If you’re ready for a career change—or just starting out—it doesn’t have to take years of school to land a job with real earning potential. At Northeast Technical Institute (NTI), you can train for high-demand, high-impact careers in less than 12 months.
Here are five in-demand careers you can train for in under a year, all offered through NTI’s hands-on programs right here in Maine.
1. Commercial Truck Driver (CDL-A)
Training Time: As little as 5 weeks
Location: Bangor & Scarborough campuses
The U.S. is experiencing a nationwide shortage of truck drivers, and companies are hiring—fast. With a CDL-A license, you can qualify for long-haul or local driving jobs that pay well and offer schedule flexibility.
Why it’s a smart move: Many students are hired by local or national trucking companies right after completing their training. Some are even pre-hired while still in class.
2. Medical Assistant
Training Time: About 9 months
Location: Bangor & Scarborough campuses
Medical assistants are the glue that holds healthcare offices together. You’ll learn clinical skills like taking vital signs, drawing blood, and assisting with exams, along with administrative tasks like scheduling and patient records.
Why it’s in demand: With healthcare employment projected to grow rapidly, medical assistants are needed in nearly every doctor’s office and clinic.
3. HVAC/R Technician (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration)
Training Time: Under 1 year
Location: Scarborough campus
HVAC/R techs install and repair the systems that keep buildings comfortable and energy-efficient. From furnaces and air conditioners to commercial refrigeration units, you’ll get hands-on training with real equipment.
Why it’s a hot career: The skilled trades gap means more jobs than workers—and HVAC/R is essential in homes, hospitals, schools, and beyond.
4. IT Support Specialist
Training Time: 6–9 months
Location: Online & Scarborough campus
Everything runs on tech—and IT professionals are the ones who keep it all working. In NTI’s IT Support Specialist program, you’ll gain real-world skills in troubleshooting, cybersecurity, networks, and customer support.
Career perks: Remote work potential, high job demand, and opportunities to grow into roles like network administrator or cybersecurity analyst.
5. Phlebotomy Technician
Training Time: Under 3 months
Location: Bangor & Scarborough campuses
Phlebotomists play a key role in healthcare by drawing blood for testing, transfusions, or donations. It’s a fast-paced, patient-facing role with quick entry into the workforce.
Why it’s great for career starters: It’s one of the quickest healthcare certifications available and often leads to further medical training or career growth. Learn more about the demand of Phlebotomy Technicians.
Your Future Can Start Sooner Than You Think
You don’t need four years to start a career you love. At NTI, our programs are designed to get you the skills you need—fast—and connect you with local employers who are hiring now.
Ready to make a move?
Visit www.ntinow.edu to learn more or schedule a tour of one of our campuses in Scarborough or Bangor.
