Trade Schools in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Kirkwood Community College is the premier trade school in Eastern Iowa, offering comprehensive career training programs with exceptional job placement rates. The college features state-of-the-art facilities including a 45,000-square-foot automotive technology center, advanced welding labs, and modern HVAC training facilities. Kirkwood maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers like Collins Aerospace, General Mills, and various construction firms, ensuring graduates are job-ready. Programs lead to industry certifications and apprenticeships, with many offering hands-on co-op experiences. The college boasts a 94% job placement rate for career program graduates and has been recognized as one of the top community colleges in the nation for trade education.

While located in nearby Lisle, Illinois, UTI serves the Cedar Rapids region with specialized transportation and skilled trades training. The campus features manufacturer-specific training programs with partners like Ford, BMW, and Cummins, providing students with direct pathways to dealership and industry positions. The 180,000-square-foot facility includes advanced diagnostic equipment, welding bays, and diesel technology labs. UTI maintains strong recruitment relationships with Iowa employers and offers comprehensive financial aid and career services. Graduates earn multiple industry certifications and benefit from a nationwide employer network, with many securing positions at Iowa-based companies like Kenworth of Cedar Rapids and various manufacturing facilities.

Empire Beauty School provides specialized cosmetology and beauty trade education in the heart of Cedar Rapids. The school offers comprehensive training in hair styling, coloring, skincare, and nail technology using industry-standard equipment and techniques. Students gain hands-on experience in the on-site salon serving the public, preparing them for immediate employment upon licensure. The program includes business and marketing training to help graduates succeed as salon professionals or entrepreneurs. Empire maintains relationships with local salons and spas for job placement, and many graduates secure positions at established Cedar Rapids salons like Salon Voux, Studio Z, and various resort spas throughout Eastern Iowa.