The Best Trade Schools in Amarillo, Texas
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Amarillo.
Top Trade Schools in Amarillo
Amarillo College Technical Education Center
Amarillo College
Amarillo College's Technical Education Center is a highly-regarded public institution offering comprehensive trade programs with exceptional job placement rates. The center features state-of-the-art facilities including fully-equipped welding labs, automotive bays, and HVAC training areas. Programs lead to industry certifications and associate degrees, with strong partnerships with local employers ensuring high graduate employment. The welding program is particularly renowned, featuring multiple processes and advanced techniques. Students benefit from experienced instructors with real-world industry experience and flexible scheduling options.
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Texas Cosmetology Education Center
TCEC
Texas Cosmetology Education Center provides comprehensive beauty and wellness training with excellent student satisfaction and licensing exam pass rates. The school offers hands-on training in modern facilities with industry-current equipment and techniques. Programs include cosmetology, esthetics, and nail technology, all taught by licensed professionals with extensive industry experience. The school maintains strong relationships with local salons and spas, facilitating high job placement rates for graduates. Flexible scheduling and financial aid options make career training accessible to diverse student populations.
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South Plains College - Reese Center
South Plains College
While located in Lubbock, South Plains College's Reese Center serves the broader Panhandle region including Amarillo students seeking high-quality trade education. The center offers comprehensive technical programs with strong industry connections and excellent job placement outcomes. The welding technology program is particularly strong, featuring multiple certification processes and advanced fabrication techniques. HVAC and electrical programs provide hands-on training with modern equipment, preparing students for immediate employment. The college's long-standing reputation and affordable tuition make it a popular choice for Amarillo-area residents willing to commute for quality training.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs at Amarillo College Technical Education Center right now?
Amarillo College's Technical Education Center reports high demand for Welding Technology, HVAC Technology, and Electrical Technology programs due to Amarillo's growing manufacturing and construction sectors. These programs often have strong partnerships with local employers like Bell Helicopter, Pantex, and area contractors, leading to excellent job placement rates upon completion.
How does the cost of trade school in Amarillo compare to traditional four-year colleges in Texas?
Trade school programs in Amarillo are significantly more affordable than traditional universities. For example, Amarillo College's technical certificates typically cost a fraction of a bachelor's degree, with many programs completed in 1-2 years. Additionally, Texas Workforce Commission grants and local scholarships specifically for Panhandle residents can further reduce costs for eligible students.
Are there specialized cosmetology programs in Amarillo beyond basic licensing?
Yes, the Texas Cosmetology Education Center in Amarillo offers advanced programs in Esthetics and Nail Technology, along with Instructor Training for those wanting to teach. These specialized certifications allow graduates to work in Amarillo's salons, medical spas, or even open their own businesses, catering to the city's growing beauty and wellness industry.
What local apprenticeship opportunities are available for trade students in Amarillo?
Amarillo has strong apprenticeship pathways through partnerships between Amarillo College and local unions/employers in plumbing, electrical, and carpentry trades. The Amarillo Independent School District's Career & Technical Education Center also connects students with paid apprenticeships at area companies like Bartlett Cocke General Contractors and local mechanical firms while they complete their certifications.
How do Amarillo trade school graduates fare in the local job market compared to other Texas cities?
Trade school graduates in Amarillo enjoy strong local employment prospects due to the city's industrial base and lower competition than in larger metros. With major employers like Tyson Foods, Owens Corning, and the Pantex Plant regularly hiring skilled tradespeople, graduates often secure positions with competitive wages that reflect Amarillo's lower cost of living compared to Dallas or Houston.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Amarillo
Amarillo, Texas 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.