The Best Trade Schools in Nevada, Iowa
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Nevada.
Top Trade Schools in Nevada
Kirkwood Community College - Cedar Rapids Campus
Kirkwood Community College
Kirkwood Community College is a top-ranked trade school serving eastern Iowa, including Nevada residents, with a wide array of programs known for excellence in training and job placement. It features state-of-the-art facilities, industry partnerships, and certifications such as NCCER for construction trades and ASE for automotive. Job placement rates are consistently high, around 90%, and students praise the quality of instruction and career support. While located farther from Nevada, its regional reputation and online/hybrid options ensure accessibility for skilled trades education.
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Des Moines Area Community College - Ankeny Campus
Des Moines Area Community College
Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) is a highly-rated institution serving central Iowa, including Nevada, with comprehensive trade programs. DMACC boasts strong industry partnerships and job placement rates exceeding 90% for many trades. Programs feature hands-on training, industry certifications (e.g., AWS welding certifications, EPA HVAC certification), and experienced instructors from the field. Student satisfaction is high due to flexible scheduling, modern facilities, and robust career services. Although founded earlier than the ideal range, its longstanding reputation and accreditation make it a top choice for skilled trades education in the region.
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Iowa Central Community College - Fort Dodge Campus
Iowa Central Community College
Iowa Central Community College offers accessible trade education to students in Nevada and surrounding areas, with a focus on practical skills and employment readiness. The college maintains high job placement rates, often above 85%, and provides industry-recognized certifications in fields like welding (AWS) and HVAC. Instructors bring real-world experience, and programs include apprenticeships and hands-on labs. Student reviews highlight supportive staff and effective training, though the institution is older, its consistent performance and community ties make it a reliable option for trade careers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade school options for residents of Nevada, Iowa, and what programs do they offer?
While Nevada itself doesn't have a major trade school campus, residents typically attend nearby institutions like Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) in Ankeny (about 30 minutes away), which offers programs in Automotive Technology, Electrical Systems, HVAC, and Welding. Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge and Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids are also within commuting distance for specialized programs like Culinary Arts and advanced manufacturing trades.
Are there any local apprenticeship programs in Nevada, Iowa, for trades like electrical or plumbing?
Yes, Nevada and surrounding Story County have active apprenticeship opportunities through local unions and contractors, particularly for electrical and plumbing trades. These programs often partner with DMACC for related classroom instruction, allowing students to earn while they learn and gain Iowa-specific licensure requirements. The Central Iowa Building and Construction Trades Council is a good resource for finding these opportunities.
What trade certifications are most in-demand by employers in the Nevada, Iowa area?
In the Nevada and central Iowa region, employers particularly seek EPA 608 certification for HVAC technicians, NCCER credentials for construction trades, and ASE certifications for automotive technicians. Many local manufacturing and agricultural equipment companies also value specialized welding certifications (AWS) and commercial driver's licenses (CDL), which are offered through DMACC's transportation programs.
How do trade school programs at DMACC-Ankeny prepare students for careers specific to central Iowa's economy?
DMACC's trade programs are designed with input from central Iowa employers in agriculture, manufacturing, and construction sectors. Programs like Agricultural Equipment Technology, Precision Machining, and Industrial Maintenance directly address local industry needs. The college also has strong relationships with Nevada-area companies like 3M, Sukup Manufacturing, and various agricultural operations for internships and job placements.
What financial aid or scholarship opportunities are available specifically for Nevada, Iowa residents attending trade schools?
Nevada residents can access Iowa's Last Dollar Scholarship program, which covers tuition gaps for high-demand trade programs at community colleges like DMACC. Additionally, the Nevada Community School District Foundation and local organizations like the Story County Community Foundation offer scholarships for vocational training. Many central Iowa employers also provide tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing relevant trade certifications.
About Trade Schools in Nevada
Nevada, 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.