The Best Trade Schools in Auburn, Washington
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Auburn.
Top Trade Schools in Auburn
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute
While located in Yakima, Perry Technical Institute serves students from across Washington, including the Auburn area, with its highly-regarded trade programs. The institute is known for intensive, hands-on training with exceptional job placement rates exceeding 90%. Programs feature small class sizes, industry-experienced instructors, and comprehensive career services. The HVAC/R and electrical programs are particularly strong, offering multiple industry certifications. Perry's reputation for producing highly skilled graduates makes it a top choice despite the distance, with many Auburn-area students commuting for the quality education.
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Bates Technical College
Bates Technical College District 28
Bates Technical College is one of Washington's oldest and most respected technical colleges, serving the South Puget Sound region including Auburn. The college offers comprehensive trade programs with state-of-the-art facilities, industry-standard equipment, and experienced instructors. Students benefit from strong industry partnerships, high job placement rates, and multiple certification pathways. The welding program is particularly renowned, featuring extensive hands-on training with modern equipment. Programs are designed with input from industry advisors to ensure graduates meet current workforce demands.
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Renton Technical College
Renton Technical College District 27
Renton Technical College provides high-quality trade education serving the Auburn area with comprehensive programs in skilled trades. The college boasts exceptional job placement rates, with many programs achieving 90%+ employment outcomes. RTC features modern training facilities, industry-certified instructors, and strong employer partnerships. The electrical and HVAC programs are particularly strong, offering multiple certification pathways and hands-on learning in realistic settings. Financial aid options and flexible scheduling make programs accessible to working students.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs for Auburn, WA residents, and which nearby schools offer them?
In the Auburn area, high-demand programs include Welding, HVAC/R, Electrical Technology, and Automotive Technology due to the strong manufacturing, construction, and service industries. Nearby schools like Bates Technical College (with campuses in Tacoma) and Renton Technical College offer these programs, with some providing specific training aligned with local employer needs.
Are there any trade school programs in the Auburn area that offer paid apprenticeships or direct job placement with local companies?
Yes, many programs at schools like Perry Technical Institute (in Yakima, serving WA state) and Renton Technical College have strong industry partnerships. They often facilitate apprenticeships or direct job placements with local employers in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and automotive repair, helping students earn while they learn and secure employment after graduation.
What financial aid or scholarship options are specifically available for Auburn, WA residents attending trade schools?
Auburn residents can access federal financial aid (FAFSA) at accredited schools like Bates and Renton Technical Colleges. Additionally, Washington State offers the Washington College Grant and Workforce Education Funding, which often cover most or all tuition for eligible trade programs at public technical colleges, making career training very affordable.
Which trade certifications earned at Auburn-area schools are most valued by local employers in the Puget Sound region?
Certifications like AWS (American Welding Society) for Welding, EPA 608 for HVAC/R, and NICET for Electrical/Instrumentation are highly valued. Schools like Bates Technical College provide industry-recognized credentialing as part of their curriculum, ensuring graduates meet the specific standards demanded by local aerospace, construction, and manufacturing firms.
How do commute options from Auburn to major trade schools like Renton Technical College or Bates Technical College work for students?
From Auburn, Renton Technical College is about a 20-30 minute drive via I-405, while Bates Technical College's Tacoma campus is about 30-40 minutes via SR 167 and I-5. Many students commute, and some programs offer hybrid or online theory components. Public transit via Sound Transit and Pierce Transit also provides bus routes connecting Auburn to these campuses.
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About Trade Schools in Auburn
Auburn, Washington 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.