The Best Trade Schools in Latimer, Iowa
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Latimer.
Top Trade Schools in Latimer
Des Moines Area Community College - Ankeny Campus
DMACC
DMACC's Ankeny Campus serves central Iowa including the Latimer region with one of the state's most comprehensive trade school programs. The campus features extensive technical education facilities including multiple automotive technology bays, construction labs, and advanced welding facilities. Programs are designed with industry input and lead to certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees. The college maintains a 90%+ job placement rate in technical programs and offers extensive financial aid options. DMACC has strong relationships with Iowa employers and provides career placement services, apprenticeship programs, and continuing education for working professionals.
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Iowa Central Community College - Fort Dodge Campus
Iowa Central Community College
Iowa Central Community College operates a comprehensive trade school program at their Fort Dodge campus, serving north-central Iowa including Latimer. The college offers extensive career and technical education programs with state-of-the-art facilities, including a modern welding lab with 40+ stations, fully-equipped automotive repair shops, and HVAC training facilities. Programs lead to industry certifications and associate degrees, with strong job placement rates exceeding 85% in technical fields. The college maintains partnerships with regional employers for apprenticeship opportunities and has been recognized for excellence in career technical education.
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Hawkeye Community College
Hawkeye Community College District
Hawkeye Community College serves eastern Iowa including the Latimer area with comprehensive trade and technical programs. The college features advanced training facilities including a 16,000-square-foot industrial technologies center with modern welding equipment, automotive diagnostic technology, and HVAC-R training systems. Programs emphasize hands-on learning with industry-standard equipment and lead to multiple certifications. The college maintains strong industry partnerships with companies like John Deere, Tyson Foods, and regional construction firms, resulting in high job placement rates. Financial aid and apprenticeship pathways are available.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Latimer, Iowa, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Latimer, Iowa, are Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge (about 30 miles away) and Hawkeye Community College in Waterloo (about 60 miles away). These schools offer programs like Welding Technology, Automotive Technology, HVAC, Electrical Technology, Carpentry, and Plumbing, providing hands-on training for in-demand trades in North Central Iowa.
Are there any local apprenticeship programs in Latimer, Iowa, for trades like electrical or plumbing?
While Latimer itself is a small town, residents can access apprenticeship programs through regional trade unions and contractors in nearby cities like Fort Dodge, Mason City, and Waterloo. These programs often partner with Iowa Central Community College or Hawkeye Community College, combining classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training to earn certifications in electrical, plumbing, and construction trades.
What trade certifications are most in-demand for job opportunities in the Latimer, Iowa area?
In the Latimer region, certifications in Welding (AWS), HVAC-R (EPA 608), Electrical (NCCER), and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) are highly sought after. Local agricultural, manufacturing, and construction industries value these credentials, and programs at Iowa Central Community College specifically prepare students for these certifications to meet regional employer needs.
Can I complete a trade program part-time while working in Latimer, Iowa?
Yes, both Iowa Central Community College and Hawkeye Community College offer flexible scheduling options, including evening, weekend, and hybrid online/in-person classes for many trade programs. This allows Latimer residents to balance work commitments while training in fields like Automotive Repair, Construction Technology, or Industrial Systems, with some programs offering accelerated pathways.
What financial aid or scholarship opportunities are available for Latimer, Iowa residents attending trade school?
Latimer residents can apply for federal financial aid (FAFSA), Iowa Tuition Grants, and institution-specific scholarships at schools like Iowa Central Community College. Additionally, many trade programs qualify for the Last Dollar Scholarship through Iowa's Future Ready Iowa initiative, which covers tuition gaps for high-demand fields like HVAC, Welding, and Electrical Trades after other aid is applied.
About Trade Schools in Latimer
Latimer, 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.