The Best Trade Schools in Surry, Virginia
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Surry.
Top Trade Schools in Surry
Tidewater Tech
Tidewater Tech
Tidewater Tech is a highly-rated trade school serving the Surry area with comprehensive programs in skilled trades. Known for its hands-on training and strong industry partnerships, the school boasts high job placement rates, with many graduates securing positions in HVAC, electrical, and welding fields. Instructors are experienced professionals, and the curriculum aligns with industry certifications like EPA 608 for HVAC and AWS for welding. Student satisfaction is high due to small class sizes, modern facilities, and career services support.
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Advanced Technology Institute
Advanced Technology Institute
Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) offers specialized training in high-demand trades, with programs designed for quick entry into the workforce. The school has a strong reputation for job placement, particularly in automotive and diesel technologies, and partners with local employers for externships and hiring. Certifications include ASE for automotive and NATE for HVAC, ensuring graduates are industry-ready. Students praise the practical, immersive learning environment and supportive instructors, contributing to its high ratings and success in the Hampton Roads region.
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Centura College - Newport News Campus
Centura Colleges
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade careers for graduates in Surry, VA and the surrounding Tidewater region?
In the Surry and greater Hampton Roads area, skilled trades like HVAC technicians, electricians, and welders are in high demand due to ongoing construction, shipyard maintenance, and residential needs. Graduates from programs at Tidewater Tech or Advanced Technology Institute often find immediate opportunities with local contractors, naval facilities, and industrial plants. The region's maritime and manufacturing sectors create steady demand for these hands-on skills.
Are there any local Surry, VA trade schools that offer specialized training for maritime or shipyard careers?
Yes, given Surry's proximity to major shipyards and ports, schools like Tidewater Tech and Advanced Technology Institute offer programs highly relevant to maritime industries. Welding and Diesel Technology programs, in particular, provide skills directly applicable to ship repair, port machinery, and marine transportation. These programs often include certifications recognized by local employers like Newport News Shipbuilding and other industrial contractors in the region.
What financial aid or scholarship options are available specifically for Surry, VA residents attending local trade schools?
Surry residents can access federal financial aid (FAFSA) at accredited schools like Tidewater Tech, ATI, and Centura College. Additionally, Virginia state-specific programs like the G3 (Get Skilled, Get a Job, Give Back) initiative provide tuition assistance for high-demand fields such as HVAC, welding, and healthcare. It's also worth checking with local employers and unions, as some offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorship for trades critical to the local economy.
Can I complete a trade program while working in Surry, VA, and are there flexible scheduling options?
Many trade schools in the Surry area, including those in nearby Newport News and Virginia Beach, offer flexible schedules to accommodate working students. Programs at Tidewater Tech and Centura College often provide evening, weekend, or hybrid class options for fields like electrical systems, automotive technology, and cosmetology. This allows Surry residents to gain skills without leaving their current jobs, with some programs designed to be completed in under two years.
What local certifications or licenses should I pursue in Surry, VA after completing a trade program in fields like plumbing or electrical work?
After completing a program, Surry graduates seeking to work independently must obtain Virginia state licensure. For electricians, this means passing the Virginia Journeyman or Master Electrician exam. For plumbers, Virginia requires a Journeyman or Master Plumber license. Many local trade school programs, like those at Advanced Technology Institute, prepare students for these exams and may include preparation for nationally recognized certifications like EPA 608 for HVAC, which is also required for handling refrigerants.
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About Trade Schools in Surry
Surry, 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.