The Best Trade Schools in Durham, Kansas
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Durham.
Top Trade Schools in Durham
North Central Kansas Technical College
NCK Tech
North Central Kansas Technical College is a premier technical institution serving northern Kansas with exceptional trade programs. The college offers comprehensive welding programs with certification preparation, advanced automotive technology training featuring modern diagnostic equipment, and extensive electrical and HVAC programs that lead to industry certifications. NCK Tech boasts exceptional job placement rates exceeding 90% and maintains strong relationships with regional employers. The institution features modern training facilities, experienced faculty with industry backgrounds, and financial aid options for qualified students.
Programs Offered:
Wichita Technical Institute
WTI Management
Wichita Technical Institute is a highly-regarded trade school serving central Kansas with comprehensive technical training programs. The institute features modern welding labs with MIG, TIG, and stick welding equipment, state-of-the-art HVAC training facilities with working commercial systems, and extensive electrical technology programs that prepare students for residential and commercial electrical work. With strong industry partnerships and high job placement rates, WTI graduates are sought after by regional employers. The school maintains small class sizes with industry-experienced instructors and offers flexible scheduling options for working students.
Programs Offered:
Salina Area Technical College
Salina Tech
Salina Area Technical College provides high-quality technical education serving central Kansas with rigorous trade programs designed for immediate workforce entry. The college features comprehensive welding technology programs with multiple certification pathways, advanced HVAC/R training with hands-on commercial system experience, and electrical technology programs that prepare students for residential and industrial electrical work. Salina Tech maintains strong industry connections with local employers and boasts excellent job placement records. The institution offers flexible scheduling, small class sizes, and experienced instructors who bring real-world expertise to the classroom.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Durham, Kansas for hands-on training programs?
The closest trade schools to Durham, KS are North Central Kansas Technical College in Beloit (about 30 miles away) and Salina Area Technical College in Salina (approximately 40 miles away). Wichita Technical Institute in Wichita is also accessible for Durham residents seeking more specialized programs, though it's a longer commute at around 100 miles.
Which trade programs in the Durham area have the strongest local job placement rates?
Programs like Welding Technology, HVAC/R Technology, and Electrical Technology at North Central Kansas Technical College consistently show strong job placement rates in the region. Local agricultural equipment manufacturers, construction firms, and maintenance companies in central Kansas actively recruit graduates from these programs, creating steady demand for skilled tradespeople.
Are there any specialized certifications available through Durham-area trade schools that are particularly valuable for Kansas employers?
Yes, HVAC/R programs at both North Central Kansas Technical College and Salina Area Technical College offer EPA 608 certification for refrigerant handling, which is essential for Kansas HVAC technicians. Welding programs provide American Welding Society (AWS) certifications that are highly valued by local manufacturing and agricultural equipment companies throughout central Kansas.
What transportation or housing options exist for Durham residents attending trade schools in Beloit or Salina?
Many Durham students commute daily to Beloit or Salina, as both are within reasonable driving distance. North Central Kansas Technical College in Beloit offers limited on-campus housing, while Salina Area Technical College has partnerships with local apartment complexes. Some students also participate in carpool arrangements with classmates from surrounding rural communities.
How do trade school programs near Durham, KS connect students with apprenticeship opportunities in the region?
Local trade schools maintain strong relationships with central Kansas employers through advisory boards and job placement services. Programs like Electrical Technology and Plumbing at Salina Area Technical College often lead directly to apprenticeships with licensed contractors in Salina and surrounding counties. Many graduates secure positions with local union chapters or established trade companies before completing their programs.
Nearby Cities
Explore trade schools in cities near Durham:
About Trade Schools in Durham
Durham, Kansas 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.