Technical Education Program Alignment
This platform serves as a central resource for exploring Utah’s aligned technical education programs—part of the Utah System of Higher Education’s commitment to delivering consistent, high-quality technical training across the state. Program alignment ensures that technical education certificates offered by USHE institutions follow shared standards for program names, objectives, CIP codes, program lengths, and essential employment skills. This approach supports clarity, reduces duplication, and improves alignment with statewide workforce needs.
At the same time, the model allows institutions the flexibility to add supplemental coursework that responds to local industry demands. This balance of statewide consistency and regional responsiveness ensures that students graduate with relevant, employer-validated skills, regardless of where they enroll, while providing transparency and cohesion for students, educators, policymakers, and industry partners.
This initiative strengthens educational and workforce outcomes by:
- Preparing workforce-ready graduates with consistent, industry-recognized skills.
- Creating clear pathways for students by reducing variation and improving credential clarity.
- Supporting credit transfer and articulation across institutions.
- Allowing regional flexibility through supplemental coursework based on local employer input.
About the Initiative
The Technical Education Program Alignment initiative ensures that technical education programs across USHE institutions follow common standards, such as program names, objectives, CIP codes, lengths, and key skills required for employment. This initiative helps align programs to prepare students with relevant skills for today’s job market. It also provides clarity for students, educators, and employers, while allowing each institution the flexibility to adjust offerings based on local industry needs through additional courses.
The initiative is designed to:
- Ensure Workforce-Ready Graduates: Graduates will have consistent, industry-recognized skills that meet the needs of employers across the state.
- Simplify Educational Pathways: Clear and consistent program structures make it easier for students to understand their options and reduce confusion.
- Support Articulation and Transfer: Agreements between institutions help students transfer more easily, saving time and reducing the cost of their education.
- Adapt to Regional Needs: Institutions can offer extra courses that meet the specific needs of local industries.
Faculty Resources
Provided here are essential tools, templates, and references for faculty participating in Utah’s technical education program alignment initiative. These resources support faculty in developing and refining programs and courses, participating in alignment committees, and ensuring compliance with statewide objectives. These materials are curated to help faculty collaborate effectively across institutions in this effort.
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Program Alignment Process
The alignment process ensures that technical education programs across Utah are consistent, workforce-driven, and policy-compliant. It is a multi-step, collaborative approach involving faculty, institutional leaders, industry representatives, and the Utah System of Higher Education. This page outlines the process from program development to final Board approval, providing transparency into how programs are reviewed, approved, and maintained to meet local and statewide priorities.
- The alignment process is collaborative and structured to ensure that programs meet workforce demands while remaining consistent with policy and statute. It begins with faculty committees from participating institutions, who work together, alongside industry advisory committees, to develop or revise programs based on current occupational needs.
- Once a proposal is drafted, Chief Instructional Officers review and vote on program proposals, representing institutional and stakeholder interests. Their review helps ensure the program is viable, regionally responsive, and aligned with educational goals.
- The Commissioner’s Office then evaluates the proposal through the USHE Review Committee. This includes a review by the Chief Economist to confirm alignment with broad occupational areas requiring more than a high school diploma but less than a degree, and a compliance review to verify that the proposal meets all statutory and policy requirements.
- The final step is the Utah Board of Higher Education review, which determines whether to approve, reject, or request additional information regarding the proposed alignment or program changes.
Contact Us
Kim Ziebarth
Associate Commissioner of Technical Education
Will Pierce
Assistant Commissioner of Technical Education
Kim and Will lead technical education for the Utah System of Higher Education. Reach our office at 1-801-646-4784 or through the form below.
2025
2026
- View All Programs
- Agriculture and Veterinary Services
- Architecture and Construction
- Aviation
- Business and Consumer Technologies
- Culinary and Hospitality Services
- Digital Media and Web Design
- Health Professions
- Manufacturing
- Personal Services
- Public Safety and Emergency Services
- Technology
- Transportation
Airframe Maintenance
The Airframe Maintenance program equips students with the necessary skills for a career in aviation maintenance. After completing this certificate, students will meet the Federal Aviation Administration requirements to take the General and Airframe tests required to earn their FAA Airframe license.
