The Best Trade Schools in Ottawa, Kansas
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Ottawa.
Top Trade Schools in Ottawa
Johnson County Community College - Career and Technical Education
Johnson County Community College
Johnson County Community College offers one of the most comprehensive career and technical education programs in the Kansas City metropolitan area, serving students throughout eastern Kansas. The college features state-of-the-industry facilities including advanced automotive bays, commercial-grade kitchens, and modern welding labs. JCCC's programs are designed with direct industry input and lead to multiple certifications and credentials. With exceptional job placement services and strong employer partnerships, the institution provides pathways to high-demand careers. The college maintains the highest accreditation standards and offers flexible scheduling including evening and weekend classes.
Programs Offered:
Flint Hills Technical College
Flint Hills Technical College
Flint Hills Technical College is a highly-regarded institution serving eastern Kansas with comprehensive trade programs. The college offers extensive hands-on training in high-demand fields with state-of-the-art facilities. Their welding program features industry-standard equipment and certifications, while HVAC and electrical programs prepare students for immediate employment. With strong industry partnerships and excellent job placement rates, FHTC provides career-focused education with flexible scheduling options. The institution maintains accreditation and has built a reputation for producing skilled trades professionals throughout the region.
Programs Offered:
Manhattan Area Technical College
Manhattan Area Technical College
Manhattan Area Technical College serves central and eastern Kansas with exceptional trade programs focused on workforce readiness. The college features modern training facilities with industry-current equipment across all trades. Their welding program offers multiple certification pathways, while HVAC-R training includes EPA certification preparation. MATC boasts strong employer relationships and consistently high job placement rates, with many graduates securing positions before completion. The institution provides comprehensive student support services and maintains small class sizes for personalized instruction in skilled trades.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Ottawa, KS, and which programs are most accessible for local residents?
Flint Hills Technical College in Emporia (about 45 minutes south) and Manhattan Area Technical College (about 1.5 hours west) are the primary dedicated trade schools serving the Ottawa area. Johnson County Community College's Career and Technical Education division in Overland Park also offers programs, though it's a longer commute. Many local students pursue programs like Welding, HVAC, Electrical Technology, and Automotive Technology at these institutions.
Are there any local apprenticeship programs in Ottawa, KS, that partner with area trade schools?
Yes, Ottawa-area employers in construction, manufacturing, and skilled trades often partner with schools like Flint Hills Technical College for apprenticeship pathways. Local electrical, plumbing, and HVAC companies frequently sponsor apprentices who combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction at nearby technical colleges, leading to industry-recognized certifications and employment.
What high-demand trade careers in the Ottawa, KS, area offer strong starting wages after completing a program?
In the Ottawa and surrounding Franklin County region, skilled trades like Welding, Electrical Systems, and HVAC-R technicians are in high demand due to local manufacturing, construction, and agricultural sectors. Graduates from programs at Flint Hills Technical College often secure positions with starting wages ranging from $18 to $25 per hour, with potential for rapid advancement as they gain experience and certifications.
Can I complete a trade program at Flint Hills Technical College while living in Ottawa, and what support is available for commuters?
Yes, many Ottawa residents commute to Flint Hills Technical College in Emporia. The college offers flexible scheduling, including day and some evening classes, to accommodate commuters. Financial aid, career counseling, and job placement services are available to all students, and the college works with Ottawa-area employers for internships and job placements in fields like Carpentry, Culinary Arts, and Automotive Technology.
What certifications can I earn through trade programs accessible from Ottawa, KS, and how do they benefit employment locally?
Programs at nearby schools like Flint Hills Technical College offer certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society) for welding, EPA 608 for HVAC-R, and NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) credentials for electrical and carpentry. These certifications are highly valued by Ottawa-area employers in construction firms, manufacturing plants, and service companies, often leading to higher pay and more job security.
Nearby Cities
Explore trade schools in cities near Ottawa:
About Trade Schools in Ottawa
Ottawa, 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.