing employers
• Distribution facilities
• Commercial development projects
• Technology companies
• Healthcare facilities
• Construction projects

The broader Charlotte region continues to attract investment and population growth, creating demand for skilled workers across many industries.

As businesses expand, the need for individuals who understand electrical systems and technology remains important.

“We meet students from many different backgrounds. Some are recent high school graduates, while others are looking for a new career path. What they have in common is a desire to learn practical skills that employers need today.”

鈥� Cindy Carey, Campus Director, Laurel College of Technology Fort Mill

Is a Four-Year Degree Required?

For many electrical and technical careers, employers focus heavily on skills, training, certifications, and practical experience.

This is one reason skilled trades careers continue attracting career changers, recent high school graduates, military veterans, and adults looking for a new direction.

Many students appreciate the opportunity to focus on career-specific training that can help prepare them for entry-level employment opportunities.

Choosing the Right Training Program

When evaluating schools, prospective students should look for programs that include:

• Hands-on training
• Residential wiring
• Commercial wiring
• Industrial wiring
• Automation systems
• PLC programming
• Electrical troubleshooting
• Safety training
• Industry certifications

These skills can help students prepare for the wide range of opportunities available throughout the electrical industry.

Training for an Electrical Career at Laurel College of Technology

Laurel College of Technology’s Fort Mill campus offers an Electrical Systems Technician program designed to help students build practical skills for today’s workforce.

Students receive training in:

• Residential wiring
• Commercial wiring
• Industrial wiring
• Electrical motors
• PLC programming
• Industrial automation controls
• Electrical troubleshooting
• Low-voltage systems
• Electrical distribution

The program is available in both day and evening schedules, helping students choose an option that best fits their needs.

Start Building Your Future

Electrical systems power nearly every modern industry.

From manufacturing facilities and commercial buildings to automated production equipment and smart technologies, skilled technicians help keep systems operating safely and efficiently.

For students in Fort Mill, Rock Hill, Charlotte, and surrounding communities, Electrical Systems Technology can provide a practical pathway into a hands-on, technology-focused career without requiring a traditional four-year degree.

If you’re looking for a healthcare career where you can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, respiratory therapy may be worth exploring. Respiratory therapists are trained healthcare professionals who help patients with breathing and cardiopulmonary conditions, from premature infants who need respiratory support to adults managing chronic lung disease or experiencing a medical emergency.

For students in Fort Mill, Rock Hill, York County, northern South Carolina, and the greater Charlotte area, respiratory therapy can provide a pathway into a specialized healthcare profession without requiring a traditional four-year bachelor’s degree.

Laurel College of Technology now offers its established Respiratory Therapy program at its Fort Mill, South Carolina campus. The 20-month specialized associate degree combines classroom instruction, hands-on simulation, and clinical education to prepare students for the responsibilities of respiratory care.

Here’s what you should know about becoming a respiratory therapist in South Carolina.

What Does a Respiratory Therapist Do?

Respiratory therapists, often called RTs, evaluate and treat patients with breathing and cardiopulmonary disorders. They work alongside physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to help patients breathe more effectively and manage respiratory conditions.

Depending on their work environment, respiratory therapists may:

• Assess patients experiencing breathing difficulties
• Administer oxygen and respiratory therapies
• Manage mechanical ventilators
• Perform diagnostic testing
• Assist during cardiopulmonary emergencies
• Manage artificial airways
• Educate patients about chronic respiratory conditions
• Monitor patients receiving respiratory support

One of the distinctive aspects of respiratory therapy is the variety of patients an RT may encounter. Respiratory therapists can care for premature infants, children with asthma, critically ill adults, surgical patients, and older adults managing chronic respiratory conditions.

Is There a Need for Respiratory Therapists in Fort Mill and Charlotte?

This is an especially important question for someone considering respiratory therapy school, and it’s also one of the questions Laurel’s admissions team hears most frequently: Will I be able to find a job after I graduate?

Laurel’s decision to bring its established Respiratory Therapy program to Fort Mill was influenced directly by conversations about the region’s respiratory care workforce.

According to Mary Mittwede, Program Director of Respiratory Therapy at Laurel, the idea originated before the Fort Mill campus opened. During planning for the campus, the owner of Laurel’s first campus building specifically encouraged the college to bring Respiratory Therapy training to the area because of the perceived need for respiratory therapists in the community.

Laurel continued gathering input from hospital leaders, respiratory care managers, physicians, and members of its Respiratory Therapy Program Advisory Committee. At the program’s South Carolina Advisory Committee meeting on November 18, 2025, regional healthcare input reinforced the need for qualified Registered Respiratory Therapists in northern South Carolina and the Charlotte metropolitan area.

