The Best Trade Schools in Arlington, Massachusetts
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Arlington.
Top Trade Schools in Arlington
North Bennet Street School
North Bennet Street School
Located in downtown Boston, North Bennet Street School is one of the nation's premier craft and trade schools, easily accessible from Arlington via public transportation. The school offers intensive, hands-on training in traditional trades with exceptional job placement rates. Programs are taught by master craftspeople and feature small class sizes with extensive individual instruction. Graduates are highly sought after for their exceptional skill level and attention to detail. The school maintains a 98% placement rate for graduates in their field of study.
Programs Offered:
New England Institute of Technology
New England Institute of Technology
New England Tech is a highly respected technical institute serving the Greater Boston area including Arlington. The school offers comprehensive trade programs with state-of-the-art facilities and strong industry partnerships. Programs feature hands-on training with modern equipment, experienced instructors from the trades, and excellent job placement rates. Students earn industry-recognized certifications and can complete associate degrees in as little as 18 months. The institution maintains strong relationships with local employers throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
Programs Offered:
Porter and Chester Institute
Porter and Chester Institute
Porter and Chester Institute has multiple campuses throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut, with the Canton/Stoughton location conveniently serving Arlington residents. The institute offers career-focused technical training with modern equipment and experienced instructors. Programs are designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce with hands-on training and industry-relevant curriculum. The school maintains strong employer relationships and provides comprehensive career services support. Many programs can be completed in 9-15 months with flexible scheduling options available.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade careers for graduates in the Arlington, MA area, and which local schools offer training for them?
In the Arlington and Greater Boston area, high-demand trades include HVAC Technology, Electrical Technology, and Medical Assisting due to ongoing construction and healthcare needs. Local schools like Porter and Chester Institute (with a nearby campus in Canton) offer programs in HVAC and Electrical, while New England Institute of Technology provides comprehensive training in these fields. North Bennet Street School is renowned for specialized trades like Carpentry and Cabinet & Furniture Making.
Are there any trade schools or vocational programs specifically within Arlington, MA, or do students typically commute to nearby cities?
While Arlington itself does not host major trade school campuses, residents typically commute short distances to well-regarded institutions in the region. Nearby options include Porter and Chester Institute in Canton, New England Institute of Technology in nearby towns, and North Bennet Street School in Boston. These schools are easily accessible via public transit or major highways like Route 2 and I-93.
What kind of financial aid or scholarship opportunities are available for Arlington, MA residents attending trade schools in the area?
Arlington residents can access federal financial aid (FAFSA) at accredited schools like New England Institute of Technology and Porter and Chester Institute. Additionally, Massachusetts state grants, such as the MassGrant, and school-specific scholarships are available. It's advisable to contact the financial aid offices of these institutions directly and check with the Arlington Career Center for local assistance programs.
Which trade programs in the Arlington area offer the shortest path to employment, and what are typical starting salaries?
Programs like HVAC Technician, Electrical Technology, and Medical Assisting often have completion times under two years and high job placement rates. For example, graduates from Porter and Chester Institute's HVAC program can enter the field quickly, with starting salaries in the Greater Boston area typically ranging from $45,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on the specific trade and certifications obtained.
How do trade school programs in the Arlington area assist with job placement and apprenticeships after graduation?
Schools like New England Institute of Technology and Porter and Chester Institute have dedicated career services departments that connect students with local employers and apprenticeship opportunities in the Greater Boston area. Many programs include externships or hands-on training with local companies, and North Bennet Street School has strong industry networks for placements in specialized trades like fine woodworking and preservation carpentry.
Nearby Cities
Explore trade schools in cities near Arlington:
About Trade Schools in Arlington
Arlington, Massachusetts 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.