The Best Trade Schools in Overland Park, Kansas
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Overland Park.
Top Trade Schools in Overland Park
Manhattan Area Technical College - Kansas City Metro Programs
Manhattan Area Technical College
MATC has built a regional reputation for excellence in technical education, serving students across Kansas including the Overland Park area. The college offers intensive, hands-on programs with small class sizes and modern equipment that mirrors industry standards. Graduates consistently achieve high certification exam pass rates and benefit from the college's strong employer network. MATC maintains accreditation from the Council on Occupational Education and has been recognized for its high job placement rates, with many programs seeing 95%+ employment outcomes within six months of graduation.
Programs Offered:
North Kansas City Schools Career Center
North Kansas City School District
Serving the entire Kansas City metropolitan area including Overland Park, the NKC Career Center provides exceptional career and technical education for both high school students and adult learners. The facility features industry-standard equipment and laboratories, with programs designed in collaboration with local employers to ensure relevant skill development. The center maintains strong apprenticeship pathways and boasts impressive job placement statistics, with many graduates securing positions before completing their programs. Instructors are industry veterans with extensive field experience, providing real-world training that prepares students for immediate workforce entry.
Programs Offered:
Johnson County Community College Career and Technical Education Center
Johnson County Community College
JCCC's Career and Technical Education Center is one of the most respected trade institutions in the Kansas City metro area, offering comprehensive programs with state-of-the-art facilities. The college maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers, resulting in exceptional job placement rates exceeding 90% for graduates. Programs lead to industry certifications and apprenticeships, with experienced instructors who bring real-world expertise. The institution is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and maintains articulation agreements with four-year institutions for students wishing to continue their education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade careers in the Overland Park, KS area, and which local schools offer training for them?
In the Overland Park and greater Kansas City metro area, high-demand trades include HVAC-R, Electrical Technology, and Construction Management due to ongoing commercial and residential development. Johnson County Community College's Career and Technical Education Center offers strong programs in these fields, while the North Kansas City Schools Career Center provides focused training in electrical and construction trades.
Can I complete a trade program at Johnson County Community College while working full-time in Overland Park?
Yes, Johnson County Community College's Career and Technical Education Center offers flexible scheduling options, including evening and weekend classes, specifically designed for working adults in the Overland Park area. Many programs also offer hybrid or accelerated formats to help students balance employment with training for careers in automotive technology, welding, or HVAC.
Are there any trade school programs in Overland Park that offer direct pathways to union apprenticeships?
Several programs in the area facilitate connections to union apprenticeships. The North Kansas City Schools Career Center has partnerships with local trade unions for electrical and plumbing trades. Additionally, Johnson County Community College's construction technology programs often include direct referrals to apprenticeship programs with contractors serving the Kansas City metropolitan region.
What local certifications can I earn through Overland Park area trade schools that are recognized by Kansas employers?
Local trade schools offer industry-recognized certifications including EPA 608 Certification for HVAC-R technicians, NCCER credentials for construction trades, and ASE certifications for automotive technology. Johnson County Community College's programs are specifically aligned with Kansas employer requirements, and many include certification exam preparation as part of the curriculum.
How do the trade programs at Manhattan Area Technical College's Kansas City Metro Programs differ from those at Johnson County Community College for Overland Park residents?
While both offer quality training, Manhattan Area Technical College's metro programs often feature more specialized, intensive formats in fields like welding technology and advanced manufacturing. Johnson County Community College typically offers broader program options with more general education components. Overland Park students should compare program length, cost, and specific industry partnerships when choosing between these institutions.
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About Trade Schools in Overland Park
Overland Park, 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.