Vocational Training

Welding Trade (NCCER Accredited)

The Welding Trade Program at Broken Shackle Ranch sparks opportunity for students who want to master a skill that’s always in demand. Through nationally recognized NCCER training, students learn the art and science of welding from the ground up — gaining the skills, safety knowledge, and certifications that open doors to a wide range of career paths.

Every participant begins with the NCCER Core Curriculum, building a strong foundation in safety, construction math, and tool use. From there, they advance into NCCER Level 1 Welding, where they develop hands-on skills in SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding), cutting processes, joint preparation, and basic fabrication.

In our on-campus welding shop, students learn in a real-world environment — cutting, fitting, and welding metal while mastering blueprint reading, measurement, and equipment setup. Each project builds precision, patience, and pride in workmanship.

More than technical skill, our program teaches discipline, attention to detail, and accountability, qualities that employers in the welding and manufacturing industries value most.

Graduates leave with NCCER credentials recognized across the nation, preparing them for immediate employment, apprenticeships, or advanced welding certifications. Whether fabricating a structure, repairing equipment, or building something entirely new, our students learn to make every weld count — and every opportunity matter.

Construction Trade (NCCER Accredited)

The Construction Trade Program at Broken Shackle Ranch equips students with the skills, certifications, and confidence to build a successful career in the residential construction industry.

Each participant begins with the NCCER Core Curriculum, where they learn the essentials of safety, communication, hand and power tools, construction math, and blueprint reading. Once the Core is complete, students advance into NCCER Level 1 Construction, where classroom instruction meets hands-on experience.

On our campus, students learn by doing. They gain practical experience in nearly every aspect of residential construction — including framing, roofing, concrete work, and structural repair. Under the supervision of skilled instructors, they build real-world projects that strengthen both technical ability and teamwork.

Beyond the tools and materials, this program emphasizes discipline, leadership, and pride in craftsmanship. Students learn to follow industry standards, work safely, and complete each job with excellence.

Upon completion, participants earn nationally recognized NCCER credentials that can lead directly to apprenticeships, entry-level construction positions, or advanced vocational training. Graduates leave with the skills to build not only homes — but solid futures.

Heavy Equipment Operator (NCCER Accredited)

The Heavy Equipment Operator Program at Broken Shackle Ranch gives students the power to move the earth — literally. Through a combination of classroom instruction and extensive hands-on training, students learn how to safely and efficiently operate the large machines that keep construction, infrastructure, and disaster recovery projects moving forward.

Every student begins with the NCCER Core Curriculum, mastering safety, communication, blueprint reading, and basic construction principles. From there, they advance into NCCER Level 1 Heavy Equipment Operations, where they gain experience on real machines and simulated training systems.

Students learn the fundamentals of operating equipment such as excavators, loaders, bulldozers, backhoes, and skid steers, while understanding how to inspect, maintain, and work safely around them. On-site training projects allow students to grade land, dig trenches, move materials, and assist in ranch improvement projects — giving them real-world experience in a controlled environment.

Our instructors emphasize safety, precision, and professionalism — preparing each student not only to run equipment, but to take pride in their work and leadership in the field.

Graduates earn nationally recognized NCCER credentials that can lead directly to employment in construction, utilities, forestry, or disaster response operations. They leave BSR ready to join the workforce with confidence, skill, and a sense of purpose.

Automotive Tire & Maintenance (Accredited by the American Tire Industry Association and the Automotive Oil Change Association)

The Automotive Tire & Maintenance Program at Broken Shackle Ranch gives students the skills, certifications, and confidence to start a career in one of the most in-demand areas of the automotive industry. Accredited by both the American Tire Industry Association (TIA) and the Automotive Oil Change Association (AOCA), this program delivers real-world training recognized by professionals across the country.

Students begin with the fundamentals of automotive tire service, learning how to mount, balance, and repair tires, perform safety inspections, and properly handle TPMS sensors and wheel systems. Training focuses on precision, safety, and efficiency, preparing each student to perform high-quality service in any professional shop.

Building on that foundation, the program expands into automotive maintenance, where students gain hands-on experience with oil changes, fluid services, filter replacements, and basic vehicle checks. Through AOCA-accredited instruction, they learn the proper procedures, safety protocols, and customer service standards that define a trusted technician.

In our fully equipped auto shop, students train with the same tools and systems used in the industry while developing teamwork, attention to detail, and pride in workmanship. By graduation, they have earned nationally recognized certifications and the confidence to step directly into employment in tire centers, oil change facilities, and full-service automotive shops.