Healthcare leaders have told Laurel that recruiting and retaining qualified respiratory therapists continues to be challenging. Among the factors identified are workforce shortages, retirements, population growth, and the expansion of critical care, emergency, neonatal, and outpatient respiratory services.

As one healthcare partner told Laurel, “As our hospitals continue to grow, so does our need for Registered Respiratory Therapists.” Another reported that respiratory therapist positions can remain open for extended periods.

For Laurel, expanding Respiratory Therapy education to Fort Mill provides an opportunity to educate students locally while helping regional healthcare organizations develop a pipeline of respiratory care professionals.

How to Become a Respiratory Therapist

Step 1: Complete High School or Earn an Equivalent Credential

The first step toward becoming a respiratory therapist is completing your high school education or earning an equivalent credential.

A background in science and math can be helpful because respiratory therapy involves anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, equipment, and clinical decision-making. Just as important are communication skills, attention to detail, compassion, and the ability to remain composed in challenging situations.

Step 2: Complete a Respiratory Therapy Degree Program

Future respiratory therapists need specialized education that combines scientific knowledge with practical patient-care skills.

At Laurel College of Technology’s Fort Mill campus, students can complete a 20-month Specialized Associate degree in Respiratory Therapy.

The program combines:

• Classroom instruction
• Hands-on simulation
• Clinical education
• Respiratory care procedures
• Airway management
• Mechanical ventilation
• Medical gas administration
• Patient assessment
• Treatment planning
• Critical care and emergency response

The goal isn’t simply to learn respiratory care concepts from a textbook. Students need opportunities to apply those concepts to the equipment, situations, and clinical decisions they may encounter as respiratory therapists.

Step 3: Develop the Skills Healthcare Employers Want

Technical knowledge is essential, but Laurel’s conversations with healthcare employers suggest that becoming a successful respiratory therapist requires more than mastering clinical procedures.

When Laurel asks its healthcare partners what they want from new respiratory therapy graduates, several qualities come up consistently.

Employers want respiratory therapists who:

• Demonstrate strong clinical competency
• Communicate effectively with patients and healthcare teams
• Think critically under pressure
• Demonstrate professionalism
• Treat patients with compassion
• Are dependable and confident
• Remain committed to continued learning

Employers have also emphasized the importance of graduates being prepared to transition effectively from school into professional practice.

That’s why Laurel’s Respiratory Therapy program combines technical education with clinical experiences and opportunities to develop communication, critical thinking, professionalism, and confidence.

Step 4: Gain Hands-On Clinical Experience

Respiratory therapy cannot be learned entirely in a classroom.

Clinical education gives students an opportunity to apply what they have learned while working alongside healthcare professionals in real-world environments.

Laurel works with regional healthcare providers to provide clinical education opportunities. Healthcare organizations also participate in Laurel’s Program Advisory Committee, allowing employers to provide input about the knowledge and skills they need from future respiratory therapists.

The relationship benefits both students and the regional healthcare community. Students gain exposure to respiratory care in clinical environments while healthcare providers participate in educating potential future members of their workforce.

In fact, one healthcare partner explained the connection this way:

“We’re excited to partner with Laurel because educating students locally helps us recruit and retain talent.”

For prospective students, clinical rotations are understandably an important consideration. “Where will I complete my clinical rotations?” is one of the three questions Laurel says prospective Respiratory Therapy students ask most frequently.

Admissions representatives can provide students with current information about clinical education and program requirements.

Step 5: Prepare for Respiratory Therapy Credentialing

Graduating from respiratory therapy school is an important milestone, but professional credentialing is another key step toward entering the field.

Laurel’s Respiratory Therapy curriculum emphasizes preparation for National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) credentialing examinations.

Students should speak with Laurel admissions representatives about current credentialing, eligibility, and South Carolina licensing requirements when considering the program.

What Makes Laurel’s Respiratory Therapy Program Different?

For Laurel, bringing Respiratory Therapy to Fort Mill isn’t the launch of an entirely new academic program. The college is expanding an established program already offered at Laurel campuses in Pennsylvania.

According to Laurel’s Respiratory Therapy leadership, several characteristics define its approach:

Small class sizes.

A smaller learning environment gives students greater opportunities to interact with instructors.

Individualized faculty support.

The program takes a student-centered approach designed to help students develop their knowledge and clinical skills.

Hands-on simulation.

Students have opportunities to practice respiratory care concepts and procedures rather than learning exclusively through classroom instruction.

Clinical experiences.

