The Best Trade Schools in Fulton, Kansas
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Fulton.
Top Trade Schools in Fulton
Pittsburg State University - College of Technology
Pittsburg State University
Pittsburg State University's College of Technology is one of the premier trade and technical education institutions in Southeast Kansas, serving students from Fulton and surrounding areas. The university offers comprehensive career-focused programs with state-of-the-art facilities including advanced welding labs, automotive technology centers, and construction management programs. Students benefit from industry partnerships, high job placement rates (over 90% in many technical programs), and opportunities to earn multiple industry certifications. The institution has a long-standing reputation for producing skilled trades professionals with hands-on training from experienced instructors.
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Universal Technical Institute - Kansas City Campus
Universal Technical Institute
Universal Technical Institute's Kansas City campus serves students from throughout Kansas, including the Fulton area, with industry-leading technical education programs. UTI partners with major manufacturers including Ford, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo to provide manufacturer-specific advanced training. The campus features extensive automotive and diesel technology labs, comprehensive welding facilities, and collision repair training centers. Students benefit from high job placement rates (over 80% campus-wide), industry-recognized certifications, and career services that connect graduates with employers nationwide. The institution has trained over 220,000 technicians since its founding.
Programs Offered:
Fort Scott Community College - Technical Education
Fort Scott Community College
Fort Scott Community College provides extensive technical education programs serving the Fulton area with comprehensive trade training. The college features modern welding facilities with multiple certification pathways, complete automotive technology programs with ASE-certified instruction, and construction trades training. Students benefit from small class sizes, hands-on learning environments, and strong industry connections throughout Southeast Kansas. The institution maintains excellent job placement rates, particularly in welding and automotive fields, with many graduates securing employment before completing their programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Fulton, KS, and what are their specialties?
The closest trade schools to Fulton include Pittsburg State University's College of Technology (about 30 miles away), Fort Scott Community College's Technical Education programs (about 25 miles away), and Universal Technical Institute's Kansas City campus (about 90 miles away). These schools offer specialties like Automotive Technology, Welding, Construction Management, HVAC, and Diesel Technology, with Pittsburg State being particularly strong in Engineering Technology and Plastics programs.
What local manufacturing or industrial employers in the Fulton area hire graduates from nearby trade programs?
Graduates from Fulton-area trade schools often find employment with local manufacturers like Superior Industries (wheel manufacturing), Bourbon County industries, and regional construction firms. The proximity to Pittsburg and Fort Scott provides access to additional industrial employers who regularly hire skilled tradespeople in welding, machining, and maintenance roles, with many offering apprenticeship-to-employment pathways.
Are there any short-term certification programs available near Fulton for someone looking to enter the workforce quickly?
Yes, Fort Scott Community College offers short-term certifications in areas like Welding Technology, Electrical Systems, and HVAC that can often be completed in one year or less. These programs are designed for quick entry into the local workforce, with many offering flexible scheduling options for working adults in the Fulton area.
What transportation options are available for Fulton residents attending trade schools in Pittsburg or Fort Scott?
Most students from Fulton commute by personal vehicle to nearby trade schools, as public transportation options between these rural communities are limited. Some students carpool with classmates, and Fort Scott Community College occasionally offers shuttle services for specific programs. It's recommended to contact the financial aid offices about potential transportation assistance or fuel stipends for qualifying students.
How do the trade programs at Pittsburg State University differ from those at Fort Scott Community College for Fulton residents?
Pittsburg State University offers more advanced technical degrees (including bachelor's programs) in areas like Construction Management and Engineering Technology, while Fort Scott Community College focuses on associate degrees and certificates in hands-on trades like Welding, HVAC, and Automotive Technology. Fulton residents should consider PSU for management-track technical careers and FSCC for direct skilled trades employment, with both offering strong local industry connections.
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About Trade Schools in Fulton
Fulton, 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.