Trade Schools in Kelso, Washington

While located in Port Hadlock, this internationally recognized institution serves students throughout Washington including Kelso residents seeking specialized marine trades training. The school maintains an exceptional 4.7-star rating and near-100% job placement rate for graduates. Programs combine traditional craftsmanship with modern marine technology, offering comprehensive training in wooden boat construction, marine systems installation (electrical, plumbing, propulsion), and composite materials. Graduates earn industry-recognized certifications and typically secure positions with prestigious boatyards, marine service companies, and custom boat builders throughout the Pacific Northwest. The intensive, hands-on curriculum is taught by master boatbuilders and marine technicians with decades of industry experience.

Clark College is a highly-regarded community and technical college serving Southwest Washington with comprehensive trade programs. Their Career and Technical Education division offers state-of-the-art facilities including a dedicated welding lab with 40+ stations, fully equipped automotive bays, and modern HVAC training equipment. The college maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers like PeaceHealth, SEH America, and local construction firms, resulting in exceptional job placement rates. Programs lead to industry certifications including AWS welding certifications, ASE automotive certifications, and EPA 608 certification for HVAC technicians. The college's Career Services department provides dedicated job placement assistance with reported 85%+ placement rates for trade program graduates.

Located just minutes from Kelso in neighboring Longview, Lower Columbia College offers robust trade programs specifically designed for the Cowlitz County workforce. Their welding program is particularly renowned, featuring a 10,000-square-foot facility with 50 welding stations and instruction in MIG, TIG, stick, and pipe welding. The college maintains a 90% job placement rate for welding graduates and has partnerships with local industries including Nippon Dynawave, KapStone, and numerous fabrication shops. The automotive technology program includes ASE-certified master technicians as instructors and provides hands-on training with modern diagnostic equipment. LCC's small class sizes and personalized instruction receive consistent praise from students.