The Best Trade Schools in Summit Lake, Wisconsin
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Summit Lake.
Top Trade Schools in Summit Lake
Nicolet College
Nicolet Area Technical College
Nicolet College is a highly-regarded technical college serving Northern Wisconsin, including the Summit Lake area. The college offers comprehensive trade programs with state-of-the-art facilities, including a modern welding lab with 40+ stations and advanced automotive technology centers. Programs feature hands-on training with industry-standard equipment, strong employer partnerships with local businesses, and excellent job placement rates exceeding 85%. Students benefit from small class sizes, experienced instructors with industry backgrounds, and multiple certification opportunities. The college maintains strong relationships with regional employers for internship and job placement.
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Northwood Technical College
Wisconsin Technical College System
Northwood Technical College (formerly Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College) serves Northern Wisconsin with multiple campuses, providing accessible trade education to Summit Lake residents. The college offers extensive apprenticeship programs and technical diplomas in high-demand trades. Features include comprehensive welding facilities with multiple processes, modern HVAC-R labs with current technology, and electrical programs that include residential, commercial, and industrial training. The college boasts strong industry connections, with many graduates securing employment before completion. Programs emphasize hands-on learning with equipment mirroring industry standards, and the institution maintains high placement rates in skilled trades throughout the region.
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Mid-State Technical College
Wisconsin Technical College System
Mid-State Technical College serves central and northern Wisconsin with multiple campuses and strong distance learning options for Summit Lake area students. The college offers comprehensive trade programs with flexible scheduling options including evenings and hybrid formats. Programs feature industry-current curriculum developed with employer input, modern labs with professional-grade equipment, and extensive apprenticeship opportunities. The automotive program includes ASE certification preparation, while construction trades provide hands-on experience with residential and commercial projects. The college maintains strong job placement rates through employer partnerships and career services, with many programs offering earn-while-you-learn opportunities through paid internships and apprenticeships.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Summit Lake, WI, and what are their most popular programs?
The closest trade schools serving Summit Lake are Nicolet College in Rhinelander, Northwood Technical College (with campuses in Rhinelander and Minocqua), and Mid-State Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids. Popular programs in the Northwoods region include Welding Technology, Electrical Power Distribution, Automotive Technology, and Construction Trades, which align well with local industries.
Are there any trade programs in the Summit Lake area that specifically prepare students for careers in the local Northwoods tourism and hospitality industry?
Yes, programs like Culinary Arts at Nicolet College and Northwood Technical College directly support the robust tourism and hospitality sector in the Northwoods. These programs provide training for careers in local resorts, restaurants, and lodging establishments, which are major employers in regions like Oneida and Vilas Counties near Summit Lake.
What kind of financial aid or scholarship opportunities are available for Summit Lake residents attending trade schools in Northern Wisconsin?
Residents can access federal aid (FAFSA), Wisconsin Grant programs, and school-specific scholarships at Nicolet, Northwood, and Mid-State. Additionally, many local employers, unions, and industry associations in the Northwoods, such as construction and manufacturing firms, offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorship for programs like Welding, HVAC, and Electrical trades.
Which trade certifications are in highest demand by employers in the Summit Lake and greater Northwoods region?
Employers in this region highly value certifications in Welding (AWS), HVAC-R (EPA 608), Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL), and Electrical certifications. The strong presence of manufacturing, construction, logging, and tourism infrastructure around Summit Lake creates consistent demand for these skilled, certified tradespeople.
Do trade schools near Summit Lake, like Nicolet College, offer flexible or hybrid learning options for working adults or those in remote areas?
Yes, schools like Nicolet College and Northwood Technical College offer hybrid, online, and evening courses for many programs, including Business, IT, and some trades theory. However, hands-on programs like Welding, Automotive, and Carpentry typically require in-person lab sessions, which are scheduled at their campus facilities in Rhinelander, Minocqua, or other nearby locations.
Nearby Cities
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About Trade Schools in Summit Lake
Summit Lake, 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.