15 Best Trade Schools in Michigan

Most students think that Trade school programs are less valuable, so when the gate of universities closes on them, they tend to give up their academic pursuits.

That is wrong because Trade schools like Trade Schools in Michigan, California, and other parts of the US programs have helped thousands of students acquire exceptional skills that enhanced their careers to fit into high-paying job opportunities.

So, if you are among those folks that think that attending a Trade School is a waste of time and resources, you have to change your mindset right now because you are having the wrong thought.

The state of Michigan is one state that has a rapid increase in skills development because of its impact on the economy.

The state is good in Manufacturing, automobile, electronics, aerospace, and military defense are Michigan’s top industries that demand a highly skilled workforce.

This post gives you insight into what Trade school entails and, most notably, a comprehensive list of the Best Trade Schools in Michigan you can go for.

Meanwhile, you can navigate through the table of contents below to get an overview of all I have wrapped up in this post for you.

What Exactly is Trade School?

To be here, you must have heard about Trade schools either on the internet, in books, or from a friend, and you want to know how you get one in Michigan.

Even at that, you can’t be 100% sure that you know everything; there might still be some fact you don’t know about Trade Schools. That is why I want to explain it to you a little time here.

To start with, Trade schools are academic institutes whose core aim is to train people in different skills that can help them fit into a job specification.

Trade schools also called vocational schools, use a more simplified approach to educate students.

They also use curricula that focuses on developing a specific set of skills and a knowledge base for a career rather than general education.

One interesting fact about Technical schools as they are also called, is that you won’t spend much time there before getting a certificate, and its deals more on practicals.

You will like this….

You can even land yourself into a well-paying job as an electrician, mechanic, mechanic, pharmacy technician, nuclear technician, dental hygienist, with your certificate.

Why Should I consider a Trade School in Michigan?

Considering Michigan as your trade school study destination is not a bad idea at all. Michigan is one of the renowned states in the United states that its quality of education is high both for its citizens and international students.

Though the vocational economy of the state has changed, the high standard of its trade school education system has always been on the increase side.

One interesting thing about Trade schools in Michigan is that, if you become a certificate holder in any field from any Michigan Trade school, you are sure of a job. This is because the school itself provides job opportunities to its students after graduation.

Isn’t that wonderful?

Now apart from the doors of opportunities that will be wide open for you after graduation, there are other numerous reasons you should consider attending a trade school in Michigan.

Although the reasons are countless, I will just list some;

1 Certificates take Lesser Time to Acquire

When compared with getting a degree in a university, Getting a certificate from a Trade school is faster.

In a university, you will spend 4 years which you will spend to get two different certificates from different fields in a Trade school.

This is because the Trade school programs focus on a specific subject and relevant things and allowing students to master the program in a much shorter period.

So, going for a Trade school in Michigan will allow you to enjoy the benefits of a focused education without requiring long-term commitments.

2 It is Less Expensive

Another reason you should look at is that applying for a program in any Michigan Trade schools will cost you lesser when compared with universities.

Research has it that, to get a trade school certificate will cost you about $30,000 which is not anywhere close to $140,000 getting a university degree will cost.

You can see that the margin is too much. Now come to think of it, you will be saving a lot. Another thing is that you will be sure of graduating without incurring loans that might take you the rest of your life to pay back.

Think about it

3 You will acquire skills not just Certificate

At any Michigan vocational school, while you acquire a certificate upon graduation, you will also be leaving with professional skills that can even help you be self-employed.

This is because Tade schools focus more on training and practical classes which is rare in 4-year universities.

Moreso, they prefer to focus on honing the necessary skills to produce experts in their fields of study.

4 Provides Professional services

Trade schools have incredible career centers dedicated to helping students with everything from career planning to employment insurance upon completion of the business program.

The Professional Services team will give you the opportunity to explore a variety of potential careers and choose an educational path that is suitable for you.

They also offer professional programs that help you locate full-time work after graduation. Furthermore, you will have the chance to learn from teachers who have first-hand knowledge of the skills that employers are seeking.

