The Best Trade Schools in Highland Park, Illinois
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Highland Park.
Top Trade Schools in Highland Park
Universal Technical Institute - Lisle
Universal Technical Institute
UTI Lisle is one of the most respected trade schools in the Chicago metropolitan area, serving Highland Park and surrounding communities. With manufacturer-specific training programs and industry partnerships, students receive hands-on training using current technology. The campus features modern labs and equipment, and graduates benefit from strong industry connections with employers like Porsche, BMW, and Cummins. UTI maintains high job placement rates and offers comprehensive career services support.
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Coyne College
Coyne College
As one of Chicago's oldest and most established trade schools, Coyne College has been training skilled trades professionals for over a century. The school offers comprehensive programs in high-demand fields with day and evening classes. Their Electrical program prepares students for Illinois licensing, while the HVAC-R program includes EPA certification. With strong industry connections and career placement assistance, Coyne College graduates enter the workforce with practical skills and recognized certifications.
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Midwest Technical Institute
Midwest Technical Institute
Midwest Technical Institute provides intensive, hands-on training programs designed to prepare students for immediate entry into skilled trades. The welding program offers comprehensive training in various techniques including MIG, TIG, and stick welding. Their Electrical Line Worker program includes pole climbing certification and CDL preparation. With multiple Illinois locations and strong employer partnerships, MTI focuses on practical skills development and job placement assistance, serving students from across the state including the Highland Park area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Highland Park, IL, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Highland Park include Universal Technical Institute in Lisle (about 30 miles away), Coyne College in Chicago, and Midwest Technical Institute in various Chicagoland locations. These schools offer programs like Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, HVAC, Electrical Construction & Planning, Welding, and Medical Assisting, providing Highland Park residents with accessible vocational training options.
Are there any local apprenticeship programs in Highland Park or nearby for trades like electrical or HVAC?
While Highland Park itself doesn't host major trade apprenticeship headquarters, residents can access union apprenticeships through Chicago-area organizations like the Electrical Contractors' Association of City of Chicago or Pipefitters Local 597. These programs typically combine classroom instruction at affiliated schools with paid on-the-job training, offering a direct path to certification and employment in the greater Chicagoland region.
What certifications can I earn through trade schools near Highland Park that are in high demand in the local job market?
Trade schools near Highland Park prepare students for certifications like EPA 608 for HVAC-R technicians, ASE certifications for automotive technicians, AWS welding certifications, and Illinois state-specific licenses for electrical work. These credentials are highly valued by employers in the North Shore and greater Chicago area, particularly in construction, manufacturing, and automotive service industries that serve the region's commercial and residential sectors.
How do trade school programs near Highland Park, like those at Coyne College or Midwest Technical Institute, help with job placement after graduation?
Schools like Coyne College and Midwest Technical Institute have dedicated career services departments that work with employers throughout the Chicagoland area. They typically offer job placement assistance, resume workshops, and interview preparation, and often host career fairs with local companies. Many programs also include externships or clinical rotations at facilities in Lake County and Cook County, helping students build local professional networks.
What financial aid options are available for Highland Park residents attending trade schools in the Chicago area?
Highland Park residents can access federal financial aid (FAFSA), Illinois state grants like the Monetary Award Program (MAP), and institutional scholarships offered by schools like Universal Technical Institute. Additionally, many trade programs qualify for Veterans benefits and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs. It's recommended to contact the financial aid offices of specific schools for detailed information about available assistance and eligibility requirements.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Highland Park
Highland Park, 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.