The Best Trade Schools in Lakeville, Minnesota
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Lakeville.
Top Trade Schools in Lakeville
Dunwoody College of Technology
Dunwoody College of Technology
Dunwoody College of Technology is a premier private non-profit institution serving the Twin Cities metro, including Lakeville, with a reputation for excellence in trade education. Known for its nearly 100% job placement rate, industry-standard certifications, and state-of-the-art labs, Dunwoody offers immersive programs taught by professionals. The college emphasizes hands-on learning, employer connections, and career services that lead to high-wage employment in skilled trades.
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Dakota County Technical College
Minnesota State Colleges and Universities
Dakota County Technical College is a highly-rated public technical college located just minutes from Lakeville, offering hands-on training in high-demand skilled trades. With strong industry partnerships, job placement rates exceeding 90%, and certifications from organizations like AWS and ASE, DCTC provides affordable, career-focused education. Students benefit from modern facilities, experienced instructors, and flexible program options tailored to local employer needs.
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Summit Academy OIC
Summit Academy Opportunities Industrialization Center
Summit Academy OIC is a community-based vocational school in Minneapolis that serves the Lakeville area with a focus on empowering students through trades education. It boasts high job placement rates, industry-recognized certifications, and supportive services like job readiness training. Programs are designed with input from employers, ensuring relevant skills in fields like construction and culinary arts, with a commitment to affordability and accessibility.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs for students in Lakeville, MN, and which local schools offer them?
In the Lakeville area, high-demand trade programs include HVAC-R, Electrical Construction, and Welding Technology. Dakota County Technical College in nearby Rosemount offers robust programs in these fields, while Dunwoody College of Technology in Minneapolis provides advanced training in areas like Robotics and Electrical. Summit Academy OIC in Minneapolis also offers construction trades like Carpentry and Plumbing.
Are there any trade school programs in the Lakeville, MN area that offer accelerated or short-term certification options?
Yes, several schools serving Lakeville residents offer accelerated pathways. Dakota County Technical College has short-term certificates in areas like Automotive Service and Welding that can be completed in under a year. Summit Academy OIC often provides intensive, shorter-duration programs in Construction Trades designed for quick entry into the workforce.
What local career opportunities exist for trade school graduates in Lakeville, MN, particularly in construction and manufacturing?
Lakeville's proximity to the Twin Cities metro and its own industrial base creates strong opportunities. Graduates in Electrical, Plumbing, and HVAC-R are in high demand for residential and commercial construction throughout the south metro. Additionally, manufacturing and technical firms in the region seek skilled welders and robotics technicians trained at schools like Dunwoody.
How do trade school costs and financial aid options compare between Dakota County Technical College and Dunwoody College for a Lakeville resident?
Dakota County Technical College, as a public community and technical college, typically has lower tuition rates for Lakeville area residents. Dunwoody College of Technology is a private, non-profit institution with a higher tuition but is renowned for its hands-on, industry-focused training. Both schools offer federal financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans, and it's advisable to compare net costs after aid for your specific program.
Can I complete a trade program while working full-time in Lakeville, MN, and which schools offer flexible schedules?
Absolutely. Many trade programs are designed for working adults. Dakota County Technical College offers evening and hybrid course options in programs like IT and Healthcare. Dunwoody and Summit Academy also provide flexible scheduling, including part-time and some weekend classes, particularly in foundational trades, to accommodate students balancing work and training.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Lakeville
Lakeville, Minnesota 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.