Trade Schools in Wathena, Kansas

Hillyard Technical Center is a highly-regarded public technical school serving students from both Missouri and Kansas, including the Wathena area. Their programs feature industry-standard equipment and curriculum aligned with current workforce needs. The construction trades program covers residential and commercial building techniques, while automotive technology includes ASE certification preparation. The welding program offers comprehensive training in multiple processes with AWS certification opportunities. Hillyard maintains strong partnerships with local employers and boasts excellent job placement rates for graduates, with many students securing employment before program completion.

UTI's Kansas City campus serves students from throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area, including northeast Kansas residents from Wathena. As one of the nation's leading providers of technical training, UTI offers manufacturer-specific programs with partnerships including Ford, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo. Their automotive program covers diagnostics, repair, and maintenance with ASE certification preparation. The welding technology program includes structural and pipe welding with AWS certification opportunities. UTI features extensive career services support with strong industry connections and manufacturer relationships that lead to high employment rates for graduates across multiple skilled trades.

Vatterott College's St. Joseph campus serves the northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas region, including Wathena residents. The institution offers comprehensive trade programs with hands-on training in high-demand fields. Their HVAC program prepares students for EPA 608 certification, while electrical technology covers residential and commercial applications. The welding program includes SMAW, GMAW, GTAW processes with AWS certification preparation. With strong industry connections and job placement assistance, Vatterott provides career-focused education with modern equipment and experienced instructors who bring real-world expertise to the classroom.