The Best Trade Schools in Catalina, Arizona
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Catalina.
Top Trade Schools in Catalina
The Refrigeration School
The Refrigeration School, Inc.
Located in Phoenix but serving students statewide including Catalina residents, The Refrigeration School specializes exclusively in HVAC/R and related trades with exceptional job placement rates exceeding 85%. The school offers accelerated programs that can be completed in as little as 6-9 months, with comprehensive hands-on training using current industry equipment. Graduates earn multiple EPA and industry certifications. The school maintains strong industry connections with major employers throughout Arizona and provides extensive career placement assistance.
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Pima Community College - Northwest Campus
Pima Community College District
Pima Community College's Northwest Campus serves the Catalina and greater Tucson area with comprehensive trade programs featuring state-of-the-art facilities and industry-standard equipment. The college maintains strong partnerships with local employers and boasts impressive job placement rates. Programs lead to industry certifications and associate degrees, with flexible scheduling options including evening and weekend classes. The welding program is particularly renowned with AWS certification preparation, while the automotive technology program features NATEF accreditation.
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Tucson College
Tucson College, LLC
Tucson College provides specialized beauty and wellness trade education serving the Catalina community with comprehensive cosmetology and barbering programs. The school features modern facilities with industry-standard equipment and maintains strong relationships with local salons and spas. Programs prepare students for Arizona State Board licensing exams with impressive first-time pass rates. The curriculum combines technical skills with business management training, and the school offers flexible scheduling options including financial aid for qualified students.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs for local employment in the Catalina and greater Tucson area?
In the Catalina and Tucson region, programs in HVAC/R Technology, Electrical Systems, and Construction Trades are particularly in-demand due to ongoing residential and commercial development. The Refrigeration School, located nearby, is a national leader in HVAC training, and Pima Community College's Northwest Campus offers strong programs aligned with local contractor needs. Graduates often find work with local HVAC companies, electrical contractors, and home builders serving Southern Arizona.
Which trade schools near Catalina, AZ, offer hands-on welding certification programs?
Pima Community College's Northwest Campus, located a short drive from Catalina, offers a comprehensive Welding Technology program that provides hands-on training and leads to industry-recognized certifications. The program covers various welding processes and prepares students for work in local manufacturing, mining support industries, and construction firms throughout Pima County. This is a key local option for those seeking a skilled trade with immediate application in the regional economy.
Are there any short-term, accelerated trade programs available in the Catalina area for a quick career start?
Yes, The Refrigeration School, located in nearby Phoenix but serving students statewide, offers accelerated programs in HVAC/R and Electrical Applications that can be completed in as little as 6-7 months. While not in Catalina itself, its programs are designed for career changers and are popular with Southern Arizona residents seeking fast entry into high-demand technical fields. Tucson College also offers shorter diploma programs in cosmetology and related personal care trades.
What local financial aid or scholarship opportunities exist for trade school students in Catalina, AZ?
Students in Catalina can apply for federal financial aid (FAFSA) at accredited schools like Pima Community College and Tucson College. Additionally, the Arizona@Work - Pima County One-Stop Career Center provides guidance on workforce development grants and scholarships for in-demand trades. Some local trade unions and contractor associations in the Tucson area also offer apprenticeship sponsorships and tuition assistance for programs like electrical and construction trades.
How do the automotive technology programs near Catalina connect with local dealerships and repair shops for job placement?
Pima Community College's Automotive Technology program at its Northwest Campus has established partnerships with major dealerships and independent repair shops throughout the Tucson metropolitan area, including those serving Catalina and Oro Valley. The program includes hands-on training and often leads to internships or direct job placements, helping graduates secure roles as technicians, service advisors, or parts specialists with employers who actively recruit from the local trade school pipeline.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Catalina
Catalina, Arizona offers a variety of vocational training programs and trade schools for students looking to launch careers in skilled trades. Our comprehensive directory helps you find the best programs based on instructor quality, job placement rates, certifications, and student reviews.
Browse through local trade schools offering programs in welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, automotive, and more. Each school has been evaluated using our rigorous 5-star rating system to help you make the best choice for your career goals.