The Best Trade Schools in Wakefield, Kansas
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Wakefield.
Top Trade Schools in Wakefield
Manhattan Area Technical College
Manhattan Technical College
Manhattan Area Technical College is a highly-regarded technical institution serving north-central Kansas, including Wakefield residents. With exceptional 94% job placement rates and industry-recognized certifications, MATC provides comprehensive hands-on training in high-demand trades. The college features state-of-the-art welding labs, advanced HVAC training facilities, and modern automotive technology centers. Students benefit from small class sizes, experienced instructors with industry backgrounds, and strong employer partnerships throughout Kansas. Financial aid options and flexible scheduling make technical education accessible to Wakefield area students seeking skilled trade careers.
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Salina Area Technical College
Salina Tech
Salina Area Technical College has built a strong reputation for excellence in trade education, serving students from Wakefield and surrounding communities. The college boasts impressive 96% placement rates for graduates and maintains multiple industry partnerships. Programs feature extensive hands-on training with modern equipment, including comprehensive welding certification preparation, advanced HVAC-R systems training, and electrical technology programs. Salina Tech's experienced instructors bring real-world expertise, and the college offers both certificate and associate degree options. The institution is known for its affordable tuition and strong graduate employment outcomes in skilled trades.
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Wichita Technical Institute
WTI
Wichita Technical Institute provides comprehensive trade education serving students across Kansas, including those from the Wakefield area. With focused 9-18 month programs, WTI prepares students for immediate employment in high-demand skilled trades. The institute features modern training facilities with industry-standard equipment, including fully-equipped welding labs, HVAC-R training systems, and automotive technology centers. WTI maintains strong industry connections and offers career placement assistance, with many graduates securing positions before completing their programs. The hands-on curriculum, experienced instructors, and flexible scheduling options make technical education accessible to Wakefield residents seeking trade careers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Wakefield, KS, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Wakefield are Manhattan Area Technical College (about 45 minutes east) and Salina Area Technical College (about 1 hour southwest). These schools offer programs highly relevant to the region, including Welding Technology, HVAC-R, Electrical Technology, Automotive Technology, and Plumbing Systems, which align with local agricultural, construction, and manufacturing needs.
Are there any local apprenticeship opportunities in Wakefield, KS, for trade school graduates?
Yes, Wakefield and the surrounding North Central Kansas region have apprenticeship opportunities through local contractors, manufacturers, and agricultural operations. Graduates from programs like Welding, Electrical Technology, and HVAC at nearby technical colleges often find placements with area employers, utilities, and construction firms seeking skilled tradespeople.
What trade certifications are most in-demand for jobs in the Wakefield, KS area?
In the Wakefield area, certifications in Welding (AWS), HVAC-R (EPA 608), and Electrical (NCCER) are particularly valuable. These credentials are sought after by local grain operations, agricultural equipment manufacturers, and construction companies, providing graduates with strong employment prospects in the region's key industries.
How do trade school programs at Manhattan Area Technical College prepare students for careers in Wakefield's economy?
Programs at Manhattan Area Technical College are designed with input from regional employers, ensuring skills taught directly apply to local jobs. For example, their Welding and Automotive Technology programs include training on equipment used in area agricultural and transportation sectors, while their HVAC-R program addresses both residential and commercial systems common in North Central Kansas.
What financial aid or scholarship options are available for Wakefield residents attending trade schools in Kansas?
Wakefield residents can access Kansas state financial aid programs, including the Kansas Career Technical Workforce Grant, for qualifying programs at schools like Manhattan and Salina Area Technical Colleges. Additionally, many local organizations, agricultural cooperatives, and businesses in the region offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing trades that support the local economy.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Wakefield
Wakefield, 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.