The Best Trade Schools in Colonial Heights, Virginia
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Colonial Heights.
Top Trade Schools in Colonial Heights
Universal Technical Institute - Richmond
Universal Technical Institute
UTI's Richmond campus provides specialized technical training with manufacturer-specific programs from industry leaders like Ford, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. The campus features state-of-the-industry equipment and curriculum developed with employer input. Students benefit from extensive hands-on training in automotive and diesel systems, with many graduates securing positions at dealerships and repair facilities throughout the Colonial Heights region. The school maintains strong job placement rates and industry connections.
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New Horizons Regional Education Centers
New Horizons Regional Education Centers
Serving the broader Virginia region including Colonial Heights, New Horizons offers comprehensive career and technical education programs for both high school students and adults. The center provides industry-standard training facilities with professional-grade equipment and curriculum aligned with Virginia's workforce needs. Programs lead to industry certifications and licensure preparation, with strong emphasis on apprenticeship readiness and direct employment pathways. The institution partners with local unions and employers to ensure relevant training and job placement opportunities.
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Fortis College - Richmond
Fortis College
Fortis College in Richmond serves the Colonial Heights area with comprehensive trade programs featuring hands-on training in high-demand fields. The school maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers and offers career placement assistance. Their HVAC program prepares students for EPA 608 certification, while welding students train with modern equipment and learn multiple processes. The institution focuses on practical skills development with small class sizes and experienced instructors from the trades industry.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs for students in Colonial Heights, VA, and where can I train locally?
In the Colonial Heights and greater Richmond area, high-demand trades include HVAC Technology, Electrical Trades, Welding, and Automotive/Diesel Technology. Local training options include Fortis College in Richmond for medical assisting and trade programs, and the Universal Technical Institute (UTI) in Richmond for automotive, diesel, and collision repair. Many programs are designed to meet the needs of regional employers in manufacturing, construction, and healthcare.
Are there any trade schools or vocational programs specifically within Colonial Heights city limits, or do residents typically commute?
There are no major standalone trade schools located directly within Colonial Heights city limits. Residents typically commute to nearby institutions in the Richmond metropolitan area, such as Fortis College or Universal Technical Institute in Richmond, or to the New Horizons Regional Education Centers which serve multiple localities. Colonial Heights is well-positioned for commutes to these schools via I-95.
What local apprenticeship opportunities or partnerships exist for trade school graduates in the Colonial Heights, VA area?
Graduates from area trade schools often find apprenticeship and direct hire opportunities with local contractors, manufacturing plants, and healthcare providers in the Tri-Cities and Richmond regions. Many programs, like those at UTI-Richmond, have established relationships with national and local employers (e.g., dealership networks, construction firms) for job placement. Checking with the Colonial Heights Economic Development office can also provide leads on local industry needs.
Which certifications should I pursue in a trade program if I want to work in Colonial Heights' industrial and construction sectors?
For the industrial and construction sectors around Colonial Heights, key certifications include EPA 608 for HVAC, NCCER credentials for electrical and carpentry, AWS certifications for welding, and ASE certifications for automotive/diesel techs. Many programs at schools like UTI and through New Horizons include preparation for these industry-recognized certifications, which are highly valued by local employers in manufacturing, logistics, and commercial construction.
How do the costs and financial aid options at Richmond-area trade schools compare for a resident of Colonial Heights, VA?
Costs vary by program and institution; for example, shorter certificate programs at Fortis College may have different tuition structures than intensive training at UTI. As a Virginia resident, you may be eligible for state financial aid, federal Pell Grants, and school-specific scholarships. It's advisable to contact the financial aid offices of the specific Richmond-area schools you're considering and also explore Virginia's Workforce Credential Grant Program for eligible fast-track training.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Colonial Heights
Colonial Heights, Virginia 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.