The Best Trade Schools in Smelterville, Idaho
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Smelterville.
Top Trade Schools in Smelterville
North Idaho College Workforce Training Center
North Idaho College
North Idaho College's Workforce Training Center is the premier trade school serving the Silver Valley region including Smelterville. With comprehensive programs in high-demand trades, NIC boasts exceptional job placement rates exceeding 85% for graduates. The college maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers like Hecla Mining, J-U-B Engineers, and regional construction firms. Students receive hands-on training with state-of-the-art equipment and can earn multiple industry certifications including AWS welding certifications, EPA 608 certification for HVAC, and NCCER credentials. The institution has served North Idaho communities for decades with proven graduate success and employer satisfaction.
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CWI - College of Western Idaho Career & Technical Education
College of Western Idaho
While located in southern Idaho, CWI serves students statewide including those from the Smelterville area through comprehensive distance learning options and regional training partnerships. The college offers some of Idaho's most respected trade programs with articulation agreements allowing credit transfer to four-year institutions. CWI maintains exceptional industry connections and boasts job placement rates consistently above 87%. The welding technology program is AWS-accredited and includes advanced pipe welding training. Electrical and HVAC programs include apprenticeship pathways with licensed journeyman instructors. Financial aid options and veteran benefits make CWI accessible to Silver Valley residents seeking high-quality trade education.
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MTTI - Modern Technical Training Institute
Modern Technical Training Institute
Located just 5 miles from Smelterville in Kellogg, MTTI provides specialized technical training specifically tailored to the mining and industrial needs of the Silver Valley. The school maintains exceptional relationships with major local employers including Bunker Hill Mining Company and local construction firms. MTTI graduates achieve near 90% job placement with starting wages averaging $22-28 per hour. The welding program is particularly renowned, offering comprehensive training in SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, and FCAW processes with AWS certification testing available on-site. The heavy equipment program includes hands-on operation of excavators, dozers, and loaders used in regional industries.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools offering in-person programs for Smelterville, Idaho residents?
The closest in-person trade school options for Smelterville residents are the North Idaho College Workforce Training Center in Post Falls and MTTI - Modern Technical Training Institute in Coeur d'Alene. Both are within a reasonable commute and offer hands-on training in high-demand fields like welding, HVAC, and electrical technology specifically tailored to the North Idaho job market.
Which trade programs in the Smelterville area have the strongest connections to local employers in the Silver Valley?
Welding Technology and Heavy Equipment Operation programs at North Idaho College have particularly strong ties to local mining, manufacturing, and construction employers in the Silver Valley region. These programs often include job placement assistance and direct recruitment from companies operating in and around Shoshone County, where Smelterville is located.
Are there any accelerated or short-term certification programs available near Smelterville for someone looking to enter the workforce quickly?
Yes, both North Idaho College and MTTI offer accelerated certifications in fields like CDL Training, Industrial Maintenance, and Advanced Welding that can be completed in months rather than years. These programs are designed specifically for the North Idaho economy and can provide quick entry into local industries like transportation, mining support services, and manufacturing.
What financial aid or scholarship opportunities are specifically available for Smelterville residents attending trade schools in North Idaho?
Smelterville residents can access Idaho's Workforce Development Training Funds, the Opportunity Scholarship for career technical education, and local scholarships through the Silver Valley community foundations. North Idaho College also offers specific workforce training grants for Shoshone County residents pursuing programs in high-demand trades relevant to the local economy.
How do the HVAC/R and Electrical Technology programs in North Idaho prepare students for Idaho-specific licensing requirements?
Programs at North Idaho College and MTTI are designed to meet Idaho's specific journeyman and contractor licensing requirements, incorporating the state's electrical and mechanical codes into their curriculum. These programs typically include the necessary classroom hours and hands-on training to qualify for Idaho's licensing exams, with instructors who are familiar with regional installation practices and climate considerations.
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About Trade Schools in Smelterville
Smelterville, 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.