There are many adult trade schools today, and figuring out the best right for your career and purpose can be challenging. If you are searching for one, you can attend one of the 15 best trade schools near me for adults in 2023, as listed in this article.
Trade schools for adults allow the students to gain professional and industry-specific skills and get into the workforce in high-demand and high-wage occupations.
This article explores the top trade schools for adults to consider.
Table of Contents
- What are Trade Schools for Adults?
- Why Attend Trade Schools for Adults?
- How Much Do Trade Schools for Adults Cost?
- How Long Are Trade Schools for Adults?
- Trade Schools for Adults
- 1. Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College
- 2. The Refrigeration School
- 3. Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)
- 4. Lake Area Technical Institute
- 5. North Central Kansas Technical College
- 6. Conestoga College
- 7. Avalon School of Cosmetology
- 8. James Rumsey Technical Institute
- 9. State Technical College of Missouri
- 10. Southeastern Technical Institute (STI Tech), South Easton
- 11. Triangle Tech Inc.
- 12. Salina Area Technical College
- 13. Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
- 14. Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics
- 15. Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
- FAQs – Trade Schools for Adults
- Conclusion
- References
- We Also Recommend
What are Trade Schools for Adults?
Trade schools for adults are postsecondary educational establishments that help students get ready for the workforce, just like colleges and universities. Technical schools, trade schools, and vocational colleges are other names for trade schools.
Attending trade school may positively impact learners searching for a quick path to stable work. Trade schools concentrate solely on the job-specific skills needed for employment, in contrast to a standard liberal arts college degree.
In addition to highly sought-after, lucrative professions like plumbing, automotive technology, electrical, and welding, students can enroll in trade school programs in various subject areas.
All trade schools provide significantly altered training programs targeted at a particular industry. Numerous vocational schools also offer hybrid and online programs, most funded by grants and scholarships.
Working professionals are always drawn to these choices. Tuition and fees for paid trade schools vary by institution and program. Even though programs at vocational schools provide intensive instruction, several professions also call for an apprenticeship.
See: Highest Paying Trade School Jobs in the World | 2022
Why Attend Trade Schools for Adults?
The world has shifted so that you now need talent to function. For jobs and better income, skills are now essential criterias.
Corporate businesses and organizations are searching for someone with your talents. The skills you possess are more vital to them than the credentials you have.
Vocational (Profession) schools provide the hands-on instruction that those seeking to pursue a skilled trade for a particular vocation need.
This suggests that each class and assignment equips students to meet the minimal requirements for an entry-level position. Students receive instruction from qualified experts in the industry while studying with peers who share their goals in a focused atmosphere.
The timetables for trade school lectures are typically flexible enough to accommodate other life obligations, such as family responsibilities or second employment.
To assist with any queries or worries, career services are available. The finest trade school career option list for kids may include such issues.
How Much Do Trade Schools for Adults Cost?
The expenses associated with paid trade schools and training programs vary depending on the particular programs, locations, and specializations.
Typically, trade school programs are less expensive than four-year college degrees. Nevertheless, the majority of trade schools are compensated trade schools.
However, some provide grants, loans, or scholarship possibilities to assist defray the upfront training costs. The cost of enrolling in a trade school should be weighed against the potential advantages, such as pay after graduation and predicted job growth in the industry.
The decreased cost of education is one of the attractive aspects of going to a vocational school.
Of course, pricing varies depending on the skill you want to learn, but generally, trade school tuition may cost anywhere between $10,000 and $50,000, with the average price being approximately $33,000.
How Long Are Trade Schools for Adults?
Trade schools for adults focus only on providing students with the necessary credentials to land the desired employment.
Unlike four-year academic institutions, trade schools do not require any coursework or credit unrelated to the task because technical institutions focus more on technical education than other colleges.
Typically, the programs are shorter in length. This results in less time lost and a quicker path to earning the first salary.
A leading professional trade program can last anywhere from a few months to a year. However, each one is unique. Someone- to two-year technology training programs are available. Typically, formal education needs less than a year to get entry-level technical abilities.
Depending on whether you desire a certificate, diploma, or associate degree, vocational programs typically last eight weeks to two years.
But for individuals without a high school diploma, studying for and passing the GED exam first may need a bit more time. Nevertheless, many vocational schools offer GED support or even free GED seminars.
Trade Schools for Adults
Here are our top picks for the best trade schools for adults in 2023:
- Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College
- The Refrigeration School
- Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)
- Lake Area Technical Institute
- North Central Kansas Technical College
- Conestoga College
- Avalon School of Cosmetology
- James Rumsey Technical Institute
- State Technical College of Missouri
- Southeastern Technical Institute (STI Tech), South Easton
- Triangle Tech Inc.
- Salina Area Technical College
- Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
- Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics
- Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
1. Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College
Since 1912, Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College has provided Shell Lake, Wisconsin services. This is one of the most affordable educational systems in all of Wisconsin since the school offers over 100 programs at nine locations around the state.
Students at WITC have many concentration options, including financial services, business graphics, and architectural woodworking/carpentry.