The curriculum incorporates experiences designed to connect classroom learning with respiratory care in healthcare settings.

Regional healthcare partnerships.

Laurel works with healthcare providers that participate in clinical education and the program’s advisory process.

Credentialing preparation.

The curriculum emphasizes preparation for NBRC credentialing examinations.

Together, these components are intended to prepare students to become clinically competent, compassionate respiratory care professionals.

Where Do Respiratory Therapists Work?

Hospitals are among the most familiar workplaces for respiratory therapists, but opportunities can exist throughout the healthcare system.

Respiratory therapists may work in settings such as:

• Hospitals
• Intensive care units
• Emergency departments
• Neonatal and pediatric care
• Pulmonary rehabilitation
• Outpatient respiratory care
• Long-term care
• Home healthcare
• Diagnostic and sleep-related services

Laurel’s conversations with regional healthcare organizations indicate that demand isn’t limited to one area of care. Local healthcare leaders have specifically pointed to growth in critical care, emergency, neonatal, and outpatient respiratory services as factors contributing to the region’s workforce needs.

Is Respiratory Therapy Right for You?

Respiratory therapy may appeal to someone who wants a healthcare career combining science, technology, problem-solving, and direct patient care.

You may want to consider respiratory therapy if you:

• Want to work directly with patients
• Enjoy science and healthcare
• Are comfortable working with medical technology
• Can think clearly in high-pressure situations
• Communicate well with others
• Enjoy being part of a healthcare team
• Want work that involves problem-solving rather than sitting behind a desk
• Are committed to continuing to learn as healthcare technology evolves

The qualities employers have shared with Laurel provide another useful guide. Clinical competency matters, but so do compassion, professionalism, communication, dependability, and critical thinking.

Why Study Respiratory Therapy in Fort Mill?

For students in northern South Carolina, Laurel’s Fort Mill campus provides an opportunity to pursue Respiratory Therapy education closer to home.

The campus serves students throughout Fort Mill, Rock Hill, York County, and surrounding communities, while its proximity to Charlotte places students near a large and growing metropolitan healthcare market.

The decision to expand Laurel’s established Respiratory Therapy program into Fort Mill was directly connected to the needs Laurel heard from healthcare professionals in the region.

Rather than relying solely on national workforce trends, Laurel consulted with hospital leaders, respiratory care managers, physicians, and its Program Advisory Committee. Their feedback identified an ongoing need to educate and retain more respiratory therapists locally.

For students, that means the program has been developed with input from the same healthcare community they may eventually hope to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Respiratory Therapist

How long is respiratory therapy school?

Laurel College of Technology’s Specialized Associate Degree in Respiratory Therapy program can be completed in approximately 20 months.

What are the most common questions prospective RT students ask?

According to Laurel, its admissions team most frequently hears three questions from prospective Respiratory Therapy students:

1. Will I be able to find a job after I graduate?
2. How long is the program, and what is the schedule like?
3. Where will I complete my clinical rotations?

These are good questions to ask any respiratory therapy school you’re considering.

Are respiratory therapists needed in the Charlotte and Fort Mill area?

Healthcare leaders who have spoken with Laurel report an ongoing need for Registered Respiratory Therapists throughout northern South Carolina and the Charlotte metropolitan area. They have cited challenges including workforce shortages, retirements, regional population growth, and expansion of respiratory services.

Do respiratory therapists work only in hospitals?

No. While hospitals are major employers, respiratory therapists can also work in rehabilitation, outpatient care, home healthcare, long-term care, diagnostic services, and other healthcare environments.

Do respiratory therapists work with children?

Yes. Respiratory therapists may care for patients throughout the lifespan, including premature infants, children, adults, and older adults.

Does respiratory therapy school include clinical experience?

Yes. Laurel’s program combines classroom education and hands-on simulation with clinical experiences through regional healthcare partnerships.

Start Your Journey Toward a Career in Respiratory Therapy

Becoming a respiratory therapist requires more than learning how the lungs work. It requires developing clinical skills, learning sophisticated respiratory technology, communicating with patients and healthcare teams, and becoming someone others can depend on when breathing becomes difficult or a patient’s condition becomes critical.

Laurel College of Technology’s 20-month Specialized Associate Degree in Respiratory Therapy program in Fort Mill brings Laurel’s established respiratory care education to northern South Carolina and the Charlotte region.

The program combines classroom instruction, simulation, clinical education, individualized faculty support, and input from regional healthcare partners to prepare students for the next steps toward a career in respiratory care.

Request information from Laurel College of Technology to learn more about the Respiratory Therapy program in Fort Mill, including admissions requirements, class schedules, clinical education, and upcoming start dates.

