The Best Trade Schools in The Dalles, Oregon
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in The Dalles.
Top Trade Schools in The Dalles
Universal Technical Institute
UTI Division, Universal Technical Institute
Universal Technical Institute's Vancouver campus serves students from The Dalles area with comprehensive technical training programs. UTI maintains strong industry partnerships with major manufacturers including Ford, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, providing manufacturer-specific advanced training. The institution boasts impressive job placement rates with graduates securing positions at dealerships and repair facilities throughout the Pacific Northwest. Their welding program offers extensive hands-on training with preparation for AWS certifications, while automotive programs lead to multiple ASE certifications. Financial aid options and veteran benefits make this a popular choice for career-changers throughout the Columbia Gorge region.
Programs Offered:
Portland Community College - Rock Creek Campus
Portland Community College District
Portland Community College's Rock Creek Campus offers extensive trade programs that serve students from The Dalles and throughout the Columbia River Gorge. The campus features comprehensive automotive technology programs with multiple ASE certification pathways, a robust welding technology program with AWS certification preparation, and building construction trades programs that include carpentry and electrical training. PCC maintains strong industry partnerships with Portland-area employers and provides excellent job placement services. The college's affordable tuition and financial aid options make it accessible to students from The Dalles seeking high-quality trade education within reasonable commuting distance.
Programs Offered:
Columbia Gorge Community College
Columbia Gorge Community College District
Columbia Gorge Community College is the primary trade and technical education provider for The Dalles and surrounding communities. The college offers comprehensive career technical education programs with strong industry partnerships throughout the Columbia River Gorge region. Their welding program features state-of-the-art equipment and AWS certification preparation, while the automotive technology program provides ASE certification training. With extensive local employer connections and job placement assistance, CGCC maintains high graduate employment rates in skilled trades throughout the region. The college's small class sizes and experienced instructors provide personalized hands-on training tailored to local industry needs.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs at Columbia Gorge Community College in The Dalles, OR?
Columbia Gorge Community College (CGCC) in The Dalles offers several high-demand programs aligned with regional industries. These include Welding Technology, Renewable Energy Technology (particularly relevant to the area's wind and solar sectors), Nursing, and Automotive Technology. The college's strong connections with local employers help ensure graduates find employment in the Columbia River Gorge region.
Are there any trade programs in The Dalles, OR that specifically support the local renewable energy industry?
Yes, Columbia Gorge Community College offers a Renewable Energy Technology program that directly supports the growing wind, solar, and hydroelectric industries in the Columbia River Gorge. This program provides hands-on training in installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of renewable energy systems, preparing students for careers with local energy companies and contractors throughout the region.
What local apprenticeship opportunities are available for trade students in The Dalles, Oregon area?
The Dalles area offers apprenticeship opportunities through partnerships between CGCC and local unions, contractors, and manufacturers. These include apprenticeships in construction trades, manufacturing, and HVAC-R, often coordinated through the Columbia Gorge Regional Skills Center. Many local employers in manufacturing, construction, and energy sectors actively recruit apprentices from CGCC's trade programs.
How does the Universal Technical Institute campus near The Dalles, OR differ from Columbia Gorge Community College's trade programs?
While both institutions offer technical training, Universal Technical Institute (UTI) focuses specifically on automotive, diesel, and collision repair technologies with intensive, manufacturer-specific training. Columbia Gorge Community College offers a broader range of programs including healthcare, renewable energy, and manufacturing, with more flexible scheduling options and lower tuition costs for Oregon residents.
What certifications can I earn through trade programs in The Dalles, OR that are recognized by local employers?
Trade programs in The Dalles offer various industry-recognized certifications. These include AWS welding certifications through CGCC's program, ASE certifications in automotive and diesel technology, EPA Section 608 certification for HVAC-R technicians, and specific manufacturer certifications through UTI. Many local manufacturing plants, automotive shops, and construction firms in the Columbia Gorge region specifically seek these credentials when hiring.
Nearby Cities
Explore trade schools in cities near The Dalles:
About Trade Schools in The Dalles
The Dalles, 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.