Top 20 Trade Schools & Skilled Careers Guide (2025)
- SkillCat Team

- 4 days ago
- 23 min read
Updated: 3 days ago

Tired of hearing that a four year university degree is the only path to a successful career? There’s a faster, more affordable, and incredibly direct route to a stable, high demand job: trade schools. These specialized institutions skip the general education requirements and focus entirely on providing the hands on skills and knowledge you need to excel in a specific skilled trade. They are designed for doers, problem solvers, and anyone ready to start their career now, not in four years. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, a military veteran transitioning to civilian life, or a career switcher looking for a more rewarding profession, a trade school education can be your launchpad. Modern online platforms are making this path even more accessible, offering accredited training right from your phone.
What Can You Learn? Popular Careers from Trade Schools
Trade schools open the door to essential, well paying careers that keep our world running. Instead of theory, you get practical skills for real world jobs. The demand for skilled trade professionals is growing rapidly, with a significant shortage of qualified workers in many fields.
Some of the most popular program categories include:
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning): Learn to install, maintain, and repair climate control systems in residential and commercial buildings. This field requires an EPA 608 certification to handle refrigerants, a credential you can earn through accredited online programs.
Electrical: Train to become an electrician, working with wiring, circuits, and electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial settings.
Plumbing: Master the skills to install and repair pipes and fixtures for water, gas, and drainage systems.
Appliance Repair: Specialize in diagnosing and fixing common household appliances like refrigerators, washers, and ovens.
Facilities and Building Maintenance: Gain a versatile skill set to manage the upkeep of large properties, including multifamily housing, hotels, and office buildings.
Platforms like SkillCat provide comprehensive courses across all these trades, allowing you to explore different fields under a single, affordable membership.
Modern Learning: Online vs. In Person Trade Schools
The way you attend trade school has evolved. While traditional brick and mortar campuses offer valuable hands on experience with tools and equipment, they often come with rigid schedules and higher costs.
Online trade schools present a flexible and powerful alternative. They allow you to learn at your own pace, from anywhere, which is perfect if you’re currently working or have other commitments. Modern online programs use innovative tools like 3D simulations to teach complex, hands on tasks in a virtual environment. This approach removes barriers like commute times and high tuition, making a skilled trades education more accessible than ever before.
Finding the Right Fit: How to Choose a Trade School
With so many options, picking the right program is crucial. Here’s what to look for when evaluating different trade schools:
Accreditation and Approvals: This is non negotiable. Ensure the school is accredited by a recognized body, like IACET (International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training). For specific trades like HVAC, verify they are an EPA approved certifying organization for credentials like the Section 608 license.
Program Content: Does the curriculum cover the exact skills employers are looking for? Look for programs that include both foundational knowledge and practical, job ready training.
Learning Format: Decide if an in person, online, or hybrid model works best for your schedule and learning style. Online platforms offer maximum flexibility.
Cost and Value: Compare tuition, fees, and what’s included. An affordable monthly subscription that includes training, practice exams, and official certification attempts can offer incredible value.
Employer Recognition: Check if the school has a good reputation and if its certifications are recognized by employers in the industry. Legitimate programs often have a verification tool for employers to confirm credentials.
The Investment: Understanding Trade School Costs and ROI
One of the biggest advantages of trade schools is the return on your investment. Traditional four year degrees can leave graduates with tens of thousands of dollars in debt. In contrast, many trade school programs cost a fraction of that and can be completed in two years or less.
Online trade schools have made the cost even lower. For example, innovative platforms like SkillCat operate on a low cost subscription model, giving you access to hundreds of courses and official certification exams for a small monthly fee. This model drastically reduces the financial barrier to starting a new career, allowing you to get trained and certified for less than the cost of a few textbooks at a traditional college. The ROI is clear: you spend less money, start working sooner, and enter a high demand field with strong earning potential.
Get Job Ready, Faster: Accelerated Trade School Programs
In today’s fast paced world, speed matters. Trade schools are built for acceleration. You can gain the certifications needed for an entry level job in just weeks or months, not years.
Certifications like the EPA 608 for HVAC or OSHA 10 for job site safety are foundational credentials that can get your foot in the door immediately. With on demand online proctoring, you can study for and take your official exam from home as soon as you feel prepared. This speed and efficiency mean you can go from learning to earning in record time. Ready to see how fast you can get certified? Explore the training and on demand exams available with SkillCat.
Your Roadmap: How to Start a Career in the Trades
Ready to make your move? Here is a simple, step by step roadmap to launching your career through a trade school education.
Choose Your Trade: Research different fields like HVAC, electrical, or plumbing to see which one aligns with your interests and skills.
Find the Right Training: Identify the foundational certifications required for entry level work in that field.
Enroll in a Program: Select an accredited trade school or online platform that fits your budget and schedule. A flexible online option can help you get started immediately.
Complete Your Training: Dive into the coursework, practice with simulations, and study for your certification exams.
Get Certified: Pass your proctored exams to earn the official credentials employers require.
Launch Your Career: Update your resume with your new certifications and start applying for jobs. Many online communities and platforms offer career support and networking opportunities.
Top 20 Trade Schools in the United States
To help you find the right fit for your career goals, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top trade schools across the country. This list covers a wide range of industries and skills, from healthcare to welding, ensuring that you can find a program that aligns with your interests and aspirations. Each school has been chosen based on its reputation, program offerings, and commitment to student success.
Multi-trade technical training (online/public)
This section focuses on schools that offer a diverse array of technical training programs across multiple trades, providing a comprehensive education for students with varied interests. These institutions are grouped together because they offer the flexibility of online or public learning environments, making them accessible to a broader range of students. Whether you’re looking to gain skills in one specific area or explore multiple career paths, these schools provide a versatile and accommodating educational experience.
1. SkillCat
SkillCat is a flexible, online-first pathway to job-ready credentials in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and more, connecting over 300,000 learners to real employers. Designed for working adults and career-switchers, its hands-on simulations, integrated exams, and employer matching help learners move quickly from coursework to paychecks, underscored by a 98% EPA 608 pass rate.

