The Best Trade Schools in De Soto, Missouri
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in De Soto.
Top Trade Schools in De Soto
Ranken Technical College
Ranken Technical College
Ranken Technical College is one of Missouri's most respected trade schools with over a century of excellence in technical education. Located approximately 45 minutes from De Soto, Ranken offers comprehensive programs in multiple skilled trades with exceptional job placement rates exceeding 95%. The college features state-of-the-art facilities, industry-certified instructors, and strong partnerships with major employers. Students receive hands-on training with modern equipment and can earn multiple industry certifications. Ranken's reputation for producing highly skilled graduates makes it a top choice for trade education in the region.
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Midwest Technical Institute
Midwest Technical Institute
Midwest Technical Institute provides intensive, hands-on training programs focused on high-demand skilled trades. Located about 40 minutes from De Soto in the St. Louis metropolitan area, MTI offers accelerated programs with comprehensive career services. The school features modern training facilities with industry-standard equipment and experienced instructors who bring real-world expertise. MTI maintains strong employer relationships and provides job placement assistance, with many programs including industry certifications. The practical, skills-based approach prepares students for immediate employment in their chosen trade.
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South Tech
Special School District of St. Louis County
South Tech is a highly-regarded career and technical education center serving the St. Louis region, located approximately 35 minutes from De Soto. The school offers comprehensive programs in multiple skilled trades with a focus on hands-on learning and industry preparation. South Tech features modern laboratories and shops equipped with current industry technology, and instructors are experienced professionals in their fields. The school maintains strong partnerships with local employers and trade unions, providing excellent job placement opportunities and pathways to apprenticeships. Students can earn industry certifications and college credit while developing practical skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to De Soto, MO, and what programs do they specialize in?
The closest trade schools to De Soto include Ranken Technical College in St. Louis, Midwest Technical Institute in Springfield, and South Tech in St. Louis County. These schools offer programs like Automotive Technology, Electrical & Electronics Technology, HVAC, Carpentry, Plumbing, Welding, Construction Trades, Cosmetology, and Culinary Arts, with many offering hands-on training relevant to Missouri's industrial and service sectors.
Are there any local apprenticeship programs in De Soto, MO, that partner with trade schools?
Yes, De Soto and surrounding Jefferson County have apprenticeship opportunities through local unions, contractors, and manufacturers that often partner with schools like Ranken Technical College and South Tech. These programs combine classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training in fields such as electrical work, plumbing, and welding, helping students earn while they learn and gain Missouri-specific certifications.
What trade certifications are most in demand for graduates in the De Soto, MO area?
In the De Soto region, certifications in HVAC (EPA 608), welding (AWS), electrical (Missouri journeyman/licensing), and plumbing are highly sought after. Local industries, including manufacturing, construction, and energy sectors, value these credentials, and schools like Midwest Technical Institute and Ranken provide preparation for these exams, aligning training with Missouri state requirements.
How do trade school programs in the De Soto area connect students with local job opportunities?
Trade schools near De Soto, such as Ranken and South Tech, have strong ties to employers in the St. Louis metropolitan area and Jefferson County. They offer career services, job fairs, and internship placements with local companies, utilities, and contractors, helping graduates secure roles in automotive repair, construction, manufacturing, and culinary fields right after completion.
What financial aid options are available for De Soto, MO residents attending trade schools?
De Soto residents can access federal aid (FAFSA), Missouri state grants like the A+ Scholarship, and school-specific scholarships at institutions like Ranken Technical College. Additionally, many trade programs qualify for Missouri's Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant, which covers tuition for high-demand fields, and some local employers offer tuition reimbursement for apprenticeships in trades like electrical or HVAC.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in De Soto
De Soto, Missouri 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.