The Best Trade Schools in Lakewood, Washington
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Lakewood.
Top Trade Schools in Lakewood
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute is a premier trade school serving students statewide, including the Lakewood area, with exceptional technical education programs. Known for their intensive, hands-on approach and strong industry connections, Perry Tech boasts remarkable job placement rates consistently above 90%. Their programs feature small class sizes, modern equipment, and instructors with extensive field experience. The institution maintains multiple industry certifications and partnerships, ensuring graduates are workforce-ready. Financial aid and housing assistance are available for students relocating from Lakewood and surrounding areas.
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Bates Technical College - Downtown Campus
Bates Technical College
Bates Technical College is a highly respected public technical college serving the Lakewood and greater Tacoma area with comprehensive trade programs. The college maintains strong industry partnerships and offers both certificate and associate degree programs. Their welding program is particularly renowned with industry-standard equipment and AWS certification preparation. With excellent job placement rates exceeding 85% in many programs, Bates provides hands-on training from experienced instructors, financial aid options, and evening classes for working students. The college has maintained accreditation and strong community ties for over eight decades.
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Clover Park Technical College
Clover Park Technical College
Located directly in Lakewood, Clover Park Technical College offers comprehensive trade education with strong local industry connections and community support. The college provides both short-term certificates and two-year degrees across multiple skilled trades, with particular strength in automotive technology and cosmetology programs. CPTC maintains excellent relationships with local employers and unions, resulting in high job placement rates. The campus features modern labs and equipment, experienced instructors, and flexible scheduling options. As a public technical college, they offer affordable tuition and extensive financial aid resources for Lakewood residents and surrounding communities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top trade schools in Lakewood, WA, and what programs are they known for?
Lakewood is home to several respected institutions, including Bates Technical College - Downtown Campus, known for its Electrical Construction and Culinary Arts programs, and Clover Park Technical College, which offers strong programs in Automotive Technology and Cosmetology. Perry Technical Institute, while located in nearby Yakima, is a popular regional choice for programs like Instrumentation & Control Technology and Heavy Equipment Operation.
Are there any trade programs in Lakewood, WA, that have direct partnerships with local employers for job placement?
Yes, many trade schools in the Lakewood area have established partnerships with local industries. For example, Bates Technical College and Clover Park Technical College work closely with employers in the South Sound region, including construction firms, manufacturing companies, and automotive service centers, to facilitate internships, apprenticeships, and direct job placements for graduates in fields like Welding, HVAC, and Electrical Technology.
What financial aid or scholarship opportunities are specifically available for trade school students in Lakewood, WA?
Students at Lakewood-area trade schools like Bates and Clover Park can access federal financial aid (FAFSA), Washington State grants such as the Washington College Grant, and institution-specific scholarships. Many local unions and trade associations, such as those in the construction and electrical fields, also offer apprenticeship scholarships and sponsorship programs for students enrolling in related programs.
Which trade certifications are in highest demand by employers in the Lakewood, WA, area?
In the Lakewood and greater Tacoma area, certifications in Electrical (like Washington State Electrical Trainee and Journeyman cards), HVAC/R (EPA 608 certification), and Welding (AWS certifications) are particularly in demand due to the strong construction, manufacturing, and maritime industries. Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL) for heavy equipment and transportation roles are also highly sought after.
Can I start a trade program in Lakewood, WA, if I'm still in high school, and are there dual-enrollment options?
Yes, both Bates Technical College and Clover Park Technical College in Lakewood offer Running Start and other dual-enrollment programs for high school students. These programs allow students to earn college credits in trades like Carpentry, Culinary Arts, or Automotive Technology tuition-free while completing their high school diploma, providing a significant head start on their career training.
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About Trade Schools in Lakewood
Lakewood, 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.