Best Trade Schools in Mississippi

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want a solid career in the skilled trades, the first step is finding the right training program. In Mississippi, trade schools offer practical skills, focused training, and certifications that can help you start work faster than a traditional four-year degree.

I've worked in the trades for years, and I'll walk you through the best options in the state and what to expect from each.

Trade Programs in Mississippi

Why Choose a Trade School in Mississippi

Trade schools in Mississippi are built for hands-on learning. Most programs take months instead of years. You also focus on exactly what you need for your career—no unrelated classes.

Mississippi's growing industries like construction, HVAC, welding, and healthcare need trained workers. The schools below have strong ties with local employers, which can help you land a job right after graduation.

Top Trade Schools in Mississippi

1. Hinds Community College - Career & Technical Education

Location: Multiple campuses, including Raymond, Jackson, and Vicksburg
Highlights:

  • Large selection of trade programs from welding to HVAC.
  • Hands-on labs and modern equipment.
  • Industry-recognized certifications in many fields.

Popular Programs:

  • Welding Technology
  • HVAC Technology
  • Electrical Technology

2. Pearl River Community College - Career & Technical Programs

Location: Poplarville, Hattiesburg, and Waveland
Highlights:

  • Small class sizes for more one-on-one instruction.
  • Strong partnerships with local industries.
  • Flexible scheduling with day and night classes.

Popular Programs:

  • Carpentry
  • Automotive Technology
  • Heating and Air Conditioning

3. Itawamba Community College - Career Education Center

Location: Fulton and Tupelo
Highlights:

  • Modern training facilities.
  • Strong focus on industry credentials.
  • Career services and placement assistance.

Popular Programs:

  • Machine Tool Technology
  • Diesel Equipment Technology
  • Electrical Technology

4. Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College - Workforce & CTE

Location: Multiple campuses along the Gulf Coast
Highlights:

  • Wide variety of skilled trade programs.
  • Emphasis on local workforce needs.
  • Short-term certification options.

Popular Programs:

  • Welding
  • HVAC Technology
  • Maritime Technology

5. Northwest Mississippi Community College - Career & Technical Center

Location: Senatobia, Oxford, and other sites
Highlights:

  • Project-based learning and industry internships.
  • Modern training labs.
  • Programs designed for both entry and advancement.

Popular Programs:

  • Electrical Technology
  • Precision Manufacturing
  • Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

Training Program Lengths

Program Typical Length
Welding Certificate 6-12 months
HVAC Technology 9-18 months
Electrical Technology 1-2 years
Diesel Equipment Technology 1-2 years
Carpentry 9-12 months

Note: Some programs offer both short-term certificates and longer associate degree options.

Steps to Start Your Training in Mississippi

  1. Choose your trade. Decide based on your interests and job opportunities in your area.
  2. Check state licensing requirements.

    For example, HVAC contractors in Mississippi must be licensed by the Mississippi State Board of Contractors after meeting experience and exam requirements.

  3. Visit campuses. See the labs and meet instructors.
  4. Ask about certifications. Look for programs that include NCCER, NATE, or other recognized credentials.
  5. Review tuition and aid. Check if the school offers payment plans or scholarships.
  6. Plan your schedule. Decide between full-time or part-time study.

How to Make the Most of Trade School

  • Show up early and stay late—hands-on practice is key.
  • Build relationships with instructors; many can help with job referrals.
  • Take every certification exam offered.
  • Network with classmates; future job leads often come from peers.

Licenses and Certifications in Mississippi

Some trades require a license before you can work independently. Others require certifications to be competitive.

Always confirm requirements with the Mississippi State Board relevant to your trade.

Common licensing bodies include:

  • Mississippi State Board of Contractors
  • Mississippi State Department of Health (for certain healthcare trades)

Industry certifications to look for:

  • NCCER - National Center for Construction Education and Research
  • NATE - North American Technician Excellence (for HVAC)
  • AWS - American Welding Society (for welding)

Final Advice

If you're serious about starting a skilled trade career in Mississippi, your next step is to visit at least two schools from this list. Talk to current students. Ask instructors about job placement. Make sure the program offers the certifications you need.

Time in trade school is short, but the skills can last a lifetime. Pick the program that gives you hands-on experience, solid safety training, and clear connections to employers.

Sources

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