Laurel College of Technology has acquired the former PTL Building located at 7000 Regent Parkway in Fort Mill, South Carolina, marking a significant investment in the institution鈥檚 future growth and its commitment to expanding career-focused education opportunities in Fort Mill and surrounding communities.

The property, formerly known as the Pyramid PTL Building, represents a long-term opportunity for Laurel College of Technology to expand and enhance its educational footprint in the region. The institution is evaluating the facility for potential future use as a larger, modern campus to support its Fort Mill operations.

The acquisition provides Laurel College of Technology with an opportunity to develop a facility designed specifically to support career and technical education, including classrooms, laboratories, student services, administrative space, and other instructional resources. The planned improvements are expected to create an enhanced learning environment and provide additional capacity for the institution鈥檚 continued development in the region.

A key feature of the planned redevelopment is the building鈥檚 expanded footprint of approximately 50,000 square feet, which will allow Laurel College of Technology to significantly enhance the student learning experience. The increased space is expected to support improved instructional design and program delivery for the institution鈥檚 existing and newly approved academic offerings, including Practical Nursing, Cardiovascular Technology, Electrical Systems Technology, HVAC Systems Technician, and the Respiratory Therapy Associate Degree Program. The larger facility will provide the opportunity for expanded laboratory environments, simulation-based training areas, and program-specific learning spaces designed to better align with real-world clinical and technical settings.

鈥淎cquiring this property represents an important investment in the future of Laurel College of Technology and in the communities we serve,鈥� said Dr. Douglas Decker, Chief Operating Officer of Laurel College of Technology. 鈥淭he facility provides an exciting opportunity to create a modern educational environment that can support students, faculty, clinical partners, employers, and the workforce needs of the region. The expanded square footage will allow us to enhance hands-on training environments and better support the growth of our academic programs. We are looking forward to the possibilities this property provides.鈥�

Following receipt of approval from York County, Laurel College of Technology plans to begin renovation work on the facility in the coming weeks as part of its long-term development strategy for the site.

The acquisition and planned renovation of 7000 Regent Parkway should not be interpreted as an announcement that Laurel College of Technology has received approval to operate, relocate, or offer programs at that location. The timing of any future relocation will be determined by the completion of renovations, regulatory and accreditation requirements, and receipt of all applicable approvals.

A Long-Term Investment in Fort Mill

The planned redevelopment of the property reflects Laurel College of Technology鈥檚 long-term commitment to Fort Mill and the rapidly growing communities of York County and the surrounding region.

As planning and renovation work progresses, Laurel College of Technology expects to evaluate the facility鈥檚 ability to accommodate expanded instructional space, specialized laboratories, student support services, faculty and administrative offices, and other resources necessary to provide high-quality career education.

The institution will provide additional information regarding the project and any future relocation plans as appropriate and as required approvals are obtained.

Laurel plans a unique updated design to the PTL building, focusing on student-centric spaces and hands-on labs for integrated learning.听

Dr. Douglas Decker, Chief Operating Officer of Laurel,听 proudly stands at the front of Laurel College of Technology鈥檚 new building at 7000 Regent Parkway in Fort Mill, SC.听

About Laurel College of Technology

Laurel College of Technology鈥檚 campus in Fort Mill, SC (a division of 51本色) provides high-quality, career-focused, hands-on training designed to bridge the gap between education and employment. Located at 345 Patricia Lane in Fort Mill, S.C., the campus serves students throughout York County, Rock Hill, and the South Charlotte suburbs, offering specialized programs in high-demand fields including Practical Nursing, Cardiovascular Technology, and Electrical Systems Technology. Learn more at laurel.edu.

 

Regulatory and Accreditation Disclaimer:
The acquisition of 7000 Regent Parkway is a real estate transaction and does not, by itself, constitute approval, licensure, accreditation, authorization, or permission to operate Laurel College of Technology programs at that location. Any future relocation of educational operations to the property is subject to all applicable approvals and requirements of the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, and any other applicable governmental, regulatory, accrediting, or licensing authorities. Programs, facilities, and services described in connection with the future location are subject to required approvals and may be modified, delayed, or not implemented. No student enrollment, program availability, or commencement of instruction at the new location should be inferred from this announcement.

(FORT MILL, S.C.) Laurel College of Technology is excited to announce the launch of its new 20-month Respiratory Therapy degree program at the Fort Mill campus, with classes officially beginning this October. Designed to address the growing regional demand for specialized healthcare professionals, the program provides hands-on, comprehensive training for students seeking careers in cardiopulmonary care.

