The Best Trade Schools in Riverside, Pennsylvania
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Riverside.
Top Trade Schools in Riverside
Johnson College
Johnson College
Johnson College is a highly respected technical college serving Northeast Pennsylvania with exceptional hands-on training programs. The college maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers, resulting in impressive job placement rates exceeding 90% for graduates. Programs feature state-of-the-art facilities, industry-certified instructors, and comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for immediate workforce entry. The welding program is particularly renowned with AWS certification opportunities, while automotive and electrical programs offer manufacturer-specific training. Located just 20 minutes from Riverside, the college serves the entire Scranton/Wilkes-Barre metropolitan area.
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Pennco Tech
Pennco Tech
Pennco Tech has been a cornerstone of technical education in Eastern Pennsylvania for decades, serving students from Riverside and surrounding areas. The school offers intensive, hands-on programs with small class sizes and personalized instruction. Their electrical program includes residential, commercial, and industrial training, while the HVAC-R program covers heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems with EPA certification. The institution maintains excellent relationships with local unions and employers, facilitating strong job placement outcomes. Located approximately 45 minutes from Riverside, Pennco Tech provides comprehensive career services and financial aid assistance.
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Lincoln Tech
Lincoln Educational Services
Lincoln Tech's Allentown campus serves the greater Lehigh Valley and Northeastern Pennsylvania regions with comprehensive trade programs. The institution boasts strong industry connections and career placement services, with many graduates securing employment before completion. The HVAC program features EPA 608 certification preparation, while electrical programs include residential and commercial training. Modern facilities feature industry-standard equipment, and instructors bring extensive field experience. Though located in Allentown, the school actively serves students from Riverside and surrounding communities with flexible scheduling options.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main trade schools serving students in Riverside, PA, and what are their specialties?
The primary trade schools accessible to Riverside residents include Johnson College in Scranton, Lincoln Tech in Allentown, and Pennco Tech in Bristol. Johnson College is known for hands-on programs like Welding Technology and Carpentry & Cabinetmaking, while Lincoln Tech and Pennco Tech offer robust training in Automotive Technology, HVAC, and Electrical fields, all within commuting distance.
Which trade programs in the Riverside, PA area have the strongest local job placement rates?
Programs in HVAC Technology, Welding, and Electrical Technology consistently show strong job placement in the Northeastern Pennsylvania region. Local employers in manufacturing, construction, and energy sectors actively recruit graduates from Johnson College and Pennco Tech, with many students securing positions before graduation through school-facilitated career fairs and internships.
Are there any shorter-term certification programs available near Riverside, PA for someone looking to enter the trades quickly?
Yes, schools like Pennco Tech and Lincoln Tech offer accelerated certificate programs in areas like HVAC-R, Electrical & Electronics, and Welding that can often be completed in under a year. These focused programs provide the essential skills and certifications needed to start working in local trade industries, with some offering evening classes for flexibility.
What local apprenticeship opportunities exist for trade school graduates in the Riverside, PA area?
Graduates from Riverside-area trade schools often find apprenticeship opportunities with local unions, contractors, and manufacturers. Many electrical, plumbing, and carpentry programs have partnerships with regional trade unions and companies, providing pathways to earn while you learn and obtain necessary state licensure in Pennsylvania.
How do the costs and financial aid options compare between the trade schools accessible from Riverside, PA?
Costs vary between institutions, with Johnson College typically having different tuition structures than Lincoln Tech or Pennco Tech. All three schools offer federal financial aid, Pennsylvania state grants, and institutional scholarships. Prospective students in Riverside should complete the FAFSA and contact each school's financial aid office to compare net costs and available funding specific to their chosen trade program.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Riverside
Riverside, 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.