Quick Facts (Tags): Houston, TX • Online Platform (Non-Degree) • Delivery: 100% Online/Self-Paced • Accreditation: IACET accredited; EPA-approved certifying organization.
Training emphasizes immersive, device-friendly simulations and modular learning that fits around shift work or family schedules. Expect employer-tied curricula, built-in certification prep and testing, and a direct line to open roles through SkillCat’s job-matching network.
Programs & Career Support: HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, Appliance Repair, Solar; job matching and resume support, financial aid resources, and integrated prep/testing for EPA 608, NATE, OSHA-10.
3. Lincoln Tech
Lincoln Tech is a national leader in hands-on trade education, pairing industry-equipped labs with strong employer alliances and recognized outcomes. Honored by ACCSC and USA Today, the school focuses on practical, career-accelerating training that moves graduates into the workforce on day, evening, or hybrid schedules.

Quick Facts (Tags): Multiple campuses nationwide • Private career school network • Delivery: Campus/Hybrid (day/evening) • Accreditation: ACCSC; program alignments with AWS, ASE, NATE.
Expect intensive shop time, manufacturer-aligned curricula, and career services that extend from interview prep to employer introductions. Flexible scheduling and modern labs keep learning relevant, fast, and geared to certification and immediate employment.
Programs & Career Support: Welding, HVAC/R, Electrical, Automotive, CNC; job placement assistance, financial aid advising, and certification prep (AWS, NATE, ASE).
4. Lincoln Trade School
Lincoln Trade School delivers job-focused training for transportation and skilled trades, channeling employer partnerships into manufacturer-aligned curricula. With flexible day and evening options, students build real-world experience in campus labs while career services help convert skills into offers.