The curriculum combines classroom instruction with clinical experience, preparing graduates to assess, treat, and manage patients with acute and chronic breathing disorders ranging from premature infants to the elderly. Students will gain practical expertise in airway management, mechanical ventilation, medical gas administration, and critical care emergency response.

Respiratory therapists are vital frontline specialists who evaluate, treat, and manage patients suffering from life-threatening cardiopulmonary conditions. From managing mechanical ventilators in intensive care units to delivering emergency airway management during trauma resuscitation, their expertise directly saves lives. Beyond critical care, respiratory therapists help patients control chronic conditions through rehabilitation and education. By reducing hospital readmissions and stepping in during critical cardiac and pulmonary events, they serve as essential healthcare partners who keep communities breathing easier every day.

“Respiratory care practitioners play a vital, life-saving role across hospitals, intensive care units, and specialized clinical settings,” said Mary Mitweede, Regional Director of Respiratory Therapy for Laurel College of Technology and Laurel Technical Institute. “Expanding this high-demand program to our Fort Mill campus allows us to support regional healthcare providers while offering local students a direct pathway into a rewarding medical career.”

Upon completing the 20-month specialized Associate Degree program, graduates are prepared to sit for the Respiratory Therapy Exam (RTE)听 to earn credentials as Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRT).

“Our hands-on clinical partnerships are a win-win for Fort Mill and neighboring areas,” added Douglas Decker, Chief Operating Officer for Laurel College of Technology and Laurel Technical Institute. “As our students complete their clinical hours alongside veteran professionals in local hospitals and clinics, they aren’t just learning; they are actively supporting frontline staff, expanding local patient care capacity, and building a reliable talent pipeline that directly strengthens our community’s healthcare infrastructure.”

Enrollment is currently open for the inaugural October class start. Prospective students interested in learning more about admission requirements, course schedules, or financial aid options are encouraged to visit laurel.edu to request more information from the Admission team.

Unique hands on lab spaces are key to integral learning for this exciting new program.

 

About Laurel College of Technology

Laurel College of Technology鈥檚 campus in Fort Mill, SC (a division of 51本色) provides high-quality, career-focused, hands-on training designed to bridge the gap between education and employment. Located at 345 Patricia Lane in Fort Mill, S.C., the campus serves students throughout York County, Rock Hill, and the South Charlotte suburbs, offering specialized programs in high-demand fields including Practical Nursing, Cardiovascular Technology, and Electrical Systems Technology. Learn more at laurel.edu.

FORT MILL, S.C., July 10, 2026- Laurel College of Technology is proud to announce its very first Practical Nursing (LPN) pinning ceremony, marking a historic milestone for both the institution鈥檚 Fort Mill campus and its pioneering cohort of healthcare graduates for this location. The inaugural ceremony took place on Thursday, June 25th at 5:00 pm at Laurel鈥檚 Fort Mill campus at 345 Patricia Lane, Suite 105.

The traditional pinning ceremony is a time-honored nursing rite of passage that dates back to the 1860s, popularized by Florence Nightingale. It welcomes graduates into the nursing profession and symbolizes their transition from rigorous academic preparation to frontline, clinical practice. Unlike standard graduation ceremonies, the pinning ceremony allows faculty and loved ones to personally welcome the new practical nurses into the healthcare community.

During the ceremony, students Mona Lisa Gunter and Makaylan Stidham were recognized for their hard work and dedication to the Practical Nursing program and the resilience they showed in completing the program for their future career. Campus President, Cindy Carey, addressed the two students and their families stating, 鈥淭his was not an easy journey. We had some bumps and hiccups along the way, but these two, Makaylan and Mona Lisa, were determined to finish. And here they are, ready to enjoy the rewards and sense of accomplishment after such a unique journey.鈥澨�

“These students have demonstrated incredible dedication, resilience, and clinical excellence,” said Chiquita Foster, Practical Nursing Program Director, at Laurel College of Technology. “Launching this program in Fort Mill was a response to the growing demand for highly skilled healthcare professionals in York County and the greater Charlotte metro area. We are incredibly proud to pin these students as they prepare to step into the workforce and make an immediate impact on patient care.”听

Graduate Mona Lisa Gunter addressed the crowd stating 鈥淚 want to thank my family for all of their support. When I didn鈥檛 want to finish, they pushed me, they encouraged me and now here I am. I went through a lot to stand here, and I am very proud of me. And I really and I really want to thank the two ladies that helped me, when I came to you crying and discouraged, you helped me push through, Mrs. Heather Miller and Mrs. Chiquita Foster. I could not have done this without the support that I have from all angles.鈥�

