The Best Trade Schools in Boise, Idaho
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Boise.
Top Trade Schools in Boise
Paul Mitchell The School Boise
Paul Mitchell Schools
Paul Mitchell The School Boise is a highly-rated cosmetology school with exceptional training quality and near-perfect licensure pass rates. The curriculum blends classic techniques with modern trends, and students gain real-world experience in the on-site clinic. With strong industry connections and job placement assistance, graduates frequently secure positions at top salons in Boise and beyond. The school emphasizes business development skills and offers financial aid options, making it a top choice for beauty trades.
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College of Western Idaho
College of Western Idaho
College of Western Idaho is a premier community college serving the Boise metropolitan area with comprehensive trade programs. Known for high job placement rates (over 85% in skilled trades), CWI offers industry-recognized certifications and apprenticeships. The school features state-of-the-art labs, experienced instructors from the trades, and strong partnerships with local employers like Micron, St. Luke's, and Idaho Power. Students benefit from affordable tuition, flexible scheduling, and career services that connect graduates with regional employers.
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Milan Institute Boise
Milan Institute
Milan Institute Boise provides hands-on training in high-demand trades with a focus on practical skills and industry certifications. The school boasts strong job placement rates (approximately 80% in technical fields) and partnerships with local unions and employers. Programs are designed around current market needs, and instructors are seasoned professionals. Located in nearby Meridian, the campus serves the entire Boise area and offers career services, including resume building and interview preparation, to help graduates launch successful careers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs in Boise, Idaho, and which local schools offer them?
In Boise, high-demand trade programs include Welding Technology, HVAC-R, Electrical Technology, and Automotive Technology, driven by the area's construction and manufacturing sectors. The College of Western Idaho (CWI) offers comprehensive programs in these fields, while Milan Institute Boise provides focused training in trades like Electrical and HVAC Technology. These programs are designed to align with local employer needs.
How do I become a licensed cosmetologist or barber in Boise, and which schools provide the required training?
To become a licensed cosmetologist or barber in Idaho, you must complete a state-approved program and pass the Idaho Board of Cosmetology exams. Paul Mitchell The School Boise offers cosmetology and barbering programs that meet these requirements, while Milan Institute Boise also provides esthetics and nail technology training. These schools prepare you for both the licensing exam and employment in Boise's growing personal care industry.
Are there apprenticeship opportunities for trades like plumbing or electrical work in Boise, and how do trade schools connect students with them?
Yes, Boise has active apprenticeship programs through local unions and contractors, such as the Idaho Associated General Contractors and the Southwest Idaho Electrical JATC. The College of Western Idaho often partners with these organizations, helping students in Electrical Technology or Plumbing programs secure apprenticeships. These partnerships provide hands-on experience and a pathway to journeyman certification in Idaho.
What financial aid or scholarship options are available for trade school students in Boise, Idaho?
Boise trade school students can access federal aid via FAFSA, Idaho-specific grants like the Opportunity Scholarship, and school-based scholarships. The College of Western Idaho offers numerous scholarships for trade students, and Paul Mitchell The School Boise has financial aid advisors to assist with beauty program funding. Additionally, local employers and industry associations in Boise sometimes sponsor tuition for high-demand trades.
How do trade school programs in Boise, like those at CWI, prepare students for local job placement after graduation?
Trade schools in Boise, such as the College of Western Idaho, emphasize local job placement through career services, industry partnerships, and hands-on training. Programs often include externships with Boise-area employers like Micron, St. Luke's, or local construction firms, ensuring graduates meet regional industry standards. Many programs also integrate Idaho-specific certification prep, boosting employability in the state's growing tech and trades sectors.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Boise
Boise, Idaho 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.