5 more personalized education

Perhaps the greatest individual benefit to enrolling in a commercial school is the ability of teachers to provide individual education to students.

The student-teacher ratio is much lower in commercial schools than would normally be seen in a traditional four-year university.

A more personalized education allows students to ask more questions and gain more practical learning.

This leads to a deeper understanding of the subject and the preparation of graduates for the real world.

Many business school students experience the learning opportunities that most traditional college students will face once they graduate in a full-time career.

6 Building relationships with classmates

Business schools offer hands-on training in both the lab and the classroom. This involves close training with classmates.

Within a short period of time, students will be able to develop meaningful and lasting relationships and networks with professionals in a similar field of work.

Business schools are the ideal balance for continuing education without a long-term commitment.

It may not be suitable for everyone, but through careful and thoughtful analysis of the benefits of vocational education, you may just find that a business school is right for you.

Check out: 15 Best Film schools in Texas | Rankings 2023

Vocational School Programs in Michigan

Skilled trade schools in Michigan have numerous programs at different levels to help grow the accessibility to career education.

These schools also provide financial aids in form scholarships and grants to help students who are interested in acquiring a skill do that without worry about tuition fees.

Check out this list

• Welding Technology
• HVAC Technology
• Dental Assistant
• Pharmacy
• Phlebotomy Technician
• Physical Therapy
• Surgical Technology
• CDL Truck Driver
• Criminal Justice
• Medical Coding
• Diesel Technology
• Medical Assistant

What You can do with a Degree From a Trade School in Michigan?

With a certificate degree from Vocational schools in Michigan, there is a lot you can do.

SEE ALSO: FAER Summer Fellowship Program 2023

Once you complete a trade school program, you can get a job directly related to the field you studied. 

For instance, if you take a Cosmetology program, after completion, you can work as a Cosmetologist for any big IT Firm.

Check out some of the positions you can occupy with a degree from any Michigan trade school:

• Construction Worker
• Culinary ( Chef )
• HVAC Technician
• X-Ray Technician
• Diesel Mechanic
• Phlebotomy Certification
• Auto Mechanic
• Electrician
• Welder
• Chef

Tips on how to choose the a Vocational School in Michigan

Choosing a vocational school in Michigan can be very very stressful and time-consuming. This is because there are numerous schools in the state. And I bet you, if you are not careful, you might end up making the wrong choice.

Yes, I know that I told you earlier that studying in any of Trade schools in Michigan will offer you wide job opportunities, that is true. But if you study in the wrong school, you are as good as someone that didn’t enter at all.

Relax am not trying to scare you, I am here it make it easy for you.

The next few subheadings you will be reading now, contain some tips or you can call it hints you must implore when making your choice of school.

Make sure you consider the following;

1 Chances of Getting Job

This is very important. Don’t choose a school because your friends are there.

I have a friend who after high school decided to take a program in one trade school because his friends are there.

After graduation, his friends went further to get a bachelor’s degree while he went out to look for a job to help him sponsor his family.

Getting a job was very difficult because the school is a certificate is bearing has a low reputation, lots of the school graduates find it difficult to get a good job.

So, when choosing a school look at the rate of job placement rates and a high graduation rate. This is a strong indicator that the students enjoy the classes and are eager to get right to work upon completion of their programs

2 A good Learning Facility

This is also an important tip. Since Trade schools specialize in the technical and practical aspects of teaching, if the school lacks good facilities and a learning environment, it might not give you all the necessary training you need.

In order to succeed, you need to consider the condition and professionalism of the school facilities. Be sure that the school you want to attend has up-to-date facilities that will provide you with the latest technology in your field of study.

3 The availability and choice of student services

When a school has strong and ample student services, it indicates that the school feels a commitment and has an investment in the students’ futures.

This means that you will be able to count on getting the help you need to succeed.

4 The Tuition fees must be Affordable

Of course, you will need to find a business school that has tuition and fees that you can afford.

