Best Trade Schools in Texas

If you want a career that gets you working quickly, a Texas trade school can be the fastest route. These schools focus on practical skills, not four years of lectures. You learn what you need for the job, you train with the tools you’ll actually use, and you graduate ready to work.

Texas has some of the best trade training programs in the country. Many are tied directly to industry certifications and state licensing, so you can move from classroom to job site without backtracking.

Why choose a trade school in Texas

  • Most. Programs take 6 to 24 months
  • Focused, job-specific curriculum without unnecessary courses
  • Strong demand for skilled trades statewide1
  • Access to state-approved apprenticeship. Programs
  • Lower tuition than traditional degrees

Top trade schools in Texas

#1

Texas State Technical College

Waco, TX In-state option

Located in Waco, TX Texas State Technical College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Aviation Maintenance Technology, Auto Body and Collision Repair, and Automotive Technician.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#2

College of the Mainland

Texas City, TX In-state option

Located in Texas City, TX College of the Mainland is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Barbering, Beauty Cosmetology, and Computer Programming. The campus serves roughly 3,342 learners.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $1,773
  • Out-of-state tuition: $3,873
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#3

Lamson Institute

San Antonio, TX In-state option

Located in San Antonio, TX Lamson Institute is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Cybersecurity, Electrical Systems Installation, and Electrical Technology.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

Trade ProgramTypical Training LengthCommon Certification or License
HVAC Technician9–12 monthsEPA Section 608 Certification2
Electrician9–12 months school + apprenticeshipTexas Journeyman License
Welder7–10 monthsAWS Certification3
Plumber1 year school + apprenticeshipTexas Journeyman Plumber License
Automotive Technician9–12 monthsASE Certification

Texas licensing rules you should know

  • Electricians – Must. Complete an apprenticeship and pass the state journeyman exam4
  • HVAC techs – Must hold EPA Section 608 certification to handle refrigerants2
  • Plumbers – Require school training, documented work hours, and state exam

Choosing the right Texas trade school

  1. Verify accreditation (Council on Occupational Education or regional accreditor)
  2. Check alignment with Texas licensing requirements
  3. Review career services data
  4. Tour workshops and labs
  5. Compare total costs, including tools and certification fees

Steps to Start

  1. Select your trade and preferred location
  2. Compare at least three accredited programs
  3. Visit campuses and meet instructors
  4. Apply for admission and payment options
  5. Complete training and earn required certifications
  6. Begin work or enter an apprenticeship program

Trade programs in Texas

Sources:

  1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Employment Outlook for Skilled Trades ↩︎

  2. U.S. EPA – Section 608 Technician Certification ↩︎ ↩︎

  3. American Welding Society – Certification Programs ↩︎

  4. Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation – Electrical Licensing ↩︎