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Discover accredited trade and career training programs across Alaska. Use the links below to explore programs and city guides, comparing schools by tuition, admissions, hands-on training, and job placement rates.
Programs in Alaska
City Guides
Choosing the right trade school is critical for launching a stable, skilled career in Alaska. Trade schools offer focused, hands-on training, enabling you to become job-ready without the lengthy timeline of a traditional four-year degree. Programs prepare you for high-demand fields like construction, welding, healthcare support, and heavy equipment operation.
Options are available in major cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks, as well as smaller regional centers and online-supported programs. Your choice depends on your location, trade interest, and scheduling needs (e.g., evening or seasonal classes).
Top Trade Schools in Alaska
Below are some of Alaska’s top trade schools, each offering programs aligned with industry standards and, where applicable, state licensing requirements.
1. Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC) - Seward
- Programs: Welding, Industrial Electricity, Plumbing & Heating, Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Maritime Training, Healthcare
- Length: Most programs range from a few months to one year
- Highlights: State-run, affordable tuition, strong industry connections
- Website: https://avtec.edu/
2. University of Alaska Anchorage - Community & Technical College (UAA CTC)
- Programs: Automotive Technology, Aviation Maintenance, Diesel Power Technology, Refrigeration and Heating, Occupational Safety
- Length: 1–2 years for most certificates
- Highlights: Located in Anchorage, offers pathways to further degrees, modern lab facilities
- Website: https://www.uaa.alaska.edu/
3. University of Alaska Fairbanks - Community & Technical College (UAF CTC)
- Programs: Process Technology, Welding, Culinary Arts, Medical Assisting, Paramedicine
- Length: Certificate and associate degree options
- Highlights: Strong in petroleum-related trades and healthcare support fields
- Website: https://www.ctc.uaf.edu/
4. Ilisagvik College - Barrow
- Programs: Construction Trades Technology, Heavy Equipment Operations, CDL Training
- Length: Varies by program
- Highlights: Alaska’s only tribal college, focused on workforce needs in rural and Arctic communities
- Website: https://www.ilisagvik.edu/
5. Alaska Technical Center (ATC) - Kotzebue
- Programs: Electrical, Carpentry, Plumbing, Health Aide, Heavy Equipment
- Length: Short-term to multi-month certificates
- Highlights: Serves Northwest Arctic region, small class sizes, practical hands-on approach
- Website: https://nwarctic.org/domain/142
Comparing Training Options
| School | Location | Common Programs | Typical Length |
| AVTEC | Seward | Welding, Maritime, Electrical | Months to 1 year |
| UAA CTC | Anchorage | Automotive, Aviation, Safety | 1–2 years |
| UAF CTC | Fairbanks | Process Tech, Medical, Culinary | 1–2 years |
| Ilisagvik College | Barrow | Construction, Heavy Equipment | Varies |
| ATC | Kotzebue | Carpentry, Plumbing, Health Aide | Weeks to months |
How to Choose a Trade School in Alaska
Consider these factors when selecting a program:
- Verify Licensing Needs: Trades like electrical or plumbing require state licenses.
- Confirm Accreditation: Ensure credentials are recognized by employers and licensing boards.
- Evaluate Location: Travel in Alaska can be costly; prioritize schools nearby or those offering housing.
- Check Job Placement Rates: Schools with strong employer ties can accelerate hiring.
- Match Training to Demand: Review Alaska’s job outlook via the Alaska Department of Labor.
Alaska Trade Licensing Basics
Certain trades require more than classroom training:
- Electricians: Must complete an approved apprenticeship and pass a state licensing exam to work unsupervised.
Source: Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development - Plumbers: Require classroom instruction and supervised on-the-job experience.
- Maritime Officers and Engineers: Need U.S. Coast Guard credentials.
- Medical Assistants: Certification is not state-mandated but may be required by employers.
Steps to Start Your Training
- Choose a Trade: Select based on your interests and local job demand.
- Compare Programs: Evaluate curriculum, schedule, and cost.
- Check Entry Requirements: Some programs require a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Apply and Enroll: Meet application deadlines, as seats are often limited.
- Complete Training and Apprenticeships: Follow state licensing rules if applicable.
Tips for Succeeding in Trade School
- Be Reliable: Punctuality is critical in trade industries.
- Prioritize Safety: OSHA standards are essential across many trades.
- Ask Questions: Engage with instructors to deepen understanding.
- Network: Build relationships with classmates and instructors for job opportunities.
The Bottom Line
Alaska’s trade schools provide efficient pathways to skilled careers without the need for a four-year degree. From AVTEC’s welding and maritime programs in Seward to UAF CTC’s process technology training in Fairbanks, there’s a program for nearly every interest.
Next Steps:
- Identify your preferred trade.
- Compare schools using the table above.
- Contact schools directly to verify program details, tuition, and start dates.
- Confirm state licensing requirements before beginning training.
Start today to build skills valued by Alaska employers.
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