Be sure to carefully examine all documents to ensure that there are no hidden costs that may threaten your ability to complete your program.

If you find hidden costs in fine print, this could be a reason to reconsider your choice of schools. Ethical schools do not charge a hidden fee.

Are Trade Schools in Michigan Expensive?

Well, the cost of attending a trade school in Michigan is not really that expensive when compared to attending a university.

The fact there is, tuition fees vary. It depends largely on the school and the program you are applying for.

This is why it’s expedient that before you fill that application, find out first what it will cost you to run that program in that school of your choice.

And also find out the financial aid available in the school because, most times, some schools offer financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans to help students.

How many Trade Schools are in Michigan?

A lot.

Generally, the state has tertiary institutes like universities, colleges, and trade schools that offer different degree programs in any course or program of your choice.

For Trade schools, there are over 75 Michigan Trade Schools. So, if you are looking for a trade school to study in Michigan, you have a whole lot of them to choose from.

Note, these schools offer quality education and training that will help to equip you with your desired skills.

Some of the training is in areas like Welding Technology, HVAC Technology, Carpentry, Pharmacy Construction, Phlebotomy Technician, Surgical Technology, and so on.

Among all these schools there are some that are the best but in the programs they offer, and reputation.

I had made a list of the top 15 best Trade schools in Michigan and I will advice you to make your choice from there.

But before we explore the schools, let’s look at some of the Vocational schools that are good in some specific programs in Michigan.

Automobile Trade schools in Michigan

With the state’s largest city known as “Motor City,” it’s no surprise that career opportunities in auto mechanics prevail in Michigan.

Michigan has a long history as the birthplace of automobiles in the country, and is home to the top three US automaker headquarters.

USA, Chrysler, Ford Motor Company and General Motors, popularly known as the “Big Three”.

Whether students live in Detroit, Grand Rapids, or anywhere in Michigan, a career as an auto mechanic or auto repair is a possibility in Michigan.

Here are some Automobile Trade schools in Michigan you can enroll in this 2023;

• Oakland Community College
• Wayne County Community College District
• Washtenaw Community College
• Mid Michigan Community College
• Bay College

Note, these schools provide Scholarships, Grants, Loans, Student Employment, Tuition Benefits, and Discounts for its students.

Best Construction Trades Schools in Michigan

Below is a list of Construction Trades Schools in Michigan;

• Washtenaw Community College
• Henry Ford College
• Bay Mills Community College
• Platt College (Oklahoma)
• New England Tractor Trailer Training School
• Berkeley College

Michigan HVAC Trade Schools

With the demand for HVAC systems being fairly steady, well-qualified techs and engineers to plan, install, maintain and retrofit the systems are also needed.

If you’re considering a career in HVAC and want to work in Michigan, check out this list of HVAC Trade Schools in Michigan and start your career today.

• New York City College of Technology
• Northwestern Technological Institute
• Dorsey Schools
• Grand Rapids Community College
• Kellogg Community College
• Kirtland Community College
• RewardJet
• Delta College
• Borough of Manhattan Community College
• Oakland Community College
• Hudson County Community College
• Siena Heights University
• Mid Michigan Community College

Welding Trade Schools in Michigan

To be a successful welder, you will need qualities like stamina and endurance.

It is a very practical task and can include lifting heavy objects and staying in one place for long periods.

Spatial relationships and technical skills are very important as you will use graphics and equipment for greater precision. You can get these skills from any of the following Trade schools;

• Bay College Welding Program
• Delta College Welding Engineering Technology
• Ferris State University College of Engineering Technology Welding Program
• Henry Ford Community College
• Kalamazoo Valley Community College
• Kellogg Community College
• Lansing Community College
• Merrill Institute of Welding
• Monroe County Community College 

SEE ALSO: 13 Best Civil Engineering Schools in the World | 2023

Carpentry Trade Schools in Michigan

Below are some of the Carpentry Trade Schools in Michigan;

• University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
• Delta College
• Lansing Community College
• Grossmont College
• Macomb Community College
• Oakland Community College
• Bay de Noc Community College
• Michigan Career and Technical Institute
• Northwestern Michigan College
• Kirtland Community College

And Finally….

