The Best Trade Schools in Mattoon, Illinois
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Mattoon.
Top Trade Schools in Mattoon
Lake Land College
Lake Land College District
Lake Land College is the premier trade school serving Mattoon directly, offering comprehensive career and technical education programs with exceptional job placement rates. The college features state-of-the-art facilities including advanced welding labs, automotive technology centers, and HVAC training equipment. Programs lead to industry certifications and associate degrees, with strong partnerships with local employers throughout Central Illinois. The institution has maintained accreditation and consistently high graduate employment rates, with many students securing jobs before graduation through the college's extensive employer network.
Programs Offered:
Lincoln Tech - Indianapolis
Lincoln Educational Services
Lincoln Tech's Indianapolis campus serves students from Eastern Illinois, including Mattoon residents, with comprehensive trade programs featuring extensive hands-on training. The school maintains strong industry partnerships and high job placement rates, particularly in HVAC and skilled trades. Students benefit from modern training facilities, experienced instructors with industry backgrounds, and career services that connect graduates with employers throughout the Midwest. The campus offers flexible scheduling and financial aid options, making it accessible for students commuting from Illinois.
Programs Offered:
Midwest Technical Institute - Springfield
Midwest Technical Institute
Midwest Technical Institute in Springfield serves Central Illinois, including Mattoon area students, with intensive, hands-on trade programs designed for rapid entry into the workforce. The institute emphasizes practical skills training with industry-standard equipment and curriculum developed in partnership with employers. MTI maintains strong job placement assistance and offers programs that can be completed in under a year. The welding and HVAC programs are particularly well-regarded, featuring certification preparation and direct connections to local union apprenticeships and employers throughout Illinois.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary trade school option for residents of Mattoon, Illinois, and what programs does it offer?
Lake Land College in Mattoon is the primary local institution offering career and technical education. It provides programs in Welding Technology, Automotive Technology, HVAC, Electrical Systems, Carpentry, and Culinary Arts, allowing students to train close to home without the need to commute to larger cities.
Are there any specialized welding certifications I can earn through programs in the Mattoon area?
Yes, Lake Land College's Welding Technology program in Mattoon prepares students for industry-recognized certifications from the American Welding Society (AWS). These certifications are highly valued by local and regional manufacturers and construction firms, providing a direct pathway to in-demand welding careers in Central Illinois.
What local career opportunities exist for graduates of HVAC or Electrical programs from Mattoon trade schools?
Graduates from Lake Land College's HVAC and Electrical Systems programs find strong local demand from residential, commercial, and agricultural service companies in the Coles County area. Major local employers like electric cooperatives, plumbing/HVAC contractors, and facility management firms often hire directly from these programs.
If I want to study automotive technology in Mattoon, what kind of hands-on training can I expect?
Lake Land College's Automotive Technology program in Mattoon provides comprehensive hands-on training in modern diagnostic equipment, engine repair, and automotive systems. Students work on actual vehicles in fully equipped bays, preparing them for ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification and employment at local dealerships and repair shops throughout East Central Illinois.
For trades not offered in Mattoon, like plumbing, what are the closest quality training options for residents?
While Mattoon's Lake Land College doesn't offer a dedicated plumbing program, the closest reputable options are at Midwest Technical Institute in Springfield (about 90 minutes away) or Lincoln Tech in Indianapolis (about 2.5 hours away). Some Mattoon residents also pursue apprenticeships through local union chapters, which combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Nearby Cities
Explore trade schools in cities near Mattoon:
About Trade Schools in Mattoon
Mattoon, 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.