The Best Trade Schools in Highland, Michigan
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Highland.
Top Trade Schools in Highland
Michigan Institute of Aviation & Technology
MIA Tech
Michigan Institute of Aviation & Technology is a highly-rated trade school located just 30 minutes from Highland, offering comprehensive training in high-demand skilled trades. The school features state-of-the-art facilities with industry-standard equipment and provides hands-on training from experienced instructors. MIA Tech maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers and boasts excellent job placement rates. Students can earn multiple industry certifications and benefit from career services that include resume building and interview preparation. The aviation maintenance program is particularly renowned, with graduates working at major airports and aviation facilities throughout Michigan.
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Universal Technical Institute
UTI
Universal Technical Institute operates a major campus serving the Highland area with comprehensive automotive and technical training programs. As one of the nation's leading providers of technical education, UTI offers manufacturer-specific training programs with industry partners including Ford, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. The 220,000-square-foot facility features advanced diagnostic equipment and hands-on training bays. Students benefit from UTI's extensive employer network and strong graduate employment rates. The school offers financial aid options and maintains accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
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Dorsey College
Dorsey Schools
Dorsey College operates multiple campuses throughout southeastern Michigan, with their Madison Heights location conveniently serving Highland residents. The school offers focused training programs in high-demand skilled trades with comprehensive hands-on learning experiences. Dorsey's HVAC program prepares students for EPA certification, while their electrical technology program covers residential and commercial applications. The institution maintains small class sizes for personalized instruction and provides career services support including job placement assistance. Dorsey College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges and has been serving Michigan communities with quality technical education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade careers for graduates in the Highland, MI area?
In the Highland and greater Oakland County region, skilled trades like HVAC technicians, electricians, and automotive/diesel mechanics are in high demand due to local manufacturing, residential construction, and transportation industries. Graduates from programs at Michigan Institute of Aviation & Technology or Universal Technical Institute often find opportunities with nearby employers such as auto suppliers, commercial contractors, and aviation service providers at Oakland County International Airport.
Which trade schools in Highland, MI offer Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification programs?
The Michigan Institute of Aviation & Technology (MIAT) in nearby Canton (serving the Highland area) offers FAA-approved Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification programs for aviation maintenance technicians. This certification is essential for careers at regional airports, aviation maintenance facilities, and aerospace companies in Southeast Michigan, providing a direct pathway to high-demand aviation careers.
Are there any trade programs in Highland, MI that offer hands-on training with local employers?
Yes, several trade schools serving Highland students have partnerships with local employers. Universal Technical Institute (UTI) in nearby Lisle, IL (with many Michigan students) has manufacturer-specific training programs with companies like Ford, GM, and Cummins. Dorsey College also offers externships in medical assisting and other fields with healthcare providers throughout Oakland County, providing practical experience and networking opportunities.
What financial aid options are available for trade school students in Highland, Michigan?
Trade school students in Highland can access federal financial aid (FAFSA), Michigan-specific grants like the Michigan Tuition Grant, and institutional scholarships from schools like MIAT and Dorsey College. Many programs also qualify for Michigan's Going PRO Talent Fund, which provides employer-sponsored training funds, and veterans can use GI Bill benefits at FAA-approved aviation programs and other eligible trade schools.
How do trade school programs in the Highland area help students prepare for Michigan licensing exams?
Local trade schools design their curricula specifically to meet Michigan licensing requirements. For example, electrical technology programs prepare students for Michigan's electrical journeyman exam, while cosmetology programs at schools like Dorsey College meet the state's required training hours for licensure. Many programs include exam preparation materials, practice tests, and guidance on navigating the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) application process.
Exploring Different Trade Schools in Highland, Michigan: Your Path to a Skilled Career
Nestled in the heart of Oakland County, Highland, Michigan, is more than just a scenic community; it's a strategic launchpad for a rewarding career in the skilled trades. For residents considering a hands-on profession, the area offers access to several different trade schools, each providing specialized training that aligns with the robust local and regional job market. Understanding the unique offerings of these institutions is the first step toward turning your vocational aspirations into reality.
Highland's proximity to major automotive and manufacturing hubs makes it an ideal location for trade education. Schools like the Michigan Institute of Aviation & Technology and Universal Technical Institute bring nationally recognized programs right to your backyard. Whether you're drawn to the precision of Aviation Maintenance, the critical thinking required for Electrical Systems, or the hands-on work of Automotive Technology, these different trade schools cater to a wide array of interests. Dorsey College adds another dimension with programs in fields like Medical Assisting and Cosmetology, showcasing the diversity of trades available beyond traditional industrial roles.
The local economy in Oakland County and the greater Detroit metropolitan area thrives on skilled professionals. Major employers in automotive manufacturing, advanced aerospace, and growing healthcare sectors are consistently seeking certified technicians. Completing a program at one of the different trade schools near Highland means you're not just earning a certificate; you're building a direct connection to in-demand careers. For instance, trained welders and diesel mechanics find opportunities with local contractors, logistics companies, and manufacturing plants, while HVAC technicians are essential for both residential and commercial projects throughout the region.
Choosing the right program requires reflection on your personal strengths and career goals. The different trade schools in the area vary in their focus—some emphasize intensive, manufacturer-specific automotive training, while others offer broader technical foundations. It's wise to visit campuses, speak with admissions counselors, and even connect with program graduates to gain insights. Many of these schools have strong relationships with local employers, offering externships and job placement assistance that can smooth your transition from the classroom to the workforce.
Embarking on a trade school journey in Highland is a decision to invest in a stable and fulfilling future. The skilled trades offer not just a job, but a lifelong career with the potential for entrepreneurship, specialization, and leadership. By exploring the different trade schools available, you position yourself to acquire valuable credentials without the burden of excessive student debt, all while preparing to meet the critical needs of Michigan's key industries. Your path to a hands-on, respected profession begins with researching these local educational opportunities today.
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About Trade Schools in Highland
Highland, 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.