The Best Trade Schools in Radford, Virginia
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Radford.
Top Trade Schools in Radford
New River Community College
Virginia Community College System
New River Community College is the primary technical and trade education institution serving the Radford area with comprehensive career and technical education programs. The college offers state-of-the-art facilities including advanced welding labs, automotive technology centers, and HVAC training environments. Programs lead to industry certifications and credentials with strong job placement rates. NRCC maintains partnerships with local employers throughout the New River Valley and has a proven track record of preparing students for high-demand skilled trades careers. The institution is accredited and provides financial aid options for qualified students.
Programs Offered:
Universal Technical Institute - Mooresville Campus
Universal Technical Institute
UTI's Mooresville campus serves students from Virginia including the Radford area with comprehensive technical training programs. The institution is nationally recognized for automotive and diesel technician training with manufacturer-specific programs from brands like Ford, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. The welding program provides hands-on training with industry-standard equipment and prepares students for AWS certifications. UTI maintains strong industry connections with employment partners and offers career placement assistance. The campus features modern labs and equipment with experienced instructors from the industry.
Programs Offered:
Fortis College - Roanoke
Fortis Colleges and Institutes
Fortis College in Roanoke serves the Radford region with focused technical training programs designed for rapid entry into skilled trades. The HVAC program prepares students for EPA 608 certification and provides comprehensive training in residential and commercial systems. The welding program offers hands-on instruction in multiple processes including MIG, TIG, and stick welding. Electrical trades training covers residential and commercial applications with emphasis on safety and code compliance. Fortis provides career services assistance and maintains relationships with local employers throughout Southwest Virginia for job placement opportunities.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs offered at New River Community College in Radford, VA?
New River Community College offers several high-demand programs including Welding Technology, Electrical Systems Technology, HVAC, and Automotive Technology. These programs are designed to meet local industry needs in the New River Valley region, with many graduates finding employment at nearby manufacturing plants, construction firms, and service providers.
Are there any apprenticeship programs available through Radford-area trade schools that combine classroom learning with paid work experience?
Yes, New River Community College partners with local employers to offer apprenticeship programs in trades like electrical work, plumbing, and HVAC. These programs allow students to earn while they learn, gaining valuable hands-on experience at Radford-area businesses while completing their classroom requirements at the college.
What local career opportunities exist for welding graduates from Radford, VA trade schools?
Welding graduates from Radford-area programs find opportunities at local manufacturers like Volvo Trucks in nearby Dublin, VA, various fabrication shops in the New River Valley, and construction projects throughout the region. The Radford Army Ammunition Plant also hires skilled welders, providing stable employment with competitive benefits.
How do trade school programs in Radford, VA help students obtain industry certifications?
Programs at New River Community College are designed to prepare students for industry-recognized certifications. For example, their Electrical Systems Technology program prepares students for Virginia Electrical Journeyman licensing, while their HVAC program covers EPA 608 certification requirements. Many programs include certification exam preparation as part of the curriculum.
What transportation options are available for Radford residents attending trade schools in the area?
Radford residents can access New River Community College via the Radford Transit system, which provides bus service to the college campus. For programs at nearby schools like Fortis College in Roanoke, students typically commute by car, though some carpool arrangements are organized through student services. The compact nature of Radford makes local trade school access relatively convenient.
Nearby Cities
Explore trade schools in cities near Radford:
About Trade Schools in Radford
Radford, 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.