The Best Trade Schools in Whitewater, Wisconsin
Find top-rated trade schools and vocational training programs in Whitewater.
Top Trade Schools in Whitewater
Waukesha County Technical College - Pewaukee Campus
Waukesha County Technical College District
Waukesha County Technical College provides comprehensive trade education serving the Whitewater region with exceptional outcomes, including 94% graduate employment and multiple industry partnerships with companies like Kohler Generators and Harley-Davidson. The college features state-of-the-art training facilities including fully-equipped automotive bays, commercial kitchens, and welding labs. Programs lead to recognized credentials such as AWS certifications, ProStart certification for culinary arts, and manufacturer-specific certifications. Student support services include dedicated career advisors, tutoring centers, and financial aid assistance, contributing to high completion rates and employer satisfaction.
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Gateway Technical College - Elkhorn Campus
Gateway Technical College District
Gateway Technical College's Elkhorn Campus serves the Whitewater area with exceptional trade programs featuring hands-on training in modern facilities. The college maintains strong industry partnerships with local employers like CNH Industrial and Snap-on, resulting in high job placement rates (approximately 92% for trade graduates). Programs lead to industry-recognized certifications including AWS welding certifications, EPA 608 certification for HVAC, and ASE certifications for automotive. Instructors are industry veterans with an average of 18 years field experience, and the college offers comprehensive career services including apprenticeship connections and job fairs.
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Blackhawk Technical College - Central Campus
Blackhawk Technical College District
Blackhawk Technical College serves Whitewater residents with rigorous trade programs that emphasize practical skills and employer connections. The college boasts an 89% graduate employment rate within six months, with strong relationships with employers like General Motors and ABC Supply. Programs feature state-approved apprenticeships, industry certifications including NICET for electrical systems, and modern training equipment. Student satisfaction scores consistently exceed 90%, with particular praise for instructor expertise and flexible scheduling options including evening and hybrid courses.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest trade schools to Whitewater, WI, and which programs are they known for?
The closest trade schools to Whitewater include Gateway Technical College's Elkhorn Campus (about 15 miles away), Blackhawk Technical College's Central Campus in Janesville (about 25 miles away), and Waukesha County Technical College's Pewaukee Campus (about 35 miles away). Gateway is known for its Electrical Power Distribution and Welding programs, Blackhawk excels in CNC Manufacturing and Automotive Technology, and Waukesha County offers strong Culinary Arts and Automotive Collision Repair programs.
Are there any apprenticeship programs available through Whitewater-area trade schools for fields like plumbing or electrical work?
Yes, several nearby trade schools offer apprenticeship programs. Gateway Technical College in Elkhorn provides Plumbing Apprenticeship and Electrical Systems apprenticeships that combine classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training. These programs are often coordinated with local unions and contractors in the Southern Wisconsin region, providing direct pathways to journeyman certification.
What local manufacturing companies in the Whitewater region hire graduates from trade school CNC and welding programs?
Whitewater and surrounding Walworth County have several manufacturing employers that hire trade school graduates, including Generac (power equipment), Prent (thermoformed packaging), and Jagemann Stamping. These companies frequently recruit from Gateway Technical College's CNC Manufacturing and Welding Technology programs, as well as Blackhawk Technical College's advanced manufacturing programs, offering competitive starting wages for certified technicians.
How do the HVAC-R programs at nearby Wisconsin trade schools prepare students for licensing in the Whitewater area?
Gateway Technical College's HVAC-R program provides the technical training required for Wisconsin HVAC licensing, covering refrigeration, heating systems, and air conditioning technology specific to Wisconsin's climate. The program includes EPA 608 certification preparation and meets the state's requirements for technician licensing, with many graduates finding employment with local companies like Harker Heating & Cooling and regional contractors serving the Lake Geneva and Whitewater areas.
What financial aid and scholarship opportunities are specifically available for Whitewater residents attending trade schools in Southern Wisconsin?
Whitewater residents can access Wisconsin's Technical College System grants, the Wisconsin Grant for part-time students, and scholarships through individual colleges like Gateway's Foundation scholarships. Additionally, local organizations like the Whitewater Community Foundation and area employers often offer scholarships specifically for trade programs, particularly in high-demand fields like electrical, plumbing, and manufacturing that support local industry needs.
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About Trade Schools in Whitewater
Whitewater, 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.