Best Trade Schools in Louisiana

Updated October 31, 2025 Table of Contents

If you want to learn a skilled trade in Louisiana, the best place to start is choosing the right school. A good trade school gives you practical training, may offer employer connections, and helps you meet licensing requirements. The schools listed here are known for solid instruction, industry connections, and skills-focused programs.

Louisiana's Trade School Advantage

Trade careers in Louisiana have ongoing hiring needs. Energy, construction, marine, and healthcare industries give graduates plenty of job options. Many programs finish in two years or less, so you can get to work quickly. Some even offer night or weekend classes for working students.

Tip: Make sure the school you choose is accredited. This helps with payment options and ensures your credentials are recognized by employers.

Top Trade Schools in Louisiana

1. Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS)

This network includes campuses like Baton Rouge Community College, Delgado Community College, and Northshore Technical Community College.

  • Programs: Welding, HVAC, electrical, carpentry, process technology, nursing
  • Locations: Multiple campuses across the state
  • Benefits: Low tuition, industry certifications, employer partnerships

2. Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College

Hands-on training for regional industries, with flexible scheduling for working students.

  • Programs: Industrial instrumentation, construction technology, welding, practical nursing
  • Locations: Shreveport, Mansfield, Minden
  • Benefits: Strong industry advisory boards, emphasis on safety training

3. Fletcher Technical Community College

Close ties to Louisiana's marine and oilfield employers.

  • Programs: Marine diesel technology, welding, electrical, nursing, integrated production technologies
  • Location: Schriever, LA
  • Benefits: Specialized equipment labs, internship opportunities

4. SOWELA Technical Community College

Known for high completion rates and employer satisfaction.

  • Programs: Aircraft maintenance, drafting, process technology, practical nursing
  • Locations: Lake Charles, Jennings, Oakdale
  • Benefits: FAA-approved aviation programs, modern facilities

5. Central Louisiana Technical Community College

Serving central Louisiana's manufacturing and healthcare workforce needs.

  • Programs: Automotive technology, precision machining, welding, industrial electronics
  • Locations: Multiple campuses including Alexandria
  • Benefits: Small class sizes, hands-on labs, career placement help

Program Length and Focus Areas

Program Type Typical Duration
Welding Certificate 6-12 months
HVAC Certificate 9-12 months
Electrical Diploma 12-18 months
Practical Nursing Diploma 12-18 months
Associate Degree in Technology 18-24 months

Licensing and Certification in Louisiana

Many trades require you to meet state or national licensing standards before you can work.

According to the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors, contractors must be licensed for projects over $50,000. Specialty trades like electrical and plumbing require additional exams.

For healthcare programs, licensing typically follows graduation and passing a board exam. Examples:

  • Nursing: Pass the NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN
  • HVAC: EPA Section 608 Certification (EPA)
  • Welding: AWS certification from the American Welding Society

How to Choose the Right Trade School

  1. Accreditation - Confirm the school is accredited by a recognized body.
  2. Industry Connections - Look for partnerships with local employers.
  3. Equipment and Facilities - Modern labs and tools make a big difference in training quality.
  4. Instructor Experience - Instructors with real-world experience bring more practical lessons.
  5. employment outcomes (verify with the school) - A good track record may support your job search; outcomes vary.
  6. Schedule Options - Evening or weekend classes can help if you're working.

Getting Started in a Louisiana Trade School

  1. Choose Your Trade - Decide based on your skills, interests, and job outlook.
  2. Visit Campuses - Tour labs, talk to instructors, check the facilities.
  3. Check Admissions Requirements - Most require a high school diploma or GED.
  4. Register for Classes - Plan your schedule and complete any orientation.

Reminder: Deadlines for payment options and program admissions often fall months before classes start. Contact the school early.

Why Now is a Good Time to Start

Louisiana's skilled trades sector is steady, with ongoing projects in infrastructure, energy, and healthcare. Training now positions you to benefit from these opportunities within the next year or two. Trade skills also travel well—if you decide to work in another state later, your certifications can often transfer with minimal extra training.

Trade Programs in Louisiana

Sources:

Notice an update we should make?
We strive for accuracy. Contact us here if you see incorrect or outdated info on this page.