The Best Trade Schools in Blakesburg, Iowa
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Blakesburg.
Top Trade Schools in Blakesburg
Universal Technical Institute - Des Moines Campus
Universal Technical Institute
Universal Technical Institute is a nationally recognized leader in transportation and skilled trades education with over 220,000 graduates. The Des Moines campus offers comprehensive programs developed with manufacturer partners including Ford, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. Students receive intensive hands-on training in modern facilities with the latest diagnostic equipment and technology. UTI maintains exceptional industry relationships leading to strong employment outcomes, with many students receiving job offers before graduation. Programs include manufacturer-specific advanced training and multiple industry certifications. Financial aid options and career placement services are comprehensive, with graduates working at dealerships, repair shops, and industrial facilities throughout Iowa.
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Indian Hills Community College - Ottumwa Campus
Indian Hills Community College
Indian Hills Community College is a comprehensive community college serving southeast Iowa with exceptional trade programs. The Ottumwa campus offers state-of-the-art facilities including a 25,000 square foot Advanced Technology Center with modern welding labs, automotive bays, and HVAC training equipment. Programs feature hands-on training with industry-standard equipment, strong industry partnerships with local employers, and high job placement rates exceeding 85% for trade graduates. Students earn industry-recognized certifications and can pursue associate degrees or shorter certificate programs. The college maintains articulation agreements with four-year institutions and provides comprehensive career services.
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Vatterott College - Des Moines Campus
Vatterott Educational Centers
Vatterott College has been providing quality trade education for over four decades with a strong focus on hands-on technical training. The Des Moines campus features modern labs and workshops where students train on current industry equipment. Programs are designed with input from industry professionals and lead to multiple certifications. The college boasts strong job placement assistance with dedicated career services staff and maintains relationships with local employers throughout Iowa. Students benefit from small class sizes, experienced instructors with industry backgrounds, and flexible scheduling options including day and evening classes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade school options for residents of Blakesburg, Iowa, and what programs do they offer?
The closest major trade schools for Blakesburg residents are Indian Hills Community College's Ottumwa Campus (about 15 miles away) and several campuses in Des Moines (roughly 90 miles away), including Vatterott College and Universal Technical Institute. Indian Hills offers local programs like Welding Technology, Automotive Technology, HVAC, and Electrical Technology, while the Des Moines schools provide additional options such as Diesel Technology and Collision Repair.
Are there any local apprenticeship opportunities in Blakesburg, IA, that complement trade school programs?
Yes, Blakesburg and surrounding areas in Wapello County have apprenticeship opportunities through local unions, contractors, and manufacturers, particularly in trades like electrical work, plumbing, and welding. These are often coordinated with programs at Indian Hills Community College, allowing students to earn while they learn and gain hands-on experience close to home.
What certifications can I earn through trade programs at Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa that are in demand locally?
Indian Hills Community College offers industry-recognized certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society) certification for welders, EPA Section 608 certification for HVAC technicians, and ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications for automotive techs. These credentials are highly valued by local employers in manufacturing, agriculture, and construction throughout Southern Iowa.
How do trade school programs in the Blakesburg area connect with local employers for job placement?
Schools like Indian Hills Community College have strong relationships with regional employers such as John Deere Ottumwa Works, Cargill, and local construction firms. They offer career services, job fairs, and co-op programs specifically tailored to place graduates in Southern Iowa. Many programs also include externships with nearby businesses to facilitate direct hiring.
What financial aid or scholarship options are available specifically for Blakesburg, IA, residents attending trade schools?
Blakesburg residents can access federal aid (FAFSA), Iowa Tuition Grants, and scholarships through Indian Hills Community College's foundation, which includes awards for specific trades. Additionally, local organizations like the Blakesburg Community Club and Wapello County Development sometimes offer scholarships for vocational training, especially in high-need fields like skilled trades and healthcare support.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Blakesburg
Blakesburg, 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.