The Best Trade Schools in Collbran, Colorado
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Collbran.
Top Trade Schools in Collbran
TEC Colorado
Technical Education Centers
TEC Colorado is a highly-rated trade school specializing in industrial and construction trades, serving the Western Slope region including Collbran. The school offers intensive, accelerated programs focused on high-demand skilled trades with comprehensive certification preparation. Their welding program includes SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, and pipe welding certifications, while their HVAC program covers residential and commercial systems with EPA 608 certification. The institution boasts exceptional job placement assistance with direct connections to regional employers in energy, construction, and manufacturing. Students benefit from small class sizes, hands-on training approach, and flexible scheduling options including evening classes.
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Western Colorado Community College
Colorado Mesa University
Western Colorado Community College is part of Colorado Mesa University and serves as the premier trade and technical education institution for Western Colorado. Located approximately 60 miles from Collbran, WCCC offers comprehensive career and technical education programs with state-of-the-art facilities. The college features industry-standard welding labs with 40+ welding stations, advanced automotive technology centers, and modern construction trades facilities. Programs lead to industry certifications and associate degrees, with strong job placement rates exceeding 85% in technical fields. The institution maintains partnerships with regional employers and offers hands-on training with experienced instructors who bring real-world industry expertise.
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IntelliTec College - Grand Junction
IntelliTec Colleges
IntelliTec College in Grand Junction has been serving Western Colorado communities including Collbran for over two decades with career-focused technical education. The campus features modern automotive technology labs with current diagnostic equipment, comprehensive HVAC training facilities, and professional-grade training environments. Programs emphasize hands-on learning with industry-experienced instructors and include externship opportunities with local employers. The automotive program prepares students for ASE certifications, while the HVAC program includes EPA 608 certification. IntelliTec provides extensive career services support with strong regional employer relationships and maintains a reputation for producing job-ready graduates in skilled trades.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Collbran, CO, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Collbran are in Grand Junction, about an hour's drive away. These include Western Colorado Community College (offering Welding Technology, Automotive Technology, HVAC, and Construction Technology), TEC Colorado (with programs in Welding Certification, Pipefitting, and Industrial Maintenance), and IntelliTec College (providing training in Automotive Technician, HVAC Technician, Medical Assisting, and Dental Assisting). Many programs offer flexible schedules, including evenings and weekends.
Are there any local apprenticeship opportunities in Collbran or nearby areas for trade school graduates?
Yes, the Collbran area and surrounding Mesa County have apprenticeship opportunities through local unions, construction companies, and energy sector employers. Graduates from programs like Electrical Technology, HVAC, and Welding at Western Colorado Community College often find apprenticeships with companies involved in regional construction, agriculture equipment maintenance, and natural gas operations. The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment's Mesa County office can help connect graduates with registered apprenticeships.
What trade certifications are most in-demand for careers in the Collbran and Western Colorado region?
In the Collbran area and Western Colorado, certifications in Welding (particularly AWS certifications), HVAC/R EPA 608 certification, Commercial Driver's License (CDL), and Electrical Journeyman licenses are highly sought after. These align with local industries including agriculture, energy production, construction, and transportation. Many employers in Mesa County specifically look for these credentials when hiring for technical positions.
Can I complete any trade school programs through hybrid or online formats while living in Collbran?
Some programs at nearby schools offer hybrid options. For example, IntelliTec College in Grand Junction offers blended learning for Business Office Professional programs, while Western Colorado Community College provides some online theory components paired with required hands-on labs on campus. However, most trade programs (like Welding, Automotive, and HVAC) require significant in-person training at their Grand Junction facilities due to the practical nature of the skills.
What financial aid or scholarship options are available specifically for Collbran residents attending trade schools in Western Colorado?
Collbran residents can access federal financial aid (FAFSA) at accredited schools like Western Colorado Community College and IntelliTec College. Additionally, local scholarships are available through organizations like the Mesa County Workforce Center, Colorado Mesa University Foundation, and industry-specific groups like the Western Colorado Contractors Association. Some employers in the Collbran area also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing relevant trade certifications.
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About Trade Schools in Collbran
Collbran, Colorado 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.