The Best Trade Schools in Kalispell, Montana
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Kalispell.
Top Trade Schools in Kalispell
Flathead Valley Community College - Trade & Industry Division
Flathead Valley Community College
Flathead Valley Community College offers comprehensive trade and technical programs with strong industry partnerships and high job placement rates. The college features state-of-the-art facilities including a 10,000-square-foot welding lab, automotive technology center with industry-standard equipment, and modern HVAC training labs. Programs lead to industry certifications and apprenticeships with local employers. FVCC maintains strong relationships with regional employers in construction, manufacturing, and energy sectors, with many students securing employment before graduation.
Programs Offered:
Missoula College - University of Montana
University of Montana
Missoula College serves the entire western Montana region including Kalispell with comprehensive trade programs featuring hands-on training and industry certifications. The college offers advanced facilities including CNC machining centers, automotive diagnostic systems, and commercial-grade culinary kitchens. Programs emphasize real-world projects and maintain strong partnerships with regional employers. Job placement rates exceed 85% for graduates, with many students participating in paid internships and apprenticeships throughout their training.
Programs Offered:
Great Falls College Montana State University
Montana State University
Great Falls College MSU provides extensive trade education serving central and northern Montana, including Kalispell residents. The college features comprehensive programs with industry-standard equipment and certification pathways. Notable strengths include their welding program with AWS certifications, automotive technology with ASE certifications, and construction trades with NCCER credentials. The college maintains strong industry partnerships and boasts job placement rates consistently above 80%, with many graduates securing positions in high-demand Montana industries.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main trade school options for Kalispell, MT residents without having to relocate?
The primary local option is the Trade & Industry Division at Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC) in Kalispell, which offers programs like Welding, Automotive Technology, and Construction Technology. For a wider selection, some students commute to Missoula College (about 2 hours away) or consider online-hybrid options. FVCC is the most accessible for hands-on, in-person training directly in the Flathead Valley.
Which trade programs at Flathead Valley Community College have the strongest local industry connections for job placement in the Kalispell area?
FVCC's Welding Technology, Construction Technology, and HVAC programs have particularly strong ties to local employers in Northwest Montana's construction, manufacturing, and skilled trades sectors. The college's career services often work directly with regional contractors, fabrication shops, and service companies, facilitating internships and direct hiring pathways for graduates in the Flathead Valley.
Are there specific certifications I can earn through Kalispell-area trade programs that are in high demand by Montana employers?
Yes, programs at FVCC prepare students for certifications like AWS (American Welding Society) welding certifications, EPA 608 certification for HVAC-R technicians, and NCCER (National Center for Construction Education & Research) credentials in construction trades. These are highly valued by Montana employers in industries like logging, tourism infrastructure, and residential/commercial construction, which are prominent in the region.
How does the local economy in Kalispell and the Flathead Valley influence which trade skills are most valuable to learn?
Kalispell's economy, driven by construction, tourism, manufacturing, and healthcare, creates high demand for tradespeople. Skills in construction (carpentry, electrical), HVAC (for both residential and commercial properties), and automotive repair are consistently needed to support year-round residents and seasonal tourism. The growing population and development in the valley further sustain demand for these skilled trades.
Can I start a trade program at FVCC in Kalispell if I'm still in high school, and what options exist?
Yes, through Montana's Dual Enrollment program, high school students in the Flathead Valley can take trade courses at FVCC, often at reduced or no cost. Programs like Welding, Automotive, and Construction Technology offer introductory courses. Additionally, some local high schools have CTE pathways that align with FVCC's curriculum, allowing students to earn college credits and industry certifications before graduation.
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About Trade Schools in Kalispell
Kalispell, Montana 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.