The Best Trade Schools in North Plains, Oregon
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in North Plains.
Top Trade Schools in North Plains
Pacific Northwest Carpenters Institute
Pacific Northwest Carpenters Institute
The Pacific Northwest Carpenters Institute is a highly-regarded trade school serving the greater Portland metro area, including North Plains. As the official training arm of the Northwest Carpenters Union, this institution offers comprehensive apprenticeship programs and skill enhancement training in carpentry, millwright, pile driving, and concrete forming. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, industry-certified instructors, and strong job placement rates through union connections. The school maintains excellent relationships with major construction employers throughout Washington County and offers both entry-level and advanced certification programs with proven track records of graduate success in the construction trades.
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Portland Community College - Rock Creek Campus
Portland Community College
Portland Community College's Rock Creek Campus, located just minutes from North Plains, offers one of the most comprehensive trade and technical education programs in the region. The campus features state-of-the-industry facilities including advanced automotive bays, welding labs, and manufacturing technology centers. PCC provides both certificate programs and associate degrees in high-demand trades, with strong articulation agreements with industry partners and four-year institutions. The college maintains exceptional job placement rates through its extensive employer network and career services department. Students benefit from affordable tuition, financial aid options, and instruction from industry-experienced faculty who bring real-world expertise to the classroom.
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UEI College
UEI College
UEI College's Portland campus serves the North Plains area with comprehensive trade programs focused on high-demand skilled professions. The school offers hands-on training in HVAC, electrical systems, automotive technology, and other trades with modern equipment and industry-current curriculum. With strong emphasis on job placement assistance, UEI maintains relationships with local employers throughout the Portland metropolitan region. The institution provides flexible scheduling options, career services support, and certification preparation that aligns with Oregon's licensing requirements. Students consistently praise the practical, real-world training approach and supportive learning environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade careers for graduates in the North Plains, Oregon area?
The North Plains and greater Portland metro area have strong demand for skilled tradespeople, particularly in construction trades like carpentry, electrical, and HVAC due to ongoing residential and commercial development. Graduates from programs at Pacific Northwest Carpenters Institute or Portland Community College's Rock Creek Campus also find opportunities in advanced manufacturing and welding, supported by local industrial employers.
Which trade schools near North Plains, Oregon offer apprenticeship programs with local unions or employers?
The Pacific Northwest Carpenters Institute, located in the region, operates a well-registered apprenticeship program in partnership with the Northwest Carpenters Union, combining classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training. Additionally, Portland Community College's Rock Creek Campus collaborates with local electrical, plumbing, and HVAC contractors to facilitate apprenticeship pathways for students in relevant trade programs.
Can I complete a welding certification program near North Plains, and what local job opportunities exist for welders?
Yes, both Portland Community College's Rock Creek Campus and UEI College offer welding certification programs accessible to North Plains residents. Graduates can find employment with local metal fabrication shops, manufacturing plants in the industrial corridors of Washington County, and construction firms working on regional infrastructure projects, which often require certified welders.
What HVAC training options are available in the North Plains, Oregon area, and is certification required to work locally?
HVAC training is available at UEI College and through relevant programs at Portland Community College. Oregon requires HVAC technicians to be licensed, which involves completing an approved training program, accumulating work experience, and passing a state exam. Local demand is steady due to both new construction and the need for maintenance and retrofit work in existing homes and businesses.
How do the costs and program lengths compare between the trade schools accessible from North Plains, like UEI College and Portland Community College?
Portland Community College typically offers more affordable, longer-term programs (often several terms to two years) leading to associate degrees or certificates, with financial aid options. UEI College generally provides shorter, intensive career training programs (often under a year) with a focus on rapid entry into the workforce, though at a higher tuition cost. Prospective students should compare total costs, financial aid, and career support services.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in North Plains
North Plains, 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.