Quick Facts (Tags): Multiple locations nationwide • Private career school • Delivery: Campus & Hybrid • Accreditation: ACCSC, ASE, AWS
Hands-on shop training and transparent graduate outcomes anchor the learning model, supported by employer relationships that keep programs aligned to hiring needs. Students benefit from dedicated coaching on resumes, interviews, and pathways to certifications.
Programs & Career Support: Automotive, Diesel, HVAC, Welding, Electrical, CNC Machining; career placement assistance, financial aid advising, and ASE/AWS certification prep.
3. Apex Technical School
Apex Technical School specializes in fast, intensive training for the building trades, helping many students graduate job-ready in as little as seven months. With an 80% graduation rate and an emphasis on shop time, Apex turns hands-on practice into hireable skills.

Quick Facts (Tags): Long Island City, NY • 2-year, private nonprofit • Delivery: Campus (day/evening) • Accreditation: ACCSC-accredited, licensed by NYSED BPSS.
More than half of program time happens in labs, complemented by flexible day/evening schedules and strong placement support. Expect a clear line of sight from lab projects to entry-level roles in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and related fields.
Programs & Career Support: HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, Welding, Construction; job placement assistance, financial aid guidance, and EPA 608 certification prep.
3. New York Automotive & Diesel Institute
NYADI is a focused destination for automotive, diesel, and collision careers, taught by ASE-certified instructors in manufacturer-aligned programs. With a reported 78% in-field employment rate for specific programs, it channels shop-bay training into real job outcomes.

Quick Facts (Tags): Jamaica, NY • 2-year private college • Campus • Accreditation: ACCSC, ASE Education Foundation Master, I-CAR partner, VA approved.
Students train on industry-level equipment with flexible day/evening schedules, preparing for certifications that matter to employers. Career services and manufacturer partnerships help bridge the gap from the shop floor to full-time work.
Programs & Career Support: Automotive/Diesel Technology, Collision Repair, Service Management; job placement assistance, financial aid counseling, and ASE/I-CAR certification prep.
1. Electrical and HVAC/R Training Center
This Long Island center readies entry-level pros for electrical and HVAC/R roles, reporting a 95% graduation rate rooted in practical, real-world training. Students split time between dedicated labs and community job sites to build confidence and employable skills.

Quick Facts (Tags): Copiague, NY • Private trade school • Campus • Accredited: ACCET; Licensed: NYSED BPSS; GI Bill® approved.
Expect flexible day, evening, and weekend schedules, plus certification-oriented training that aligns with regional employer demand. Hands-on labs and work-based experiences help graduates step straight into the field.
Programs & Career Support: HVAC/R, Electrical, Low-Voltage, Renewable Energy, and Licensing; job placement assistance, financial aid advising, and EPA/OSHA certification prep.
1. Long Island Welding School
Long Island Welding School is a single-purpose, hands-on training hub designed to help students earn industry-recognized AWS credentials. Small-group instruction, flexible scheduling, and an on-site AWS Accredited Test Facility keep preparation tightly aligned with testing and hiring.

Quick Facts (Tags): Westbury, NY • Private non-degree training center • Delivery: Campus • Approvals: AWS Accredited Test Facility, NYSDOT testing recognized
The learning experience is fully hands-on, with individual booths, direct practice to code, and immediate pathways to certification tests. Evening and Saturday options make it feasible for working learners to upskill without pausing income.
Programs & Career Support: Stick (SMAW), MIG (GMAW), TIG (GTAW), Structural/Plate, Pipe; on-site AWS certification testing and job search guidance.
2. Berk Trade & Business School
Berk delivers intensive, lab-forward training for building systems, preparing students for apprenticeship tracks in as little as about 30 weeks. High graduation and placement rates are supported by focused instruction, practical projects, and career coaching.

Quick Facts (Tags): Long Island City, NY • Private (for-profit) • Campus (Day/Afternoon/Evening) • Accreditation: ACCSC; Licensed by NYSED BPSS.
Hands-on labs mirror real job tasks, while flexible schedules help adult learners balance work and study. Dedicated placement support and employer outreach turn classroom practice into entry-level roles.
Programs & Career Support: Electrical Installation, Comprehensive Plumbing; graduate job placement assistance and financial aid guidance (for those who qualify).
3. Champlain Valley BOCES
CV-TEC at Champlain Valley BOCES offers practical, licensure-driven training across trades, healthcare, and transportation for immediate employability. With 250+ employer partners and robust placement tracking, programs connect classroom learning to in-demand credentials.

