Updated August 13, 2025
If you want a career that's hands-on and in demand in Huntsville, you don't have to spend four years in college. Skilled trades offer faster training and a direct path to work. Huntsville has several solid trade schools that will prepare you for licensed trades and technical careers.
Here's a breakdown of the best options and what you need to know before signing up.
Calhoun is one of the largest community colleges in Alabama and has a solid trades and technical training program. The Huntsville campus offers programs such as:
Program lengths: Most certificate programs can be completed in six months to one year. Associate degrees typically take two years for full-time students.
Why it's a top choice: Calhoun is accredited, offers financial aid, and has strong local industry connections, which can mean better job placement support.
Learn more at Calhoun Community College
Drake State focuses strongly on career and technical education. Huntsville-area employers recognize their programs as solid preparation for entry-level skilled work.
Popular programs include:
Drake State offers both short-term certificates and Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degrees.
Tip: If you plan to get a state license (for example, in electrical work or cosmetology), make sure you complete the exact program hours and courses that Alabama requires.
More info: Drake State
While Athens State is known as a university, it partners with community colleges for career technical degrees. You can take trade-related associate coursework at Calhoun or Drake, then complete a bachelor's degree in career technical education at Athens State.
This is useful if you want to start in the trades but also have the option to move into training, supervision, or management roles later.
Details: Athens State University
If you're still in high school and want a head start, the J.F. Drake CTC offers:
These programs prepare you for entry-level jobs right after graduation or for continuing at a community college.
The Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) of North Alabama runs a U.S. Department of Labor-recognized apprenticeship program. This combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Benefits of the IEC program:
IEC's training center is based in Madison, just outside Huntsville.
Info: IEC North Alabama
NACFT offers apprenticeship training in:
These programs are aligned with NCCER standards, a leading national credential system for construction careers.
Note: Many NACFT programs require you to be employed by a sponsoring contractor before enrolling.
| Program Type | Training Time |
|---|---|
| Short-Term Certificate | 6 months - 1 year |
| Associate in Applied Science (AAS) | 2 years (full time) |
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years + OJT |
Always check the latest requirements with the Alabama licensing board for your specific trade.
Example: The Alabama Electrical Contractors Board requires experience plus a passing exam score to become a licensed electrical contractor. View Alabama Electrical Licensing Info
When comparing programs, focus on more than just tuition cost.
Huntsville has strong options for training in the skilled trades, from welding and HVAC to electrical and construction. Decide first which trade fits your interests and long-term goals. Then choose a school that's accredited, offers hands-on experience, and matches the licensing requirements for Alabama.
Here's what you should do next:
The sooner you start, the sooner you can begin working in a stable, respected trade career. Huntsville's growing economy needs skilled workers now - and good training is the first step.
Sources:
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