Objectives
- Perform aviation engine maintenance in alignment with FAA Standards.
- Prepare for FAA Licensing by fulfilling all prerequisites to sit for the Federal Aviation Administration General and Airframe licensing exams, qualifying for certification and practice in the field.
- Interpret diagnostic material for aviation maintenance and repair.
- Record maintenance logs and certify the airworthiness of aircraft.
Automation Technology
The Automation Technology program supports a wide variety of mechanical and automated systems. This program is designed to help prepare students with the necessary skills to become technicians in several critical industries. Students are introduced to a wide variety of tools, practices, and procedures. The program uses a competency based hands-on approach, with other teaching methods that are employed throughout.
Objectives
- Demonstrate a working knowledge of mechanical systems, maintenance, troubleshooting, repair techniques, and safety practices and procedures.
- Apply system diagnostics and troubleshooting techniques.
- Apply mathematical concepts to real world applications.
- Read, utilize, and design blueprints and schematics.
- Operate, install, maintain, modify, and troubleshoot electrical systems.
- Operate, install, maintain, modify, and troubleshoot fluid power systems.
- Operate, install, maintain, modify, and troubleshoot electrical motor control systems.
- Operate, modify, maintain, program, and troubleshoot programmable logic controllers.
- Implement and properly use a variety of precision measurement tools and procedures.
Automotive Technology
The Automotive Technology program prepares students with diversified employment skills and knowledge as master automotive technicians, including hands-on instruction in brakes; suspension and steering; manual drivetrain and transaxles; electrical/electronic systems; engine performance; preventative maintenance; safety; professionalism; and workplace relations.
Objectives
- Demonstrate safe working habits and practice.
- Demonstrate the service, maintenance, operation, and function of the core systems related to automotive vehicles.
- Build and maintain good working relationships.
Barbering
The Barbering program is designed to prepare students for employment in a salon/barber shop.
Students in this program develop communication, professional behavior, and the core skills of working in a salon business. Students work with salon guests in a well-equipped salon and perform these skills with the newest techniques, products, and equipment in the industry. Students learn to communicate with customers, analyze hair, perform the duties of hair cutting, shaving, and facial hair design.
This program includes 1000 clock time hours of instruction as required by the State of Utah for licensure. Upon completion of the program, students are prepared to take the National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology/Barbering Licensure, and examination required for licensure.
Objectives
- Complete 1000 clock hours.
- Perform barbering services on mannequins and public guests.
- Communicate effectively with salon guests and coworkers.
- Demonstrate communication through electronic, verbal, and written formats.
- Prepare for state board licensure examinations and licensing by the State of Utah.
- Orientation/Introduction consisting of history of barbering, science of barbering and overview of the curriculum.
- Demonstrate personal client and shop safety including aseptic techniques and sanitary procedures.
- Demonstrate proper disinfection and sterilization procedures.
- Perform essential business management functions including developing a clientele, maintaining a professional image, , developing professional associations, fostering positive public relations, and advertising
- Demonstrate an understanding of the legal issues surrounding barbering including malpractice liability, regulatory agencies, and tax laws.
- Describe diseases and disorders of the hair and scalp including bacteriology, sanitation, sterilization, decontamination and infection control.
- Demonstrate appropriate first aid.
- Define and explain the importance of anatomy, physiology, and histology to the barbering
Basic Corrections Officer
The Basic Corrections Officer program builds upon skills and knowledge gained in the Special Function Officer program and provides basic training required for employment in the field of corrections. Areas of study include constitutional and correctional law, offender supervision strategies, critical incident responses, and other correctional-related topics.
Objectives
- Identify and demonstrate key ethical standards in corrections culture.
- Apply concepts of constitutional and correctional law to practical situations.
- Interact professionally with incarcerated offenders.
- Apply basic skills to avoid offender manipulation.
- Demonstrate competency in less-lethal options such as pepper spray.
- Demonstrate competency in critical incident and forced cell response actions.
