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If you want a career that gets you working quickly, a Vermont 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.
Vermont has a variety of technical training programs across construction, automotive, healthcare, and manufacturing trades. Many are tied directly to state licensing and industry certifications, so you can move from classroom to job site without unnecessary delays.
Why Choose a Trade School in Vermont
- Most programs take 6 to 24 months
- Focused, job-specific curriculum without unrelated courses
- Strong demand for skilled trades in Vermont
- Access to apprenticeship opportunities through state partnerships
- Lower tuition than most four-year degrees
Top Trade Schools in Vermont
1. Vermont Technical College (VTC) – Randolph Center
Programs: Electrical Engineering Technology, Diesel Power Technology, Automotive Technology, Construction Practice & Management, Practical Nursing
Strengths:
- Well-respected statewide for applied technical education
- Combines lab/shop work with classroom instruction
- Employer partnerships for internships and clinical placements
- Offers associate degrees and certificates
More on VTC
2. Stafford Technical Center – Rutland
Programs: Building Trades, Welding & Fabrication, Electrical & Plumbing Technology, Culinary Arts
Highlights:
- Serves both adult learners and high school students
- Strong ties to local contractors and hospitality businesses
- Apprenticeship and co-op opportunities built into programs
Visit Stafford Technical Center
3. Center for Technology, Essex (CTE)
Programs: Computer Systems Technology, Engineering & Architectural Design, Automotive Technology, Health Sciences
Why it Stands Out:
- Close connections with Vermont’s manufacturing and tech employers
- Options for dual enrollment credits toward college degrees
- Modern labs for IT, design, and automotive
Learn about CTE
4. North Country Career Center – Newport
Programs: Electrical Technology, Building Trades, Automotive Technology, Precision Manufacturing
Strengths:
- Local employer partnerships for internships
- Small class sizes for personalized instruction
- Training aligned to regional workforce needs
More on NCCC
5. Green Mountain Technology & Career Center – Hyde Park
Programs: Welding & Fabrication, Building Trades, Diesel Power Technology, Sustainable Agriculture
Why it’s Unique:
- Rare sustainable agriculture program for trade students
- Hands-on training in workshops and on-site facilities
- Serves rural Vermont communities with industry-relevant programs
Visit GMTCC
Popular Trade Programs in Vermont
| Trade Program | Typical Training Length | Common Certification or License |
| HVAC Technician | 9–12 months | EPA Section 608 Certification |
| Electrician | 9–12 months school + apprenticeship | Vermont Journeyman License |
| Welder | 7–10 months | AWS Certification |
| Plumber | 1 year school + apprenticeship | Vermont Journeyman Plumber License |
| Practical Nurse | 12–18 months | NCLEX-PN, Vermont Nursing License |
Vermont Licensing Rules You Should Know
- Electricians – Must complete an apprenticeship and pass the state journeyman exam
- Plumbers – Require school training, documented work hours, and state exam
- Nurses – Must pass NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN and meet Vermont Board of Nursing requirements
- HVAC Techs – Must hold EPA Section 608 certification for refrigerants
Choosing the Right Vermont Trade School
- Verify accreditation (state approval or national accreditor)
- Ensure the program meets Vermont licensing requirements
- Review job placement rates and employer partnerships
- Tour labs and training facilities
- Compare costs, including tools and exam fees
Steps to Start
- Pick your trade and preferred region in Vermont
- Compare at least three accredited programs
- Visit campuses and talk with instructors
- Apply for admission and financial aid
- Complete training and earn necessary certifications
- Begin work or enter an apprenticeship
Trade Programs in Vermont
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