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.
Finding Your Path in the Skilled Trades: Automotive Programs Near Highland, IN
If you're in Highland, Indiana, and find yourself searching for 'automotive trade schools near me,' you're in a great position to launch a rewarding career. The Region, with its strong industrial and manufacturing heritage, offers a solid foundation for skilled tradespeople, and the local educational landscape is well-equipped to help you build that future. The demand for trained automotive technicians remains consistently high, not just in major dealerships but also in the countless independent repair shops, fleet maintenance operations, and specialty service centers that keep Northwest Indiana's vehicles on the road. This isn't just about changing oil; it's about mastering complex computer diagnostics, hybrid/electric vehicle systems, and advanced automotive technology, skills that command competitive wages and offer real job security.
Fortunately, you don't have to look far to find excellent training options. While Highland itself is a residential hub, a short drive opens doors to several respected institutions. Ivy Tech Community College's East Chicago Campus provides a comprehensive and affordable pathway, often offering associate degrees in Automotive Technology that combine hands-on learning with essential academic coursework. For those seeking a more focused, accelerated program, schools like UEI College in Merrillville offer intensive training designed to get you into the workforce quickly. These programs are typically built around real-world scenarios, ensuring you graduate with practical experience that employers value immediately.
Choosing to pursue training at one of these automotive trade schools near you is an investment in a stable future. The local job market in Highland and the surrounding Region, including cities like Gary, Hammond, and Merrillville, is supported by a broad economic base. From the major automotive corridors along Interstate 80/94 to the industrial complexes and the needs of a large commuting population, certified technicians are always in demand. Furthermore, the skills you learn in automotive technology are highly transferable; understanding electrical systems, mechanics, and problem-solving can open side doors into related fields like diesel repair, heavy equipment maintenance, or even industrial manufacturing roles prevalent in the area.
The first step is the most important. We encourage you to reach out to these local schools, take a tour of their facilities, and speak directly with instructors and career services staff. Ask about their toolkits, certification preparation (like ASE certifications), and their partnerships with local employers. Remember, a career in the skilled trades is a career built with your own hands and expertise. By exploring the automotive trade schools near you in the Highland area, you're not just finding a school—you're mapping the route to a durable, respected, and fulfilling profession right here in Northwest Indiana.
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.