The Best Trade Schools in Stillwater, Minnesota
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Stillwater.
Top Trade Schools in Stillwater
Dunwoody College of Technology
Dunwoody College of Technology
Dunwoody College of Technology is one of Minnesota's premier technical colleges with over a century of excellence in trade education. Located in Minneapolis but serving the entire Twin Cities metro including Stillwater, Dunwoody offers hands-on training in high-demand trades with state-of-the-art facilities. The college maintains exceptional job placement rates (over 90% for most programs) and partnerships with major Minnesota employers. Programs feature industry-standard certifications, small class sizes with expert instructors, and comprehensive career services. Their welding program is particularly renowned with AWS accreditation, while electrical and automotive programs include manufacturer-specific certifications.
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Summit Academy OIC
Summit Academy OIC
Summit Academy OIC provides intensive, industry-focused trade education with a strong emphasis on workforce readiness and career placement. Serving the Twin Cities region including Stillwater residents, the institution offers comprehensive training programs in construction trades, healthcare, and technology. Their construction programs include NCCER certifications and direct pathways to union apprenticeships. With a focus on hands-on learning and employer partnerships, Summit Academy maintains high job placement rates and provides extensive support services including career counseling, job placement assistance, and continuing education opportunities. The school is particularly noted for its success in preparing students for immediate employment in high-demand trades.
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Minneapolis Community & Technical College
Minnesota State Colleges and Universities
Minneapolis Community & Technical College offers comprehensive trade and technical programs that serve students throughout the Twin Cities metro area, including Stillwater. As part of the Minnesota State system, MCTC provides affordable, high-quality career training with pathways to both immediate employment and further education. The college features modern labs and equipment, experienced faculty with industry backgrounds, and strong employer connections. Programs include ASE-certified automotive technology, American Culinary Federation-accredited culinary arts, and construction trades with industry-recognized credentials. MCTC's career services department provides extensive job placement support, internship opportunities, and career fairs with regional employers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best trade school options near Stillwater, MN for someone interested in construction trades like carpentry or electrical?
Residents of Stillwater have excellent access to several top-tier trade schools within a reasonable commute. Summit Academy OIC in Minneapolis offers intensive pre-apprenticeship programs in carpentry and electrical, while Dunwoody College of Technology provides comprehensive programs in Electrical Construction and Construction Management. Minneapolis Community & Technical College also offers foundational courses in these fields, often with flexible scheduling.
Are there any local apprenticeship programs or partnerships in Stillwater, MN that connect trade school graduates with employers?
Yes, trade schools serving the Stillwater area actively partner with local unions and employers. For example, graduates from Summit Academy OIC's electrical or plumbing programs often connect with apprenticeship opportunities through the St. Paul and Minneapolis building trades councils. Additionally, Dunwoody College has strong industry relationships with Minnesota-based construction and manufacturing firms that frequently hire from their programs.
Which trade school near Stillwater, MN offers the most direct path to certification in high-demand healthcare trades?
For healthcare trades, Minneapolis Community & Technical College (MCTC) is a primary resource for Stillwater residents. MCTC offers certificate and diploma programs in practical nursing, medical assisting, and healthcare IT support that prepare students for state certification exams. These programs are designed to be completed in 1-2 years and have strong clinical placement partnerships with healthcare providers throughout the Twin Cities metro area, including those serving Washington County.
What automotive technology programs are available to Stillwater residents, and do they lead to industry certifications?
Dunwoody College of Technology, located about 30 minutes from Stillwater, offers a renowned Automotive Technology program that prepares students for ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification. The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience in state-of-the-art labs. Graduates typically earn multiple ASE certifications and have strong employment prospects with dealerships and repair shops throughout the Twin Cities and St. Croix Valley region.
How do the welding technology programs at Twin Cities trade schools benefit someone from Stillwater looking for local manufacturing or fabrication work?
Welding programs at Dunwoody College and Minneapolis Community & Technical College provide excellent training for Stillwater residents seeking work in local manufacturing. Both schools offer AWS (American Welding Society) certification preparation, which is highly valued by employers in the St. Croix River Valley's industrial sector. Graduates often find employment at area metal fabrication shops, boat manufacturers along the river, and industrial plants in nearby suburbs, with many programs offering job placement assistance specific to the region.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Stillwater
Stillwater, 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.