Quick Facts (Tags): Plattsburgh, NY • Public CTE • Delivery: Campus + Online • Accreditation: COE (institutional); NYSED approved programs.
Students train in modern labs and through work-based placements, learning the exact skills needed for local jobs. Support services help with licensure steps, financial aid, and job connections.
Programs & Career Support: Automotive/Diesel, Electrical, Welding, Healthcare (LPN/CNA), CDL; job placement assistance, financial aid advising, and industry certification/licensure prep.
2. ABC Training Center
ABC Training Center has served NYC since 1972 with fast, job-focused pathways into allied health and service careers. By blending classroom instruction with clinical practice and flexible schedules, ABC helps learners transition swiftly into entry-level roles.

Quick Facts (Tags): Bronx, NY • Private Career School • Delivery: Campus/Hybrid • Approvals: NYSED BPSS, NHA/Prometric Testing Site
Hands-on training, day/evening/weekend options, and strong employer ties lead to high placement success across programs. On-site testing streamlines certification so graduates can move to work faster.
Programs & Career Support: Nurse Aide, Medical Assistant, EKG/Phlebotomy, Pharmacy Tech; job placement assistance, flexible payment plans, and on-site certification testing.
1. Aveda Institutes
Aveda Institutes deliver brand-forward education in beauty and wellness, blending technical mastery with client service and business skills. Students gain extensive real-world experience in public student spas and prepare directly for state licensure.

Quick Facts (Tags): Multiple U.S. locations • Private career school • Delivery: Campus-based • Accreditation: NACCAS & state board licensed
Expect a polished, salon-simulated environment, flexible day/evening schedules, and a direct pipeline into the Aveda network. Portfolio development and business training round out the path from classroom to clientele.
Programs & Career Support: Cosmetology, Esthiology, Barbering, Massage Therapy; licensure prep, portfolio coaching, access to Aveda network, financial aid guidance.
2. Empire Beauty Schools
Empire Beauty Schools leverage a large, multi-state footprint to prepare students for licensure and salon careers through public-facing student salons. The result is plenty of hands-on practice, frequent client interactions, and strong connections to employers.

Quick Facts (Tags): Pottsville, PA (HQ) • Private certificate school • Delivery: Campus, with select hybrid options • Accreditation: NACCAS, state board approvals.
Students train on live clients, learn salon operations, and prepare for state boards with the help of flexible schedules. Career services and employer outreach support the transition into paid roles.
Programs & Career Support: Cosmetology, Esthetics, Nail Technology, Educator Training; placement assistance, financial aid advising, and state licensure preparation.
3. Paul Mitchell Schools
Paul Mitchell Schools are known for licensure success and career-ready training, reporting a 94% licensure and 79% placement rate for the 2022 cohort. Students learn in salon-simulated environments with the option to attend day or night at many campuses.

Quick Facts (Tags): 90+ U.S. Locations • Private certificate programs • Delivery: Campus & Hybrid • Accreditation: NACCAS (institutional); state board approved
The curriculum blends technical skill, client service, and business know-how, with extensive time on the clinic floor. Support includes exam prep, career coaching, and employer connections across the Paul Mitchell ecosystem.
Programs & Career Support: Cosmetology, Barbering, Esthetics, Nail Technology, Makeup; job placement assistance, financial aid guidance, and state board licensure prep.
1. Island Drafting and Technical Institute
For nearly 70 years, Island Drafting and Technical Institute specialized in CAD-driven drafting and electronics with reported 80 to 85% placement rates. Note: the institute ceased operations in May 2025, but its legacy reflects hands-on training and employer-aligned outcomes.

Quick Facts (Tags): Amityville, NY • 2-year, private • Campus • Approved: NYSED, Autodesk ATC • Important: School ceased all operations in May 2025.
Historically, programs emphasized lab-based practice, flexible scheduling, and focused career support. Coursework aligned to Autodesk tools and industry expectations for entry-level drafting roles.
Programs & Career Support: Architectural CADD, Electronics Service, AutoCAD; individualized job placement assistance, financial aid guidance, Autodesk certification prep.
1. New York School for Medical & Dental Assistants
Since 1967, NYSMDA has prepared New Yorkers for front-line clinical roles through focused training and extensive externships. High placement rates reflect a practical, practice-ready approach built for NYC’s clinics and hospitals.

