The Best Trade Schools in Buffalo Grove, Illinois
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Buffalo Grove.
Top Trade Schools in Buffalo Grove
ETI School of Skilled Trades
ETI School of Skilled Trades
ETI School of Skilled Trades in nearby Des Plaines provides comprehensive trade education specifically designed for the Chicago metropolitan area, serving Buffalo Grove residents with convenient access. The school offers intensive, hands-on programs in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and welding trades with curriculum developed in consultation with industry professionals. ETI's programs include preparation for multiple industry certifications including OSHA safety training, EPA 608 certification for HVAC students, and various welding certifications. The school features extensive workshop facilities with industry-current equipment and maintains strong relationships with local employers and unions. ETI emphasizes practical, real-world training with job placement assistance, reporting that many graduates secure employment before completing their programs.
Programs Offered:
Coyne College
Coyne College
Coyne College has been serving the Chicagoland area for over a century, providing comprehensive trade education to students from Buffalo Grove and surrounding communities. The school specializes in electrical and HVAC training with programs designed to meet current industry demands. Their Electrical Construction & Planning program prepares students for Illinois state licensing exams, while the HVAC-R program includes EPA 608 Universal Certification. Coyne College maintains small class sizes with industry-experienced instructors and provides hands-on training in modern labs. The institution reports high job placement rates and offers career services assistance, with many graduates finding employment with union contractors, maintenance companies, and service providers throughout the region.
Programs Offered:
Lincoln Tech - Melrose Park Campus
Lincoln Educational Services
Lincoln Tech's Melrose Park campus serves the greater Chicago metropolitan area including Buffalo Grove with comprehensive trade programs. The institution maintains strong industry partnerships with companies like Snap-on, Carrier, and Trane, providing students with current industry-standard equipment and technology. Their HVAC program includes EPA 608 certification preparation, while electrical programs cover residential, commercial, and industrial systems. The campus features extensive automotive bays, welding labs with multiple processes, and dedicated HVAC training facilities. Lincoln Tech reports strong job placement rates through their career services department, with many graduates securing positions at major Chicago-area employers.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools offering in-person programs for Buffalo Grove, IL residents?
While Buffalo Grove itself doesn't have major trade school campuses, nearby options include Lincoln Tech in Melrose Park (about 30 minutes away), Coyne College in Chicago, and ETI School of Skilled Trades in Willowbrook. These schools offer programs in electrical systems, HVAC, automotive technology, and welding that are accessible to Buffalo Grove residents.
Which trade programs in the Buffalo Grove area have the strongest local job placement rates?
HVAC Technician and Electrical Technology programs at nearby schools like Lincoln Tech and ETI School of Skilled Trades report strong placement rates due to high demand in the Chicago metropolitan area. The Medical Assistant Program at Coyne College also has good local healthcare connections, with opportunities at nearby facilities like Northwest Community Hospital and other medical centers serving Buffalo Grove.
Are there any apprenticeship opportunities through local unions or contractors for Buffalo Grove trade school graduates?
Yes, graduates from electrical, plumbing, and HVAC programs can access apprenticeship opportunities through local unions like IBEW Local 134 (electricians) and UA Local 597 (plumbers/pipefitters) that serve the Chicago area including Buffalo Grove. Many contractors in the northwest suburbs actively recruit from nearby trade schools for apprenticeship positions.
What certifications should I pursue at Buffalo Grove area trade schools for the highest earning potential?
For electrical programs, pursuing Illinois state electrical licensing along with specialized certifications like NFPA 70E (electrical safety) can increase earnings. HVAC students should target EPA 608 certification and NATE certification. Welding students benefit from AWS certifications, particularly for structural welding given the industrial and construction needs in the greater Chicago region.
How do transportation options work for Buffalo Grove residents attending trade schools in Melrose Park or Chicago?
Most Buffalo Grove students commute by car via I-294 or I-90 to reach schools like Lincoln Tech in Melrose Park. Some schools offer flexible scheduling with day or evening classes to accommodate commuters. Public transportation options include taking Metra to Chicago then transferring to CTA lines, though this adds significant travel time compared to driving.
Nearby Cities
Explore trade schools in cities near Buffalo Grove:
About Trade Schools in Buffalo Grove
Buffalo Grove, Illinois 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.