Trade Schools in Olympia, Washington

Perry Technical Institute has maintained an outstanding reputation for trade education across Washington state for over eight decades. While located in Yakima, the institution serves students from throughout Washington, including the Olympia area, with comprehensive residential programs. The institute features state-of-the-art training facilities and maintains exceptional job placement rates consistently above 90%. Programs include Electrical Technology with state certification preparation, HVAC/R with EPA certification, and comprehensive welding training with multiple process certifications. Perry Tech is known for its intensive, hands-on approach and strong employer relationships that facilitate direct hiring pathways for graduates.

Bates Technical College is one of the oldest and most respected technical colleges in Washington, serving the South Puget Sound region including Olympia. The college offers comprehensive trade programs with industry-standard certifications and boasts exceptional job placement rates exceeding 85%. Their welding program is particularly renowned with multiple certification pathways, while their HVAC/R program includes EPA 608 certification. The college maintains strong industry partnerships with major employers throughout the region, ensuring graduates are prepared for immediate employment. With modern facilities and experienced instructors who are industry professionals, Bates provides hands-on training that meets current workforce demands.

South Puget Sound Community College is Olympia's primary local institution for trade education, offering comprehensive career and technical programs directly serving the community. The college provides affordable, accessible trade education with strong industry connections throughout Thurston County. Their welding program offers multiple certification levels, while the automotive technology program includes ASE certification preparation. The college maintains modern training facilities and experienced faculty with real-world industry experience. SPSCC has excellent articulation agreements with local employers and apprenticeship programs, providing clear pathways to employment. The institution consistently receives high marks for student satisfaction and training quality, with many graduates securing positions with local companies immediately after completion.