The Best Trade Schools in Garfield, Washington
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Garfield.
Top Trade Schools in Garfield
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute is one of Washington's most respected trade schools with over 85 years of excellence in career training. While located in Yakima, they serve students from throughout Eastern Washington including the Garfield area. The institution boasts exceptional job placement rates (typically 85%+ within 6 months of graduation) and offers comprehensive programs in high-demand trades. Their Electrical Technology program prepares students for Washington State electrical licensing, while their HVAC-R program includes EPA 608 certification. The school features modern facilities with industry-standard equipment and maintains strong employer partnerships throughout the region. Financial aid options and veteran benefits are available.
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Spokane Community College - Technical Education Division
Community Colleges of Spokane
Spokane Community College offers one of the most comprehensive trade and technical education programs in Eastern Washington, serving the Garfield area with accessible career training. The college maintains exceptional industry connections and high job placement rates across all trades programs. Their welding program is particularly renowned, featuring multiple processes and certifications including AWS certifications. The automotive technology program is ASE-certified, while construction trades programs prepare students for Washington state licensing. SCC provides affordable tuition, financial aid options, and flexible scheduling including evening classes. The college's strong employer network ensures graduates have multiple employment pathways throughout the region.
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Walla Walla Community College - Clarkston Center
Walla Walla Community College
Walla Walla Community College's Clarkston Center provides accessible trade education for students in the Garfield area and surrounding regions. Located approximately 45 minutes from Garfield, this institution offers practical, hands-on training with strong industry relevance. The welding technology program features multiple certification opportunities and modern equipment, while the automotive program provides ASE-aligned training. WWCC maintains excellent employer relationships throughout southeastern Washington and has a strong track record of graduate employment. The college offers affordable tuition, financial aid options, and flexible scheduling to accommodate working students. Their programs are designed with direct input from industry employers to ensure graduates possess the skills local businesses need.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Garfield, WA, and what programs do they offer?
The closest trade schools to Garfield include Perry Technical Institute in Yakima (about 2.5 hours away), Spokane Community College's Technical Education Division (about 1.5 hours away), and Walla Walla Community College's Clarkston Center (about 1 hour away). These schools offer programs like Electrical Technology, HVAC-R, Automotive Technology, Welding, Carpentry, Plumbing, and Cosmetology, with some offering hybrid or online options for theory components.
Are there any local apprenticeship opportunities for trade careers in the Garfield, WA area?
Yes, local apprenticeship opportunities exist through partnerships with regional trade unions, contractors, and community colleges. The Spokane and Tri-Cities areas have electrical, plumbing, and carpentry apprenticeships, while agricultural and construction trades in the Palouse region often seek apprentices. Contact the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries or local trade unions for current openings.
What trade programs are in highest demand by employers in the Garfield and surrounding Palouse region?
In the Garfield and Palouse region, employers have high demand for skilled tradespeople in Electrical Technology, HVAC-R (especially for agricultural and commercial systems), Welding, and Automotive Technology. The area's agriculture, manufacturing, and construction sectors create consistent needs for these trades, with many graduates finding work locally or in nearby Spokane and Tri-Cities.
Can I complete any trade certifications or training locally in Garfield, WA, without commuting to a larger city?
While Garfield itself doesn't have a trade school campus, some local high schools and community centers offer introductory courses or certification prep. For full programs, you'll need to commute to nearby institutions like Walla Walla Community College's Clarkston Center (1 hour) or consider hybrid programs from Spokane Community College that combine online learning with periodic hands-on sessions.
What financial aid or scholarship options are available for Garfield, WA residents attending trade schools in Washington?
Garfield residents can access federal financial aid (FAFSA), Washington State's Workforce Education Investment Act grants, and trade-specific scholarships through schools like Perry Technical Institute and community colleges. Local organizations, agricultural cooperatives, and employers in Whitman County sometimes offer tuition assistance or sponsorship for in-demand trades like electrical or HVAC programs.
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About Trade Schools in Garfield
Garfield, 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.