The Best Trade Schools in Marion, Kansas
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Marion.
Top Trade Schools in Marion
Salina Area Technical College
Salina Public Schools
Salina Area Technical College provides high-quality technical education approximately 40 miles from Marion. The college maintains strong industry connections and boasts impressive graduate employment rates. Programs feature hands-on training with modern equipment, small class sizes, and instructors with extensive field experience. The welding program offers AWS certifications, while the HVAC/R program prepares students for EPA 608 certification. Automotive technology students train on current vehicle systems, and construction technology covers residential and commercial building skills. The college's career services department actively assists with job placement throughout the region.
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Wichita Area Technical College
Wichita Public Schools
Wichita Area Technical College (WSU Tech) is a premier technical college serving central Kansas with comprehensive trade programs. Located approximately 60 miles from Marion, the college offers industry-recognized certifications and degrees with exceptional job placement rates exceeding 90%. Programs feature modern equipment, experienced instructors with industry backgrounds, and strong partnerships with regional employers. The welding program is AWS accredited, while HVAC and electrical programs prepare students for immediate licensure. Financial aid options and flexible scheduling make it accessible for Marion residents seeking quality technical education.
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Universal Technical Institute - Wichita Campus
Universal Technical Institute
Universal Technical Institute's Wichita campus serves Marion residents seeking specialized technical training with national industry recognition. Located about 55 miles from Marion, UTI offers manufacturer-specific training programs with partners like Ford, BMW, and Peterbilt. The campus features state-of-the-industry equipment and curriculum developed with employer input. Students benefit from comprehensive career services with strong industry connections, leading to high placement rates with major employers. Programs combine classroom instruction with extensive hands-on labs, preparing graduates for immediate entry into high-demand technical careers with advancement potential.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools for residents of Marion, KS, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Marion are Wichita Area Technical College (about 60 miles south) and Salina Area Technical College (about 50 miles northwest). These schools offer programs highly relevant to Marion's economy including Welding Technology, HVAC, Electrical Technology, Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, and Construction Technology, with many programs designed for commuting students.
Are there any local Marion, KS employers who specifically hire graduates from nearby trade school programs?
Yes, Marion's manufacturing, agricultural equipment, and construction sectors actively hire trade school graduates. Local employers like AGCO (agricultural equipment), Marion County road and bridge departments, and regional construction firms frequently recruit from Wichita and Salina technical college programs, particularly in Welding, Diesel Technology, and Electrical Technology fields.
What transportation or housing options exist for Marion residents attending trade schools in Wichita or Salina?
Many Marion students commute using Highway 56/77 connections to Salina or I-135 to Wichita. Some programs offer hybrid or condensed schedules to reduce travel. While on-campus housing is limited at these technical colleges, both schools have resources to help commuting students find carpool options or temporary housing for intensive training periods.
Which trade certifications are most valuable for Marion, KS job seekers in local industries?
In the Marion area, AWS welding certifications, EPA Section 608 HVAC certification, and CDL licenses are particularly valuable due to strong manufacturing and agricultural sectors. Electrical and plumbing licenses from Kansas-approved programs also provide excellent local opportunities, as does ASE certification for automotive and diesel technicians serving Marion County's extensive farming and transportation needs.
How do apprenticeship opportunities work for Marion residents interested in skilled trades?
Marion residents can access apprenticeships through local unions, contractors, and manufacturers that partner with technical colleges. The Kansas Department of Commerce and local workforce centers help connect Marion students with registered apprenticeships in electrical, plumbing, and construction trades, often combining Wichita/Salina classroom training with on-the-job learning at Marion-area employers.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Marion
Marion, 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.