The Best Trade Schools in Penfield, Pennsylvania
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Penfield.
Top Trade Schools in Penfield
Clearfield County Career and Technology Center
Clearfield County AVTS
Clearfield County Career and Technology Center is a highly-regarded vocational institution serving Penfield and surrounding Clearfield County areas. With over 50 years of operation, this comprehensive trade school offers extensive programs in high-demand fields including welding, electrical, HVAC, and automotive technology. The school features modern facilities with industry-standard equipment, certified instructors with real-world experience, and strong partnerships with local employers. Students benefit from hands-on training, industry certifications, and excellent job placement assistance. The welding program is particularly notable with AWS certification opportunities, while the electrical program prepares students for Pennsylvania licensing requirements.
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Greater Johnstown Career and Technology Center
GJCTC
Serving the broader Central Pennsylvania region including Penfield, Greater Johnstown Career and Technology Center has built a strong reputation for quality trade education over nearly five decades. The school offers comprehensive programs in construction trades, with particularly strong HVAC-R and electrical programs that include EPA 608 certification and preparation for state electrical exams. The plumbing program provides training in residential and commercial systems, while the carpentry program covers framing, finishing, and cabinet making. With modern labs, experienced instructors, and strong industry connections, GJCTC maintains high job placement rates and positive employer feedback.
Programs Offered:
DuBois Business College - Trade Division
DuBois Business College
While historically known for business education, DuBois Business College has developed strong trade programs serving the Penfield area and surrounding regions. The institution brings over a century of educational experience to its trade division, offering focused programs in HVAC technology, electrical systems, and building maintenance. The HVAC program includes comprehensive training in residential and commercial systems with EPA certification preparation, while the electrical program covers residential wiring and basic commercial applications. With smaller class sizes and personalized attention, students receive thorough preparation for entry-level positions in skilled trades, backed by the college's extensive employer network and career services support.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Penfield, PA, and what are their primary program offerings?
The closest trade schools to Penfield are the Clearfield County Career and Technology Center in Clearfield and the Greater Johnstown Career and Technology Center in Johnstown. These institutions offer programs highly relevant to the local economy, including Welding Technology, Electrical Technology, HVAC, Automotive Technology, and Carpentry. DuBois Business College also has a trade division offering programs like HVAC-R and Electrical Systems.
Which trade programs in the Penfield, PA area have the strongest connections to local employers and job placement?
Programs in Welding, Electrical Technology, and HVAC at the Clearfield County Career and Technology Center have strong ties to regional industries, including manufacturing, construction, and energy sectors in Central Pennsylvania. These schools often have advisory boards with local employers and offer cooperative education or job placement assistance, helping graduates find work in Clearfield, Cambria, and surrounding counties.
Are there any short-term or specialized certification programs available near Penfield for someone looking to enter the trades quickly?
Yes, schools like the Clearfield County Career and Technology Center and DuBois Business College offer shorter-term certificate programs in areas such as Welding Fundamentals, Electrical Construction, and HVAC Technology. These focused programs, often lasting a few months to a year, are designed to provide the essential skills and certifications needed to start an apprenticeship or entry-level position in the local trade industries.
What financial aid or scholarship opportunities are specifically available for Penfield, PA residents attending local trade schools?
Residents of Penfield can apply for federal financial aid (FAFSA) at eligible institutions like the Clearfield County Career and Technology Center. Additionally, local organizations, trade unions, and foundations in Clearfield and Cambria counties often offer scholarships for students pursuing trades. It's recommended to contact the financial aid offices of the specific schools and check with local community foundations for area-specific opportunities.
How do the trade programs near Penfield, PA, such as those in HVAC or Electrical Technology, prepare students for required state licensure or certifications?
Programs at schools like the Greater Johnstown Career and Technology Center and Clearfield County Career and Technology Center are designed to meet the educational requirements for Pennsylvania state licensure in fields like electrical work and plumbing. The curriculum typically includes both the theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice needed to pass certification exams, such as those from the EPA for HVAC (Section 608) or industry-recognized welding certifications from the American Welding Society (AWS).
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Penfield
Penfield, 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.