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Concrete Tech Program

Develop the foundation you need for a promising career.

Concrete Technology at ACC

Program Curriculum
Concrete Technology is an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree program that is the only one of its kind in the nation. As a student in this two-year program, you learn through a comprehensive curriculum that includes a great deal of hands-on technology and equipment housed in one of the world’s premier facilities — the World Center for Concrete Technology.

Student being evaluated in concrete testing lab

Started in the late 1960s, ACC's Concrete Technology program is one of the original associate degree curricula offered by The Portland Cement Association. Hundreds of men and women have gone through the program, and it continues to be one of the top programs of its kind.

Job placement of graduates from the program is excellent, with many receiving numerous offers. Graduates find employment both locally and in all parts of the nation. Some of our graduates go on to complete several related transfer programs at other four-year institutions.

What You Will Learn

The Concrete Technology program at ACC gives you a broad-based understanding of the technology of concrete. You also learn troubleshooting techniques to handle problems often encountered by finishers and masons. The program covers all concrete and many related industries, including:

  • Construction Inspection and Procedures
  • Aggregates
  • Cementitious Materials
  • Concrete Masonry
  • Ready Mixed Concrete
  • Admixtures
  • Precast and Prestressed
  • Pipe and many more
Concrete Tech students build on this educational foundation with a summer semester of co-op work in a related industry between the first and second years of study.

Internships & Career Opportunities in Concrete Technology

Concrete Technology students have access to paid internships and direct pathways to full-time employment with industry partners who are actively recruiting our students. One current employer partner offers a competitive summer internship experience, including:

  • $20 per hour pay

  • Housing provided

  • Weekly living stipend

  • $1,500 relocation assistance

  • Hands-on experience in professional concrete operations

Students who complete this internship are typically offered full-time employment upon graduation.

A Career—Not Just a Job

Our employer partners are looking for motivated individuals who are passionate about the field. As one company puts it:

“We hire people who view concrete as a profession, not a job.”

This mindset aligns with our program’s focus on building long-term careers, not just short-term employment.

Why This Matters for Students

  • Gain paid, real-world experience before graduation

  • Build professional connections in the concrete industry

  • Transition smoothly from student to full-time employee

  • Enter a field with strong demand and advancement opportunities

Career Opportunities

With the unique and exclusive credentials you earn through this program, you will find many job opportunities available to you when you graduate. These positions are diverse and include, but are not limited to, specialties such as:

  • Management
  • Quality Control
  • Inspection
  • Sales 
  • Research and Development
  • Technical Service
  • Production/Supervision
  • Engineering Assurance

Salary/Benefits

Your average salary will depend on the size, location, and nature of your employer, as well as your skill and experience level. The overall job outlook for construction and extraction occupations is expected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Starting salaries for recent program graduates are typically very competitive, with most workers receiving a complete benefits package, often including a company vehicle.

If you’re looking for a hands-on career with stability, growth, and industry support, Concrete Technology offers a clear path forward.

Certification

Although certification is not a requirement of this program, the majority of graduates choose to earn state and national credentials through certification exams, which are given annually in Alpena. Participation is encouraged because the certification can have a positive impact on your employment potential.

 Contact the Concrete Tech Program

Tim Onstwedder
Instructor
WCCT 105C
989.358.7460
onstwedt@alpenacc.edu 
Eric Kennedy
Instructor
WCCT 105B
989.358.7364
kennedye@alpenacc.edu