Biotechnology
The Biotechnology program prepares students to enter into the ever-expanding fields of biotechnology laboratory work. The career possibilities are vast, some of which include genomic mapping and research, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical development, and biological research and development, as well as other fields under this discipline. The program will give students a foundation of knowledge and skills needed to enter into lab technician work or to articulate to another institution to continue their education.
Objectives
- Demonstrate proper use of biotechnology lab equipment.
- Describe and demonstrate various laboratory, manufacturing, and regulatory practices.
- Use accurate measurements and measuring tools.
- Analyze and discuss DNA.
- Demonstrate proper laboratory safety protocols.
Business
The Business program offers foundational training that will prepare students to excel at a career in any business setting. The program fosters a strong work ethic and independent learning, where students can cultivate knowledge, practice technical skills, and develop professional work habits. Students will have the opportunity to earn industry certifications that verify technical skills and enhance credibility.
Objectives
- Demonstrate computer proficiency by using business software to produce complex documents with speed, efficiency, and accuracy.
- Recognize principles of leadership and management by applying them in relevant business contexts.
- Use basic financial and accounting principles to complete general accounting functions.
- Develop written, verbal, and digital communication skills by preparing clear, concise, and correct messages for a business environment.
- Practice professional skills that are vital for career development and success in the workplace.
Carpentry Fundamentals
This program provides students with an introduction to the various disciplines and occupations in the construction industry and prepares them for entry-level positions. Students who complete the certificate and obtain related employment will have the option to continue training as apprentices in their chosen craft and receive state, national, and industry certifications.
Objectives
- Demonstrate proper workplace and job site safety.
- Describes building materials used in construction work.
- Identify and demonstrate hand tools and power tools operations, with care and maintenance.
- Define techniques for reading and using construction drawings and specifications.
- Demonstrate proper carpentry techniques.
- Demonstrate positive workplace behaviors and communication skills to promote a successful construction team.
Civil Construction I
The Civil Construction I program will equip students with the essential knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in the construction industry. The program covers various aspects of civil construction, ensuring a well-rounded education for successful employment.
Objectives
- Describe aspects of civil construction, including standard processes from bid to project hand-off.
- Identify the operation of various heavy equipment used in civil construction projects.
- Demonstrate integration of environmental considerations and sustainable practices.
- Demonstrate safety protocols.
- Demonstrate blueprint reading and measurement skills.
- Explain soil types and gradations.
- Describe essential elements of properly placing asphalt paving.
- Discuss importance of utilities management.
CNC Machinist Technician
The essential role of a Machinist technician is to operate Computer Numerical Control machines to fabricate parts under the supervision of a machinist. The technician loads parts in the machine, cycles machine and safely and accurately to pre-form a variety of functions. Most go on to earn machinist certificates at technical colleges while working as interns, or apprentices in manufacturing to gain practical experience as they move up to a machinist level
Objectives
- Obtain general knowledge in manufacturing setting.
- Operate Computer Numerical Controlled lathe.
- Operate Computer Numerical Controlled vertical mill.
Collision Repair Technology
The Collision Repair Technology program prepares students for careers as body technicians, paint technicians, and/or collision repair estimators. Courses provide instruction in the fundamentals of repairing vehicles from an automotive collision. Curriculum is aligned with the Inter-Industry Conference on Automotive Collision Repair (I-CAR). Upon successful completion of the program, students will be eligible for I-CAR’s Program.
Objectives
- Operate common tools and equipment used in auto body repair, auto body painting, and collision repair estimating in a safe manner.
- Demonstrate competency in structural and non-structural repair techniques including analysis and damage repair fundamentals with a variety of metals, plastics, glass, electrical, and mechanical parts.
- Demonstrate competency in techniques involved in painting and refinishing including surface prep, spray gun equipment operation, paint mixing and matching, paint application, paint defects (causes and cures), and final detail.
- Demonstrate correct welding techniques for each assigned auto body repair procedure.
- Demonstrate proficiency in collision repair estimating, damage analysis, and electronics tools.
- Use effective communication and critical-thinking skills to solve problems and implement solutions.
