How can a student build credit so no co-signer is needed?

He needs to speak with the transfer advisor at his CC. There may be a formal articulation agreement between that CC and an in-state U that offers his major. If so, finishing the particular AA or AS program with ther required GPA will guarantee him a spot. As an engineering major, he should take advantage of any coop program at his eventual U. That will give him a chance to make some money along the way.