The Best Trade Schools in Arlington, Wisconsin
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Arlington.
Top Trade Schools in Arlington
Madison Area Technical College
Madison College
Madison College is one of Wisconsin's premier technical colleges with comprehensive trade programs and strong industry partnerships. The college offers extensive hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities with industry-certified instructors. Programs feature high job placement rates (over 90% for many trades), multiple industry certifications, and flexible scheduling options. Their welding program is particularly renowned with American Welding Society certification pathways, while their automotive technology program partners with major manufacturers. The college serves students from throughout southern Wisconsin, including Arlington residents, with financial aid options and career placement services.
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Waukesha County Technical College
WCTC
WCTC is a highly-rated technical college serving southeastern Wisconsin with comprehensive trade programs and excellent job placement outcomes. The college features modern, industry-standard facilities including fully-equipped automotive bays, welding labs, and construction technology centers. Programs emphasize hands-on learning with small class sizes and instructor attention. WCTC maintains strong relationships with local employers and offers apprenticeship programs, internship opportunities, and career placement services. Their automotive technology program includes manufacturer-specific training, while the construction trades programs provide NCCER certifications. The college serves students throughout the region with flexible scheduling and financial aid options.
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Milwaukee Area Technical College
MATC
MATC is Wisconsin's largest technical college with comprehensive trade programs and strong industry connections throughout southeastern Wisconsin. The college features modern training facilities with industry-standard equipment and experienced instructors who maintain current industry certifications. Programs include paid apprenticeship opportunities, multiple certification pathways, and direct industry partnerships with companies like Johnson Controls and Harley-Davidson. The HVAC-R program is particularly strong with EPA certification preparation, while the electrical program offers both residential and commercial training. MATC serves students from across the region with online and evening class options.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Arlington, WI, and what programs do they offer that are relevant to local industries?
The closest trade schools to Arlington, WI, are Madison Area Technical College (Madison College) and Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC), both within about an hour's drive. These schools offer programs highly relevant to local and regional industries, including Welding Technology, HVAC, Electrical Power Distribution, Automotive Technology, and Carpentry. These skills are in demand for construction, manufacturing, and agricultural equipment maintenance jobs in the surrounding Dane and Columbia counties.
Are there any specific trade programs in the Arlington area that lead to high-demand, well-paying jobs?
Yes, programs in Electrical Power Distribution, HVAC-R, and Welding Technology are particularly high-demand in the region surrounding Arlington. Graduates from these programs at schools like Madison College often find employment with local utilities, manufacturing plants, and construction firms. These trades typically offer strong starting wages and clear pathways to journeyman or master-level certifications in Wisconsin.
Can I complete a trade program while living in Arlington, WI, or are commuting or online options available?
While there are no trade school campuses directly in Arlington, many programs at Madison College and Waukesha County Technical College offer flexible options. This includes hybrid or online coursework for theory components, combined with scheduled hands-on lab sessions at campus facilities. Commuting is common for residents, and some programs may offer evening or weekend labs to accommodate working students.
What kind of financial aid or apprenticeship opportunities are available for Arlington residents pursuing trades?
Arlington residents can apply for federal financial aid (FAFSA) and Wisconsin-specific grants through the technical college system. Additionally, many local unions and contractors in south-central Wisconsin offer registered apprenticeship programs in trades like Plumbing, Electrical Construction, and Carpentry. These apprenticeships provide paid on-the-job training while you attend related instruction at a technical college.
How do trade school certifications from Wisconsin technical colleges, like those near Arlington, transfer to jobs in other states?
Certifications and diplomas from accredited Wisconsin technical colleges like Madison College are highly respected and often transfer well, but licensing requirements vary by state. For licensed trades (e.g., Electrical, Plumbing), you may need to pass another state's exam or meet additional hours. However, the core skills and industry-recognized credentials (like AWS welding certifications) are nationally portable, making graduates from Arlington's area schools competitive for regional and national employers.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Arlington
Arlington, Wisconsin 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.