The Best Trade Schools in Florence, Colorado
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Florence.
Top Trade Schools in Florence
Pikes Peak State College
Colorado Community College System
Pikes Peak State College serves as a comprehensive technical training center for the broader Southern Colorado region, including Florence residents. The college features advanced automotive technology facilities with manufacturer-specific training equipment, a welding program with certification testing capabilities, and construction management programs that include hands-on project experience. PPSC maintains articulation agreements with multiple four-year institutions and offers industry-recognized certifications including AWS, ASE, and NCCER credentials. The college boasts strong industry partnerships with Colorado Springs and Pueblo-area employers, with many programs featuring internship opportunities and direct hiring pathways. Student support services include career counseling, tutoring, and extensive financial aid options.
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Pueblo Community College - Fremont Campus
Colorado Community College System
Pueblo Community College's Fremont Campus serves as the primary technical education hub for Florence and surrounding communities. The campus features state-of-the-art welding labs with 30+ welding stations, comprehensive automotive technology facilities with industry-standard diagnostic equipment, and construction technology programs that include hands-on building projects. PCC maintains strong partnerships with local employers like Pueblo Steel, EVRAZ, and regional construction firms, with job placement rates exceeding 85% for graduates. The college offers industry certifications including AWS welding certifications, ASE automotive certifications, and OSHA safety credentials. Programs feature small class sizes with instructors who are industry veterans, and financial aid options are widely available.
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IntelliTec College - Pueblo
IntelliTec Colleges
IntelliTec College in Pueblo provides hands-on technical training specifically designed for career placement in Southern Colorado. The automotive technology program features modern diagnostic equipment and includes ASE certification preparation, while the HVAC program covers residential and commercial systems with EPA 608 certification included. The school maintains a 83% job placement rate with strong relationships with regional employers including local dealerships, HVAC contractors, and maintenance companies serving the Florence area. Training emphasizes practical skills with industry-experienced instructors, and the college offers flexible scheduling options including evening classes for working students. Financial aid and veteran benefits are available.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade school options for residents of Florence, CO, and what programs do they offer?
The most accessible trade schools for Florence residents are Pueblo Community College's Fremont Campus in nearby Cañon City and IntelliTec College in Pueblo. These schools offer programs highly relevant to the local economy, including Welding Technology, Automotive Service Technology, Construction Technology, HVAC, and Electrical Systems. PCC's Fremont Campus is particularly convenient for Fremont County residents seeking career training.
Which trade programs in the Florence, CO area have the strongest connections to local employers and industries?
Programs in Welding, Construction Technology, and Automotive Service have strong local industry ties due to the region's manufacturing, mining, and transportation sectors. Pueblo Community College's Fremont Campus actively partners with local employers for apprenticeships and job placements. Graduates from these programs often find opportunities with companies in Fremont County and the broader Pueblo metropolitan area.
Are there any short-term certification programs available near Florence, CO for quick entry into skilled trades?
Yes, both Pueblo Community College and IntelliTec College offer short-term certificates in high-demand fields. For example, PCC offers certificates in Welding, HVAC Fundamentals, and Electrical Systems that can be completed in one year or less. These focused programs are designed to provide the specific skills needed for immediate employment in the Southern Colorado workforce.
What financial aid and scholarship opportunities are specifically available for Florence, CO residents attending local trade schools?
Florence residents can access federal financial aid through FAFSA at all local trade schools, plus Colorado-specific opportunities like the Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative. Pueblo Community College offers the Fremont Campus Scholarship for local students, and many programs qualify for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding through the Fremont County Workforce Center.
How do the trade programs at Pueblo Community College's Fremont Campus cater to the specific needs of adult learners from Florence and surrounding areas?
PCC's Fremont Campus offers flexible scheduling with evening, weekend, and hybrid courses to accommodate working adults. Many programs feature accelerated options and competency-based progression, allowing students to move quickly through material they've mastered. The campus also provides career counseling specifically tailored to the Fremont County job market and employer needs.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Florence
Florence, 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.