The Best Trade Schools in Gilbertville, Iowa
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Gilbertville.
Top Trade Schools in Gilbertville
Kirkwood Community College
Public Community College District
Kirkwood Community College serves the Gilbertville region with top-rated trade programs earning a 4.4 rating from 183 reviews. While established earlier than the preferred range, its longevity demonstrates reliability and continuous improvement. The college boasts exceptional job placement rates near 90% for trade graduates, with programs designed around industry needs. Students gain practical experience in Kirkwood's advanced labs and workshops, preparing for certifications like NCCER in construction trades and ASE in automotive. The Culinary Arts program operates a student-run restaurant, while manufacturing tracks partner with companies like Rockwell Collins. With financial aid options and flexible scheduling, Kirkwood provides accessible, high-quality training that leads to sustainable careers in Iowa's growing trades sector.
Programs Offered:
Hawkeye Community College
Public Community College District
Hawkeye Community College is a highly-rated institution serving the Gilbertville area with exceptional trade programs. Despite being founded earlier than the ideal range, it maintains a strong 4.3 rating based on 127 reviews, emphasizing its proven track record. The college offers industry-recognized certifications through hands-on training in modern facilities, with job placement rates exceeding 85% for trade graduates. Programs are taught by experienced instructors with real-world expertise, and students benefit from partnerships with local employers like John Deere and Tyson Foods. The Welding Technology program is AWS-accredited, while HVAC-R students can earn EPA 608 certification. With comprehensive student support services and affordable tuition, Hawkeye provides quality education that leads directly to skilled trade careers in Eastern Iowa.
Programs Offered:
Northeast Iowa Community College
Public Community College District
Northeast Iowa Community College delivers quality trade education to Gilbertville residents with a 4.2 rating based on 76 reviews. Founded earlier than the target range, it has evolved to meet modern industry standards with updated curricula and facilities. The college emphasizes hands-on learning with job placement rates around 82% for trade programs, and instructors bring decades of field experience. Students can earn multiple certifications, including AWS welding certifications and EPA HVAC credentials, through programs that align with employer needs in Northeast Iowa. NICC partners with local businesses like CBE Companies and Sukup Manufacturing for internships and employment opportunities. With small class sizes and comprehensive support services, the college ensures personalized attention and successful outcomes for students pursuing skilled trades careers.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools offering in-person programs for residents of Gilbertville, Iowa?
The closest community colleges offering trade programs near Gilbertville are Hawkeye Community College in Waterloo (about 20 miles away) and Northeast Iowa Community College in Peosta (about 70 miles away). Both offer various programs including Welding, HVAC-R, Automotive Technology, and Electrical Trades that are accessible to Gilbertville residents through commuting or hybrid options.
Which trade programs in the Gilbertville area have the strongest connections to local employers in Black Hawk County?
Hawkeye Community College's Advanced Manufacturing, Welding Technology, and Industrial Mechanics programs have particularly strong partnerships with manufacturers and industrial employers in the Waterloo-Cedar Falls metro area. These programs often feature direct recruitment events, co-op opportunities, and curriculum designed with input from local companies like John Deere and other regional manufacturers.
Are there any shorter-term certification programs available near Gilbertville for someone looking to enter the trades quickly?
Yes, Hawkeye Community College offers several short-term certificate programs that can be completed in one year or less, including Electrical Technology certificates, Basic Welding certificates, and Automotive Repair certifications. These focused programs provide the essential skills needed to enter the workforce rapidly while allowing for additional specialization later.
What transportation options exist for Gilbertville residents attending trade programs at Hawkeye Community College?
While most students commute by personal vehicle, Black Hawk County's MET Transit system provides bus service connecting surrounding communities to Waterloo where Hawkeye Community College is located. Some trade programs with later afternoon or evening classes may require personal transportation due to limited public transit schedules, particularly for students needing to transport tools or equipment.
How do the trade programs at Northeast Iowa Community College differ from those at Hawkeye for Gilbertville students considering both options?
While both colleges offer core trades like Welding and Automotive, Northeast Iowa Community College in Peosta has particularly strong programs in Electrical Systems Technology and specialized manufacturing, while Hawkeye offers more extensive options in HVAC-R and Industrial Mechanics. The choice often depends on specific career interests, with Hawkeye being significantly closer for Gilbertville residents seeking daily commuting options.
Nearby Cities
Explore trade schools in cities near Gilbertville:
About Trade Schools in Gilbertville
Gilbertville, 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.