The Best Trade Schools in Richland, Washington
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Richland.
Top Trade Schools in Richland
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute, founded in 1939, maintains a 4.6-star rating from 85 reviews and is a top choice for trade education in the region. It provides intensive, hands-on programs that lead to industry certifications and high employment success. With a focus on practical skills and employer partnerships, graduates are well-prepared for careers in trades like welding, HVAC, and automotive technology. The institute's commitment to quality instruction and student support makes it a standout option for those in the Richland area.
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Tri-Tech Skills Center
Kennewick School District
Tri-Tech Skills Center has been a leading career and technical education provider in the Tri-Cities area since 1999, earning a 4.4-star rating from 65 reviews. It offers hands-on training in high-demand trades with modern facilities, certified instructors, and strong industry partnerships. The school emphasizes real-world skills, leading to high job placement rates and certifications like AWS for welding and ASE for automotive programs. Students praise its supportive environment and effective career preparation.
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Columbia Basin College
Columbia Basin College District
Columbia Basin College, established in 1955, is a highly-regarded institution with a 4.2-star rating from 120 reviews. Its trade programs are known for comprehensive hands-on training, industry-aligned certifications, and excellent job placement rates. Serving the Richland area through its Pasco campus, CBC offers affordable education with experienced faculty and state-of-the-art labs. Graduates often secure positions in local industries, supported by strong employer connections and apprenticeship opportunities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top trade school programs available in Richland, WA, and which local institutions offer them?
In Richland, key programs include Welding Technology, HVAC, Electrical Trades, Automotive Technology, and Manufacturing. These are offered at institutions like Tri-Tech Skills Center (for high school students and adults), Columbia Basin College (with associate degrees and certificates), and Perry Technical Institute (providing intensive, hands-on training in nearby Yakima, accessible to Richland residents).
How does the local job market in the Tri-Cities area influence trade school opportunities in Richland, WA?
The Tri-Cities region, including Richland, has strong demand in construction, advanced manufacturing, and energy sectors, driving need for skilled tradespeople. Programs at Columbia Basin College and Tri-Tech often align with local employers like Hanford site contractors, regional construction firms, and manufacturing plants, offering pathways to immediate employment after certification.
Are there accelerated or short-term certification programs for trades in Richland, WA?
Yes, both Tri-Tech Skills Center and Columbia Basin College offer short-term certificates and intensive programs in fields like Welding, HVAC, and Electrical Trades, often completed in under a year. These are designed for quick entry into the workforce, with some programs offering evening or hybrid options to accommodate working students in the Richland area.
What financial aid or apprenticeship opportunities are available for trade students in Richland, WA?
Students at Columbia Basin College and Tri-Tech can access federal financial aid, state grants like the Washington College Grant, and local scholarships specific to trades. Additionally, many Richland-area employers, including construction unions and Hanford contractors, sponsor apprenticeship programs that combine paid work with classroom training at these institutions.
How do trade programs in Richland, WA, support students in obtaining industry-recognized certifications?
Programs at Tri-Tech and Columbia Basin College are designed to prepare students for certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society) for welding, EPA 608 for HVAC, and NICET for electrical trades. They often include exam preparation and hands-on labs that meet state and national standards, ensuring graduates are ready for certification tests and local employment.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Richland
Richland, 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.