The Best Trade Schools in Hiawatha, Kansas
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Hiawatha.
Top Trade Schools in Hiawatha
Kaw Area Technical School
Kaw Area Technical School
Kaw Area Technical School is a highly-regarded institution serving northeast Kansas with comprehensive trade programs. The school maintains exceptional job placement rates (over 90% in many programs) and offers industry-recognized certifications. Their welding program is particularly renowned with state-of-the-art facilities and AWS certification preparation. Programs feature hands-on training with experienced instructors who maintain current industry knowledge. Financial aid options and career placement services make this a top choice for Hiawatha area residents seeking quality trade education within reasonable commuting distance.
Programs Offered:
Manhattan Area Technical College
Manhattan Area Technical College
Manhattan Area Technical College serves as a premier trade school for the broader northeast Kansas region, including Hiawatha. The college boasts exceptional training facilities with industry-standard equipment and maintains strong partnerships with local employers. Their HVAC program includes EPA certification preparation, while electrical programs prepare students for journeyman licensing. The institution consistently achieves high graduate satisfaction and employment rates, with many programs offering paid internships and direct job placement assistance. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from qualified instructors.
Programs Offered:
Vatterott College
Vatterott Educational Centers
While located in the Kansas City metropolitan area, Vatterott College serves students from across the Kansas-Missouri border region including Hiawatha. The college offers comprehensive trade programs with strong emphasis on hands-on, practical training. Their electrical technology program includes preparation for Missouri and Kansas licensing exams, and HVAC programs include EPA 608 certification. The institution maintains modern training facilities and provides career services support. Despite being farther from Hiawatha, their flexible scheduling options and established reputation make them a viable choice for dedicated students seeking quality trade education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Hiawatha, KS, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Hiawatha include Kaw Area Technical School in Topeka (about 60 miles away) and Manhattan Area Technical College in Manhattan (about 85 miles away). These schools offer programs highly relevant to the local economy, including Welding Technology, Automotive Technology, Electrical Technology, HVAC, Carpentry, and Plumbing. Some students may also consider Vatterott College, though it has locations further away in Wichita or online options.
Are there any local apprenticeship opportunities in Hiawatha, KS, for trade school graduates?
Yes, Hiawatha and surrounding Brown County have apprenticeship opportunities through local unions, contractors, and manufacturers, particularly in trades like electrical work, plumbing, and welding. Graduates from nearby programs at Kaw Area Technical School often find placements with regional employers such as local construction firms, agricultural equipment manufacturers, and maintenance departments at facilities like the Hiawatha Community Hospital.
What certifications are most valuable for trade professionals in the Hiawatha, KS area?
In the Hiawatha region, certifications like EPA 608 for HVAC technicians, NCCER credentials for construction trades, and AWS welding certifications are highly valuable. For automotive technicians, ASE certifications are sought after by local repair shops and dealerships. These credentials are often integrated into programs at nearby schools like Kaw Area Technical School and can significantly boost employment prospects with local employers.
How does the local job market in Hiawatha, KS, support trade school graduates?
The Hiawatha area has steady demand for skilled tradespeople due to its agricultural base, aging infrastructure, and need for residential and commercial services. Graduates in HVAC, electrical, and plumbing find opportunities with local contractors, while welding and automotive technicians are needed by farming operations, manufacturing plants, and repair shops. The cost of living in Brown County also makes it feasible to build a stable career with a trade school education.
Can I complete any trade school programs online while living in Hiawatha, KS, or is in-person training required?
While most hands-on trade programs require in-person training for practical skills, some schools like Vatterott College offer hybrid or online options for certain theory-based components. However, programs like welding, automotive repair, and HVAC at nearby schools such as Kaw Area Technical School typically require campus attendance for labs and workshops. Many Hiawatha residents commute to Topeka or Manhattan for training, with some programs offering flexible schedules for working students.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Hiawatha
Hiawatha, 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.