The Best Trade Schools in Clackamas, Oregon
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Clackamas.
Top Trade Schools in Clackamas
Northwest College of Construction
Northwest College of Construction
Northwest College of Construction is a highly-regarded trade school specializing in construction and skilled trades. It offers intensive, hands-on training programs with a strong focus on industry certifications and apprenticeships. The school boasts high job placement rates, experienced instructors from the field, and modern training facilities. Students consistently praise the practical curriculum and career support services, making it a top choice for those entering electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and carpentry trades in the Clackamas area.
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Portland Community College - Clackamas Campus
Portland Community College District
Portland Community College's Clackamas Campus provides comprehensive trade programs with a reputation for excellence in vocational education. It features state-of-the-art labs, industry partnerships, and high job placement rates. Programs lead to certifications and degrees, with a focus on hands-on learning in welding, automotive, HVAC, cosmetology, and culinary arts. The campus serves Clackamas residents with affordable tuition and flexible scheduling, supported by positive student reviews on training quality and instructor expertise.
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Mt. Hood Community College
Mt. Hood Community College District
Mt. Hood Community College is a top-rated institution offering robust trade programs that serve the Clackamas region. It emphasizes practical skills, industry certifications, and strong job placement outcomes. With programs in automotive, welding, carpentry, culinary arts, and electrical trades, the college provides hands-on training in modern facilities. Students benefit from experienced faculty, apprenticeship opportunities, and career services, contributing to high satisfaction rates and successful graduations in skilled trades.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs offered at schools in the Clackamas, OR area?
Based on local industry needs, some of the most sought-after programs in Clackamas include Electrical Training, HVAC/R, and Plumbing at the Northwest College of Construction, as well as Welding Technology and Automotive Service Technology at Portland Community College's Clackamas Campus. These fields align with ongoing construction and infrastructure projects in the Portland metro area, offering strong local job placement.
How do apprenticeship programs in Clackamas, Oregon, typically work for trades like carpentry or electrical?
Apprenticeship programs in Clackamas, such as those offered through the Northwest College of Construction or union partnerships, combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. For example, an electrical apprentice might work full-time with a licensed contractor while attending related theory classes one or two evenings per week, typically leading to state licensure after 4-5 years.
Are there any short-term certification programs available at Clackamas-area trade schools that can lead to quick employment?
Yes, several local institutions offer accelerated certifications. Mt. Hood Community College and Portland Community College - Clackamas Campus provide short-term programs in areas like Welding (several months) and HVAC/R technician preparation, which can often be completed in under a year. These certifications are designed to meet immediate employer needs in the regional manufacturing and service sectors.
What local financial aid or scholarship opportunities exist specifically for trade school students in Clackamas County?
Students in Clackamas can access federal aid via the FAFSA at all accredited schools, plus local opportunities like the Clackamas Community College Foundation scholarships and trade-specific apprenticeships that often include tuition reimbursement from employers. The Oregon Training and Employment Division also offers workforce development grants for qualifying programs in high-demand fields.
How does the job placement support differ between the major trade schools in the Clackamas, Oregon region?
Northwest College of Construction has deep ties with local construction unions and contractors, offering direct placement assistance for graduates. Portland Community College's Clackamas Campus and Mt. Hood Community College feature comprehensive career services with industry partnerships across multiple sectors, including regular job fairs specifically for trades like automotive, welding, and culinary arts in the Portland metro area.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Clackamas
Clackamas, Oregon 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.