The Best Trade Schools in Springfield, Illinois
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Springfield.
Top Trade Schools in Springfield
Lincoln Technical Institute - Lincoln, IL
Lincoln Educational Services
Lincoln Tech's Lincoln campus serves the Springfield metropolitan area with comprehensive trade programs featuring extensive hands-on training. The institution maintains strong industry partnerships with companies like Snap-on, Trane, and Cummins, providing students with access to current technology and equipment. Their welding program offers multiple certification pathways, while HVAC and electrical programs prepare students for industry licensing exams. The campus features modern labs and shops that simulate real-world work environments, and career services maintains a 70%+ job placement rate for graduates across all trades programs.
Programs Offered:
Universal Technical Institute - Lisle, IL
Universal Technical Institute
While located in Lisle (approximately 3 hours from Springfield), UTI serves students from across Illinois with its comprehensive transportation trades programs. The institution maintains manufacturer-specific training partnerships with brands like Ford, BMW, and Peterbilt, providing students with specialized certifications that enhance employment opportunities. Their welding program includes structural and pipe welding techniques with certification preparation. UTI's career services department maintains relationships with over 35 manufacturer partners and thousands of dealerships nationwide, resulting in strong job placement rates for graduates across all programs. Housing assistance is available for students relocating from Springfield area.
Programs Offered:
Midwest Technical Institute - Springfield, IL
Midwest Technical Institute
Midwest Technical Institute's Springfield campus provides intensive, short-term training programs focused on high-demand skilled trades. Their welding program includes SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, and FCAW processes with AWS certification preparation. The electrical and HVAC programs combine classroom theory with extensive hands-on labs using industry-standard equipment. MTI emphasizes job readiness with career development services that have established relationships with local unions and contractors throughout central Illinois. The school maintains small class sizes and offers flexible scheduling options for working students.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main trade schools near Springfield, IL, and what programs do they specialize in?
The primary trade schools serving the Springfield area include Midwest Technical Institute in Springfield itself, offering programs like Welding, HVAC, and Electrical. Nearby options include Lincoln Technical Institute in Lincoln, IL, focusing on Automotive and Diesel Technology, and Universal Technical Institute in Lisle, which provides advanced training in Automotive and Collision Repair. These schools cater to high-demand trades in Central Illinois.
Are there local apprenticeship programs in Springfield, IL, that partner with trade schools?
Yes, Springfield has several joint apprenticeship programs through local unions and contractors that often partner with schools like Midwest Technical Institute. For example, the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 137 and the Central Illinois Electrical Training Center offer earn-while-you-learn opportunities in plumbing, pipefitting, and electrical trades. These programs combine classroom instruction at trade schools with on-the-job training.
What certifications can I earn through Springfield-area trade schools that are valued by local employers?
Programs at Midwest Technical Institute and other local schools prepare students for industry-recognized certifications such as EPA 608 for HVAC, AWS welding certifications, and ASE certifications for automotive and diesel technicians. These credentials are highly valued by Central Illinois employers in manufacturing, construction, and transportation sectors, enhancing job prospects upon graduation.
How do job placement rates for trade school graduates in Springfield, IL, compare to other regions?
Trade schools in the Springfield area, like Midwest Technical Institute, often report strong job placement rates due to high local demand in construction, manufacturing, and skilled trades. Central Illinois's ongoing infrastructure projects and industrial base create consistent opportunities for graduates in welding, HVAC, and electrical fields, with many securing employment before or shortly after completing their programs.
What financial aid or scholarship opportunities are available specifically for trade school students in Springfield, IL?
Students at Springfield-area trade schools can access federal financial aid, Illinois Monetary Award Program (MAP) grants, and school-specific scholarships. Additionally, local organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of Illinois and trade unions often offer scholarships for residents pursuing construction-related trades. It's advisable to contact Midwest Technical Institute's financial aid office for personalized guidance on available options.
Nearby Cities
Explore trade schools in cities near Springfield:
About Trade Schools in Springfield
Springfield, 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.