The Best Trade Schools in Gilmore City, Iowa
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Gilmore City.
Top Trade Schools in Gilmore City
PCI Academy - Ames Campus
PCI Academy
PCI Academy's Ames campus has established itself as a top-tier cosmetology school serving Central Iowa with exceptional training quality and outstanding graduate outcomes. The school features modern facilities with industry-leading equipment and maintains a 95% licensure exam pass rate. Students train under master educators with extensive salon experience and benefit from the academy's strong industry connections with premium salon brands. The comprehensive curriculum includes advanced techniques in hair coloring, cutting, skincare, and business management. Graduates consistently secure positions at high-end salons throughout Iowa, with many opening their own businesses. The academy offers flexible scheduling and financial aid options that accommodate students commuting from Gilmore City and surrounding communities.
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Des Moines Area Community College - Automotive Training Center
DMACC
DMACC is one of Iowa's most respected community college systems with specialized automotive and diesel technology programs that serve students statewide. The Automotive Training Center features industry-standard equipment and manufacturer partnerships with Ford, GM, Chrysler, and Toyota. Students benefit from ASE-certified instructors with extensive industry experience and earn multiple industry certifications throughout their program. The college maintains a 90%+ job placement rate for automotive graduates, with many securing positions at dealerships, fleet operations, and repair facilities across Iowa. While located in Des Moines, the program actively serves students from rural communities like Gilmore City through housing options and financial aid packages.
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Iowa Central Community College - Fort Dodge Campus
Iowa Central Community College
Iowa Central Community College has been a premier trade education institution serving North Central Iowa for over 55 years. The Fort Dodge campus offers comprehensive career and technical programs with state-of-the-art facilities including a dedicated welding lab with 40+ stations, advanced automotive technology center, and modern HVAC training equipment. The college maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers like Cargill, CJ Bio America, and various construction firms, resulting in exceptional job placement rates exceeding 85%. Programs lead to industry-recognized certifications and apprenticeships, with many graduates securing employment before completion. The college serves Gilmore City residents through convenient commuting distance and flexible scheduling options.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade school options for someone living in Gilmore City, Iowa, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade school options for Gilmore City residents are Iowa Central Community College's Fort Dodge Campus (about 20 miles away) and Des Moines Area Community College's Automotive Training Center in Ankeny (about 90 miles away). These schools offer programs like Welding Technology, Automotive Technology, HVAC, Electrical Technology, Diesel Mechanics, and Industrial Technology, providing practical training for in-demand careers.
Are there any cosmetology or beauty trade schools accessible from Gilmore City, Iowa?
Yes, PCI Academy's Ames Campus (approximately 80 miles from Gilmore City) offers cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology, barbering, and makeup artistry programs. While Gilmore City itself doesn't have a beauty school, residents can commute to nearby cities for state-approved cosmetology training that leads to Iowa licensure.
What local industries in the Gilmore City, Iowa area hire graduates from trade school programs?
Graduates from trade programs in this region find employment in agriculture-related industries, manufacturing facilities, construction companies, automotive repair shops, and transportation/logistics operations throughout Pocahontas County and surrounding areas. The strong agricultural and industrial base in North Central Iowa creates consistent demand for skilled tradespeople in welding, diesel mechanics, HVAC, and electrical fields.
Can I complete trade certifications while working in Gilmore City, Iowa, through part-time or evening programs?
Yes, Iowa Central Community College's Fort Dodge Campus offers flexible scheduling options including evening and part-time programs for many trades. This allows Gilmore City residents to maintain employment while earning certifications in fields like welding, electrical technology, or automotive maintenance. Some programs also offer hybrid online/in-person components to reduce commute time.
What transportation or housing options exist for Gilmore City residents attending trade schools in Fort Dodge or Ames?
Many Gilmore City students commute to Fort Dodge (20-25 minute drive) for programs at Iowa Central Community College, while those attending schools in Ames typically arrange carpooling or consider temporary housing. Some programs offer condensed schedules to minimize travel, and financial aid often includes transportation allowances for qualifying students attending approved trade programs.
Nearby Cities
Explore trade schools in cities near Gilmore City:
About Trade Schools in Gilmore City
Gilmore City, 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.