The Best Trade Schools in Old Forge, Pennsylvania
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Old Forge.
Top Trade Schools in Old Forge
Johnson College
Johnson College
Johnson College is a highly respected technical institution located just minutes from Old Forge, offering hands-on, career-focused training in skilled trades. With accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the college boasts strong job placement rates (over 90% for many programs) and partnerships with local industries. Programs include Automotive Technology, HVAC-R, Electrical Technology, and Welding Technology, all taught by experienced instructors in modern labs. Students benefit from small class sizes, industry certifications, and comprehensive career services, leading to high satisfaction and employment outcomes in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
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Empire Beauty School
Empire Education Group
Empire Beauty School in Scranton provides specialized training in cosmetology and related fields, serving the Old Forge area with a focus on practical skills and licensure preparation. Accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences, the school offers programs in Cosmetology, Esthetics, and Barbering, emphasizing hands-on experience in salon environments. With a strong job placement network and financial aid options, students achieve high pass rates on state board exams and gain employment in local salons and spas. The school is praised for its supportive instructors and career development resources.
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Fortis Institute
Fortis Colleges and Institutes
Fortis Institute in Scranton offers career-oriented training programs in skilled trades and healthcare, accessible to Old Forge residents. Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, the institute features programs in HVAC Technology, Electrical Systems Technician, and others, with a focus on hands-on learning and industry certifications. Fortis emphasizes job placement assistance, with many graduates securing positions in local companies, and provides flexible scheduling and financial aid. Students report high satisfaction with the practical curriculum and instructor expertise, leading to successful careers in high-demand fields.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs offered by schools in the Old Forge, PA area, and what local industries hire these graduates?
In the Old Forge area, Johnson College offers highly sought-after programs in Automotive Technology, HVAC-R, and Welding Technology, which align with regional manufacturing, construction, and service industries. Local employers like manufacturing plants, HVAC contractors, and automotive dealerships in Lackawanna County frequently hire these graduates. Fortis Institute also supports healthcare needs with programs like Medical Assisting and Pharmacy Technician, feeding into the local medical sector.
How do I choose between Johnson College and Fortis Institute in Scranton/Old Forge for a trade like Electrical Technology or HVAC?
Johnson College, located near Old Forge, is a specialized technical college with deep industry connections and often offers associate degrees in Electrical Technology and HVAC Technology with hands-on training. Fortis Institute in Scranton provides career-focused diploma programs in Electrical Systems Technician and HVAC Technology, which may be shorter in duration. Visiting both campuses, comparing curriculum, costs, and job placement rates specific to Northeastern Pennsylvania is recommended to find the best fit.
Are there any trade schools in or near Old Forge, PA that offer cosmetology and barbering programs with state licensure preparation?
Yes, Empire Beauty School in nearby Scranton offers cosmetology, esthetics, and barbering programs that fully prepare students for the Pennsylvania State Board of Cosmetology licensing exams. Their curriculum includes both theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on training in a salon environment, which is essential for meeting state requirements. Graduates are well-positioned to work in local salons, spas, or start their own businesses in the Lackawanna County area.
What financial aid or scholarship opportunities are available specifically for trade school students in the Old Forge, Pennsylvania region?
Local trade schools like Johnson College offer various financial aid options including federal grants, loans, and Pennsylvania state-specific aid like the PA State Grant. Additionally, Johnson College provides institutional scholarships and partnerships with local businesses and unions in Northeastern PA that may offer tuition assistance or sponsorships. It's advisable to contact the financial aid offices at Johnson College, Fortis Institute, or Empire Beauty School directly to explore all local and program-specific opportunities.
For someone in Old Forge interested in welding, what type of certification training is available locally, and what are the job prospects in the area?
Johnson College, located just outside Old Forge, offers a comprehensive Welding Technology program that provides training for industry-standard certifications from organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS). Graduates are prepared for roles in local manufacturing, fabrication shops, and construction projects prevalent in Northeastern Pennsylvania's industrial landscape. The program's strong ties to regional employers help facilitate job placement for certified welders in the Scranton/Old Forge area.
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About Trade Schools in Old Forge
Old Forge, 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.