Foster then presented graduates, Mona Lisa Gunter and Makaylan Stidhamn, with their pins, did the Lighting of the Lamp, and finished the ceremony with reciting the Florence Nightingale Pledge.听

Makaylan Stidham, Graduate of Laurel College of Technology鈥檚 Inaugural Practical Nursing Class

Mona Lisa Gunter, Graduate of Laurel College of Technology鈥檚 Inaugural Practical Nursing Class

About Laurel College of Technology

Laurel College of Technology鈥檚 campus in Fort Mill, SC (a division of 51本色) provides high-quality, career-focused, hands-on training designed to bridge the gap between education and employment. Located at 345 Patricia Lane in Fort Mill, S.C., the campus serves students throughout York County, Rock Hill, and the South Charlotte suburbs, offering specialized programs in high-demand fields including Practical Nursing, Cardiovascular Technology, and Electrical Systems Technology. Learn more at laurel.edu.

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When people think about electrical careers, they often picture electricians wiring homes, installing outlets, or working on construction sites. While those are important roles, today’s electrical industry includes a much broader range of opportunities.

One career path that is gaining attention is Electrical Systems Technology. Electrical Systems Technicians help install, maintain, troubleshoot, and support the electrical and electronic systems that power homes, businesses, manufacturing facilities, and modern technology infrastructure.

For students in the Fort Mill and greater Charlotte region who enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving, and technology, Electrical Systems Technology can provide a pathway into a growing skilled trade without spending four years in college.

What Is an Electrical Systems Technician?

An Electrical Systems Technician works with the automated systems that help buildings, equipment, and facilities operate safely and efficiently.

Depending on the employer, technicians may work with:

• Residential electrical systems
• Commercial electrical systems
• Industrial electrical systems
• Manufacturing equipment
• Industrial motors
• Building automation systems
• Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
• Low-voltage systems
• Fire alarm systems
• Access control systems
• Voice, data, and video systems

Unlike some electrical careers that focus on a single area, Electrical Systems Technicians often develop skills across multiple specialties.

At Laurel College of Technology’s Fort Mill campus, students receive hands-on training in residential, commercial, industrial, and advanced manufacturing applications. Coursework includes subjects such as residential wiring, commercial wiring, industrial wiring, electrical motors, PLC programming, industrial automation controls, troubleshooting, electrical distribution, and low-voltage systems.

“Today’s employers aren’t just looking for someone who can wire a circuit. They’re looking for technicians who understand automation, controls, troubleshooting, and technology. Our goal is to help students build the practical skills and confidence needed to enter the workforce and contribute from day one.”

鈥� Justin Caldwell, Regional Director of Trades, Laurel College of Technology

What Does an Electrical Systems Technician Do Every Day?

A typical day can vary significantly based on the industry and employer.

Some technicians may spend their day installing electrical systems in a commercial building. Others may work inside a manufacturing facility helping maintain production equipment.

Common responsibilities include:

Installing Electrical Systems

Technicians help install electrical components and systems according to specifications and safety requirements.

Examples include:

• Running conduit
• Pulling wire
• Installing panels
• Connecting equipment
• Installing low-voltage systems

Troubleshooting Problems

One of the most valuable skills in the field is identifying and solving electrical issues.

Technicians learn how to:

• Read electrical diagrams
• Use testing equipment
• Identify faulty components
• Restore systems to proper operation

Maintaining Equipment

Many employers rely on technicians to perform preventive maintenance.

This may include:

• Inspecting electrical systems
• Replacing worn components
• Testing equipment performance
• Ensuring compliance with safety standards

Working with Automation Systems

Modern manufacturing relies heavily on automation.

Electrical Systems Technicians may work with:

• PLCs
• Industrial controls
• Sensors
• Automated production systems
• Motor control systems

These technology-focused skills are becoming increasingly valuable across many industries.

What Is PLC Programming?

One area that separates many Electrical Systems Technology programs from traditional electrical training is PLC programming.

PLC stands for Programmable Logic Controller.

These industrial computers control machinery and automated systems used in:

• Manufacturing facilities
• Distribution centers
• Food processing plants
• Automotive production facilities
• Packaging operations

PLCs help machines communicate and operate efficiently.

As manufacturing becomes more automated, technicians who understand PLCs often have access to a broader range of employment opportunities.

What Are Low-Voltage Systems?

Another growing area of opportunity is low-voltage technology.

Low-voltage systems typically include:

• Security systems
• Fire alarms
• Building access systems
• Surveillance systems
• Data and communications systems

As businesses continue investing in smart buildings and connected technology, these systems have become increasingly important.

