The Best Trade Schools in Hershey, Pennsylvania
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Hershey.
Top Trade Schools in Hershey
Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology is one of Pennsylvania's most respected trade schools, serving the Hershey area with exceptional technical education programs. The college maintains strong industry partnerships and boasts impressive job placement rates exceeding 95% for graduates. Students benefit from hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities, industry-standard certifications, and instruction from experienced professionals. The college's long-standing reputation for excellence in trades education makes it a top choice for students throughout south-central Pennsylvania seeking high-quality technical training with proven career outcomes.
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Lancaster County Career & Technology Center
Lancaster County Career & Technology Center
Lancaster County Career & Technology Center provides comprehensive trade education serving the Hershey region with multiple campuses and specialized programs. The institution maintains strong connections with local employers and industry associations, ensuring graduates are prepared for immediate employment. Programs feature modern equipment, industry-certified instructors, and hands-on learning environments that mirror real workplace conditions. With excellent job placement statistics and multiple certification opportunities, LCCTC has built a solid reputation for producing skilled trades professionals who meet regional workforce demands.
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Harrisburg Area Community College - Advanced Technology Center
HACC, Central Pennsylvania's Community College
HACC's Advanced Technology Center provides comprehensive trade education just minutes from Hershey, offering both certificate and associate degree programs in high-demand skilled trades. The college maintains strong industry partnerships with central Pennsylvania employers and provides extensive career placement services. Programs feature modern laboratories, experienced faculty with industry backgrounds, and opportunities for multiple industry certifications. HACC's established reputation, affordable tuition, and flexible scheduling options make it an excellent choice for Hershey-area residents seeking quality trade education with strong employment outcomes in the regional workforce.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Hershey, PA, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Hershey include Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology in Lancaster, the Lancaster County Career & Technology Center, and Harrisburg Area Community College's Advanced Technology Center in Harrisburg. These schools offer programs like Electrical Technology, HVAC, Welding, Carpentry, Automotive Technology, and Culinary Arts, providing hands-on training for in-demand trades in the region.
Are there any trade school programs in the Hershey area that partner with local industries for apprenticeships?
Yes, many trade programs in the Hershey area have strong industry partnerships. For example, Thaddeus Stevens College and the Lancaster County Career & Technology Center work with local construction firms, manufacturers, and healthcare facilities to offer apprenticeships and co-op opportunities. These connections help students gain real-world experience and often lead to job offers upon graduation.
What certifications can I earn through trade schools near Hershey, PA, and how do they benefit my career?
Trade schools near Hershey offer industry-recognized certifications such as EPA 608 for HVAC-R, NCCER credentials for construction trades, and AWS certifications for welding. These certifications validate your skills to employers in Central Pennsylvania's growing construction, manufacturing, and technical sectors, often leading to higher starting wages and better job security.
How does the local job market in Hershey and Central PA influence which trade programs are most valuable?
The Hershey and Central PA region has strong demand in construction, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare support trades. Programs in Electrical Technology, HVAC, Welding, and Plumbing are particularly valuable due to ongoing infrastructure projects and industrial growth. The presence of major employers like Hershey Entertainment & Resorts also creates opportunities in culinary arts and facility maintenance trades.
Can I complete a trade program near Hershey while working, and what flexible options exist?
Yes, several schools offer flexible scheduling. Harrisburg Area Community College provides evening and weekend classes at their Advanced Technology Center, while Lancaster County Career & Technology Center offers part-time adult education programs. Many programs also feature hybrid learning options, allowing you to balance work with training for careers in Pennsylvania's essential trades.
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About Trade Schools in Hershey
Hershey, 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.