The Best Trade Schools in Dougherty, Iowa
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Dougherty.
Top Trade Schools in Dougherty
Hawkeye Community College
Hawkeye Community College District
Hawkeye Community College is a comprehensive community college serving north-central Iowa with exceptional trade programs. Their welding program is particularly renowned, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and AWS certification preparation. The college maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers like John Deere and Tyson Foods, resulting in excellent job placement rates exceeding 85% for trade graduates. Programs combine hands-on training with theoretical knowledge, and many offer apprenticeship pathways. Financial aid options are extensive, and the college provides career services that actively connect students with regional employers.
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North Iowa Area Community College
NIACC District
NIACC has been serving northern Iowa for over a century with robust career and technical education programs. Their trade programs feature modern labs and equipment, with HVAC-R and automotive technology being particularly strong. The college maintains articulation agreements with industry partners and offers multiple certification pathways. Job placement assistance is comprehensive, with many students securing positions before graduation. NIACC's small class sizes ensure personalized attention, and their instructors bring extensive industry experience. The college also offers flexible scheduling options for working adults.
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Universal Technical Institute
UTI Division
UTI's Ankeny campus serves central and northern Iowa with industry-leading technical training programs. While located further from Dougherty, they actively recruit and serve students from across the state. Their programs are developed in partnership with major manufacturers like Ford, GM, and BMW, providing manufacturer-specific advanced training. The welding program offers comprehensive training in multiple processes and prepares students for AWS certifications. UTI boasts strong industry connections and dedicated career services, with many graduates placed at dealerships and repair facilities throughout Iowa. Financial aid options and veteran benefits are readily available.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Dougherty, Iowa, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Dougherty include Hawkeye Community College in Waterloo (about 45 minutes away) and North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) in Mason City (about 30 minutes away). These schools offer programs like Welding Technology, Automotive Technology, HVAC, Electrical Technology, Construction Technology, and Industrial Systems, providing hands-on training for in-demand careers in North Iowa.
Are there any local apprenticeship programs in Dougherty or nearby areas for trades like electrical or plumbing?
While Dougherty itself is a small town, nearby cities like Mason City and Waterloo have active apprenticeship programs through local unions and contractors. The North Central Iowa Building Trades Council and local chapters of the IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) and UA (United Association for plumbing) often partner with NIACC and Hawkeye Community College to offer earn-while-you-learn opportunities in electrical, plumbing, and construction trades.
What kind of financial aid or scholarships are available for trade school students from the Dougherty, IA area?
Students from Dougherty can apply for federal financial aid (FAFSA) at both Hawkeye Community College and NIACC. Additionally, local scholarships like the NIACC Foundation scholarships, Cerro Gordo County Community Foundation awards, and industry-specific scholarships from Iowa employers (e.g., John Deere, CBE Companies) are available. Many trade programs also qualify for Iowa's Last-Dollar Scholarship program, which covers tuition gaps for high-demand fields.
Which trade programs in the Dougherty area have the strongest job placement rates with local employers?
Programs like Welding Technology, Diesel Technology, and Industrial Systems at NIACC and Hawkeye Community College have excellent job placement rates due to partnerships with regional employers. Companies like Sukup Manufacturing (Sheffield), CBE Companies (Mason City), and various agricultural equipment dealers in North Iowa actively recruit graduates. These schools often host career fairs specifically for trade students, connecting them directly with local hiring managers.
Can I complete trade certifications while still in high school if I live near Dougherty, Iowa?
Yes, through NIACC's Career Advantage program and Hawkeye Community College's High School Partnership, students from nearby high schools can enroll in dual-credit trade courses. Programs like introductory Welding, Automotive Technology, and Construction Technology are available, allowing students to earn college credits and industry-recognized certifications (e.g., OSHA 10, AWS welding certs) before graduating high school, often at little to no cost.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Dougherty
Dougherty, 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.