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If you want a hands-on career, Washington has excellent options for trade school training. These programs can get you into the workforce faster than a four-year degree, and many prepare you for state licensing requirements.
Why Choose a Trade School in Washington
- Most programs take 6–24 months to complete
- Focused curriculum tailored to your trade
- Licensing preparation for Washington State requirements
- Connections to union apprenticeships and local employers
- Lower tuition compared to traditional university programs
Licensing reminder: Washington law requires trades like electrical and plumbing to be licensed before working unsupervised. Always confirm with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I).
Top Trade Schools in Washington
1. Bates Technical College – Tacoma
Locations: Downtown, Central, South Campuses
Programs: Construction, Automotive, Welding, HVAC, Allied Health
Highlights:
- Multiple campuses with specialized labs
- Strong ties to Puget Sound shipyards and construction firms
- Affordable tuition and financial aid options
2. Perry Technical Institute – Yakima
Type: Private nonprofit trade school
Programs: Industrial Maintenance, Electrical, HVAC, Welding, Instrumentation
Advantages:
- Small class sizes
- Career-focused training with employer partnerships in manufacturing and energy
- Accredited programs that meet state licensing standards
3. Clover Park Technical College – Lakewood
Programs: Aviation Maintenance, HVAC, Welding, Health Sciences, Automotive, Construction
Highlights:
- FAA-approved aviation training
- Industry-standard equipment in modern labs
- Approved for veterans’ benefits
4. Renton Technical College – Renton
Programs: Electrical Construction, Machining, Auto Repair, Culinary Arts, IT
Why It’s a Good Pick:
- High job placement rates
- Flexible scheduling with short-term certificates or two-year degrees
- Strong apprenticeship connections
Programs: Welding, Automotive, Construction Management, HVAC, Allied Health
Strengths:
- Partnership-based apprenticeship training
- Serves Eastern Washington and Idaho border communities
- Affordable tuition for in-state students
6. Lake Washington Institute of Technology – Kirkland
Programs: Welding, Manufacturing, Design, Allied Health
Advantages:
- Combines traditional trades with high-tech programs
- Strong focus on innovation and design alongside practical skills
7. Bellingham Technical College – Bellingham
Programs: Marine Trades, Process Technology, Industrial Maintenance, Welding
Why It’s Unique:
- Only technical college serving Northwest Washington
- Specialties in marine and coastal industry careers
Popular Trade Programs in Washington
| Trade Program | Typical Training Length | Licensing Required? |
| Welding | 6–12 months | Optional certification |
| HVAC Technician | 9–18 months | Yes – L&I license for certain work |
| Automotive Technology | 1–2 years | No, certs recommended |
| Electrical | 1–2 years + apprenticeship | Yes – L&I license required |
| Plumbing | 1 year + apprenticeship | Yes – L&I license required |
| Medical Assistant | 9–12 months | Optional certification |
Washington Licensing Rules You Should Know
- Electricians – Complete an apprenticeship, document work hours, and pass L&I exam
- Plumbers – School + apprenticeship hours required, then licensing exam
- HVAC – Licensing needed if handling refrigerants or certain systems
- Healthcare roles – Certifications may be required for certain specialties
Choosing the Right Washington Trade School
- Verify accreditation (state or national)
- Check alignment with Washington licensing requirements
- Review job placement and graduation rates
- Tour labs and facilities
- Compare tuition and total costs
Steps to Start
- Pick your trade and career goal
- Compare at least three accredited programs
- Visit campuses and speak with instructors
- Apply for admission and financial aid
- Complete training and required certifications
- Start an apprenticeship or entry-level position
Trade Programs in Washington
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