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The Best Trade Schools in Ford City, Pennsylvania

Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Ford City.

3
Training Programs
4.6
Average Rating

Top Trade Schools in Ford City

1

New Century Careers

New Century Careers

★★★★☆
4.8/5

New Century Careers is a highly-regarded manufacturing and trades training center serving Western Pennsylvania, including Armstrong County where Ford City is located. The school specializes in hands-on training for in-demand manufacturing careers with exceptional job placement rates exceeding 90%. Their Machinist Training Program provides comprehensive instruction in CNC operation, manual machining, blueprint reading, and metrology. The welding program offers certification preparation in multiple processes including MIG, TIG, and stick welding. With strong industry partnerships and state-of-the-art equipment, graduates are highly sought after by regional manufacturers. The school maintains small class sizes and provides extensive career placement assistance.

Experience:24 years
Reviews:87 student reviews
3330 South Water Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203

Programs Offered:

CNC MachiningWeldingManufacturing SkillsIndustrial Maintenance
2

ABC Keystone

Associated Builders and Contractors

★★★★☆
4.7/5

ABC Keystone provides comprehensive apprenticeship and craft training programs serving construction trades across Pennsylvania, including the Ford City region. As part of the national Associated Builders and Contractors organization, they offer registered apprenticeships in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other skilled trades. Their programs combine classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training, allowing students to earn while they learn. The curriculum is developed by industry experts and leads to nationally recognized certifications. With strong employer connections and a proven track record of placing graduates in high-paying construction careers, ABC Keystone maintains excellent relationships with contractors throughout Western Pennsylvania who regularly hire their graduates.

Experience:67 years
Reviews:142 student reviews
135 Shellyland Road, Manheim, PA 17545

Programs Offered:

ElectricalPlumbingHVACCarpentryWeldingSheet Metal
3

Pittsburgh Technical College

Pittsburgh Technical College

★★★★☆
4.3/5

Pittsburgh Technical College offers comprehensive trade and technical programs serving the greater Pittsburgh area, including Ford City and Armstrong County. Their Electrical Technology program prepares students for residential, commercial, and industrial electrical work with hands-on training in their state-of-the-art labs. The HVAC program covers installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Welding technology students learn multiple processes and can earn industry certifications. The college maintains strong industry partnerships and provides extensive career services support. While offering associate degrees, PTC focuses on practical, career-ready skills with modern equipment and experienced instructors from industry backgrounds.

Experience:77 years
Reviews:189 student reviews
1111 McKee Road, Oakdale, PA 15071

Programs Offered:

Electrical TechnologyHVACWeldingAutomotiveCulinary ArtsBuilding Technology

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most in-demand trade programs for manufacturing jobs in the Ford City, PA area?

Given Ford City's industrial history and proximity to manufacturing hubs, programs in CNC Machining, Welding, and Industrial Maintenance are particularly in-demand. Local schools like New Century Careers and Pittsburgh Technical College offer these programs, which align with job opportunities at regional manufacturers and industrial plants in Armstrong County and the greater Pittsburgh region.

Are there any trade schools or training centers specifically in Ford City, PA, or do I need to commute?

While Ford City itself is a smaller community, residents typically commute to nearby institutions for training. Key options include New Century Careers in Pittsburgh (focusing on manufacturing trades), ABC Keystone in Harrisburg (offering construction apprenticeships), and Pittsburgh Technical College in Oakdale. Some local unions and employers may also sponsor apprenticeship programs accessible to Ford City residents.

What local financial aid or scholarship opportunities exist for Ford City, PA residents attending trade schools?

Pennsylvania offers several state-funded programs like the Workforce and Economic Development Network of Pennsylvania (WEDnetPA) for eligible employers and the PA CareerLink services for individuals. Additionally, local organizations, such as the Armstrong County Community Foundation, may offer scholarships. It's recommended to contact the trade school's financial aid office and PA CareerLink in Kittanning for personalized assistance.

Which trade certifications are most valued by employers in the Ford City and Western Pennsylvania region?

Employers in this region highly value industry-recognized certifications such as NCCER credentials for construction trades, AWS (American Welding Society) certifications for welders, and EPA Section 608 certification for HVAC technicians. For electrical and plumbing trades, the Pennsylvania state licensure is required, which involves completing an approved apprenticeship and passing a state exam.

How do trade school programs in the Pittsburgh area, like those at Pittsburgh Technical College, connect Ford City students with local job placements?

Schools like Pittsburgh Technical College have dedicated career services departments that work with regional employers to facilitate job placements, internships, and apprenticeships. Many programs include externships or co-op experiences with companies in Western Pennsylvania. Additionally, local trade unions (e.g., for electrical, plumbing, or sheet metal work) often have direct pathways from apprenticeship programs to union jobs in the area.

Nearby Cities

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About Trade Schools in Ford City

Ford City, Pennsylvania 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.