The Best Trade Schools in Saint Francis, Arkansas
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Saint Francis.
Top Trade Schools in Saint Francis
Tennessee College of Applied Technology - Memphis
Tennessee Board of Regents
Located just 45 minutes from Saint Francis, TCAT Memphis is one of the highest-rated trade schools in the Mid-South region, serving students from Eastern Arkansas. The college boasts exceptional job placement rates exceeding 90% across most programs and maintains strong relationships with major employers throughout the Memphis metropolitan area. Their welding program offers AWS certifications, while the HVAC program provides EPA 608 certification preparation. TCAT Memphis features modern facilities, industry-experienced instructors, and flexible scheduling options including evening classes. Many Saint Francis residents commute to take advantage of their comprehensive trade programs and excellent reputation among regional employers.
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Crowley's Ridge Technical Institute
Arkansas Department of Career Education
Crowley's Ridge Technical Institute is the premier trade school serving Eastern Arkansas, located just 15 miles from Saint Francis. As part of Arkansas's career education system, CRTI offers comprehensive technical training with exceptional job placement rates exceeding 85%. The school features state-of-the-art welding labs with American Welding Society certification programs, fully-equipped automotive bays with ASE-certified instructors, and modern HVAC training facilities. Students benefit from small class sizes, hands-on training, and strong industry partnerships with regional employers. Financial aid options and flexible scheduling make career training accessible to Saint Francis area residents.
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Arkansas State University Mid-South
Arkansas State University System
Arkansas State University Mid-South serves as a comprehensive community and technical college providing high-quality trade education to Eastern Arkansas residents, including those from Saint Francis. The college offers certificate and associate degree programs in high-demand trades with industry-recognized certifications. Their Industrial Technology program includes welding, manufacturing, and maintenance technology tracks developed with input from regional employers. The automotive program features NATEF certification and partnerships with major dealerships. With strong articulation agreements to four-year institutions and excellent job placement services, ASU Mid-South provides both immediate employment opportunities and pathways for career advancement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Saint Francis, Arkansas, and what are their standout programs?
The most accessible trade schools for Saint Francis residents include Crowley's Ridge Technical Institute in Forrest City, Arkansas State University Mid-South in West Memphis, and the Tennessee College of Applied Technology in Memphis. Crowley's Ridge is particularly known for its Welding Technology and Automotive Service Technology programs, while ASU Mid-South offers strong Healthcare and Industrial Technology pathways.
Which trade programs in the Saint Francis area have the strongest local job placement rates?
Programs in Practical Nursing, Welding, and Electrical Systems consistently show strong job placement in Eastern Arkansas and the greater Memphis region. Crowley's Ridge Technical Institute and ASU Mid-South have established partnerships with regional employers like Nucor Steel, local healthcare systems, and manufacturing plants, which often lead to direct hiring opportunities for graduates.
Are there any short-term certification programs available near Saint Francis for someone looking to enter the workforce quickly?
Yes, Crowley's Ridge Technical Institute offers several short-term certifications that can be completed in under a year, including Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training, HVAC fundamentals, and basic welding certifications. These programs are designed specifically for rapid entry into high-demand trades throughout the Arkansas Delta region.
What financial aid or scholarship opportunities are specifically available for trade school students in Saint Francis County?
Students in Saint Francis County can access Arkansas' Workforce Challenge Scholarship for high-demand fields like nursing and industrial technology, along with federal Pell Grants. Additionally, Crowley's Ridge Technical Institute offers institutional scholarships and many local employers, such as agricultural and manufacturing companies, provide tuition reimbursement for relevant trade programs.
How do the trade programs at Arkansas State University Mid-South differ from those at Crowley's Ridge Technical Institute for Saint Francis residents?
ASU Mid-South typically offers more advanced technical associate degrees and broader academic pathways, including Computer Information Systems and advanced Manufacturing Technology, while Crowley's Ridge focuses on hands-on skill certificates and diplomas in trades like Automotive Technology and Electrical Systems. Both institutions provide quality training, but Crowley's Ridge programs are often shorter and more directly focused on immediate job skills for the local market.
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About Trade Schools in Saint Francis
Saint Francis, Arkansas 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.