The Best Trade Schools in Howard, Colorado
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Howard.
Top Trade Schools in Howard
Pickens Technical College
Aurora Public Schools
While located in Aurora, Pickens Technical College serves students from throughout Central Colorado, including Howard residents seeking high-quality trade education. The college offers extensive programs in automotive technology with NATEF certification, construction trades with OSHA safety training, and cosmetology with state board preparation. Their HVAC program includes EPA 608 certification, and electrical training covers residential and commercial applications. With exceptional job placement rates exceeding 90% and industry partnerships with major Colorado employers, Pickens provides comprehensive career preparation with financial aid options available.
Programs Offered:
Colorado Mountain College - Salida
Colorado Mountain College
Colorado Mountain College's Salida campus serves the Upper Arkansas Valley region including Howard with comprehensive trade programs. The college features state-of-the-art welding labs with MIG, TIG, and stick welding equipment, automotive technology programs with ASE-certified instructors, and construction trades training. Students benefit from small class sizes, hands-on learning environments, and industry-recognized certifications. The institution maintains strong partnerships with local employers throughout Chaffee County and has excellent job placement rates for graduates in skilled trades.
Programs Offered:
Pueblo Community College - Fremont Campus
Pueblo Community College System
PCC's Fremont Campus in Canon City provides accessible trade education for residents of Howard and surrounding communities. The campus features comprehensive welding programs with AWS certification preparation, industrial maintenance technology, and automotive repair training. With modern facilities and experienced instructors who bring real-world industry expertise, students receive practical, hands-on education. The college maintains strong industry connections throughout the region and offers flexible scheduling options for working adults seeking career advancement in skilled trades.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Howard, CO, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Howard are Colorado Mountain College in Salida (about 30 minutes away) and Pueblo Community College's Fremont Campus in Cañon City (about 45 minutes away). These schools offer programs like Welding Technology, Automotive Technology, Construction Technology, HVAC, and Electrical Systems, providing accessible career training for residents of the Upper Arkansas Valley.
Are there any local apprenticeship opportunities in Howard or the Upper Arkansas Valley for trade school graduates?
Yes, local construction companies, electrical contractors, and HVAC businesses in the Howard, Salida, and Buena Vista area often seek apprentices. Graduates from programs at Colorado Mountain College or PCC Fremont can connect with these employers through school career services, and industries like renewable energy installation and historic building restoration provide additional opportunities in this region.
What trade certifications are most in-demand for jobs in the Howard, CO area?
In the Howard and central Colorado region, certifications in Welding (AWS), HVAC/R (EPA 608), Electrical (journeyman/licensing), and Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL) are highly sought after. The local economy, with its mix of construction, tourism infrastructure, and mountain-town services, creates consistent demand for these certified skilled tradespeople.
Can I complete a trade program part-time while working in Howard, and are online options available?
Yes, both Colorado Mountain College and Pueblo Community College offer flexible scheduling, including evening and hybrid courses, to accommodate working students. While hands-on labs require in-person attendance, some theory courses may be available online. It's advisable to contact the schools directly to discuss part-time pathways for programs like Automotive Repair or Construction Trades.
How do trade school programs in this area, like those at Colorado Mountain College, connect students with local employers?
Programs at Colorado Mountain College and PCC Fremont Campus maintain strong ties with employers in Chaffee and Fremont Counties. They host job fairs, facilitate site visits to local businesses, and often have advisory boards with area employers. This ensures training aligns with local needs in sectors like construction, automotive repair, and hospitality, leading to direct hiring pathways for graduates.
Nearby Cities
Explore trade schools in cities near Howard:
About Trade Schools in Howard
Howard, 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.