The Best Trade Schools in Plato, Minnesota
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Plato.
Top Trade Schools in Plato
Dunwoody College of Technology
Dunwoody College of Technology
Dunwoody College of Technology is one of Minnesota's premier trade schools with over a century of excellence in technical education. Located just 45 minutes from Plato, the college offers comprehensive programs with state-of-the-art facilities and industry-standard equipment. Students benefit from hands-on training, strong industry partnerships, and exceptional job placement rates exceeding 90%. Programs lead to industry certifications and associate degrees, with many graduates securing employment before completion. The college maintains small class sizes and provides extensive career services support.
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Summit Academy OIC
Summit Academy OIC
Summit Academy OIC provides intensive career training programs focused on construction trades and technical careers. Located approximately 40 minutes from Plato, the institution has strong partnerships with local unions and employers, ensuring relevant curriculum and job placement opportunities. Their programs include paid internships and apprenticeships, with many graduates transitioning directly into union positions. The school emphasizes both technical skills and professional development, with comprehensive support services including childcare and transportation assistance. Job placement rates consistently exceed 85% for trade program graduates.
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Hennepin Technical College
Minnesota State Colleges and Universities
Hennepin Technical College offers comprehensive trade programs at their Brooklyn Park campus, located about 35 minutes from Plato. As part of the Minnesota State system, HTC provides affordable, industry-responsive training with multiple start dates throughout the year. The college features modern labs and workshops equipped with current industry technology. Programs lead to certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees, with many offering articulated transfer options. HTC maintains strong employer relationships and provides extensive career placement services, with particular strength in manufacturing, construction, and automotive trades.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Plato, MN, and what are their most popular programs?
The closest trade schools to Plato include Hennepin Technical College (with campuses in Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie), Summit Academy OIC in Minneapolis, and Dunwoody College of Technology in Minneapolis. Popular programs for local students include Welding Technology, Automotive Technology, Electrical Construction, and HVAC, with many offering flexible schedules for commuters from McLeod County.
Are there any trade school programs in the Plato area that offer night or weekend classes for working adults?
Yes, Hennepin Technical College and Summit Academy OIC offer evening and weekend courses in many trades, including Electrical, Plumbing, and IT Support. These schedules are designed to accommodate working adults from Plato and surrounding communities, with some programs offering hybrid online/in-person options.
What local industries in the Plato, MN region hire graduates from nearby trade schools?
Graduates from Plato-area trade schools find employment in regional manufacturing, construction firms, healthcare facilities, and automotive service centers throughout McLeod County and the Twin Cities metro. Local employers specifically seek certified welders, HVAC technicians, electricians, and automotive technicians trained at schools like Hennepin Technical College and Dunwoody.
Do trade schools near Plato, MN offer apprenticeship connections for fields like electrical or plumbing?
Yes, schools like Summit Academy OIC and Hennepin Technical College have strong partnerships with local unions and contractors to place students in registered apprenticeships. These programs combine classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training, particularly in high-demand fields like Electrical Construction, Plumbing, and Carpentry in the Twin Cities region.
What financial aid options are available for Plato residents attending trade schools in Minnesota?
Plato residents can access federal financial aid, Minnesota State grants, and school-specific scholarships at institutions like Dunwoody and Hennepin Tech. Many programs also qualify for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding through the Minnesota Department of Employment, and some shorter certificate programs offer payment plans to reduce upfront costs.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Plato
Plato, 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.