The Best Trade Schools in Ellensburg, Washington
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Ellensburg.
Top Trade Schools in Ellensburg
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute is a premier trade school located in Yakima, serving the Ellensburg area with highly respected programs in skilled trades. Founded in 1939, it boasts exceptional job placement rates, often exceeding 90%, and offers hands-on training with industry-standard equipment. Students benefit from small class sizes, experienced instructors, and certifications that align with employer needs. Programs are designed for rapid entry into the workforce, with strong partnerships with local and regional employers ensuring high graduate success.
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Yakima Valley College
Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges
Yakima Valley College is a well-established community college offering a wide range of trade programs that serve the Ellensburg region. With a focus on practical skills and industry certifications, the college provides affordable training with high student satisfaction and job placement rates. Programs include associate degrees and certificates, supported by modern facilities and instructors with real-world experience. The college's strong ties to local businesses enhance employment opportunities for graduates in fields like automotive, cosmetology, and construction trades.
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Wenatchee Valley College
Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges
Wenatchee Valley College is a reputable institution providing comprehensive trade education to students in central Washington, including Ellensburg. It offers hands-on training programs with a focus on certifications and job readiness, supported by experienced faculty and industry partnerships. The college emphasizes student success through small class sizes, flexible scheduling, and career services that lead to high placement rates in skilled trades. Programs are regularly updated to meet market demands, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in fields like welding, HVAC, and automotive technology.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Ellensburg, WA, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Ellensburg are Perry Technical Institute in Yakima (about 40 minutes away), Yakima Valley College in Yakima, and Wenatchee Valley College in Wenatchee (about an hour away). These schools offer programs like Welding Technology, HVAC/R, Electrical Technology, Automotive Technology, Plumbing, and Carpentry, providing hands-on training for in-demand trades in Central Washington.
Are there any local apprenticeship programs in Ellensburg for trades like electrical or plumbing?
Yes, Ellensburg and surrounding Kittitas County have apprenticeship opportunities through local unions and contractors, often in partnership with Central Washington building trades. These programs typically combine on-the-job training with related classroom instruction at nearby technical colleges, allowing you to earn while you learn and become a journey-level worker in fields like electrical, plumbing, or carpentry.
What trade certifications are most valuable for employment in the Ellensburg and Central Washington region?
In the Ellensburg area, certifications in Welding (AWS certifications), HVAC/R (EPA 608), Electrical (Washington State Electrical Trainee/Journeyman), and Commercial Driver's License (CDL) are highly valuable. These align with local industries including agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and transportation, which are major employers in Kittitas County and the broader Central Washington economy.
How do trade school programs at Perry Technical Institute or Yakima Valley College connect with local employers in Ellensburg?
Both Perry Tech and Yakima Valley College have strong industry partnerships with Central Washington employers, including those in Ellensburg. They offer career services, job fairs, and often have advisory boards with local business leaders. Many programs include internships or externships with regional companies, providing direct pathways to employment with local contractors, manufacturers, and service providers after graduation.
Can I complete any trade school programs or certifications while attending Central Washington University in Ellensburg?
While Central Washington University (CWU) focuses primarily on bachelor's degrees, students can pursue trade certifications through partnerships with nearby community colleges or by taking relevant courses at Yakima Valley College. Some CWU students dual-enroll or take summer courses in trades like Automotive Technology or Construction Management to complement their four-year degrees with practical, hands-on skills valued by local employers.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Ellensburg
Ellensburg, 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.