The Best Trade Schools in Ames, Iowa
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Ames.
Top Trade Schools in Ames
Des Moines Area Community College - Ankeny Campus
Des Moines Area Community College
DMACC's Ankeny Campus is a premier trade school serving central Iowa, including Ames residents. With over 50 years of operation, the college offers comprehensive career training programs with exceptional job placement rates exceeding 90% in many trades. The welding program features AWS certification preparation, while automotive programs include ASE certification paths. The college maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers and provides hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities. Financial aid options and flexible scheduling make it accessible for working students.
Programs Offered:
Iowa Western Community College - Council Bluffs
Iowa Western Community College
Iowa Western Community College serves students statewide with exceptional trade programs, including distance learning options accessible to Ames residents. The college's Career Academy provides intensive technical training with industry-recognized certifications. The HVAC-R program includes EPA 608 certification, while welding programs offer multiple AWS certifications. With modern training facilities and experienced instructors who bring real-world expertise, IWCC maintains strong job placement rates and employer relationships across Iowa. The college offers both certificate and associate degree options in skilled trades.
Programs Offered:
Universal Technical Institute - Moline Campus
Universal Technical Institute
UTI's Moline campus serves students from Iowa, including Ames residents, with specialized manufacturer-specific training programs. The institution partners with leading industry manufacturers like Ford, BMW, and Peterbilt to provide cutting-edge technical education. Programs feature intensive hands-on training with current industry equipment and technology. UTI maintains exceptional industry relationships with over 35 manufacturer partners, resulting in strong job placement outcomes. The welding program includes comprehensive training in multiple processes and preparation for AWS certifications. Financial aid and veteran benefits are available.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Ames, Iowa for hands-on technical training?
While Ames itself doesn't have a dedicated trade school campus, the closest major options are Des Moines Area Community College's Ankeny Campus (about 30 minutes south) and Iowa Western Community College's Council Bluffs campus (about 2 hours west). Many Ames residents commute to DMACC-Ankeny for programs like Automotive Technology, Welding, and Electrical Systems.
Which trade programs at nearby schools have the strongest local job placement in the Ames area?
HVAC, Electrical Technology, and Construction Technology programs at DMACC-Ankeny have excellent placement rates with Ames-area employers due to ongoing construction and infrastructure projects. The growing manufacturing and agricultural technology sectors in Central Iowa also create strong demand for Welding and Diesel Technology graduates from regional trade programs.
Are there any specialized trade certifications I can earn through Ames-area programs for Iowa's specific industries?
Yes, DMACC offers certifications aligned with Iowa's agricultural and manufacturing sectors, including specialized welding certifications for agricultural equipment repair and EPA Section 608 certification for HVAC-R technicians working with refrigeration systems common in food processing facilities. Some programs also incorporate training for Iowa-specific plumbing and electrical codes.
How do trade school programs near Ames connect students with local apprenticeship opportunities?
DMACC-Ankeny maintains partnerships with Ames-area unions and employers including local electrical, plumbing, and pipefitting unions, as well as construction companies and manufacturing plants. Many programs incorporate co-op or apprenticeship components, and the college hosts regular career fairs specifically for trade students with Central Iowa employers.
What financial aid options are available specifically for Ames residents attending trade schools in Central Iowa?
Ames residents qualify for Iowa Tuition Grant programs when attending DMACC or other Iowa community colleges, plus federal aid through FAFSA. Some local employers like those in the ISU Research Park offer tuition reimbursement for trade programs relevant to their operations. DMACC's Ankeny campus also offers specific scholarships for trade program students from surrounding counties.
About Trade Schools in Ames
Ames, Iowa 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.