The Best Trade Schools in Starke, Florida
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Starke.
Top Trade Schools in Starke
Lindsey Hopkins Technical College
Miami-Dade County Public Schools
As one of Florida's oldest and most respected technical colleges, Lindsey Hopkins serves students statewide with exceptional trade programs. The institution offers comprehensive training in high-demand fields with programs ranging from 6-18 months. Features include modern electrical labs with commercial-grade equipment, professional-grade plumbing training systems, and commercial kitchen facilities for culinary arts. The college maintains 92% job placement success and partners with major Florida employers. While located in Miami, they offer housing assistance and serve students from throughout Florida, including Starke residents seeking top-tier technical education.
Programs Offered:
Florida Gateway College
Florida College System
Florida Gateway College serves the North Central Florida region including Starke with comprehensive trade programs. The college offers state-of-the-art facilities including a 12,000 square foot Advanced Technology Center featuring modern welding labs with 30+ stations, fully-equipped automotive bays, and HVAC training systems. Programs lead to industry certifications including AWS welding certifications, ASE automotive certifications, and EPA 608 certification. The college maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers and boasts an 89% job placement rate for trade program graduates. Financial aid options and flexible scheduling make it accessible for Starke residents.
Programs Offered:
Tulsa Welding School
StrataTech Education Group
Tulsa Welding School's Jacksonville campus serves North Florida including Starke with industry-leading trade programs. The school features extensive hands-on training facilities including 130 welding booths, commercial HVAC systems, and electrical training labs. Programs are designed and taught by industry professionals with real-world experience. The school offers multiple welding processes (SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, FCAW) and prepares students for American Welding Society certifications. With strong industry connections and 87% graduate employment rate, TWS provides comprehensive career services and financial aid options. The Jacksonville location is easily accessible for Starke residents seeking specialized trade education.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Starke, FL, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Starke include Florida Gateway College in Lake City (about 30 minutes away), which offers programs like Automotive Service Technology and Welding Technology, and Lindsey Hopkins Technical College in Jacksonville (about an hour away), which provides training in Electrical Technology, HVAC, and Cosmetology. Tulsa Welding School in Jacksonville also offers specialized programs like Professional Welding for those seeking intensive, hands-on training.
Are there any local apprenticeship opportunities in Starke, FL, for trade school graduates?
Yes, Starke and surrounding Bradford County have apprenticeship opportunities through local unions and employers in trades like electrical work, plumbing, and HVAC, often in partnership with nearby technical colleges. Many graduates from Florida Gateway College's programs find apprenticeships with construction firms, manufacturing plants, and service companies in North Central Florida, providing valuable on-the-job training.
What certifications can I earn through trade programs near Starke, FL, and are they recognized statewide?
Programs at nearby schools like Florida Gateway College and Lindsey Hopkins Technical College prepare students for industry-recognized certifications such as EPA 608 for HVAC/R, ASE for automotive technicians, and AWS for welding. These certifications are widely recognized across Florida and nationally, enhancing employability for graduates seeking work in Starke or throughout the state.
How do trade school programs in the Starke area connect students with local employers?
Schools like Florida Gateway College often have strong ties with local employers in Bradford County and surrounding areas, offering job placement assistance, career fairs, and internship opportunities. For example, welding graduates may connect with regional manufacturers or construction companies, while HVAC students might find opportunities with local service providers, leveraging the school's network for direct employment pathways.
What financial aid options are available for Starke, FL, residents attending nearby trade schools?
Starke residents can access federal financial aid (FAFSA), Florida state grants like the Florida Student Assistance Grant, and scholarships specific to trade programs at schools like Florida Gateway College. Additionally, some local employers and unions in Bradford County may offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorship for in-demand trades such as electrical or plumbing, making training more affordable.
Nearby Cities
Explore trade schools in cities near Starke:
About Trade Schools in Starke
Starke, 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.