The Best Trade Schools in Raiford, Florida
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Raiford.
Top Trade Schools in Raiford
Lake City College
Lake City College
Lake City College is a highly-rated technical institution located approximately 30 minutes from Raiford, offering comprehensive trade programs with strong industry connections. The school features modern welding labs with MIG, TIG, and stick welding equipment, HVAC training on commercial and residential systems, and electrical technology programs that prepare students for Florida licensing exams. With job placement rates exceeding 85%, the college maintains partnerships with local employers throughout North Central Florida. Programs typically range from 9-18 months and include hands-on training, industry certifications, and career placement assistance.
Programs Offered:
The Academy of Hair Design
The Academy of Hair Design
Located in Gainesville approximately 35 minutes from Raiford, The Academy of Hair Design has established itself as one of North Central Florida's premier beauty and wellness trade schools. The institution offers comprehensive cosmetology programs with 1,200 hours of training, barbering programs meeting Florida licensing requirements, and specialized esthetics courses. The school boasts modern facilities, experienced instructors with industry backgrounds, and strong job placement networks with salons and spas throughout the region. Student satisfaction is high due to small class sizes, hands-on clinic experience, and career development support.
Programs Offered:
Florida State College at Jacksonville - North Campus
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Florida State College at Jacksonville's North Campus serves students from throughout Northeast Florida, including Raiford residents seeking quality trade education. The campus offers comprehensive career and technical programs including ASE-certified automotive technology, construction trades with carpentry and plumbing fundamentals, and culinary arts programs with commercial kitchen training. As part of the state college system, FSCJ provides affordable tuition, industry-recognized certifications, and transfer opportunities. The institution maintains strong relationships with regional employers and has placement rates consistently above 80% for trade program graduates. Programs combine classroom instruction with extensive hands-on training in well-equipped labs and workshops.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Raiford, FL, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Raiford include Lake City College (about 30 minutes away) offering Welding, HVAC/R, Electrical, and Automotive Service Technology; The Academy of Hair Design in Lake City for Cosmetology, Barbering, Esthetics, and Nail Technology; and Florida State College at Jacksonville - North Campus (about 45 minutes away) with programs in Automotive Technology, Carpentry, Plumbing, Electrical Systems, and Culinary Arts.
What local industries in the Raiford, FL area hire graduates from nearby trade programs?
Raiford and surrounding Union County have strong demand in construction, automotive repair, and manufacturing sectors. Graduates from nearby programs find opportunities with local contractors, automotive service centers, manufacturing plants in Lake City and Jacksonville, and salon/spa businesses throughout North Central Florida.
Are there any apprenticeship opportunities available through Raiford-area trade schools?
Yes, several programs at nearby schools offer apprenticeship pathways. Lake City College's Electrical Technology and HVAC/R programs often partner with local contractors for apprenticeships, while Florida State College at Jacksonville's Carpentry and Plumbing programs have connections with Northeast Florida construction unions and companies serving the growing development in the region.
What certifications can I earn through trade schools near Raiford that are recognized by Florida employers?
Programs near Raiford prepare students for industry-recognized certifications including EPA 608 Certification for HVAC technicians, AWS welding certifications, Florida Cosmetology and Barbering licenses, ASE certifications for automotive technicians, and Florida Electrical Contractor licenses. These credentials are highly valued by employers throughout North Florida.
How do I access financial aid for trade schools serving the Raiford, FL community?
All three major schools near Raiford accept federal financial aid (FAFSA), and Florida residents may qualify for state-specific programs like Florida Bright Futures or Florida Student Assistance Grants. Additionally, many programs offer payment plans, and some local employers provide tuition reimbursement for in-demand trades like electrical and plumbing.
Nearby Cities
Explore trade schools in cities near Raiford:
About Trade Schools in Raiford
Raiford, 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.