The Best Trade Schools in Columbus, Wisconsin
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Columbus.
Top Trade Schools in Columbus
Madison Area Technical College - Fort Atkinson Campus
Madison College
Madison College's Fort Atkinson campus serves the Columbus area with comprehensive trade programs featuring industry-standard equipment and certified instructors. The welding program is particularly renowned with AWS certification preparation, while the automotive program offers ASE certification paths. With strong industry partnerships throughout southern Wisconsin, graduates benefit from excellent job placement rates exceeding 85% in technical fields. The college maintains small class sizes and hands-on learning environments with modern facilities.
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Milwaukee Area Technical College
MATC District Board
MATC offers extensive trade programs with multiple campus locations serving southeastern Wisconsin, including Columbus residents. The college boasts industry-leading apprenticeship partnerships and state-of-the-art training facilities. Electrical and HVAC programs feature EPA certification preparation and hands-on training with current industry equipment. With job placement rates consistently above 80% and strong employer relationships throughout the region, MATC graduates are well-prepared for immediate employment in their chosen trades.
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Universal Technical Institute - Lisle, IL
UTI Division, Universal Technical Institute
UTI's Lisle campus serves students from southern Wisconsin with intensive, manufacturer-specific training programs. The institution maintains partnerships with major automotive and diesel manufacturers, providing direct pathways to dealership technician positions. Welding programs offer AWS certification preparation with comprehensive hands-on training. While located in Illinois, UTI actively recruits and serves Wisconsin students with housing options and strong job placement networks extending into the Columbus area. Graduates benefit from national employer relationships and specialized manufacturer training.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade school options for residents of Columbus, WI, and what programs do they offer?
The most accessible option is the Madison Area Technical College (MATC) Fort Atkinson Campus, about 15 miles away, offering programs like Welding, Automotive Technician, and Electrical Power Distribution. For a broader range, Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) is about an hour's drive and provides extensive programs including HVAC, Culinary Arts, and Diesel Technology. Some Columbus residents also consider programs at Universal Technical Institute in Lisle, IL, particularly for Automotive and Collision Repair, though it's a longer commute.
Are there any local apprenticeship or on-the-job training opportunities in Columbus, WI, for trades like plumbing or electrical work?
Yes, Columbus and surrounding Dodge and Columbia counties have active partnerships with local unions and contractors for apprenticeships. For example, the Wisconsin Operating Engineers Local 139 and the ABC of Wisconsin offer apprenticeship pathways in electrical construction and plumbing. Many local employers in Columbus's manufacturing and construction sectors also work with MATC to provide co-op and apprenticeship placements for students in relevant trade programs.
What high-demand trade careers in the Columbus, WI, area offer strong starting wages after completing a program?
In the Columbus region, skilled trades like Electrical Power Distribution, Welding, and HVAC-R technicians are in high demand due to local manufacturing, agriculture, and construction industries. Graduates from programs at MATC Fort Atkinson often find positions with starting wages ranging from $20 to $30 per hour. Diesel Technology and Automotive Technician roles are also sought after, with many opportunities at local dealerships, farms, and transportation companies in the area.
Can I complete a trade program at MATC Fort Atkinson while living in Columbus, and what support services are available?
Absolutely. Many Columbus residents commute to MATC Fort Atkinson for its flexible schedules, including evening and part-time options. The college offers student support services such as career counseling, financial aid assistance, and tutoring. Additionally, some hybrid or online theory components may be available for certain programs, though hands-on training requires campus attendance.
What industry-recognized certifications can I earn through trade programs accessible from Columbus, WI, and how do they benefit my career locally?
Programs at nearby schools like MATC prepare you for certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society) for welding, EPA 608 for HVAC-R, and ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) for automotive and diesel techs. Earning these certifications significantly boosts employability with Columbus-area employers, including manufacturers like Columbus Chemical Industries and local construction firms, who often require or prefer certified technicians for compliance and quality assurance.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Columbus
Columbus, 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.