The Best Trade Schools in Olds, Iowa
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Olds.
Top Trade Schools in Olds
Scott Community College - Urban Campus
Eastern Iowa Community Colleges
Scott Community College, part of the Eastern Iowa Community Colleges system, serves eastern Iowa with comprehensive trade programs and strong industry partnerships. The college offers hands-on training in high-demand fields with programs designed in consultation with local employers. Their Industrial Maintenance program covers mechanical systems, fluid power, and industrial electricity, while the Automotive Technology program provides ASE certification preparation. The college features modern labs with industry-standard equipment and offers apprenticeship opportunities with local unions and employers. With multiple start dates throughout the year and flexible scheduling options, Scott Community College provides accessible trade education with proven employment outcomes in manufacturing, construction, and service industries.
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Southeastern Community College - West Burlington Campus
Southeastern Community College
Southeastern Community College's West Burlington campus serves southeast Iowa with comprehensive trade programs featuring modern facilities and industry-standard equipment. The college maintains strong partnerships with local employers and boasts high job placement rates. Programs include hands-on welding training with AWS certifications, automotive technology with ASE preparation, and electrical technology meeting national standards. The college offers flexible scheduling with both day and evening classes, financial aid options, and career placement assistance. Their welding program is particularly renowned in the region with graduates finding employment in manufacturing, construction, and industrial sectors.
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Indian Hills Community College - Ottumwa Campus
Indian Hills Community College
Indian Hills Community College provides extensive trade education serving southern Iowa with state-of-the-art training facilities. The college offers certificate and diploma programs designed for rapid entry into skilled trades. Their Advanced Welding Technology program includes pipe welding, structural welding, and robotic welding training with multiple AWS certifications. The HVAC-R program prepares students for EPA 608 certification while the Construction Technology program covers residential and commercial building techniques. Indian Hills maintains strong industry connections with local manufacturers and construction firms, resulting in excellent job placement rates exceeding 90% for many trade programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools offering in-person programs for residents of Olds, Iowa?
The primary options for Olds residents are Southeastern Community College's West Burlington Campus (about 30 miles away) and Indian Hills Community College's Ottumwa Campus (about 40 miles away). These colleges offer programs like Welding, Automotive Technology, HVAC, and Electrical Technology, with many designed for commuter students from surrounding rural communities like Olds.
Which trade programs in the Olds, IA area have the strongest connections to local employers?
Programs like Industrial Maintenance, Welding Technology, and Construction Technology at Southeastern Community College and Indian Hills Community College have established partnerships with regional manufacturers, agricultural operations, and construction firms in Southeast Iowa. These connections often lead to internship opportunities and direct hiring pathways for graduates from Henry County and surrounding areas.
Are there any hybrid or online trade program options available for students in Olds who can't commute daily?
Yes, several programs offer hybrid formats. For example, Scott Community College's Urban Campus (about 70 miles away) offers some online theory components paired with scheduled hands-on labs. Additionally, some Electrical Technology and HVAC-R programs at nearby colleges have flexible scheduling options designed for working adults in rural communities like Olds.
What financial aid or scholarship opportunities are specifically available for trade students from Olds, Iowa?
Beyond federal aid, Olds residents can apply for the Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship which covers tuition for high-demand programs like Advanced Welding, Electrical Systems, and Plumbing at Iowa community colleges. Additionally, local organizations like the Henry County Community Foundation and area agricultural cooperatives often offer scholarships specifically for trade students from the county.
What certification exams can I prepare for through trade programs accessible from Olds, and where are testing centers located?
Programs at nearby colleges prepare students for certifications like AWS (American Welding Society) welding certifications, EPA 608 HVAC certification, ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) exams, and electrical licensing exams. Testing is typically available at the colleges themselves or at approved testing centers in Burlington, Ottumwa, and Mount Pleasant—all within reasonable driving distance from Olds.
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About Trade Schools in Olds
Olds, 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.