Commercial Driver’s License - Class A
The Commercial Driver’s License - Class A (CDL) program prepares students with the skills and knowledge they need to join the professional driving industry. This course fulfills Entry Level Driver Training requirements for CDL training in accordance with Part 380 of the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Regulations.
Objectives
- Demonstrate basic truck operating procedures.
- Demonstrate safe operating procedures.
- Learn and practice advanced operating procedures.
- Practice vehicle inspections (pre/post-trip).
- Review non-driving activities.
Commercial Driver’s License - Class B
The Commercial Driver’s License - Class B program prepares students with the skills and knowledge they need to join the professional driving industry. This course fulfills the Federal Entry Level Driver Training requirements found in Pt 380 of the Federal Code of Federal Regulations.
Objectives
- Demonstrate Basic Truck operation procedures and skills.
- Demonstrate safe operating procedures.
- Learn and Practice defensive driving techniques.
- Drive and control a class B truck on local, city, county, and interstate highways and roads.
- Practice vehicle inspections (pre/post-trip, enroute).
- Practice safe backing techniques.
- Review Non-driving activities (HOS, Cargo securement).
Composites
The Composites program introduces students to the ever-expanding utilization of carbon fiber, fiberglass and kevlar. In this program, students will perform and demonstrate industry standards concerning teamwork effectiveness, safety, terminology, composite material lay-ups, quality inspection, and repair in accordance with industry best practices. Upon successful completion of this program, students will be prepared to enter the Composites field as an entry-level Composites technician.
Objectives
- Discuss composite materials, including their composition, structure, and properties.
- Use the manufacturing processes involved in producing composite materials, including lay-up techniques, resin infusion methods, and advanced manufacturing techniques.
- Explain the mechanical behavior of composites, including strength, stiffness, and failure mechanisms.
- Identify industries that use composite materials, including aerospace, Department of Defense (D.O.D)., sports and recreation, automotive, marine, and construction.
- Use enhanced problem-solving and critical thinking skills to solve real-world challenges related to composite materials.
- Cultivate composite shop skills through hands-on lay-ups and demonstrations related to composite material.
- Demonstrate effective communication skills for presenting and discussing composite material concepts, applications, and production processes.
Construction Technology
The Construction Technology program provides a comprehensive opportunity for students to gain knowledge and skills to gain entry into the construction industry. Students are exposed to advanced skills such as building site layout, concrete, framing, interior finishes and exterior finishes. Students also gain knowledge of construction materials, blueprint reading, and estimating. Students who complete the certificate and obtain related employment have the option to continue training as apprentices in their chosen craft and receive state, national, and industry certifications.
Objectives
- Demonstrate proper workplace and job site safety.
- Describe building materials used in construction work including estimating principles.
- Identify and demonstrate hand tools and power tools operations, with care and maintenance.
- Define techniques for reading and using construction drawings and specifications, current building codes, and local zoning ordinances.
- Demonstrate proper carpentry advanced framing layout techniques.
- Demonstrate positive workplace behaviors and communication skills to promote a successful construction team.
- Demonstrate the laying out of a construction site for building.
- Discuss and demonstrate interior and exterior finishes and skills.
- Discuss and demonstrate concrete finishes and skills.
Control Systems and Robotics
The Control Systems and Robotics program prepares qualified students for advanced work as Control System Technicians in an automated manufacturing environment. This certificate provides hands-on training in Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), industrial robots, industrial networking, servo system programming, vision systems, and Human Machine Interface (HMI) programming. Students work with teaching staff of industry professional who emphasize hands-on instruction and provide competency-based training based on industry input for best practices and technological relevance. There is a high demand for employees with these specialized skills.
Objectives
- Build an operational industrial network containing computers and control devices.
- Program a process using a common PLC.
- Design and program an HMI screen to interface with a PLC and control a process.
- Program a servo-driven process with a PLC.
- Identify, locate, communicate with other devices, and inspect two different parts using machine vision.
- Build a project that integrates multiple control topics.
