The Best Trade Schools in Portsmouth, Ohio
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Portsmouth.
Top Trade Schools in Portsmouth
Scioto County Career Technical Center
Scioto County Board of Education
Scioto County Career Technical Center is a highly-regarded vocational school serving the Portsmouth area with a strong focus on hands-on training and industry certifications. Established in 2006, it offers comprehensive programs in high-demand trades like welding, automotive, and HVAC, with state-of-the-art facilities and experienced instructors. The school boasts a job placement rate of over 85%, with partnerships with local employers ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized attention, and opportunities to earn industry-recognized certifications such as AWS for welding and ASE for automotive. With a 4.6 rating from 68 reviews, it is praised for its practical curriculum and supportive learning environment.
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Ohio Valley Career and Technical Center
Adams County Board of Education
Ohio Valley Career and Technical Center, founded in 2008, is a top-rated institution providing quality trade education to students in the Portsmouth region. With a 4.4 rating from 45 reviews, it emphasizes real-world skills in programs like electrical, plumbing, and culinary arts, supported by certified instructors and modern equipment. The school has a strong job placement record, with many graduates securing positions through local apprenticeship programs and industry connections. Students can earn certifications such as OSHA safety credentials and state cosmetology licenses, enhancing employability. Its commitment to student success is reflected in high satisfaction rates and a collaborative learning atmosphere.
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Ashland Community and Technical College
Kentucky Community and Technical College System
Ashland Community and Technical College, established in 2003, is a reputable trade school located just across the river from Portsmouth, offering a wide range of programs in skilled trades. With a 4.3 rating from 120 reviews, it provides high-quality training in fields like welding, HVAC, and automotive technology, featuring experienced faculty and industry-aligned curricula. The college has a strong job placement rate, often exceeding 80%, and partners with regional employers for internships and job opportunities. Students can obtain certifications such as AWS for welding and EPA for HVAC, along with associate degrees. Known for its affordable tuition and supportive services, it attracts students from Ohio and Kentucky for its proven track record in career readiness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs for local employment in the Portsmouth, Ohio area?
In the Portsmouth region, programs like Welding, Electrical Trades, and Healthcare (particularly Nursing) are in high demand due to local manufacturing, construction, and healthcare sectors. The Scioto County Career Technical Center and Ohio Valley Career and Technical Center offer strong pathways in these fields, with many graduates finding work at local employers like Southern Ohio Medical Center or area industrial plants.
Can I complete a trade certification while still in high school in Portsmouth, OH?
Yes, both the Scioto County Career Technical Center and Ohio Valley Career and Technical Center offer career-technical programs for high school students in Portsmouth and surrounding counties. These programs allow students to earn industry-recognized credentials and college credit in fields like Automotive Technology, Cosmetology, and Carpentry, giving them a head start on their careers or further education.
Are there any trade programs in Portsmouth that offer apprenticeships or direct job placement assistance?
Many trade programs in the Portsmouth area have strong connections with local employers and unions. The Ohio Valley Career and Technical Center, for example, often facilitates apprenticeships in Electrical and Plumbing trades through partnerships with local contractors. Additionally, Ashland Community and Technical College's nearby campus provides job placement services and cooperative education opportunities for programs like Welding Technology and Nursing.
What financial aid options are available for trade school students in Portsmouth, Ohio?
Portsmouth-area trade school students can access federal financial aid, Ohio-specific grants like the Ohio College Opportunity Grant, and institutional scholarships through schools like Scioto County Career Technical Center. Many local programs also qualify for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding, which helps cover tuition for in-demand occupations in Scioto County and the surrounding region.
How do Portsmouth-area trade schools accommodate adult learners looking to change careers?
Portsmouth's trade schools offer flexible scheduling options for adult learners. The Ohio Valley Career and Technical Center provides evening and part-time programs in fields like HVAC and Electrical Technology, while Ashland Community and Technical College offers accelerated pathways in Healthcare and Culinary Arts. Many programs also offer credit for prior work experience and have dedicated advisors to help adult students navigate career transitions.
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About Trade Schools in Portsmouth
Portsmouth, Ohio 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.