The Best Trade Schools in Coloma, Wisconsin
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Coloma.
Top Trade Schools in Coloma
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Wisconsin Technical College System
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College is one of the highest-rated technical colleges in the state, serving multiple counties including Waushara County where Coloma is located. The college offers comprehensive trade programs with state-of-the-art facilities, including a 40,000 square foot trades center. Programs feature extensive hands-on training, industry-standard certifications, and strong employer partnerships with companies like Georgia-Pacific, Oshkosh Corporation, and Miller Electric. The college maintains an 89% job placement rate for graduates and offers flexible scheduling options including evening and weekend classes. Financial aid and apprenticeship pathways are available.
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Mid-State Technical College
Wisconsin Technical College System
Mid-State Technical College serves central Wisconsin including the Coloma area with multiple campus locations. The college is renowned for its hands-on technical training programs and strong industry connections. Welding programs feature AWS certification preparation, while electrical programs include residential, commercial, and industrial training. The automotive program has NATEF certification, and HVAC programs include EPA 608 certification. Mid-State boasts an 87% graduate employment rate and offers comprehensive student support services including career counseling, tutoring, and job placement assistance. Many programs can be completed in two years or less with flexible scheduling options.
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Northwood Technical College
Wisconsin Technical College System
Northwood Technical College (formerly WITC) serves northern Wisconsin communities including Coloma with multiple campus locations and online hybrid options. The college offers comprehensive trade programs with small class sizes and personalized instruction. Welding programs include SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, and pipe welding certifications. Automotive programs feature ASE-certified training with modern diagnostic equipment. The college maintains strong partnerships with regional employers and offers customized training programs. Northwood Technical College has an 86% job placement rate and provides extensive career services including resume building, interview preparation, and employer networking events. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are readily available.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Coloma, WI, and which programs are most accessible for local residents?
The closest trade schools to Coloma, WI are Northwood Technical College (with campuses in Wisconsin Rapids and Wautoma), Mid-State Technical College (in Wisconsin Rapids and Stevens Point), and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (in Wausau). For Coloma residents, programs like Welding, Automotive Technology, and HVAC-R are particularly accessible through these institutions, often with flexible scheduling options for commuters.
Which trade programs in the Coloma, WI area have the strongest local industry partnerships and job placement rates?
Programs like Electrical Power Distribution, Welding Technology, and HVAC Technician at Northwood Technical College and Mid-State Technical College have strong partnerships with central Wisconsin employers. These programs often feature direct connections with local utilities, manufacturers, and construction firms, leading to high job placement rates for graduates in the region surrounding Coloma.
Are there any short-term certification programs available near Coloma, WI for someone looking to enter the trades quickly?
Yes, local technical colleges offer short-term certifications that can be completed in months rather than years. For example, Northwood Technical College provides focused certificates in areas like Welding, Basic Automotive Maintenance, and HVAC-R fundamentals. These programs are designed to provide essential skills for immediate entry-level employment in the Coloma area and throughout central Wisconsin.
What transportation or commuting options exist for Coloma residents attending trade schools in the region?
Coloma residents typically commute to campuses in Wisconsin Rapids (approximately 30 minutes), Wautoma (25 minutes), or Stevens Point (40 minutes). While public transportation is limited in this rural area, carpooling with other students is common, and some programs offer hybrid or online theory components to reduce travel. Financial aid often includes transportation allowances for eligible students.
How do apprenticeship opportunities in the Coloma, WI area complement trade school programs?
Many trade programs at local technical colleges are designed to integrate with registered apprenticeships. For instance, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC programs at Mid-State and Northwood Technical Colleges often partner with local unions and contractors to provide earn-while-you-learn opportunities. These apprenticeships allow Coloma-area students to gain practical experience with central Wisconsin employers while completing their classroom education.
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About Trade Schools in Coloma
Coloma, 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.