The Best Trade Schools in Frankfort, Michigan
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Frankfort.
Top Trade Schools in Frankfort
Northwestern Michigan College - Technical Education
Northwestern Michigan College
Northwestern Michigan College offers comprehensive trade and technical education programs serving the entire northwest Michigan region, including Frankfort. The college provides state-of-the-art facilities with industry-standard equipment and experienced instructors who bring real-world expertise. Programs lead to industry certifications and apprenticeships with strong job placement rates exceeding 85%. The Technical Education Division maintains partnerships with local employers throughout Benzie County and surrounding areas, ensuring graduates are prepared for in-demand careers in manufacturing, construction, and skilled trades.
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MIAT College of Technology - Canton Campus
MIAT College of Technology
While located in southeast Michigan, MIAT College of Technology serves students statewide with specialized trade programs and offers housing options for those traveling from areas like Frankfort. The college provides intensive, hands-on training with industry-current equipment and curriculum developed with employer input. MIAT boasts strong job placement rates and maintains relationships with major employers across Michigan. Programs lead to multiple industry certifications and prepare students for immediate employment in high-wage technical careers. The college offers career services support and has a reputation for producing job-ready graduates sought by Michigan employers.
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Baker College of Cadillac - Skilled Trades Programs
Baker College System
Baker College's Cadillac campus serves students throughout northern Michigan, including Frankfort residents, with robust skilled trades programs featuring hands-on training and industry partnerships. The college offers comprehensive career services with job placement assistance and maintains modern training facilities with current industry equipment. Programs are designed to prepare students for immediate employment with certifications recognized by Michigan employers. Baker College has established relationships with employers throughout the region, providing pathways to apprenticeships and direct employment in high-demand trades.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Frankfort, MI, for someone interested in skilled trades like welding or HVAC?
The closest options for Frankfort residents include Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City (about 45 minutes away), which offers Welding Technology and HVAC programs, and Baker College of Cadillac (about an hour away) with Skilled Trades Programs. MIAT College of Technology in Canton is a longer drive but offers specialized training in fields like HVACR and Energy Technology.
Are there any local apprenticeship programs in Frankfort, MI, that partner with area trade schools?
While Frankfort itself is a smaller community, local construction, electrical, and HVAC companies in Benzie and surrounding counties often partner with schools like Northwestern Michigan College for apprenticeship pathways. Checking with the Northwest Michigan Works! American Job Center in Traverse City can provide specific connections to registered apprenticeships in the region.
Which trade programs in the Frankfort, MI, area have the strongest job placement rates in local industries?
Programs tied to construction, marine trades (given the Lake Michigan coastline), and renewable energy see strong local demand. Northwestern Michigan College's Construction Technology and Welding programs have established ties to regional employers. MIAT College of Technology's Wind Power Technology program also aligns with growing renewable energy projects in Northern Michigan.
What financial aid or scholarship options are available for Frankfort, MI, residents attending nearby trade schools?
Residents can apply for federal aid via FAFSA at all major schools like NMC and Baker College. Additionally, the Michigan Reconnect program offers tuition-free pathways for adults 25+, and local foundations like the Benzie County Community Foundation sometimes offer scholarships for vocational training. It's best to contact the financial aid office of your chosen school directly.
Can I complete any trade certifications entirely online while living in Frankfort, MI, or are in-person labs required?
Most hands-on trade programs like Welding, Automotive Service Technology, and HVAC-R require in-person lab components, which are available at nearby campuses like NMC or Baker College Cadillac. Some theoretical coursework or related fields like Construction Management may offer hybrid options, but practical skill certifications typically require on-campus training.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Frankfort
Frankfort, Michigan 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.