The Best Trade Schools in Chelan, Washington
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Chelan.
Top Trade Schools in Chelan
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute is one of the most respected trade schools in Central Washington, serving the Chelan area with comprehensive technical education. The institute offers intensive, hands-on training programs with exceptional job placement rates exceeding 90%. Students benefit from industry-standard equipment, experienced instructors with real-world expertise, and strong employer partnerships throughout the region. Programs are designed to prepare graduates for immediate employment with certifications and skills that are in high demand across multiple trades including electrical, HVAC, automotive, and welding.
Programs Offered:
Universal Technical Institute - Avtech
Universal Technical Institute
While located in Spokane, UTI-Avtech serves students from across Eastern Washington including Chelan, offering specialized aviation trade programs with exceptional employment outcomes. The school provides Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certified training with a 90%+ job placement rate for graduates. Programs feature intensive hands-on training with actual aircraft components and systems, preparing students for high-demand careers in aviation maintenance. The institution maintains strong industry partnerships with major airlines and aviation companies throughout the Pacific Northwest, providing excellent career pathway opportunities for graduates.
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Wenatchee Valley College - Trade & Technical Centers
Washington State Community and Technical Colleges
Wenatchee Valley College provides comprehensive trade and technical education specifically serving the North Central Washington region including Chelan. The college offers both certificate and associate degree programs with modern facilities and equipment that mirror industry standards. WVC maintains strong connections with local employers and apprenticeship programs, ensuring graduates are job-ready. The technical programs feature experienced faculty, hands-on learning environments, and flexible scheduling options including evening classes to accommodate working students.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Chelan, WA, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Chelan include Wenatchee Valley College's Trade & Technical Centers in Wenatchee and Omak, offering programs like Electrical Systems, HVAC, Welding, and Construction Trades. Perry Technical Institute in Yakima (about 2 hours away) provides intensive training in Electrical Technology, Instrumentation & Control, and HVAC/R. Universal Technical Institute - Avtech in Everett focuses on Aviation Maintenance Technician and Airframe & Powerplant programs.
Are there any local apprenticeship programs in Chelan County for trades like electrical or construction?
Yes, Chelan County has active apprenticeship programs through local unions and contractor associations, particularly in electrical (IBEW Local 191) and construction trades. Wenatchee Valley College partners with these organizations to provide related classroom instruction. These programs combine paid on-the-job training with classroom learning, allowing you to earn while you learn in the North Central Washington region.
What trade certifications are most in demand by employers in the Chelan and North Central Washington area?
In the Chelan area, employers particularly value HVAC/R EPA 608 certification, Washington State Electrical Trainee and Journey-level cards, AWS welding certifications, and NCCER credentials for construction trades. For aviation, FAA Airframe & Powerplant certification from programs like Avtech is highly sought after by local aviation maintenance facilities and the growing aerospace industry in Washington state.
How does Wenatchee Valley College's Trade & Technical Center support students from Chelan specifically?
Wenatchee Valley College offers Chelan residents access to trade programs at their Wenatchee campus with in-district tuition rates. They provide career counseling specific to North Central Washington job markets, financial aid assistance, and sometimes offer hybrid or online theory components paired with hands-on labs. The college also has strong connections with local employers in Chelan County for internships and job placements.
What are the career prospects for trade school graduates in the Chelan and surrounding region?
Trade school graduates in the Chelan area have excellent prospects due to ongoing construction projects, aging infrastructure needs, and the region's agricultural and tourism industries. HVAC technicians, electricians, and welders are particularly in demand for residential, commercial, and agricultural applications. The aviation sector also offers opportunities, with maintenance facilities in Moses Lake and connections to Boeing's supply chain throughout Washington state.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Chelan
Chelan, 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.