The Best Trade Schools in Hickory Corners, Michigan
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Hickory Corners.
Top Trade Schools in Hickory Corners
Kalamazoo Valley Community College - Texas Township Campus
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
KVCC's Texas Township Campus offers extensive trade programs through their Advanced Technology Center, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. The college maintains strong relationships with local manufacturers and trade unions, providing excellent job placement opportunities. Programs combine classroom instruction with extensive hands-on training, and many offer industry certifications. The automotive technology program is ASE-certified, while the welding program includes preparation for American Welding Society certifications. Affordable tuition and financial aid options make this a top choice for trade education.
Programs Offered:
Dorsey College
Dorsey Schools
Dorsey College's Kalamazoo campus serves the Hickory Corners area with comprehensive trade programs featuring hands-on training in high-demand fields. The school maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers and offers career placement assistance. HVAC and electrical programs include preparation for industry certifications, while the welding program provides extensive practical training with modern equipment. With small class sizes and experienced instructors from the trades, students receive personalized attention and develop real-world skills.
Programs Offered:
ATS Institute of Technology
ATS Institute
ATS Institute provides intensive, hands-on trade education with programs designed to quickly prepare students for immediate employment. The school focuses exclusively on skilled trades and maintains small class sizes with industry-experienced instructors. Their welding program features comprehensive training in multiple processes and preparation for AWS certifications, while the HVAC program includes EPA 608 certification. The institution has strong connections with local contractors and manufacturers, resulting in high job placement rates for graduates. Flexible scheduling options accommodate working students.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Hickory Corners, MI, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Hickory Corners include Dorsey College in Kalamazoo, Kalamazoo Valley Community College's Texas Township Campus, and ATS Institute of Technology. These schools offer programs such as HVAC Technology, Electrical Technician, Welding, Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, Automotive Technology, and CNC Machining, providing convenient access for residents of Barry County.
Are there any local apprenticeship programs in Hickory Corners, MI, for trades like electrical or plumbing?
While Hickory Corners itself is a small village, residents can access apprenticeship programs through local unions and trade associations in nearby Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. These programs often partner with schools like Kalamazoo Valley Community College, combining classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training in electrical systems, plumbing, and HVAC/R fields.
What trade certifications are most in demand by employers in the Hickory Corners and Southwest Michigan region?
Employers in Southwest Michigan particularly value certifications in HVAC/R (EPA 608), Welding (AWS), Electrical (Michigan Electrical License), and CNC Machining. The manufacturing and healthcare sectors around Kalamazoo and Battle Creek create strong demand for these certified tradespeople, making these certifications valuable for local career advancement.
How do trade school programs in the Hickory Corners area connect students with local job opportunities?
Schools like Dorsey College and Kalamazoo Valley Community College maintain strong relationships with employers throughout Southwest Michigan, including manufacturers, healthcare facilities, and construction companies in Barry, Kalamazoo, and Calhoun counties. They typically offer career services, job fairs, and internship placements that help graduates secure positions in the region.
What financial aid options are available for Hickory Corners residents attending trade schools in Michigan?
Michigan residents from Hickory Corners can access federal financial aid (FAFSA), Michigan Reconnect for adults 25+, and Michigan Achievement Scholarship for recent graduates. Additionally, many trade programs qualify for Michigan's Going PRO Talent Fund, which provides employer-sponsored training funds, and local schools often offer their own scholarships for specific trades.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Hickory Corners
Hickory Corners, 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.