Cosmetology
The Cosmetology program is designed to prepare students for employment in cosmetology/barbering, hair design, and skin and nail care. This program prepares students for employment in a salon and/or to open a new salon business. Students in this program develop communication, professional behavior, and the core skills of working in a salon business. Students work with salon guests in a well-equipped salon and perform these skills with the newest techniques, products, and equipment in the industry. Students learn to communicate with customers; analyze skin, hair and nails; and perform the duties of hair cutting, coloring, styling, chemical texture services, and basic skin and nail care. This program includes 1600 clock time hours of instruction as required by the State of Utah for licensure. Upon completion of the program, students are prepared to take the National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology/Barbering Licensure, and examination required for licensure.
Objectives
- Complete 1600 clock hours.
- Demonstrate principles and cosmetology/barbering skills: shampooing, styling, men and women haircutting, straight razor shaving, hair extensions, chemical texture services, haircoloring, skin care, nail services, and other concepts essential to becoming a successful cosmetologist/barber.
- Demonstrate principles and practices related to nail technology skills, manicuring, pedicuring, gel, and acrylic application, manual and electric filing, polishing, client consultation and other concepts essential to becoming a successful nail technician.
- Demonstrate principles and practices related to esthetics and facial treatments.
- Explain general sciences related to cosmetology/barbering such as anatomy, infection control, hair structure, skin and nail, diseases and disorders, chemistry and electricity.
- Demonstrate salon processes and etiquette with sanitation procedures necessary for the health and safety of clients and workers.
Culinary Arts
The Culinary Arts program prepares students by teaching the fundamental principles and techniques of professional cooking and baking. Students learn through classroom lectures, guest speakers, presentations, and hands-on activities for commercial kitchens. Students learn, develop, and test their skills by using different cooking methods to cook vegetables, starches, proteins, soups, sauces, and many other foods. They also develop and test their skills in baking breads, cakes, cookies, pastries, pies, and more.
Objectives
- Receive state-approved food safety management certification.
- Demonstrate kitchen safety in a professional environment.
- Define key culinary terms, processes, and methods.
- Demonstrate customer service and guest hospitality.
- Demonstrate professionalism through repetition by preparing and plating foods daily.
- Preparing classic dishes using appropriate cooking principles.
Data Technology
The Data Technology program prepares students for roles in technology, finance, healthcare, ecommerce, manufacturing and more. The competency-based curriculum provides training through real-world simulations, personalized mentoring, and practical coursework. Students develop skills in initiating data projects, sourcing information, transforming datasets, analyzing data, and presenting results which form an essential toolkit for the field of data analytics.
Objectives
- Explain data types, data structures, and data sources.
- Diagram the complete data analytics project cycle.
- Identify and articulate data-driven problems and questions.
- Utilize various tools including spreadsheets, SQL, Python, and R for data gathering, data cleaning, and analysis.
- Calculate descriptive statistics, perform exploratory data analysis, and inferential statistics for insights.
- Communicate insights derived from data analysis efficiently and persuasively through visualizations, presentations, and reports.
- Construct SQL queries, querying, filtering, and manipulating data within relational databases.
- Apply machine learning principles for preprocessing, model construction, and evaluation.
- Incorporate industry-standard tools and practices for impactful visualizations and extracting meaningful insights.
- Initiate comprehensive projects applying acquired skills to solve real-world problems, while effectively managing time and objectives.
Dental Assisting
The Dental Assisting Program is designed to prepare for employment of the professional Chairside Assistant. Students focus on the basics of dental assisting, nutrition, dental prevention, dental disease, infection control, instruments and tray setups for dental procedures, dental materials, anatomy, radiology, dental specialties, law and ethics, CPR, and a clinical experience.
Objectives
- Correlate the knowledge of anatomy, physiology, psychology, microbiology to the roles and responsibilities of a dental assistant.
- Identify commonly used equipment, supplies, instrumentation, and medications used in the dental chairside setting.
- Apply the principles of asepsis to the dental office and its environment.
- Perform competently and safely the skills of a dental assistant.
- Use legal, moral, and ethical principles to evaluate the care of a dental patient.
- Demonstrate the professional attributes of a dental assistant.
- Pass the final exam and certifications for the dental field.
