The Best Trade Schools in Laurel, Maryland
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Laurel.
Top Trade Schools in Laurel
Lincoln Tech - Columbia Campus
Lincoln Educational Services
Lincoln Tech's Columbia campus serves the Laurel area with comprehensive trade programs featuring hands-on training in high-demand fields. The campus boasts modern facilities with industry-standard equipment, experienced instructors with real-world expertise, and strong industry partnerships. Students benefit from career services with high job placement rates, financial aid assistance, and multiple program start dates throughout the year. The automotive program includes manufacturer-specific training, while HVAC and electrical programs prepare students for industry certifications and licensing exams.
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TESST College of Technology - Baltimore Campus
TESST College of Technology
TESST College of Technology has been serving the greater Baltimore area including Laurel for decades with focused technical education. The institution offers comprehensive trade programs with a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on learning in modern lab environments. Programs are designed to prepare students for industry certifications and entry-level positions in skilled trades. The school maintains relationships with local employers and unions, facilitating job placement opportunities. Financial aid options and flexible scheduling make technical education accessible to working adults and career-changers.
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Fortis College - Baltimore Campus
Fortis Institute
Fortis College in nearby Elkridge provides convenient access for Laurel residents seeking quality trade education. The campus features comprehensive programs in building trades and technical fields with a focus on employable skills. Students train in well-equipped labs under the guidance of industry-experienced instructors. The institution offers career services assistance, financial aid options for qualified students, and flexible class schedules. Programs are designed to prepare graduates for certification exams and immediate employment in their chosen trade, with many students securing positions before graduation through the school's employer network.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Laurel, MD, and what programs do they offer?
While Laurel itself doesn't host major trade school campuses, nearby institutions include Lincoln Tech in Columbia (offering Automotive Technology, HVAC, and Electrical & Electronic Systems), TESST College of Technology in Baltimore (with programs like Welding Technology and Electrical Training), and Fortis College in Baltimore (featuring HVAC Technology, Plumbing, and Electrical Trades). These schools are within a 30-45 minute commute and provide hands-on training for in-demand trades.
What local industries in the Laurel, MD area hire graduates from trade programs?
Laurel's proximity to Baltimore, Washington D.C., and major infrastructure projects creates demand for skilled tradespeople. Graduates often find work with local construction firms, manufacturing plants, utility companies (like BGE), and government contractors. The ongoing development in the Baltimore-Washington corridor particularly needs HVAC technicians, electricians, and welders for commercial and residential projects.
Are there any apprenticeship programs or partnerships with trade schools available for Laurel, MD residents?
Yes, many trade schools near Laurel have partnerships with local unions and employers. For example, programs at Lincoln Tech and TESST often connect students with apprenticeship opportunities through organizations like the ABC Chesapeake Shores Chapter or local IBEW and UA unions. These partnerships can lead to paid on-the-job training while completing certification requirements in fields like electrical work or plumbing.
What certifications can I earn through trade schools near Laurel, MD, and how do they benefit my career?
Programs at nearby schools prepare you for industry-recognized certifications such as EPA 608 for HVAC, NCCER credentials for construction trades, and AWS certifications for welding. These certifications are highly valued by Maryland employers and often required for licensing. Holding these credentials can significantly increase your earning potential and job opportunities in the competitive regional market.
How do the costs and financial aid options compare for trade schools accessible from Laurel, MD?
Costs vary by program and institution, but schools like Lincoln Tech, TESST, and Fortis typically offer federal financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans. Maryland residents may also qualify for state-specific grants or the Maryland Workforce Development Sequence. It's advisable to contact each school's financial aid office directly, as some have partnerships with local employers who offer tuition reimbursement for high-demand trades.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Laurel
Laurel, Maryland 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.