Trade Schools in Portage, Michigan

The Kalamazoo Skills Center provides intensive, industry-focused trade training specifically designed for adult learners and career-changers in the Portage area. Operating as a partnership between local employers and educational agencies, the center offers accelerated programs in high-demand trades with evening and weekend options. The welding program is particularly renowned, featuring AWS-certified testing and preparation for structural welding certifications. With direct connections to local manufacturers and construction firms, the Skills Center maintains exceptional job placement outcomes, with many graduates receiving multiple job offers before program completion.

KVCC is the premier technical and trade education institution serving the Portage and Kalamazoo region with comprehensive career training programs. The college offers state-of-the-art facilities including a dedicated welding lab with 40+ stations, fully equipped automotive technology center, and modern HVAC training equipment. Programs lead to industry certifications including AWS welding certifications, ASE automotive certifications, and EPA 608 certification. With strong industry partnerships and a 92% job placement rate for trade graduates, KVCC provides extensive career services and apprenticeship connections throughout Southwest Michigan.

Dorsey College has been serving the Kalamazoo/Portage area with hands-on trade education for decades. The campus features modern training facilities including dedicated welding bays, HVAC diagnostic equipment, and electrical systems labs. The HVAC program includes EPA 608 certification preparation, while the welding program offers AWS certification testing. With small class sizes and industry-experienced instructors, Dorsey maintains strong employer relationships throughout Michigan, resulting in consistent job placement rates above 85% for trade program graduates. Financial aid options and flexible scheduling make technical training accessible.