15 Best Trade Schools in Michigan

Note, these schools where ranked based on the following factors

• Number of Programs
• Student:teacher Ratio
• Graduation Rate

Here is the list of the 15 best Trade Schools in Michigan.

• Oakland Community College
• Macomb Community College
• Lansing Community College
• Delta College
• Mott Community College
• Wayne County Community College
• Kalamazoo Valley Community College
• Henry Ford Community College
• Kirtland Community College
• Washtenaw Community College
• Schoolcraft College
• Grand Rapids Community College
• Montcalm Community College
• Muskegon Community College
• West Shore Community College

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#1. Oakland Community College

No. of Programs: 44

Graduation Rate: 16%

Student:teacher Ratio: 25:1

Oakland Community College is one of the best Trade Schools in Michigan that offers varieties of programs in different fields.

This community college is a public community college founded in 1964 and located in Oakland County, Michigan.

With a degree and certification programs from this college Trade school, you are sure of starting your first career or next career project.

In addition, the school offers 57 different Associate degrees and 41 different certificate programs in popular fields such as advanced Manufacturing, healthcare, and information technology.

Note, Oakland Community College was accredited by the Higher Learning Commission with five campuses.

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#2. Macomb Community College

No. of Programs: 67

Graduation Rate: 17%

Student:teacher Ratio: 28:1

Macomb Community College was founded in 1954 and is considered one of the most outstanding trade schools in Michigan.

In 2018, the number of enrolled students exceeded 42,000, indicating that more than half of these students were pursuing degrees, accreditation programs, and credit programs.

At this college, you can earn an Associate of Applied Science in Ultrasound Medical Diagnostics and is known as one of the growing and profitable healthcare sectors for professionals with a college degree or less.

Note, The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and there are several IT programs available, including an Associate in Applied Science or a Certificate in Game Programming.

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#3. Lansing Community College

Location: Gannon Building 411 N. Grand Ave Lansing, MI 48933

No. of Programs:33

Graduation Rate: 8%

Student:teacher Ratio: 13:1

Lansing Community College is a public college in Lansing and among the top study destination for most students who want to study in Michigan.

This is because this community college provides top-notch quality education that ensures that students achieve their academic goals and objectives.

Also, students are offered the opportunity to acquire life skills necessary for them to enrich and support themselves, their families, and their community as engaged global citizens.

When you make this school your choice, you will have numerous options to choose from any of the 230 associate degree and certificate programs offered by this school.

Note, this Michigan college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

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#4. Delta College

Location: 1961 Delta Road University Center, MI 48710

No. of Programs: 38

Graduation Rate: 16%

Student:teacher Ratio: 17:1

Next in our list of top Michigan Trade schools is Delta College. This college is recognized nationally as one of America’s leading community colleges.

At this college, you are sure to acquire excellent skills and innovative abilities that can help you in any career of your choice.

Moreso, educating, enriching, and empowering programs are available. these programs will help you achieve your personal, professional, and academic goals

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#5. Mott Community College

No. of Programs: 32

Graduation Rate: 9%

Student:teacher Ratio:19:1

Another trade school you should try considering when looking for a nice school in Michigan that can help equip you with technical skills is Mott Community College.

 This community college offers 61 associate degrees and 40 pre-associate certificates programs in 32 different fields.

Moreso, the college provides high quality, accessible, and affordable educational opportunities and services.

I bet you, these opportunities can help you improve the quality skills you need to succeed or build any career of your choice.

Note, the popular programs you can take in the college include Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Health Professions and Related Programs, and Biological and Biomedical Sciences.

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See also: 10 Best Speech Pathology Graduate Programs Online In 2023

#6. Wayne County Community College District

Location: 801 W Fort St, Detroit, MI 48226, United States

No. of Programs: 27

Graduation Rate: 13%

Student:teacher Ratio: 24:1

Wayne County Community College District consists of five campus locations and university facilities throughout the state.

