The Best Trade Schools in Live Oak, Florida
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Live Oak.
Top Trade Schools in Live Oak
Florida Electrical Apprenticeship & Training
Florida West Coast JATC
The Florida Electrical Apprenticeship & Training program provides comprehensive electrical trade education through the Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee. This nationally recognized program combines classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training, resulting in journeyman electrician certification. The curriculum covers residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems with emphasis on National Electrical Code compliance, safety protocols, and emerging technologies like solar installation and energy management systems. Graduates achieve near 100% job placement with starting wages averaging $25-30/hour. The program maintains partnerships with IBEW Local 1205 and major electrical contractors throughout North Florida.
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Santa Fe College - Perry Center for Emerging Technologies
Santa Fe College District Board of Trustees
Santa Fe College's Perry Center for Emerging Technologies serves the broader North Central Florida region with cutting-edge trade and technical programs. The 110,000 square foot facility features advanced manufacturing labs, HVAC-R training systems with commercial refrigeration units, and construction technology workshops. Programs emphasize hands-on learning with industry-standard equipment from manufacturers like Festo, Siemens, and Trane. The college maintains articulation agreements with University of Florida and strong industry partnerships with companies like Pratt & Whitney, Cox Engineering, and local construction firms. Graduates earn multiple industry certifications including NCCER credentials, OSHA safety certifications, and EPA 608 universal certification for HVAC technicians.
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Florida Gateway College
Florida College System
Florida Gateway College is a public college serving the North Central Florida region with comprehensive trade and technical programs. The college offers state-of-the-art facilities including a dedicated welding lab with 30+ welding stations, automotive technology center with modern diagnostic equipment, and electrical power technology program with industry partnerships. Programs lead to industry certifications including AWS welding certifications, ASE automotive certifications, and EPA 608 certification for HVAC. The college maintains strong job placement rates through partnerships with regional employers like Duke Energy, North Florida Electric Cooperative, and multiple automotive dealerships. Financial aid and workforce development grants available.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main trade school options available in or near Live Oak, Florida?
The primary options include Florida Gateway College in Live Oak, which offers programs like Welding Technology and Automotive Service Management. Nearby, Santa Fe College's Perry Center for Emerging Technologies in Alachua provides advanced training in HVAC, Building Construction, and Renewable Energy Systems. Florida Electrical Apprenticeship & Training also serves the area for electrical career paths.
Which trade programs at Florida Gateway College in Live Oak have the strongest local industry connections?
Florida Gateway College's Welding Technology and Electrical Power Technology programs have strong ties to regional manufacturing, utilities, and construction firms in North Central Florida. The college's location in Suwannee County also supports partnerships with agricultural and forestry industries, benefiting related trade training. These connections often lead to internship and job placement opportunities for graduates.
Are there apprenticeship programs specifically for electrical careers in the Live Oak area?
Yes, the Florida Electrical Apprenticeship & Training program serves Live Oak and surrounding regions, offering a structured Electrical Apprenticeship. This combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction, typically leading to journeyman certification. Completing such a program prepares you for licensed electrician roles with local contractors, utilities, or industrial employers in the Suwannee Valley.
What kind of certifications can I earn through trade programs at Santa Fe College's Perry Center near Live Oak?
Programs at Santa Fe College's Perry Center for Emerging Technologies can lead to industry-recognized certifications in areas like HVAC (EPA 608), Electrical Technology, and Advanced Manufacturing. For example, their Industrial Maintenance and Renewable Energy Systems tracks may include certifications from organizations like NCCER or Siemens. These credentials are valued by employers in Gainesville and the broader North Florida region.
How do trade school programs in the Live Oak area support careers in Florida's growing renewable energy sector?
Both Florida Gateway College and Santa Fe College's Perry Center offer training relevant to renewable energy. Florida Gateway College includes Electrical Power Technology with grid applications, while Santa Fe College provides a Renewable Energy Systems program covering solar, wind, and energy efficiency. Graduates can pursue roles with solar installers, utility companies, or energy contractors operating in North Central Florida.
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About Trade Schools in Live Oak
Live Oak, Florida 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.