The CERTIFIED PRODUCTION TECHNICIAN class (CPT), is an 11-15 week course that ACC offers every month. It's a national certification program developed by the Manufacturing Standards Skills Council (MSSC) and consists of 2 courses:

• Production and Safety
• Quality and Maintenance

Upon successful completion and passing of the exams, you'll receive a nationally recognized certification that demonstrates to employers that you have the knowledge and skills needed for a manufacturing production job. This class is designed to get you an entry-level position in manufacturing and 6 college credits that you can apply towards a degree.

The total cost is $1,100, but if self-paid, ACC will cover the testing fees until November 2023 so your cost would be $860.

Students sponsored by a 3rd party will still pay the original $1,100.

You can self-pay for the class online or you can apply for a scholarship to get your tuition and books covered. We often have several Scholarships available for students. Please contact the Program Coordinator for current availability.

We have had numerous students complete the CPT program and get an entry-level position at TESLA - however it is not guaranteed. TESLA is still building their factories, and as such, hiring comes in phases.

Please note that we have many great manufacturing companies that look to us for hiring of our students. These include several manufacturing companies in the Austin area like Samsung, Applied Materials and NXP.

Upon completion of the CPT program, you could possibly have several job offers. ACC's Career Services works closely with you to get your resume ready for a career in Manufacturing. Most students get hired with Tesla, Samsung, or Applied Materials, but ACC works with another 35 manufacturing companies in the Austin area.

ACC and WorkForce have "Hiring Showcases" where we unite employees and employers in one room. Our past students who have attended these events have walked away with a job offer or interview meeting.

We offer hybrid classes which include several live lectures given online via Zoom, and hands-on sessions taken in person at our Highland Campus.

The CPT program allows you to get an entry level manufacturing position. The type of job varies from company to company but it can include supporting equipment maintenance, monitoring production processes, collecting data and writing procedures.

Upskill classes are only 2-3 weeks long and you are given a microcredential. The Upskill classes count towards a level 1 certificate and provide the necessary training needed to move up in the workplace. Completing a group of Upskill Now courses can articulate to credit.

Academic credit courses are semester long and count towards a degree.

You have to apply to the Tesla start program. Tesla selects the candidates for that program. Having the CPT credential definitely helps to get you into the program but it's not guaranteed.

Please see the full Certified Production Technician FAQ for additional information and requirements regarding the TESLA START program.

Please see the full Certified Production Technician FAQ.