Through headquarters in urban, rural, and industrial areas, students can access careers, organizations, and companies where they gain experience related to their field of study.

WCCCD focuses on vocational and professional programs, but college transfer opportunities are also available. Students use the Learning Resource Centers on each campus or through online access.

Students who work and need more flexibility and convenience can choose to attend “Weekend College,” which offers classes on Friday nights, as well as Saturday morning and afternoon.

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#7. Kalamazoo Valley Community College

Location: 6767 West O Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49003-4070

No. of Programs: 26

Graduation Rate: 11%

Student:teacher Ratio: 22:1

Kalamazoo Valley Community College has one of the top trade schools in Michigan, it is a public community college established in 1966 by the overwhelming approval of voters in nine local school districts.

Basically, this college has a process that involves planning tools and advising activities designed to provide every you with clear, flexible program options.

Moreso, this Michigan college has a trade school that provides a great mix of educational skills and experiences that will prepare you for advanced coursework at top universities and meaningful opportunities for employment in a changing world.

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#8. Henry Ford Community College

Location: 5101 Evergreen Rd, Dearborn

No. of Programs: 26

Graduation Rate: 6%

Student:teacher Ratio: 37:1

Henry Ford Community College aims at teaching and enriching students which technical skills that will help them succeed in life.

This Michigan school also prepares students for a rapidly changing world and workplace, it’s committed to providing knowledge, communication skills, and cultural opportunities.

Moreso, at this college training programs are organized for people working in skilled industrial occupations and people interested in entering skilled trades.

These programs were created in cooperation with the industry and provide the theoretical and practical knowledge and skills necessary to complete on-the-job training.

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#9. Kirtland Community College

Location: 4800 W 4 Mile Road Grayling, MI 49738

No. of Programs: 25

Graduation Rate: 16%

Student:teacher Ratio: 18:1

Kirtland Community College is among the top Carpentry Trade Schools in Michigan and the only community colleges within Crawford County, MI.

This community college offers 38 degrees and certificate programs, which includes six transfer associate degree programs.

These programs are designed to guarantee your success if you make this college you study destination today.

SEE ALSO: Full-Time Santander Master Scholarships at Durham University in UK, 2023

Believe me, no matter the program or degree you want to acquire to build a career, Kirtland will give you the blueprint for your future career.

Note, Kirtland is accredited by the Michigan Commission on College Accreditation and the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

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#10. Washtenaw Community College

No. of Programs: 21

Graduation Rate: 16%

Student:teacher Ratio: 19:1

At Washtenaw Community College, opportunities are offered to students to study in an Associate / Professional in Applied Science program at the top of its Arts and Associate in Science programs.

These degree programs offer a more business-focused and focused curriculum to quickly prepare students for the industry jobs they want to establish.

Moreso, it provides the advantage of allowing students to participate in a variety of applied educational opportunities and Employment services.

The college offers approximately 137 credit and online programs in business, health, advanced Manufacturing, and skilled trades, public service, humanities, social science, math, natural sciences, art, and technology.

Note, Washtenaw Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

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#11. Schoolcraft College

Location: 18600 Haggerty Rd, Livonia, MI 48152, United States

No. of Programs: 21

Graduation Rate: 17%

Student:teacher Ratio: 25:1

Schoolcraft College is a public community college in Livonia, Michigan. Basically, this college creates a well-rounded educational experience that encourages students to make connections on campus and in the community.

It also college offers classes, certificate programs, and associate degrees in more than 70 different majors.

Some programs are designed to lead directly to employment, and others are a natural fit for those students who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university. 

Note, this Michigan trade school was accredited by Higher Learning Commission (The HLC).

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#12. Grand Rapids Community College

Location: 143 Bostwick Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, United States

No. of Programs: 21

Graduation Rate: 13%

Student:teacher Ratio: 20:1

Grand Rapids Community College was the first community college and among the best Trade schools in Michigan.

Basically, this community college offers opportunities for over 32,000 students annually in Associate degree courses, certification and training programs, workshops, and personal enrichment classes.

