The Best Trade Schools in Westport, Washington

Bates Technical College is a premier trade institution serving the broader Puget Sound region, including Westport residents through its comprehensive programs and online hybrid options. The college boasts exceptional training facilities including a 20,000-square-foot welding lab, fully-equipped automotive centers, and commercial-grade culinary kitchens. Programs feature industry-recognized certifications such as NCCER credentials for construction trades, EPA 608 certification for HVAC, and Washington state cosmetology licensing. With job placement rates consistently above 90%, Bates maintains strong relationships with employers like Boeing, Tacoma Public Utilities, and regional healthcare systems. Students praise the hands-on learning approach, expert faculty with decades of industry experience, and robust career services that include apprenticeship connections and job fairs.

Clover Park Technical College provides exceptional trade education serving the South Puget Sound region, including Westport students through its comprehensive programs and transportation options. The college features advanced training facilities including robotic welding systems, automotive diagnostic centers with current technology, and commercial cosmetology salons. Programs lead to multiple industry certifications including AWS welding certifications, ASE automotive credentials, and Washington state cosmetology licenses. With job placement rates exceeding 88%, CPTC has strong partnerships with major employers like Joint Base Lewis-McChord, MultiCare Health System, and regional manufacturing companies. Students consistently report high satisfaction with the practical, hands-on curriculum, experienced instructors who maintain industry connections, and flexible scheduling including evening and weekend courses.

Grays Harbor College is a highly-regarded community college located just 20 miles from Westport, serving the coastal Grays Harbor County region with comprehensive trade programs. The college features state-of-the-art facilities including modern welding labs with Lincoln Electric equipment, automotive bays with current diagnostic technology, and construction trades workshops. Programs lead to industry certifications like AWS welding certifications, ASE automotive credentials, and EPA HVAC certifications. The college maintains strong partnerships with local employers including the Westport maritime industry, Grays Harbor Port Authority, and regional construction firms, resulting in job placement rates exceeding 85% for trade program graduates. Student satisfaction is high due to small class sizes, experienced instructors with industry backgrounds, and flexible scheduling options for working students.