The Best Trade Schools in Solon, Iowa
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Solon.
Top Trade Schools in Solon
Aveda Institute Des Moines
Aveda Corporation
While located in Des Moines, Aveda Institute serves students from throughout Iowa, including the Solon area, with premium cosmetology and wellness trade education. The institute maintains exceptional placement rates in high-end salons and spas, with graduates consistently securing positions in the beauty industry. The curriculum combines Aveda's distinctive wellness approach with comprehensive technical training, preparing students for state licensing and successful careers. Known for its modern facilities, experienced instructors, and strong industry connections, this institution represents one of Iowa's top options for beauty and wellness trade education with proven graduate success.
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Kirkwood Community College - Main Campus
Kirkwood Community College
Kirkwood Community College is one of Iowa's premier trade and technical education institutions, serving the Solon area with comprehensive career training programs. The college boasts exceptional job placement rates exceeding 90% for many trades programs and maintains strong industry partnerships with major Iowa employers. Students receive hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities, with programs leading to industry certifications and associate degrees. Kirkwood's extensive network of employer connections and career services ensures graduates are well-prepared for immediate employment in high-demand skilled trades throughout Eastern Iowa.
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Iowa City Job Corps Center
Management & Training Corporation
The Iowa City Job Corps Center provides no-cost career technical training to young adults in the Solon area, offering intensive trade programs with exceptional job placement outcomes. The center features comprehensive hands-on training facilities and maintains strong relationships with local unions and employers. Students earn industry-recognized certifications while receiving extensive career readiness training, housing, and support services. With a focus on preparing students for apprenticeships and direct employment, this federally-funded program has established itself as a reliable pathway to skilled trades careers in Eastern Iowa.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade school options for residents of Solon, Iowa, and what programs do they offer?
The closest major trade school to Solon is Kirkwood Community College's main campus in Cedar Rapids, about 20 miles away, offering programs like Welding Technology, HVAC, Electrical Technology, Automotive Technology, and Culinary Arts. The Iowa City Job Corps Center, roughly 15 miles south, provides training in Carpentry, Painting, Plumbing, and Electrical trades. For cosmetology fields, the Aveda Institute in Des Moines is an option, though farther away.
Are there any local apprenticeship opportunities in Solon, IA, for trades like electrical or plumbing?
Yes, Solon residents can access apprenticeship programs through local unions and contractors in the Iowa City/Cedar Rapids corridor, often in partnership with Kirkwood Community College. The Eastern Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors Association and IBEW Local 405 in Cedar Rapids are key organizations that sponsor apprenticeships, combining paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction at nearby trade schools.
What financial aid or scholarship options are available for Solon students attending trade schools in Iowa?
Solon students can apply for federal aid via the FAFSA at schools like Kirkwood Community College and may qualify for Iowa's Last-Dollar Scholarship, which covers tuition gaps for high-demand programs like welding and HVAC. Additionally, many local trade unions and industry associations, such as those in the Cedar Rapids area, offer scholarships specifically for apprentices entering construction and manufacturing trades.
Which trade certifications are in highest demand by employers in the Solon and greater Johnson County area?
In the Solon region, certifications in Welding (AWS), HVAC (EPA 608), and Electrical (Journeyman license) are highly sought after due to strong manufacturing and construction sectors. Commercial Driver's License (CDL) certification is also in demand for logistics roles, supported by training at Kirkwood and local trucking companies. These credentials align with major employers in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and nearby industrial parks.
Can I complete a trade program part-time while living in Solon, and are online/hybrid options available?
Yes, Kirkwood Community College offers flexible part-time, evening, and hybrid courses for many trades, such as Electrical Technology and HVAC, allowing Solon residents to balance work and training. Some theoretical components may be online, but hands-on labs typically require attendance at the Cedar Rapids campus or designated satellite locations. The Iowa City Job Corps Center also provides full-time, immersive training with residential options if needed.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Solon
Solon, 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.