These courses allow students to complete practical projects and earn valuable experience, giving them the skills and abilities necessary to join the profession with a competitive advantage.
Overall, Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College graduates have solid credentials and frequently go on to work in their subjects at professional levels.
2. The Refrigeration School
The Refrigeration School is one of the best trade schools for adults. It provides educational opportunities geared toward preparing students for employment in welding, electrical technologies, and other fields. The trade school was established in 1965.
While the Electro-Mechanical Technologies program may be finished in 9 months, the Electrical Technologies program can be completed in 3 months. It is possible to finish the program in as short as six months.
The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges has granted accreditation to The Refrigeration School, Inc.
Enrollment. Candidates must possess a high school diploma or the GED equivalent. Prospective students must be at least 18 years old, and anybody under that age must have a parent, guardian, or guarantor sign the Enrollment Agreement on their behalf.
3. Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)
The second-oldest post-secondary school in Calgary was established in 1916 when the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology had only 11 enrolled students.
Since then, the school has developed into one of the top places in Canada to study a skilled manual craft.
With over 11,000 industry partners helping SAIT build programs that provide students the skills employers want, 91% of graduates land jobs within a year of graduating, and an average post-graduation income of over $52,000, SAIT turns out some of the best-prepared graduates in the nation.
4. Lake Area Technical Institute
Since its establishment in 1965, Lake Area Technical Institute has dedicated itself to advancing education and providing job training for residents of the Watertown, South Dakota, community. It is one of the best trade schools for adults.
In addition to on-campus attendance, the institution offers more than 30 distinct degree programs, many of which may be finished in a hybrid or online manner. Specializations in industries including agriculture, banking, law enforcement, welding, and much more are included in the courses.
Through these programs, students get professional education from qualified teachers while completing practical training and gaining real-world experience. Graduates of LATI frequently seek highly esteemed jobs in their respective industries using the abilities they acquire here.
The people who value education and are ready to launch their lives are ultimately the ones who should attend Lake Area Tech.
5. North Central Kansas Technical College
Since its establishment in 1965, Lake Area Technical Institute has dedicated itself to advancing education and providing job training for residents of the Watertown, South Dakota, community.
In addition to on-campus attendance, the institution offers more than 30 distinct degree programs, many of which may be finished in a hybrid or online manner.
Specializations in industries including agriculture, banking, law enforcement, welding, and much more are included in the courses. Through these programs, students get professional education from qualified teachers while completing practical training and gaining real-world experience.
Graduates of LATI frequently seek highly esteemed jobs in their respective industries using the abilities they acquire here. The people who value education and are prepared to launch their lives are ultimately the ones who should attend Lake Area Tech.
6. Conestoga College
Conestoga College is one of Ontario’s institutions with the most incredible growth rates and a pioneer in polytechnic education. Students can access industry-standard equipment in project-based courses around southern Ontario in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Stratford, Ingersoll, and Brantford.
These courses are reinforced with apprenticeship and co-op opportunities. More than 4,000 students from 64 fields of study are enrolled in co-op programs at Conestoga.
Conestoga takes itself in its “technology-enhanced learning,” which involves connecting pupils to the material through online resources and mobile devices.
This aids students in staying abreast of developments as they enter the rapidly expanding digital workforce.
Conestoga allows students to experience a range of skilled professions in action by providing some of the most significant trade skill variations available, all within the exact boundaries. Construction, motorcycle maintenance, carpentry, woodworking, and welding are a few examples of the industries covered.
Conestoga’s carpentry and cabinetmaking programs are among the best of their kind in Canada and also boast one of the most extensive electrical training facilities in the province.
The Women in Skilled Trades General Carpenter Pre-Apprenticeship program, which offers the skills required to get an apprenticeship and begin using tools used in the field, is also significant.
Also, see: 15 Best Trade Schools in San Antonio in 2022
7. Avalon School of Cosmetology
The Avalon School of Cosmetology offers courses for aspiring estheticians, makeup artists, and cosmetologists. It is also one of the best trade schools for adults.
The Arizona State Board of Cosmetology has granted Avalon School of Cosmetology a license to conduct business and accreditation from the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences.
Full-time students may finish the cosmetology program in 55 weeks, while part-time students can do it in 86 weeks.
The course teaches students about hair, nails, laws and regulations, cleanliness, sterilization, first aid, chemistry, and more. It also covers the fundamentals of cosmetology and state board principles.
Part-time students may finish the esthetician program in 32 weeks, while full-time students can finish it in 25 weeks.
Students who are studying aesthetics gain knowledge in various topics, including cosmetics, skin analysis, anatomy, physiology, cleanliness, sterilization, first aid, and more.
8. James Rumsey Technical Institute
James Rumsey Technical Institute offers career and technical education for West Virginia high school students and adult learners. It is one of the best trade schools for adults.
The Institute also offers online courses, where students may pick between short courses that can be finished in a few weeks or vocational training that can be completed in up to 18 months.
The Commission of the Council on Occupational Education has accredited James Rumsey Technical Institute.
