The Best Trade Schools in Hill City, Kansas
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Hill City.
Top Trade Schools in Hill City
Northwest Kansas Technical College
Public Technical College
Northwest Kansas Technical College is a highly-regarded public technical college serving western Kansas, including Hill City residents. The college offers comprehensive trade programs with exceptional job placement rates exceeding 90%. Students receive hands-on training in modern facilities with industry-current equipment. Programs lead to multiple industry certifications including AWS welding certifications, ASE automotive certifications, and EPA HVAC certifications. The college maintains strong industry partnerships with regional employers and provides extensive career placement services.
Programs Offered:
Salina Area Technical College
Public Technical College
Salina Area Technical College is a respected technical institution serving central and western Kansas with comprehensive trade programs. The college offers hands-on training in high-demand fields with modern equipment and industry-experienced instructors. Programs include multiple certification opportunities such as EPA 608 certification for HVAC, NCCER credentials for construction trades, and AWS certifications for welding. The college maintains strong employment partnerships and provides comprehensive career placement assistance with high job placement rates for graduates.
Programs Offered:
Fort Hays State University - Technical Education
Fort Hays State University
Fort Hays State University's Department of Technology Studies offers comprehensive trade and technical education programs serving western Kansas communities. The university provides both certificate and degree programs in skilled trades with strong industry connections. Programs feature modern labs, experienced instructors with industry backgrounds, and excellent job placement outcomes. Students benefit from the university's extensive career services and industry partnerships throughout Kansas and neighboring states.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Hill City, KS, and which programs are they best known for?
The closest trade schools to Hill City are Northwest Kansas Technical College in Goodland (about 45 minutes away), Fort Hays State University - Technical Education in Hays (about 1.5 hours away), and Salina Area Technical College in Salina (about 2.5 hours away). Northwest Kansas Tech is particularly well-regarded for its hands-on programs in Automotive Technology, Welding, and Diesel Technology, while Fort Hays State offers strong Construction Management and Industrial Technology programs.
Are there any local apprenticeship opportunities in Hill City, KS, for trades like electrical or plumbing?
Yes, local contractors, construction firms, and agricultural operations in the Hill City area often seek apprentices for electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and welding work. Connecting with the Northwest Kansas Builders Association or checking with the Graham County Economic Development office can help you find registered apprenticeship programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, often in partnership with nearby technical colleges.
Which trade certifications are most in demand by employers in the Hill City, KS, region?
In the Hill City area, certifications in Welding (AWS), HVAC/R (EPA 608), Commercial Driver's License (CDL), and Electrical (NCCER or state licensure) are highly sought after. Due to the strong agricultural and energy sectors in Northwest Kansas, Diesel Technology certifications and heavy equipment operation credentials also offer excellent local job prospects with companies servicing farming, transportation, and oil/gas operations.
Can I complete a trade program at Northwest Kansas Technical College while living in Hill City, and is housing available?
Yes, many students from Hill City commute to Northwest Kansas Technical College in Goodland, as it's the closest dedicated trade school. The college does offer on-campus housing in dormitories for students who prefer not to commute daily. Financial aid, scholarships, and work-study programs are available to help offset costs for Graham County residents pursuing programs like Automotive, Welding, or Electrical Technology.
What are the job placement rates and average starting salaries for trade school graduates in the Hill City, KS, area?
Graduates from nearby trade schools, particularly Northwest Kansas Technical College, often see job placement rates above 90% within six months of graduation. In the Hill City region, starting salaries for skilled tradespeople typically range from $40,000 to $55,000 annually, with experienced welders, diesel technicians, and electricians in the energy, agriculture, and construction sectors earning significantly more with additional certifications and experience.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Hill City
Hill City, 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.