The Best Trade Schools in Harrisburg, Illinois
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Harrisburg.
Top Trade Schools in Harrisburg
John A. Logan College
John A. Logan College District
John A. Logan College serves the Southern Illinois region with comprehensive career and technical education programs. The college features advanced automotive technology centers with manufacturer-specific training, extensive welding facilities offering multiple certification paths, and comprehensive HVAC-R programs with EPA 608 universal certification. Their construction technology program includes hands-on carpentry and electrical training, while the culinary arts program operates a student-run restaurant. The college maintains strong industry connections and has exceptional job placement rates, with many graduates securing employment before completion of their programs.
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Shawnee Community College
Shawnee Community College District
Shawnee Community College is a comprehensive community college serving Southern Illinois with extensive trade and technical programs. The college features state-of-the-art welding labs with both MIG and TIG certification programs, fully equipped automotive technology centers with ASE certification preparation, and comprehensive HVAC training with EPA 608 certification. Their career services department maintains strong relationships with regional employers, resulting in high job placement rates for graduates. The institution is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers financial aid options for qualified students.
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Southeastern Illinois College
Southeastern Illinois College District
Southeastern Illinois College is located directly in Harrisburg and offers robust trade programs serving the Southern Illinois region. The college features comprehensive industrial technology programs with NCCER certifications, advanced welding facilities offering American Welding Society certifications, and hands-on automotive technology training with ASE preparation. Their cosmetology program includes Illinois state board preparation, while the HVAC program provides EPA certification. SIC maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers and has excellent job placement statistics, particularly in welding and industrial trades.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main trade schools serving Harrisburg, IL, and what are their standout programs?
The primary trade schools serving Harrisburg are Shawnee Community College, Southeastern Illinois College, and John A. Logan College. Shawnee is known for its Welding Technology and Industrial Technology programs, Southeastern Illinois College offers strong programs in Practical Nursing and Electrical Systems, and John A. Logan College has reputable Automotive Technology and Construction Technology programs.
Are there any trade programs in Harrisburg, IL, that specifically partner with local employers for job placement?
Yes, several programs at Shawnee Community College and Southeastern Illinois College have established partnerships with regional employers. For example, welding and industrial technology programs often collaborate with local manufacturing and fabrication companies, while the practical nursing program works with hospitals and clinics in Saline County and surrounding areas to facilitate clinical rotations and employment opportunities.
What certifications can I earn through trade programs in Harrisburg, IL, that are in high demand locally?
In the Harrisburg area, you can earn certifications like AWS (American Welding Society) welding certifications, EPA Section 608 HVAC certification, ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications, and state cosmetology licenses. These are particularly valuable due to the region's manufacturing sector, automotive service needs, and growing healthcare and personal care industries.
How do the costs of trade programs at Shawnee Community College compare to other options in Southern Illinois?
Shawnee Community College offers some of the most affordable trade program tuition in Southern Illinois, with in-district rates typically lower than many private trade schools. Additionally, Southeastern Illinois College and John A. Logan College have comparable community college pricing, and all three institutions offer financial aid, scholarships, and sometimes grant-funded short-term training specifically for Harrisburg-area residents.
What local industries in the Harrisburg, IL, area hire graduates from nearby trade school programs?
Graduates from Harrisburg-area trade programs are hired by local industries including manufacturing plants, automotive dealerships and repair shops, construction companies, healthcare facilities like Harrisburg Medical Center, and service businesses needing HVAC-R technicians and electricians. The region's energy sector and growing culinary scene also provide opportunities for electrical technology and culinary arts graduates.
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About Trade Schools in Harrisburg
Harrisburg, 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.