The Best Trade Schools in Houston, Missouri
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Houston.
Top Trade Schools in Houston
State Technical College of Missouri
State Technical College of Missouri
State Technical College of Missouri is a top-rated institution known for its excellence in technical education, serving students from Houston and across the state. With programs in electrical systems, welding, and automotive technology, the college emphasizes practical skills, industry certifications, and high job placement rates. Students benefit from state-of-the-art labs, experienced faculty, and robust employer partnerships, leading to strong graduate outcomes. Reviews highlight the supportive learning environment and career-focused training that meets regional workforce needs.
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South Central Career Center
South Central R-1 School District
South Central Career Center is a well-regarded vocational school located in West Plains, providing accessible trade education to residents of Houston and surrounding areas. It offers focused programs in welding, automotive repair, and construction trades, with an emphasis on hands-on learning and industry certifications. The school is recognized for high student satisfaction, effective job placement services, and experienced instructors who bring real-world expertise. Graduates often secure positions locally, thanks to strong community ties and tailored training.
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Ozarks Technical Community College
Ozarks Technical Community College District
Ozarks Technical Community College (OTC) is a highly-rated public institution serving southern Missouri, including the Houston area, with comprehensive trade programs. Known for its hands-on training approach, OTC boasts strong job placement rates, industry-recognized certifications, and modern facilities. Students consistently praise the qualified instructors and practical curriculum, which prepares graduates for immediate employment in fields like welding, HVAC, and automotive technology. The college maintains partnerships with local employers to enhance career opportunities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs offered at schools near Houston, MO, and what are the typical local starting salaries?
In the Houston, MO area, programs in Welding Technology, HVAC-R, and Electrical Trades are consistently in high demand due to local manufacturing, construction, and service industries. For example, graduates from State Technical College of Missouri or Ozarks Technical Community College in these fields can often secure starting positions with salaries ranging from $40,000 to $55,000 annually, depending on the specific certification and employer.
Which trade school near Houston, MO offers the best hands-on training for Automotive Technology, and are there local dealerships or shops that partner with them for apprenticeships?
The South Central Career Center in West Plains and State Technical College of Missouri in Linn are renowned for their hands-on Automotive Technology programs. These institutions often have partnerships with regional automotive service centers and dealerships, providing students with valuable apprenticeship opportunities that can lead directly to employment in the Houston area and throughout south-central Missouri.
Are there any short-term certification programs available in Houston, MO, that can help me get into the workforce quickly, particularly in construction or healthcare?
Yes, several local institutions offer accelerated pathways. For example, Ozarks Technical Community College provides short-term certificates in areas like Construction Trades and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) through its allied health programs. These certifications, often achievable in a matter of months, are designed to meet immediate local employer needs in Houston's healthcare facilities and construction sectors.
How do the costs and financial aid options compare between the major trade schools serving Houston, MO residents, like State Technical College of Missouri and OTC?
Costs can vary; State Tech (a state technical college) and OTC (a community college) both offer relatively affordable tuition for in-district students, with OTC often having slightly lower base rates. Both schools provide robust financial aid packages, including Missouri's A+ Scholarship for eligible graduates, federal aid, and program-specific scholarships aimed at supporting trade students from the Houston area.
What local industries in the Houston, MO region actively hire graduates from Electrical Systems Technology or HVAC programs, and what certifications are most valued by these employers?
Graduates are heavily recruited by local utilities, manufacturing plants, commercial HVAC contractors, and residential service companies operating in and around Texas County. Employers highly value industry-recognized certifications such as EPA 608 Certification for HVAC technicians and licensure from the Missouri Division of Professional Registration for electricians, which are integral parts of the curriculum at schools like State Technical College of Missouri.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Houston
Houston, 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.