The Best Trade Schools in Mcpherson, Kansas
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Mcpherson.
Top Trade Schools in Mcpherson
North Central Kansas Technical College
Kansas Board of Regents
NCK Tech provides exceptional technical education serving north-central Kansas communities including McPherson. The college boasts modern training facilities with industry-standard equipment and maintains strong relationships with regional employers. Their welding program offers multiple AWS certifications, while the electrical technology program prepares students for residential and commercial licensing. With a 90% job placement rate and comprehensive career services, graduates are highly sought after by local and regional employers. The institution also offers housing options for students commuting from McPherson and surrounding areas.
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Wichita Area Technical College
Wichita Public Schools
WATC serves as the regional technical college for central Kansas, offering comprehensive trade programs with strong industry connections. The college features state-of-the-art welding labs with multiple certification pathways, full HVAC training with EPA certification preparation, and automotive programs with ASE certification tracks. With job placement rates exceeding 85% and partnerships with major employers like Spirit AeroSystems and Textron Aviation, graduates receive direct pathways to employment. The institution maintains small class sizes with industry-experienced instructors and offers flexible scheduling options for working students.
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Universal Technical Institute - Wichita Campus
Universal Technical Institute
UTI's Wichita campus serves as a premier technical training institution for central Kansas, offering manufacturer-specific advanced training programs. The campus features brand-specific labs from leading manufacturers including Ford, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, providing students with direct pathways to dealership careers. Their welding program includes comprehensive SMAW, GMAW, and GTAW training with multiple certification opportunities. With extensive employer partnerships and a dedicated career services department, UTI maintains strong graduate employment outcomes. The institution offers flexible financing options and accepts various educational benefits for qualifying students.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to McPherson, Kansas for someone wanting to stay local?
While McPherson itself doesn't have a large standalone trade school, residents typically attend nearby institutions like North Central Kansas Technical College in Beloit (about 30 miles north) or Wichita Area Technical College in Wichita (about 50 miles south). These schools offer convenient commutes and programs specifically designed for the regional job market.
Which trade programs in the McPherson area have the strongest connections to local employers?
Welding Technology, HVAC Technology, and Diesel Technology programs at nearby schools like North Central Kansas Technical College have particularly strong ties to McPherson County industries. Local manufacturing plants, agricultural operations, and energy companies frequently recruit graduates from these programs, often offering apprenticeships and job placement assistance.
Are there any specialized certifications I can earn through McPherson-area trade schools that are in high demand locally?
Yes, certifications like AWS (American Welding Society) welding certifications from North Central Kansas Technical College are highly sought after by McPherson's manufacturing sector. Additionally, EPA Section 608 Certification for HVAC technicians and ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications from Wichita Area Technical College are valuable credentials that local employers specifically look for when hiring.
What transportation or housing options exist for McPherson residents attending trade schools in Wichita or Beloit?
Many McPherson students commute using US-81 to Beloit or I-135 to Wichita, with carpooling being common. Some programs offer hybrid online/in-person schedules to reduce travel. While on-campus housing is available at both North Central Kansas Technical College and Wichita schools, most McPherson residents choose to commute due to the reasonable distances.
How do trade school programs near McPherson, KS prepare students for careers in the local energy and agriculture industries?
Programs like Diesel Technology at North Central Kansas Technical College and Electrical Technology at Wichita Area Technical College include curriculum focused on agricultural equipment repair and wind energy maintenance—two growing sectors in McPherson County. These programs often partner with local companies like Mid-West Solar or agricultural cooperatives for hands-on training and internships specific to central Kansas industries.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Mcpherson
Mcpherson, 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.