Electrical Systems Technician vs. Electrician

One of the most common questions prospective students ask is:

“What’s the difference between an Electrical Systems Technician and an Electrician?”

The answer depends on the specific employer and job responsibilities, but there are several important distinctions.

Similarities

Both careers may involve:

• Reading electrical diagrams
• Working with wiring systems
• Following safety standards
• Troubleshooting problems
• Installing equipment
• Working in residential, commercial, or industrial environments

Differences

Electricians often focus on:

• Building wiring
• Construction projects
• Electrical service work
• Power distribution systems

Electrical Systems Technicians may work with:

• Industrial controls
• PLCs
• Automation systems
• Low-voltage systems
• Building technology systems
• Advanced manufacturing equipment

In many ways, Electrical Systems Technology combines traditional electrical skills with modern technology applications.

Why Technology Skills Matter

The electrical industry is changing.

Today’s facilities rely on:

• Automation
• Smart controls
• Digital monitoring systems
• Connected building technologies

Employers increasingly seek workers who can understand both electrical systems and the technology that controls them.

This combination of electrical knowledge and technical skills can help graduates pursue opportunities across multiple industries.

What Industries Hire Electrical Systems Technicians?

Graduates may find opportunities in a variety of industries.

Potential employers include:

Manufacturing Facilities

Manufacturers rely on electrical systems and automated equipment to maintain production.

Distribution Centers

Modern logistics operations depend on automated systems and electrical infrastructure.

Commercial Construction

Many commercial projects require technicians who understand both electrical and low-voltage systems.

Facilities Maintenance

Hospitals, schools, office buildings, and industrial facilities need technicians to keep systems operating properly.

Technology and Security Companies

Organizations that install security systems, access controls, and communications infrastructure often seek candidates with low-voltage experience.

What Skills Are Important for Success?

Successful Electrical Systems Technicians often possess:

Problem-Solving Skills

Electrical troubleshooting requires critical thinking and attention to detail.

Mechanical Aptitude

Understanding how systems work together is important.

Technical Curiosity

Technology continues evolving. Employers value individuals who enjoy learning.

Communication Skills

Technicians frequently work with coworkers, supervisors, and customers.

Safety Awareness

Electrical work requires strict adherence to safety procedures.

Why Students Choose Electrical Systems Technology

Many students are drawn to the field because it offers:

• Hands-on training
• Technology-focused work
• Diverse career opportunities
• Skills that apply across industries
• A faster path into the workforce than many traditional degree programs

Students who enjoy working with their hands while also solving technical problems often find the field rewarding.

Training for an Electrical Systems Career in Fort Mill, South Carolina

At Laurel College of Technology in Fort Mill, students can train in an Electrical Systems Technician program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning.

Students gain exposure to:

• Residential wiring
• Commercial wiring
• Industrial wiring
• Electrical motors
• PLC programming
• Industrial automation controls
• Electrical troubleshooting
• Low-voltage systems
• Electrical distribution
• National Electrical Code fundamentals

The program also prepares students for industry-recognized certifications that employers value.

Looking Ahead

Electrical systems are becoming more advanced every year. Buildings are becoming smarter. Manufacturing is becoming more automated. Businesses increasingly rely on connected technology.

As a result, employers continue seeking individuals who understand both electrical systems and the technology that supports them.

For students interested in a hands-on, technology-driven career, Electrical Systems Technology can provide a pathway into a field that touches nearly every industry.

FORT MILL, S.C., JANUARY 27th, 2026 – Laurel College of Technology held graduation on January 21st, 2026, at their campus in, Fort Mill S.C. Opening comments were given by Dr. Douglas Decker, COO of 51本色, 鈥淭his is a time to celebrate all the hard work you鈥檝e put forth in the recent months of your life,鈥� says Decker, 鈥測ou鈥檝e put in the time, the effort, and the dedication and here you are. Congratulations to each of you, we are all very proud of you.鈥�

Assistant Campus Director, Cindy Carey, recognized the class Valedictorian, Allison Williams. Carey then recognized the class salutatorian Apollonia Moore. Next to be recognized were the January 2026 Distinguished Graduates Allison Williams, Apollonia Moore, Stacey Haese, and Michael Collins. Assistant Campus Director, Cindy Carey, then presented the Degree and Diplomas to the graduates. The Career Services department reported that 100% of the January 2026 graduating class have accepted employment offers within their program of study. The following students were awarded diplomas s in the following programs:听

Electrical Systems Technician听

Michael Collins

Apollonia Moore

Nuriel Orozco

Cardiovascular Technology

Rahnneisha Douglas

Jordan Goolic

Stacey Haese

Marquisha Ross

Shareena Smith
Allison Williams

 

Left to right, first row: RAHNNEISHA DOUGLAS, MARQUISHA ROSS

Left to right, second row: ALLISON WILLIAMS, MICHAEL COLLINS, SHAREENA SMITH

Founded in 1985 by Christopher and Nancy Decker,听51本色 are a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania, North Central West Virginia, and Northern South Carolina. Conveniently located in Fort Mill, SC, Laurel Institute of Technology is a short drive from Interstate I-77 (Exits 88 or 85) off of Highway 160 in the new One Sixty West V Medical Building. For more information, visit听laurel.edu or call 803-802-0700.

