The Best Trade Schools in Highland, Indiana
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Highland.
Top Trade Schools in Highland
Porter and Chester Institute - Merrillville
Porter and Chester Institute
Porter and Chester Institute's Merrillville campus provides hands-on technical training with a strong focus on employment outcomes. The school features modern labs equipped with current industry technology and experienced instructors who are professionals in their fields. The HVAC/R program includes EPA 608 certification preparation, while electrical technology covers residential and commercial applications. The institution maintains an 85%+ job placement rate and offers career services support. Programs typically range from 9-15 months with day and evening classes available.
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Ivy Tech Community College - East Chicago Campus
Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College's East Chicago campus serves the Highland area with comprehensive trade programs featuring state-of-the-art facilities and industry-standard equipment. The college maintains strong partnerships with local employers and boasts high job placement rates. Programs lead to industry certifications and associate degrees, with flexible scheduling options for working students. The welding program is particularly renowned with AWS certification preparation, while the HVAC program includes EPA 608 certification. Financial aid options and veteran benefits are available.
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UEI College - Merrillville
UEI College
UEI College in Merrillville offers accelerated trade programs designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in high-demand fields. The HVAC program includes comprehensive training in installation, maintenance, and repair of heating and cooling systems with EPA certification preparation. Electrical technician training covers residential and commercial wiring fundamentals. The school emphasizes hands-on learning with small class sizes and provides career services assistance including resume building and interview preparation. Financial aid options are available for qualified students.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs for students in Highland, Indiana, and which local schools offer them?
In the Highland and Northwest Indiana region, high-demand programs include HVAC Technology, Electrical Technology, and Welding Technology due to strong industrial and construction sectors. Local options include Ivy Tech Community College's East Chicago Campus for Welding and Electrical Technology, and Porter and Chester Institute in Merrillville for HVAC and Electrical Technician programs.
How can I find apprenticeship opportunities in the skilled trades while attending a trade school in Highland, IN?
Many trade schools in the area, like Ivy Tech and UEI College in Merrillville, have partnerships with local unions and employers for apprenticeship placements. It's recommended to contact the Northwest Indiana Building and Construction Trades Council or local HVAC and electrical contractors directly, as the region's industrial base creates consistent demand for apprentices in construction and manufacturing trades.
Are there any trade programs in Highland, IN that offer accelerated or evening schedules for working adults?
Yes, several schools near Highland cater to working adults. UEI College in Merrillville offers flexible scheduling for programs like Dental Assisting and Medical Assisting. Porter and Chester Institute also provides day and evening options for hands-on programs such as Automotive Technology and HVAC/R Technology, allowing students to balance work and training.
What local certifications or licenses should I pursue after completing a trade program in Highland to work in Northwest Indiana?
For HVAC/R technicians, EPA Section 608 certification is essential and often integrated into local programs. Electricians typically need to pursue Indiana's journeyman licensing through the state's Fire and Building Services. Welding graduates should consider AWS (American Welding Society) certifications, which are highly valued by local steel mills and manufacturers in the Region.
How does the job placement support differ between trade schools in the Highland and Merrillville area?
Ivy Tech Community College's East Chicago Campus offers comprehensive career services with connections to major regional employers like ArcelorMittal and local hospitals. UEI College and Porter and Chester Institute in Merrillville typically provide dedicated career assistance with externships and job placement support, focusing on immediate entry into fields like healthcare assisting, automotive, and skilled trades throughout Lake County.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Highland
Highland, Indiana 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.