The Best Trade Schools in Silver Lake, Minnesota
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Silver Lake.
Top Trade Schools in Silver Lake
Dunwoody College of Technology
Dunwoody College of Technology
Dunwoody College of Technology is a premier technical institution serving the entire Twin Cities metro area including Silver Lake. With over a century of experience, Dunwoody offers intensive hands-on training in high-demand trades with exceptional job placement rates exceeding 95%. The college features state-of-the-art labs, industry-certified instructors, and strong employer partnerships. Programs lead to industry certifications and associate degrees, with many graduates securing employment before completion. The welding program is particularly renowned with AWS certification preparation.
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Summit Academy OIC
Summit Academy OIC
Summit Academy OIC provides comprehensive trade education with a focus on career readiness and community impact. Serving the greater Minneapolis-St. Paul region including Silver Lake, the institution offers intensive 20-week programs in construction trades with strong emphasis on hands-on learning and job placement. The school maintains partnerships with local unions and employers, ensuring graduates are connected to employment opportunities. Programs include apprenticeship preparation and industry certifications, with many students securing positions at union wages upon completion.
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St. Cloud Technical & Community College
Minnesota State Colleges and Universities
St. Cloud Technical & Community College serves central Minnesota including the Silver Lake area with comprehensive trade programs and strong industry connections. The college offers both certificate and associate degree programs in high-demand skilled trades with modern facilities and experienced instructors. SCTCC boasts excellent job placement rates, particularly in automotive and welding programs, with many graduates securing positions at regional manufacturers and construction firms. The institution maintains strong relationships with local employers and provides comprehensive career services support.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Silver Lake, MN, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Silver Lake include St. Cloud Technical & Community College (about 30 minutes away), Dunwoody College of Technology in Minneapolis (about an hour's drive), and Summit Academy OIC in Minneapolis. These schools offer programs in Welding Technology, Electrical Construction, Automotive Technology, HVAC, Plumbing, Carpentry, Healthcare Trades, IT Support, Diesel Mechanics, and Electrical Technology.
Are there any local apprenticeship programs in Silver Lake, MN, that partner with area trade schools?
Yes, many local contractors and unions in the Silver Lake and greater St. Cloud area partner with schools like St. Cloud Technical & Community College for apprenticeship programs. These are common in electrical, plumbing, and carpentry trades, combining classroom instruction at the college with paid on-the-job training with local employers.
What high-demand trade careers in the Silver Lake, MN area can I train for locally?
In the Silver Lake and central Minnesota region, high-demand trades include Welding, Electrical Technology, HVAC, and Diesel Mechanics due to strong manufacturing, agriculture, and construction industries. Programs at St. Cloud Technical & Community College are specifically aligned with these local employer needs, offering strong job placement rates.
Can I complete a trade certification program near Silver Lake, MN while working full-time?
Yes, many programs at St. Cloud Technical & Community College offer flexible scheduling including evening, weekend, and hybrid online/in-person options. This allows residents of Silver Lake to maintain employment while pursuing certifications in fields like IT Support, Healthcare Trades, or Electrical Technology.
What financial aid or scholarship opportunities are available for Silver Lake, MN residents attending area trade schools?
Silver Lake residents can apply for federal financial aid (FAFSA) at all accredited trade schools. Additionally, many Minnesota-specific opportunities exist, including the Minnesota State Grant and Workforce Development Scholarships for high-demand fields. Local organizations and employers in Wright and Stearns counties often offer scholarships for trade students.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Silver Lake
Silver Lake, 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.