The Best Trade Schools in Somerset, Virginia
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Somerset.
Top Trade Schools in Somerset
CATS - Center for Advanced Technology and Skills
CATS Career Institute
CATS is a highly-rated trade school serving the greater Central Virginia region with specialized programs in high-demand skilled trades. The school maintains exceptional 4.6/5 rating based on 142 reviews, with particular strength in welding and electrical training. Programs feature small class sizes, industry-current equipment, and direct connections to local employers. Graduates earn multiple certifications and benefit from job placement assistance that has achieved 90% placement rates in recent years. The school serves Somerset students through flexible scheduling options.
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Piedmont Virginia Community College Workforce Services
Piedmont Virginia Community College
PVCC's Workforce Services division provides comprehensive trade training programs serving Central Virginia, including Somerset residents. The college offers industry-recognized certifications in welding, HVAC, electrical systems, and automotive technology with strong job placement rates exceeding 85%. Programs feature hands-on training in modern facilities with experienced instructors who maintain current industry certifications. Financial aid options and flexible scheduling make training accessible for working adults seeking career advancement in skilled trades.
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Fortis College - Richmond
Fortis Institute
Fortis College in Richmond provides comprehensive trade education serving the Central Virginia region, including Somerset residents seeking career-focused training. The school offers hands-on programs in HVAC, electrical technology, welding, and automotive repair with strong industry partnerships. Training emphasizes practical skills development with modern equipment and curriculum aligned with current industry standards. Students benefit from career services support and financial aid options, with programs designed to prepare graduates for immediate employment and industry certification exams.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Somerset, VA, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools serving Somerset, VA, include Piedmont Virginia Community College Workforce Services in Charlottesville, offering programs like welding and HVAC, and Fortis College in Richmond, which provides training in electrical and automotive fields. While CATS - Center for Advanced Technology and Skills also serves the region, students in Somerset typically commute to these institutions for hands-on vocational training in high-demand trades.
Are there any local apprenticeship opportunities in Somerset, VA, for trade school graduates?
Yes, trade school graduates in Somerset, VA, can find apprenticeship opportunities through local unions, contractors, and regional employers in trades like plumbing, electrical, and carpentry. Many graduates connect with these opportunities through Piedmont Virginia Community College's workforce partnerships or by networking with Central Virginia trade associations, which often seek certified candidates for hands-on training roles.
What certifications are most valued by employers in the Somerset, VA, area for trades like HVAC or welding?
In the Somerset and Central Virginia region, employers highly value certifications such as EPA 608 for HVAC technicians and AWS (American Welding Society) certifications for welders. Additionally, Virginia-specific licensure for electricians and plumbers is crucial, and programs at schools like Piedmont Virginia Community College often include preparation for these state-required credentials to enhance local job prospects.
How do trade school programs in the Somerset area, like those at Fortis College, support job placement after graduation?
Trade schools such as Fortis College in Richmond provide career services that include job placement assistance, resume workshops, and partnerships with regional employers in Central Virginia. These programs often host job fairs and connect graduates with local companies in need of skilled tradespeople, helping Somerset residents secure employment in fields like automotive repair, electrical work, and healthcare trades shortly after certification.
Can I complete trade school training part-time while working in Somerset, VA, and what options are available?
Yes, many trade schools serving Somerset, VA, offer flexible scheduling options. Piedmont Virginia Community College Workforce Services, for example, provides evening and weekend classes in trades like carpentry and plumbing, while some programs at CATS and Fortis College may offer hybrid or accelerated formats. This allows Somerset residents to balance work commitments while gaining certifications for local in-demand careers.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Somerset
Somerset, 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.