The Best Trade Schools in Longview, Washington
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Longview.
Top Trade Schools in Longview
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute is a highly-regarded trade school serving students statewide, including those from Longview seeking intensive technical training. The institution maintains exceptional job placement rates exceeding 90% across most programs. Their welding program features comprehensive training in multiple processes, while the HVAC/R program prepares students for EPA 608 certification. Perry Tech's hands-on approach and industry connections make it a top choice for students willing to relocate for quality trade education with strong employment outcomes.
Programs Offered:
Clark College
Clark College District
Clark College serves as the primary technical and trades education provider for Southwest Washington, including Longview residents. The college offers comprehensive career and technical education programs with strong industry partnerships and high job placement rates. Their welding program is particularly renowned with state-of-the-art facilities, while the automotive and HVAC programs provide industry certifications. Clark College maintains articulation agreements with local employers and boasts excellent graduate employment outcomes in skilled trades throughout the region.
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Portland Community College - Cascade Campus
Portland Community College District
Portland Community College's Cascade Campus serves as a major trade school resource for the Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area, including Longview residents seeking accessible technical education. The college offers comprehensive apprenticeship programs and technical certificates in high-demand trades. PCC's welding technology program is particularly strong with multiple certification pathways, while their construction trades programs provide direct pathways to union apprenticeships. The college maintains strong industry partnerships and offers flexible scheduling options for working students.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most in-demand trade programs for students in Longview, WA, given the local industrial economy?
Given Longview's strong industrial and manufacturing base, programs like Welding Technology, Electrical Maintenance, and Instrumentation & Control Technology are particularly in-demand. Local employers such as the paper mills and manufacturing plants frequently seek graduates with these skills. Perry Technical Institute in nearby Yakima and Clark College in Vancouver offer respected programs that feed into this job market.
Can I complete a trade program near Longview, WA, without commuting to a major city like Portland?
Yes, while Longview itself has limited on-campus options, Clark College's main campus in Vancouver, WA, is the closest major provider, offering programs like Automotive Technology and Nursing. For some specialized trades, you may need to consider Perry Technical Institute in Yakima or online/hybrid options. It's advisable to check with Lower Columbia College in Longview for any potential community education or partnership programs in the trades.
Are there apprenticeship opportunities or direct hiring partnerships with local unions for trade school graduates in the Longview, WA area?
Yes, the Southwest Washington area has active partnerships, particularly in construction and electrical trades. Graduates from programs at Clark College or Perry Tech often connect with local unions like the IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) for apprenticeships. The region's strong industrial sector also leads to direct hiring pathways for roles in mill maintenance, welding, and instrumentation technology.
What trade certifications can I earn through programs accessible to Longview, WA residents that are recognized by local employers?
Programs at nearby schools lead to industry-recognized certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society) certification for welders, EPA 608 certification for HVAC/R technicians, and ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications for automotive techs. Electrical programs prepare students for Washington state licensing exams. These credentials are highly valued by local manufacturing plants, service centers, and construction firms in the Longview-Kelso area.
How do the costs and financial aid options for trade schools like Perry Technical Institute compare for a student from Longview, WA?
Perry Technical Institute is a private institution with higher tuition, but it offers extensive financial aid and is eligible for federal aid programs. In contrast, Clark College, as a community college, has significantly lower tuition rates for Washington residents. Longview students should complete the FAFSA and explore Washington State-specific aid, such as the Washington College Grant, which can greatly reduce costs for eligible programs at either type of school.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Longview
Longview, 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.