The Best Trade Schools in Portland, Oregon
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Portland.
Top Trade Schools in Portland
Summit Salon Academy Portland
Summit Salon Academy
Summit Salon Academy Portland is a highly-rated beauty and cosmetology trade school known for its comprehensive training and strong industry connections. The academy features experienced instructors who are working professionals, ensuring students learn current techniques and trends. The program includes extensive hands-on training in modern salon facilities and prepares students for Oregon state licensing exams with exceptional pass rates. Graduates benefit from strong job placement assistance and networking opportunities within Portland's vibrant beauty industry.
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Portland Community College - Trade & Technical Programs
Portland Community College
Portland Community College is Oregon's largest post-secondary institution and offers comprehensive trade and technical education with multiple campuses serving the Portland metro area. PCC maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers and boasts exceptional job placement rates. Programs feature hands-on training with industry-standard equipment, certified instructors, and pathways to apprenticeships. The college holds accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and maintains articulation agreements with industry certification bodies.
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UEI College - Portland Campus
UEI College
UEI College Portland provides focused career training with accelerated programs designed for quick entry into skilled trades. The campus features modern labs with industry-current equipment and emphasizes hands-on learning. The school maintains strong employer relationships throughout the Portland metropolitan area, with dedicated career services assisting graduates with job placement. Programs are designed to prepare students for industry certifications and licensing exams, with flexible scheduling options available for working adults.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs in Portland, Oregon right now, and which local schools offer them?
In Portland, high-demand trades include Electrical Trades, HVAC/R, and Construction Trades due to the city's ongoing development and green building initiatives. Portland Community College offers comprehensive programs in these areas, while UEI College provides focused training for Electrical and HVAC Technicians. Summit Salon Academy caters to the beauty industry with cosmetology and esthetics programs.
How do Portland trade schools help graduates find local apprenticeships or job placements?
Portland trade schools maintain strong connections with local unions and employers. Portland Community College has partnerships with organizations like the NECA-IBEW Electrical Training Center, while UEI College offers career services that connect students with Portland-area employers in healthcare, skilled trades, and automotive industries. Many programs include externships or clinical rotations at local businesses.
Are there any unique certification requirements for tradespeople working in Portland or Multnomah County?
Yes, Portland and Multnomah County have specific licensing requirements for certain trades. Electricians must obtain Oregon state licensing through the Building Codes Division, while construction trades may require additional certifications for working on green building projects common in Portland. Many trade school programs are designed to prepare students for these specific Oregon certification exams.
What financial aid options are specifically available for trade school students in Portland, Oregon?
Portland trade school students can access Oregon-specific aid like the Oregon Promise Grant for recent high school graduates and the Oregon Opportunity Grant. Additionally, Portland Community College offers the PCC Foundation scholarships specifically for trade students, and many local unions (like IBEW Local 48) provide apprenticeship programs that combine paid work with education.
How do Portland trade school programs incorporate the city's focus on sustainable practices and green technology?
Many Portland trade programs emphasize sustainability due to the city's green building standards. PCC's Construction Trades program includes training in LEED principles, while HVAC programs teach installation and maintenance of high-efficiency and geothermal systems. Electrical programs often include solar panel installation training, preparing graduates for Portland's growing renewable energy sector.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Portland
Portland, 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.