The Best Trade Schools in Houghton Lake, Michigan
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Houghton Lake.
Top Trade Schools in Houghton Lake
Michigan Technological Institute
MTI
MTI serves students from Houghton Lake and surrounding areas with specialized technical training programs focused on high-demand skilled trades. The institute maintains a 90% job placement rate with strong employer relationships throughout Central and Northern Michigan. Their electrical program includes NEC code training and apprenticeship preparation, while the plumbing program covers residential and commercial systems. HVAC/R students train on state-of-the-art equipment and can earn EPA 608 certification. The school provides housing assistance and transportation resources for students commuting from Houghton Lake region.
Programs Offered:
Northwestern Michigan College
NMC
Northwestern Michigan College serves the Houghton Lake area with exceptional trade programs at their Traverse City campus, approximately 90 minutes away. The college's automotive technology program is NATEF-certified and partners with local dealerships throughout Northern Michigan. Their welding technology program offers AWS certification and includes pipe welding specialization. The construction technology program covers residential and commercial building techniques with hands-on project experience. NMC maintains strong industry connections with employers throughout the region and provides comprehensive career placement services, with many graduates securing positions in the Houghton Lake service area.
Programs Offered:
Baker College of Cadillac
Baker College System
Baker College of Cadillac serves the Houghton Lake region with comprehensive trade programs just 30 minutes away. The college maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers throughout Northern Michigan. Their welding program features AWS certification preparation, while HVAC students train on modern commercial and residential systems. With a 85% job placement rate for trade graduates, Baker College provides extensive career services and employer connections throughout the Roscommon County area. The automotive program offers ASE certification preparation with hands-on training in their fully-equipped shop facilities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Houghton Lake, MI, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Houghton Lake include Baker College of Cadillac (about 30 miles away), Michigan Technological Institute in Houghton (further north), and Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City (about 70 miles away). These schools offer programs like Welding Technology, HVAC/R, Electrical Technology, Automotive Service Technology, Construction Management, and Building Trades that are accessible to Houghton Lake residents.
Are there any trade programs specifically relevant to Houghton Lake's seasonal tourism and lake-based economy?
Yes, Northwestern Michigan College offers Marine Technology programs that prepare students for careers in boat repair and maintenance, which is valuable for Houghton Lake's extensive waterfront properties and marinas. Additionally, HVAC/R programs are particularly relevant for maintaining climate control in both seasonal cabins and year-round residences around the lake area.
What local apprenticeship opportunities exist for trade school graduates in the Houghton Lake region?
Houghton Lake area trade school graduates can find apprenticeship opportunities with local electrical, plumbing, and construction contractors serving the lake community and surrounding towns. The region's ongoing demand for skilled trades in residential construction, lakefront property maintenance, and facility management at local resorts creates consistent apprenticeship pathways for graduates of nearby programs.
How do trade school programs at Baker College of Cadillac prepare students for Michigan-specific certifications?
Baker College of Cadillac's trade programs align with Michigan licensing requirements for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical contractors. Their HVAC/R program prepares students for EPA Section 608 certification, while their construction programs cover Michigan building codes. The college's automotive programs also incorporate Michigan-specific emissions and safety inspection requirements relevant to local employment.
What transportation or housing options are available for Houghton Lake residents attending trade schools in Cadillac or Traverse City?
Many Houghton Lake students commute to Baker College of Cadillac via US-127, which takes about 35-40 minutes. Some programs offer hybrid or evening schedules to accommodate commuters. For longer programs at Northwestern Michigan College, students sometimes arrange carpooling with other Houghton Lake area students or utilize limited student housing options in Traverse City during intensive training periods.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Houghton Lake
Houghton Lake, 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.