The Best Trade Schools in Manhattan, Kansas
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Manhattan.
Top Trade Schools in Manhattan
Washburn Tech
Washburn University
Washburn Tech serves the broader northeast Kansas region including Manhattan students seeking high-quality technical education. As part of Washburn University, the institution offers comprehensive programs with exceptional facilities including multiple automotive technology bays, advanced welding labs with robotic welding systems, and modern construction technology facilities. The school maintains strong industry partnerships with companies like Westar Energy, Evergy, and regional construction firms, resulting in outstanding job placement rates exceeding 90% in many technical programs. Washburn Tech is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and features industry-certified instructors with extensive field experience. Many programs offer industry certifications and college credit options.
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Manhattan Area Technical College
Manhattan Area Technical College
Manhattan Area Technical College is the premier technical institution serving the Manhattan region with comprehensive career training programs. MATC features state-of-the-industry facilities including advanced welding labs with both MIG and TIG equipment, fully-equipped automotive technology bays, and modern HVAC training systems. The college maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers like Goodyear, Flint Hills Job Corps, and regional manufacturing companies, achieving excellent job placement rates. Programs lead to industry-recognized certifications and many graduates secure employment before completion. The institution is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and maintains small class sizes with industry-experienced instructors.
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North Central Kansas Technical College
North Central Kansas Technical College
North Central Kansas Technical College serves students across central Kansas including the Manhattan area with highly-regarded technical programs. NCKTC's welding program is particularly renowned, featuring comprehensive training in SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, and FCAW processes with AWS certification preparation. The automotive technology program includes ASE certification preparation and hands-on training with modern diagnostic equipment. With strong employer connections throughout Kansas, NCKTC maintains exceptional job placement rates, particularly in skilled trades. The college features industry-experienced instructors and maintains accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission and program-specific accreditations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs at Manhattan Area Technical College for local employment?
Manhattan Area Technical College reports strong local demand for graduates in Practical Nursing, Welding Technology, and Electrical Technology. These programs align with needs from regional healthcare providers, manufacturing firms like Great Plains Manufacturing, and construction companies in the Manhattan area. Graduates often secure positions quickly due to partnerships with local employers.
How does Washburn Tech in Topeka serve Manhattan, KS residents interested in trade careers?
Washburn Tech, located about an hour from Manhattan in Topeka, offers several programs popular with commuters, including Automotive Technology and Construction Technology. Many Manhattan residents attend through day programs or utilize their evening/weekend options. The school has articulation agreements with MATC for some credits and actively places graduates with employers throughout northeast Kansas.
What local apprenticeship opportunities are available for trade students in Manhattan, KS?
Several Manhattan-area employers offer apprenticeships in partnership with local trade schools. Key opportunities exist with union locals (like IBEW for electricians), mechanical contractors for HVAC-R, and construction firms for carpentry and plumbing. Manhattan Area Technical College's career services office maintains a current list of registered apprenticeships with companies like B&G Heating & Air and Manhattan Construction.
Are there specialized trade certifications unique to programs in the Manhattan, Kansas area?
Yes, programs at Manhattan Area Technical College and North Central Kansas Technical College offer certifications specific to regional industries. These include AWS (American Welding Society) certifications through MATC's welding program, EPA Section 608 certification for HVAC-R technicians, and Kansas-specific licensure preparation for Practical Nursing. Some programs also incorporate training on equipment used by local manufacturers like Caterpillar in nearby Wamego.
How do trade school costs and financial aid options compare between Manhattan Area Technical College and North Central Kansas Technical College?
Both schools offer competitive tuition rates for Kansas residents, with MATC's in-district rates typically lower for Manhattan residents. NCK Tech in Beloit (about 90 minutes away) offers residential options and may have different fee structures. Both schools participate in federal financial aid, Kansas Career Technical Education grants, and have partnerships with local employers for tuition reimbursement programs specific to the Manhattan job market.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Manhattan
Manhattan, 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.