9. State Technical College of Missouri
The State Technical College of Missouri has been committed to advancing student professional education and accomplishment since its foundation in 1968. It is one of the best trade schools for adults.
Here, students will learn the significance of putting in the effort necessary to succeed in their chosen fields as professionals.
The school provides a wide range of courses in 8 major disciplines of study, including business, electronics and IT, health sciences, and utility technologies. Students can learn essential skills through these courses that will enable them to compete in the job market and advance their careers.
Overall, one of the most fantastic venues to establish a solid foundation in your area and launch your future is the State Technical College of Missouri.
10. Southeastern Technical Institute (STI Tech), South Easton
STI Tech has developed into one of Massachusetts’s most respected trade schools since its doors opened in 1968. The institute provides trade services and medical area vocational training programs.
There are full-time, part-time, and evening classes available to students. You can enroll in continuing education courses at STI if you’re a working professional.
This college stands out as one of the top vocational schools in Massachusetts because of its inexpensive tuition rates and six-to-one faculty-student ratio.
11. Triangle Tech Inc.
One of Pennsylvania’s premier schools for higher education and job training is Triangle Tech Inc. As a college facility, it oversees a wide range of initiatives, from additive manufacturing and 3D technology to refrigeration, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technologies.
These programs offer plenty of possibilities for students to gain highly specialized skill sets via practical work with experts in the field and knowledgeable teachers.
These industry-specific courses offer a challenging learning environment that improves student aptitude and curriculum comprehension, increasing students’ prospects of finding well-paying employment as soon as they hit the labor market.
Triangle Tech Inc. is the best place to begin your career and lay the groundwork for your future.
12. Salina Area Technical College
Since its establishment in 1965, Salina Technical Auto College has concentrated on attaining its purpose of assisting people in obtaining success in the commercial and industrial sectors.
The school focuses highly on diversity, excellence, and lifelong learning. It provides courses in more than 13 various tracks and specialties, and students who enroll can receive practical instruction from experts in their disciplines.
Students who possess these abilities seek expert jobs in various fields. These encompass multiple areas, such as machine tool technology, diesel technology, and vehicle accident repair.
Overall, Salina Area Tech is one of Kansas’ top colleges for career training and regional postsecondary education.
13. Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
The Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology has been dedicated to advancing personal education and professional training for citizens of the surrounding Lancaster, Pennsylvania region since its founding in 1905.
With more than 20 distinct programs and specializations available, the school provides students with the practical, project-based education they need to succeed as professionals in their chosen industries.
The program focuses on various specializations, including water and environmental technology, graphic communications and printing technology, and carpentry technology.
Students can compete for jobs and highly esteemed positions on the labor market using the abilities they acquire in these elite courses. In the end, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology is the ideal setting for launching your education and future.
14. Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics
The Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics has been encouraging students to reach new heights in terms of success, academic quality, and technical professional preparation since it was founded in 1929.
Aviation electronics and maintenance are the school’s two focused fields of study. The technique of troubleshooting aviation equipment, including turbine engines, hydraulics, welding, and other components, is taught to students in the maintenance specialty.
In the aviation electronics curriculum, students learn how to use microprocessors, radar equipment, microwave systems, communications systems, navigation equipment, and a lot more.
These two fields of study guarantee that graduates will have strong work ethics and marketable talents. In the end, the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics is the best location for everyone interested in developing a valuable repertory for their future.
See Also: 15 Best Trade Schools in Oklahoma in 2022 | Trade Schools
15. Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College has been dedicated to advancing student accomplishment through practical technical training and trade competence since its establishment in 1967.
You can also seek an apprenticeship via this institution and become proficient in a distinctive, in-demand talent. Some of these apprenticeships are conducted by journeymen electricians, plumbers, and other trade experts working on building projects.
High levels of individual talent are also encouraged by the more popular curriculum selections at the institution. Students can specialize in various fields, including agriculture, culinary arts, graphic and web design, welding, and much more.
Students seek jobs in several leading positions in their professions using the abilities and work ethic they acquire and develop at this school.
FAQs – Trade Schools for Adults
Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College
The Refrigeration School
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)
Lake Area Technical Institute
North Central Kansas Technical College
Conestoga College
Avalon School of Cosmetology
James Rumsey Technical Institute
State Technical College of Missouri
Southeastern Technical Institute (STI Tech), South Easton
Triangle Tech Inc.
Salina Area Technical College
Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
Truck drivers, medical coders, and personal trainers are examples of quick-trade occupations to learn. In recent years, trade school enrolment has increased while college enrollment has decreased. Because of the growing market for trade jobs such as trucking, governments have relaxed licensing restrictions.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, solar energy system installers, respiratory therapists, ultrasound technologists, aviation technicians, and construction managers have the most significant percentage growth rate from 2020 to 2030.
Conclusion
Getting into a skilled trade may be beneficial at any age. However, there is always time to make the change and seek a new opportunity that you appreciate. We hope our list of the best trade schools for adults has helped you find the best school for you.
References
- coursecompare.com – Best Trade Schools
- uti.edu – TRADE SCHOOL FOR ADULTS
