The Best Trade Schools in Roanoke, Virginia
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Roanoke.
Top Trade Schools in Roanoke
Virginia Western Community College - School of Career and Corporate Training
Virginia Community College System
Virginia Western Community College offers comprehensive trade programs through its School of Career and Corporate Training with strong industry partnerships throughout the Roanoke Valley. The college provides hands-on training in modern facilities with experienced instructors who maintain current industry certifications. Programs feature flexible scheduling options including evening and weekend classes, with many offering industry-recognized certifications. The welding program is particularly renowned, with American Welding Society certification preparation. Job placement assistance is robust, with relationships with local employers like Torc Robotics, Altec Industries, and Roanoke Gas Company. Financial aid options and veteran benefits are available.
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Universal Technical Institute - Mooresville Campus (serving Roanoke region)
UTI
While located in Mooresville, NC, UTI actively serves students from the Roanoke region with specialized transportation technology programs. The campus features manufacturer-specific training programs with partners including Ford, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo. Students benefit from industry-current equipment and curriculum developed with employer input. The institution maintains strong job placement relationships with regional employers and national corporations. Housing assistance is available for Roanoke-area students, and financial aid options include scholarships and payment plans. Graduates earn multiple industry certifications and benefit from nationwide employer recruitment partnerships with companies like Cummins, Penske, and Snap-on.
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Advanced Technology Institute - Roanoke Area Campus
ATI Enterprises
Advanced Technology Institute provides specialized technical training with a focus on hands-on learning and industry-relevant skills. The Roanoke-area campus serves students from throughout Southwest Virginia with programs designed to meet local employer needs. HVAC students train on modern equipment and prepare for EPA 608 certification, while automotive technology programs include ASE certification preparation. The institute maintains strong relationships with regional employers including Carter Machinery, First Team Automotive, and local HVAC companies. Financial aid options available for qualified students, and career services provide job placement assistance with reported placement rates exceeding 85% for graduates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs in Roanoke, VA, and which local schools offer them?
In Roanoke, high-demand trade programs include HVAC Technology, Electrical Systems, and Welding Technology due to the region's manufacturing and construction sectors. Virginia Western Community College offers comprehensive programs in these areas, while Advanced Technology Institute provides specialized training in HVAC and electrical fields specifically tailored to local industry needs.
How do Roanoke-area trade schools help graduates find local employment after certification?
Trade schools in Roanoke maintain strong partnerships with regional employers like Advance Auto Parts, Trane, and local manufacturing companies. Virginia Western Community College's Career Services provides job placement assistance, while Advanced Technology Institute offers externships with Roanoke Valley contractors to help students secure employment immediately after completing their programs.
What financial aid options are specifically available for trade school students in Roanoke, Virginia?
Roanoke trade school students can access Virginia's G3 Program (Get Skilled, Get a Job, Give Back) which provides tuition assistance for high-demand fields like HVAC and welding at Virginia Western. Additionally, the Roanoke Valley Workforce Development Board offers local scholarships, and many schools participate in federal financial aid programs specifically for career and technical education.
Are there any specialized certifications unique to the Roanoke region that trade schools prepare students for?
Yes, Roanoke-area trade schools prepare students for Virginia-specific licensure requirements for electricians and plumbers, which differ from other states. Programs also emphasize certifications valued by local industries, such as NCCER credentials for construction trades and EPA Section 608 certification for HVAC technicians, which are particularly important for working with Roanoke's commercial and residential clients.
How do Roanoke trade school programs accommodate working adults or those needing flexible schedules?
Several Roanoke trade schools offer evening and weekend classes to accommodate working students. Virginia Western Community College provides hybrid options for programs like Electrical Systems, while Advanced Technology Institute offers accelerated pathways. Many programs also feature modular training that allows students to complete certifications in stages while maintaining employment in the Roanoke Valley.
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About Trade Schools in Roanoke
Roanoke, 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.