So, if you want to start your academic career and you don’t know where to start from, going for any of the degree programs in this Michigan trade school will be a good start.

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#13. Montcalm Community College

No. of Programs: 18

Graduation Rate: 10%

Student:teacher Ratio: 16:1

MCC is committed to building pathways to success for all of our students and citizens in the communities we serve.

This College is known as a leader in creating a learning community, contributing to shared economic, cultural and social prosperity for all our citizens.

Basically, Montcalm Community College offers 54 degrees, certificates, and job training programs that will help prepare you for a variety of careers, for transfer to a four-year institution, for advancement in the workforce, or that may be taken just for fun. 

Moreso, MCC provides educational opportunities and a variety of services to help students as you prepare for college.

Furthermore, several applied science degrees and an Associate of Science and Arts, as well as associate degrees are provided at this college.

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#14. Muskegon Community College

Location: 221 Quarterline Rd, Muskegon, MI 49442, United States

No. of Programs: 21

Graduation Rate: 16%

Student:teacher Ratio: 19:1

Muskegon Community College (MCC) is a public community college in Muskegon, Michigan.

This Community College offers more than 80 degree and certificate options that provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for today’s in-demand and emerging career fields.

They have faculty that are dedicated to providing MCC students with the knowledge and critical thinking skills they will need beyond the classroom.

Note, this college was accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of North Central Association in 1929.

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#15. West Shore Community College

No. of Programs: 17

Graduation Rate: 12%

Student:teacher Ratio: 13:1

Located on 360 acres near the shoreline of Lake Michigan, West Shore Community College was established in 1967 and enriches its community in several ways.

There are many recreational facilities on campus, including an ice rink that offers opportunities for snowboarding, hockey, and open skating for area residents.

It also has an average out-of-pocket cost of less than $ 3,800, the lowest net price of any school on our list.

Basically, Western Michigan school offers 50 certification degrees and programs that include certification in corrections, health care, and office information systems.

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Having explored these Best MichiganTrade Schools, I think a clue on how you can start a trade school of your choice will really be of great help.

How Can I Start a Trade School Program in Michigan?

Nice Question!

It is one thing to make a choice, enroll and its another thing that starts properly on afoot that will guarantee your success.

Many students make the mistake of enrolling in their desire Trade school without preparing themselves very well.

This most time results in them passing through the school without allowing the school to pass through them too.

Although Trade school is just two years of school, it can be difficult because it requires more time than most people think. but it will be a bit easy if you make adequate preparation.

One important thing you must note here is that the steps required to start a vocational school differ but the requirements are always the same.

Now, if you really want to earn a degree program in any Michigan Trade school successfully, just adhere to the points listed below:

• Attend all of your classes.
• Ask lots of pertinent questions.
• Do all of your work and hand it in on time.
• Study for your tests and pass them.

I assure you, your success is guaranteed with these steps.

What are the Requirements for Starting a Trade School?

In starting a trade school, you don’t necessarily need any experience. In a few minutes, you will be seeing just some of the requirements that you must have when starting a Trade school.

Check this out!

• A detailed curriculum.
• A realistic business plan.
• A course catalog.
• Industry partners and advisors.
• Start-up capital (your own, a small business loan, or investors).
• Initial approval to operate by the applicable regulatory body in your state. (Federal accreditation comes much later.)
• Dedication and a willingness to work very, very long days.
• Additional Resources: Admissions CRM and Student Information System Software

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FAQs

Sources

• https://www.miat.edu/02/5-benefits-of-attending-trade-school/
• https://www.thesimpledollar.com/investing/college/why-you-should-consider-trade-school-instead-of-college/
• https://www.onlineschoolscenter.com/best-trade-schools-michigan/
• https://www.rwm.org/states/michigan-trade-schools/
• https://www.onlineschoolscenter.com/best-trade-schools-michigan/#auto-repair-michigan
• http://www.findtradeschools.com/Trade-Schools/Michigan

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