The Industrial Management & Training Institute

What Is It Known For?

Industrial Management and Training Institute is a coeducational technical school serving several cities in Connecticut, including Bridgeport, Waterbury, Danbury, Bristol, and New Haven. Originally founded as Electrical Educators in 1985, the school adopted its current name in 1998.

While small in size, with only 20 students enrolled in 2022, it operates independently, focused on providing specialized training. The institute is not part of a larger network of community colleges but stands alone as a private, for-profit institution committed to technical education.

Degrees & Certifications

IMTI offers career-focused programs that align with student interests and job market demands. The school specializes in full technician programs for three high-demand trades:

  • Electrician Technician Program
  • HVAC Technician Program
  • Plumbing Technician Program

Beyond these main programs, IMTI provides additional learning opportunities. Students can benefit from license preparation courses, solar energy training, EPA certifications, and CUE classes.

Class Schedules

Industrial Management and Training Institute offers day classes running from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm, Monday through Thursday, allowing students to complete their programs in 10 months. For those with other commitments during the day, evening classes are available from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Monday through Wednesday, with a program duration of 20 months.

Additionally, the school provides hybrid and online course options. While the programs do not include externships, the institute offers apprenticeship programs, allowing students to gain practical experience in their respective fields.

Is It Legit?

Yes. IMTI is a legitimate institution. The school is approved by the State of Connecticut Office of Higher Education. The Institution has also earned accreditation from two respected organizations:

Acceptance Rate

The Industrial Management Training Institute has a 100% acceptance rate. This means the institute accepts all applicants who apply to their programs.

How Much Does Tuition Cost?

The U.S. Department of Education reports that the Average Annual Cost for the largest program at IMTI is approximately $35,941. However, this figure can change based on several factors. The specific course you select, the learning format (such as hybrid online or in-person classes), and extra expenses all play a role in determining your final cost.

For a more accurate estimate of your expenses, try using the school’s net price calculator.

Programs & Courses

Skilled Trades

  • Electrician
  • HVAC
  • Plumbing

Campus Locations

Waterbury 233 Mill Street Waterbury, CT 06706

Reviews

Based on local Google reviews and public data, the Industrial Management & Training Institute (IMTI) in Waterbury, CT, is highly valued for professional licensing support but is currently receiving significant criticism regarding the practical component of its full-time programs.

Overall Score: 4.4/5 Stars

Common Praises

Exceptional Licensing and Continuing Education (CE) Programs: This is IMTI’s most consistent strength. Licensed professionals frequently credit the school with helping them pass their state licensing exams (e.g., P1, S3, E-1, E-2) and return consistently for required annual CEUs, often calling the quality “superior.”

Knowledgeable and Experienced Instructors: Faculty are routinely described as “knowledgeable professionals” and “very experienced” tradesmen. Instructors are praised for effectively teaching students how to navigate the code book and solve complex trade-related math problems.

Strong Outcome Metrics (Public Data): The school reports strong academic outcomes, including a high student retention rate (85%), an on-time graduation rate (76-79%), and a reported 96% employment rate one year after graduation for program completers.

Common Criticisms

Severe Lack of Hands-On Training: The most frequent and consistent negative feedback is the nearly total absence of practical, hands-on lab time in the full-time technical programs (Electrician, Plumbing, HVAC), despite this being a primary selling point during recruitment tours. Students report spending program durations reading books and questioning the value of the tuition.

Poor Facility and Maintenance: Recent reviewers describe the school as “run down” and “dirty.” This criticism is linked to the lack of hands-on experience, as students report having minimal access to the tool/lab shops.

Focus on Testing Over Practical Skills: Students express concern that the curriculum prioritizes passing standardized tests (like NCCER) over providing the necessary practical skills and knowledge required to succeed on a job site.

Momentum

The most critical factor is the negative momentum concentrated on the main technician programs. The most recent reviews (within the last year) are overwhelmingly focused on the severe lack of hands-on experience and poor facility conditions. The administration is aware of the issue, as the owner consistently responds to negative reviews, acknowledging the concerns and requesting direct communication to “work toward a better learning experience.”