The Best Trade Schools in Rolla, Missouri
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Rolla.
Top Trade Schools in Rolla
Missouri Welding Institute
Independent
Missouri Welding Institute specializes exclusively in welding education, offering intensive, hands-on programs that lead to American Welding Society (AWS) certifications. Located about 70 miles from Rolla, it features a high job placement rate, personalized instruction, and training on real-world projects. The school is known for its focused curriculum, industry partnerships, and success in preparing graduates for careers in manufacturing, construction, and energy sectors.
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State Technical College of Missouri
State of Missouri Public Institution
State Technical College of Missouri is a highly regarded public trade school located approximately 30 miles from Rolla, offering comprehensive hands-on training in skilled trades. With industry-standard certifications, high job placement rates (often exceeding 90%), and modern facilities, it provides programs developed with employer input. Students benefit from small class sizes, experienced instructors, and strong regional employer connections, making it a top choice for trades education in central Missouri.
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Ranken Technical College
Non-profit
Ranken Technical College is a premier trade school with a long-standing reputation for excellence, serving the Rolla area from its St. Louis campus (approximately 100 miles away). It offers a wide range of accredited programs with strong emphasis on hands-on learning, industry certifications, and job placement support. With modern labs, experienced faculty, and partnerships with major employers, Ranken consistently achieves high graduate employment rates and is recognized for its commitment to workforce development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main trade schools in Rolla, Missouri, and what distinguishes them?
Rolla is home to the State Technical College of Missouri, a premier public technical college offering comprehensive programs like Electrical Systems and Automotive Technology. The Missouri Welding Institute specializes in welding certifications, including AWS and pipe welding, while Ranken Technical College provides programs such as HVAC and Carpentry with strong job placement support in the region.
Which trade programs in Rolla, MO, have the strongest local job placement rates?
Programs at the State Technical College of Missouri, such as Electrical Technology and HVAC, report high job placement rates due to partnerships with local employers like MODOT and regional contractors. The Missouri Welding Institute also boasts strong placement for welders, supported by demand from Missouri's manufacturing and construction sectors.
Are there short-term welding certification programs available in Rolla, and what do they cover?
Yes, the Missouri Welding Institute in Rolla offers intensive short-term programs focusing on AWS certifications, pipe welding, and structural welding. These hands-on courses are designed to quickly prepare students for entry-level welding positions in Missouri's industrial and fabrication industries.
How do trade school costs in Rolla, MO, compare to other parts of Missouri?
Trade school costs in Rolla are generally competitive, with State Technical College of Missouri offering lower in-state tuition compared to many private institutions. Financial aid and Missouri-specific grants, like the A+ Scholarship, can further reduce costs for eligible students pursuing programs like Plumbing or Automotive Technology.
What local industries in Rolla hire graduates from trade schools, and what are typical starting salaries?
Graduates in Rolla are often hired by local industries such as manufacturing, construction, and automotive services. For example, welders from the Missouri Welding Institute can start at $18-$25/hour, while HVAC technicians from State Technical College may earn $20-$30/hour, reflecting Missouri's demand for skilled trades.
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About Trade Schools in Rolla
Rolla, 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.