Laurel Institute of Technology is excited to welcome Fort Mill and surrounding communities to its upcoming fall Information Session and Financial Aid Workshop. The event will be held at their Fort Mill, located campus at 127 Ben Casey Drive, Suite 101, Fort Mill, SC, from 4 to 7 PM on August 1st. Check out their page for more information on the event and registration!听

Visitors to the Information Session will get to meet faculty and staff, tour the new classrooms, view equipment demonstrations, and learn more about the school鈥檚 exciting new program. You can also find out more information on the six online associate degree programs offered at Laurel: Medical Lab Technician, Medical Billing and Coding, Medical Office Administration, Cloud Computing Technology,听 Accounting and Business Administration, and听 Early Childhood Education.听 Laurel now also offers a 12-month diploma for Clinical Medical Assistant through a hybrid learning format, with a minimum one day a month on campus for lab skill development and assessments. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) has been simplified for the 2024/2025 academic year; to help walk you through it or answer any questions you may have, Laurel will also have their Financial Aid Administrator on site during the Information Session.

 

Laurel Institute of Technology鈥檚 Ft. Mill school offers post-secondary students the opportunity to earn a听Diploma in Cardiovascular Technology听in just 16 months. The program is designed to help you jumpstart your medical career, teaching lifesaving diagnostic skills in Echocardiograms, cardiac sonography, EKGs, stress testing, and ultrasound imaging. Day and night programs will be offered. Learn more about the program鈥檚 clinical affiliations with leading healthcare providers such as Piedmont Medical Center, Atrium Health, MUSC, and more! The institution offers registry through Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).

Enrollment for the fall class is currently underway, with the next class starting in September of 2024.听 Prospective students are invited to visit Laurel鈥檚 website, to register for the event or to schedule a tour that best fits their schedule.听

Conveniently located in Fort Mill, SC, Laurel Institute of Technology is a short drive from Interstate I-77 (Exits 88 or 85) off of Highway 160 in the new One Sixty West II Medical Building. For more information, visit听laurel.edu or call 803-802-0700.

Laurel Institute of Technology first opened its doors in May 2023 as the newest addition to its growing network of locations. Currently located at 127 Ben Casey Drive, Suite 101, the facility welcomed the first group of students in the fall of 2023. Thanks to strong support from the community the campus is set to expand to a newly built 9,500 square feet of instructional and lab space in the same Gipson Office Park complex in Fort Mill. The school plans new programs and expanded enrollment as the new facility opens its doors. The facility renovations should be completed in late summer 2024.

鈥淟aurel’s aim is to become part of the fabric in the communities we serve to build sustainable educational programming that meets the needs of both the employers and our students,鈥� states Douglas Decker, Executive Vice President of 51本色, 鈥渨e look forward to training qualified graduates to meet the local growing workforce, and we know that this move with be vital to that.鈥�

Laurel Institute of Technology currently offers a 16-month Cardiovascular Technology diploma program. Laurel has designed the courses to provide the students with an awareness of the value and dignity of people – helping shape them into integrated, unique individuals ready to take on career opportunities in this growing field. This program, along with the on-site simulation experience, is reflective of Laurel’s commitment to preparing exceptional, job-ready professionals in a way that addresses the ever-increasing need for qualified technicians in local areas.

鈥淲e have researched and seen the needs of trained technicians in this sector of healthcare,鈥� states Douglas Decker, Executive Vice President of 51本色, 鈥淭he Cardiovascular Technology program will train students to be vital contributors to the health and well-being of our communities, which we feel is so important right now.鈥�

Founded in 1985 by Christopher and Nancy Decker, 51本色 are a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania, North Central West Virginia, and Northern South Carolina. Conveniently located in Fort Mill, SC, Laurel Institute of Technology is a short drive from Interstate I-77 (Exits 88 or 85) off of Highway 160 in the new One Sixty West II Medical Building. For more information, visit laurel.edu or call 803-802-0700.

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