The Best Trade Schools in Honolulu, Hawaii
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Honolulu.
Top Trade Schools in Honolulu
Med-Assist School of Hawaii
Med-Assist School of Hawaii
Med-Assist School of Hawaii specializes in healthcare trade education with intensive, hands-on programs designed for rapid entry into medical fields. The school features modern medical labs with actual clinical equipment and simulation areas. Programs include certification preparation for CMA, RMA, CPhT, and CBCS credentials. The institution boasts a 92% graduate employment rate with partnerships at major Hawaii healthcare providers including The Queen's Medical Center, Straub Clinic, and Kaiser Permanente Hawaii. Small class sizes and personalized career counseling ensure students receive comprehensive support throughout their training and job search process.
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New York Technical Institute of Hawaii
New York Technical Institute
New York Technical Institute of Hawaii provides specialized technical training focused on building trades and mechanical systems essential to Hawaii's construction and maintenance industries. The school offers comprehensive programs in electrical technology with preparation for Hawaii electrical licensing, HVAC/R training with EPA 608 universal certification, and building systems maintenance. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning with modern equipment including energy management systems and solar thermal technology relevant to Hawaii's renewable energy focus. Graduates benefit from the school's strong industry connections with local contractors and property management companies, with an 88% placement rate in field-related positions.
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Honolulu Community College
University of Hawai'i System
Honolulu Community College is one of Hawaii's premier trade and technical education institutions with comprehensive programs in high-demand skilled trades. The college features state-of-the-art facilities including a dedicated welding lab with 40+ welding stations, fully equipped automotive bays, and modern construction technology labs. Programs lead to industry certifications including AWS welding certifications, ASE automotive certifications, and EPA 608 certification for HVAC. The college maintains strong partnerships with local unions and employers, achieving approximately 85% job placement rate for graduates. Instruction is provided by industry-experienced professionals with extensive field experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade careers in Honolulu, Hawaii, and which local schools offer training for them?
In Honolulu, skilled trades like HVAC/R technicians, electricians, and medical assistants are consistently in high demand due to the tourism industry, aging infrastructure, and healthcare needs. Honolulu Community College offers strong programs in Electrical Installation & Maintenance and HVAC, while Med-Assist School of Hawaii specializes in Medical Assisting and Pharmacy Technician training to meet local healthcare employer needs.
Are there any Honolulu trade school programs specifically focused on renewable energy or sustainable building, given Hawaii's clean energy goals?
Yes, Honolulu Community College offers a Renewable Energy Systems program, which is highly relevant to Hawaii's goal of 100% renewable energy by 2045. This program prepares students for careers in solar photovoltaic installation, energy auditing, and sustainable technology maintenance, aligning with local incentives and job growth in the green energy sector across Oahu.
What local certifications or licenses should I pursue in Honolulu after completing a trade program like Carpentry or Electrical Technology?
For electrical work in Hawaii, you'll need to obtain a license from the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) after completing your apprenticeship and passing the journeyman exam. For carpentry, while a state license isn't always required, obtaining certifications from organizations like the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) can enhance employment opportunities with Honolulu-based construction firms.
How do trade school programs in Honolulu, like those at Honolulu Community College, connect students with local apprenticeships or job placements?
Honolulu Community College has strong partnerships with local unions, contractors, and healthcare providers, facilitating direct pathways to apprenticeships. For example, their Welding Technology and Automotive Technology programs often include job fairs with Honolulu employers like Hawaiian Electric, shipyards at Pearl Harbor, and major auto dealerships, providing hands-on experience and direct hiring opportunities.
For someone interested in the healthcare trades in Honolulu, what are the key differences between programs at Med-Assist School of Hawaii and the healthcare offerings at Honolulu Community College?
Med-Assist School of Hawaii focuses intensely on fast-track, specialized certifications like Medical Assisting and Pharmacy Technician, often with shorter program durations. Honolulu Community College offers broader healthcare administration and medical billing & coding programs that may include more general education and lead to associate degrees. Your choice depends on whether you seek quick certification for clinical roles or a degree for administrative positions in Honolulu's hospital systems.
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About Trade Schools in Honolulu
Honolulu, Hawaii 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.