The Best Trade Schools in Waterville, Kansas
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Waterville.
Top Trade Schools in Waterville
Manhattan Area Technical College
Manhattan Tech
Manhattan Area Technical College is a highly-rated public technical college serving northeast Kansas, including Waterville residents. The college offers comprehensive trade programs with strong industry partnerships and excellent job placement rates. Programs feature hands-on training in modern facilities, industry-certified instructors, and pathways to multiple certifications. With a 94% job placement rate and small class sizes, students receive personalized attention and practical skills for immediate employment. The college maintains strong relationships with regional employers and offers financial aid options.
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North Central Kansas Technical College
NCK Tech
NCK Tech is a respected technical college serving north-central Kansas communities including Waterville. The institution offers intensive, hands-on trade programs with exceptional job placement outcomes. Their welding program is particularly renowned, featuring state-of-the-art equipment and industry partnerships. Programs are designed with input from employer advisory committees to ensure relevant, current curriculum. The college provides comprehensive student support services, financial aid assistance, and maintains a 96% graduate placement rate with strong industry connections throughout Kansas and beyond.
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Kaw Area Technical School
Topeka Public Schools
Kaw Area Technical School provides comprehensive trade education serving students from across northeast Kansas, including Waterville area residents. The school offers both adult education and high school programs in multiple skilled trades. With modern facilities and experienced instructors, students gain practical, hands-on experience using industry-standard equipment. The school maintains strong partnerships with local employers and unions, providing excellent job placement opportunities. Programs are designed to prepare students for immediate employment, apprenticeships, or further technical education with multiple certification pathways available.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Waterville, Kansas, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Waterville are Manhattan Area Technical College (about 45 minutes away), North Central Kansas Technical College (with campuses in Beloit and Hays), and Kaw Area Technical School in Topeka. These schools offer programs highly relevant to the region, including Welding Technology, Electrical Technology, HVAC, Automotive Technology, Carpentry, and Construction Trades.
Are there any specific trade programs in the Waterville area that are in high demand by local employers?
Yes, programs in skilled construction trades like Carpentry, Electrical, and Plumbing are consistently in high demand due to ongoing residential and agricultural construction in north-central Kansas. Additionally, Welding and Automotive Technology are valuable for supporting the local agricultural and transportation industries. Graduates from these programs often find employment with local contractors, manufacturing firms, and equipment dealerships.
Can I complete a trade program near Waterville, KS, while working, and are there flexible scheduling options?
Many programs at nearby technical colleges, such as Manhattan Area Tech and North Central Kansas Tech, offer flexible scheduling. This includes evening classes, part-time enrollment, and hybrid online/in-person options for certain theory-based coursework. It's best to contact the specific school's admissions office to discuss a schedule that can accommodate work commitments.
What kind of financial aid or scholarships are available for Waterville residents attending trade schools in Kansas?
Waterville residents can apply for federal financial aid (FAFSA) and Kansas-specific grants. Many Kansas technical colleges also offer institutional scholarships and have partnerships with local businesses and industry associations that provide tuition assistance or sponsorships. Additionally, programs like Kansas Promise Act scholarships can cover tuition for high-demand fields at eligible technical colleges.
What career placement support do trade schools near Waterville offer, and are there local job opportunities after graduation?
Schools like North Central Kansas Technical College and Manhattan Area Tech have strong career services departments that assist with resume writing, interview preparation, and job placement. They often host job fairs with regional employers. Graduates frequently find opportunities with local utilities, construction companies, manufacturing plants, and automotive service centers throughout north-central Kansas, including in communities like Beloit, Concordia, and Manhattan.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Waterville
Waterville, 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.