The Best Trade Schools in College Place, Washington
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in College Place.
Top Trade Schools in College Place
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute is a premier trade school serving Eastern Washington with highly specialized programs. The institution maintains exceptional job placement rates (over 90% in most programs) and features industry-standard equipment in all training facilities. Their Electrical Technology program includes residential, commercial, and industrial training, while the HVAC/R program provides comprehensive training with EPA certification. The welding program offers AWS certifications and advanced pipe welding training. Perry Tech is known for its intensive, hands-on approach and strong employer relationships throughout Washington state.
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Walla Walla Community College
Washington State Community and Technical Colleges
Walla Walla Community College is a highly-regarded institution serving the College Place area with comprehensive trade programs. The college features state-of-the-art welding labs with AWS certification programs, advanced automotive technology centers with ASE certification paths, and comprehensive HVAC/R training with EPA 608 certification. Their career-focused programs maintain strong industry partnerships with local employers, resulting in excellent job placement rates. The college has received national recognition for its workforce training programs and offers both certificate and associate degree options in skilled trades.
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Columbia Basin College
Washington State Community and Technical Colleges
Columbia Basin College serves the Tri-Cities region and provides accessible trade education for College Place residents. The college offers comprehensive welding programs with multiple AWS certifications, automotive technology with ASE certification preparation, and HVAC programs with EPA 608 certification. Their trades programs feature modern equipment and industry-experienced instructors. CBC maintains strong connections with regional employers and offers flexible scheduling options including evening classes. The college has a proven track record of preparing students for immediate employment in high-demand skilled trades throughout Eastern Washington.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to College Place, WA, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to College Place are Walla Walla Community College (in Walla Walla, just minutes away), Perry Technical Institute in Yakima (about 2 hours away), and Columbia Basin College in Pasco (about 1 hour away). These schools offer programs like Welding Technology, Automotive Technology, HVAC, Electrical Systems, Carpentry, and Culinary Arts, providing convenient local and regional options for vocational training.
Does Walla Walla Community College offer any short-term or certification programs for trades relevant to the College Place area?
Yes, Walla Walla Community College offers various short-term certificates and industry-recognized credentials in high-demand trades. For example, you can complete certifications in Welding, Electrical Technology, and HVAC/R in less than a year. These programs are designed to quickly prepare students for local employment in construction, manufacturing, and technical service industries prevalent in the Walla Walla Valley.
What local career opportunities exist in College Place and the Walla Walla Valley for graduates of trade programs?
Graduates from trade programs in the College Place area find opportunities in local construction firms, winery and agricultural equipment maintenance, manufacturing facilities, and HVAC/electrical service companies. The growing wine industry, in particular, creates demand for skilled welders, electricians, and HVAC technicians for facility operations and maintenance throughout the Walla Walla Valley.
Are there any apprenticeship programs or partnerships with local employers for trade students in the College Place, WA area?
Yes, Walla Walla Community College collaborates with local unions, contractors, and manufacturers to offer apprenticeship pathways and work-based learning opportunities. Programs in Electrical Systems, Carpentry, and Welding often include partnerships with area employers, providing students with hands-on experience and potential job placements right here in the Walla Walla Valley.
How do the costs and financial aid options compare between local trade schools like Walla Walla Community College and more distant schools like Perry Tech?
Walla Walla Community College typically offers lower tuition rates for in-district students from College Place, making it the most affordable local option. Both WWCC and Perry Tech offer federal financial aid, scholarships, and veteran benefits, but attending WWCC can significantly reduce commuting costs and living expenses since it's located just minutes from College Place.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in College Place
College Place, 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.