Quick Facts (Tags): Long Island City, NY • Private career college • Delivery: Hybrid • Accreditation: ACCSC, New York State Education Department
Students split time between campus labs and real clinics, with flexible day/evening options to fit busy lives. Career services support externships, certification prep, and the job search.
Programs & Career Support: Medical Assisting, Dental Assisting; job placement assistance, externships, financial aid guidance, RMA and DANB certification prep.
4. American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service
As NYC’s sole funeral service college, AAMI prepares graduates for licensure and the National Board Exam with a reported 88% employment rate. Clinical embalming and restorative art labs build confidence for sensitive, high-stakes work.

Quick Facts (Tags): New York, NY • 2-year private college • Delivery: Campus/Online • Accreditation: ABFSE; authorized by NYS Board of Regents.
Flexible campus or online options and three annual starts help students balance family and work. Business coursework complements technical training to support long-term career growth.
Programs & Career Support: Funeral Directing, Embalming, Business Management; job placement aid, financial advising, and National Board Exam preparation.
2. The Welding Expert Inc
The Welding Expert Inc focuses squarely on code-level structural and pipe welding, connecting training to the exact tests employers and unions require. Individual booths, flexible schedules, and direct test scheduling make for an efficient, results-first experience.

Quick Facts (Tags): Farmingdale, NY • Private (non-degree) • In-person training • AWS ATF partner; NYSDOT & NYC DOB test prep.
Training targets code qualifications such as AWS, ASME, and DOT with focused practice and immediate progression to the test. Employer and union ties help translate new certifications into job referrals.
Programs & Career Support: Structural, Pipe, Pipeline, NYSDOT welding; job referrals and direct assistance scheduling AWS/ASME/DOT certification tests.
2. The School for Cooperative Technical Education
Co-op Tech is a half-day public CTE program for NYC students ages 17 to 21, designed to complement high school with hands-on technical training. Labs, paid internships, and pre-apprenticeships turn classroom learning into real workplace experience.

Quick Facts (Tags): New York, NY • Public CTE center (ages 17–21) • Delivery: Campus (AM/PM sessions) • Approvals: NYSED CTE-approved programs
Students rotate through shop-based training with flexible AM/PM sessions that fit school schedules. Industry certifications and work-based learning help graduates step into entry-level roles.
Programs & Career Support: Automotive, Construction, Electrical, Health, IT, Culinary Arts; work-based learning, certification prep (OSHA, ASE, CNA), pre-apprenticeship pathways.
2. New York City College of Technology
City Tech is CUNY’s college of technology, delivering applied design and engineering-technology education for NYC’s core industries. Hands-on labs, studios, and employer internships align learning with real job demands and transparent wage outcomes.

Quick Facts (Tags): Brooklyn, NY • Public 4-year (CUNY) • Delivery: Campus/Hybrid/Online • Accredited: MSCHE, ABET, NAAB, NASAD.
Flexible day and evening schedules support working learners while program accreditations signal quality to employers. Students build portfolios and earn industry-recognized certifications where applicable.
Programs & Career Support: Engineering (Architectural, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical), Industrial Design, Communication Design; job placement assistance, financial aid guidance, OSHA/ACI certification prep.
3. Hunter Business School
Hunter Business School offers fast, job-ready healthcare and technology programs backed by standout student outcomes: 91% retention and 80 to 81% placement. Labs and clinical externships at partner facilities help students build confidence and competence.

Quick Facts (Tags): Levittown & Medford, NY • Career School (Private) • Delivery: Campus/Hybrid/Online • Accreditation: MSA-CESS (institutional); CAAHEP, JRCERT (programmatic)
Balanced day/evening options and career services keep learning accessible and focused on results. Graduates leave with practical experience, interview support, and certification prep tailored to their field.
Programs & Career Support: Practical Nursing, Medical Assisting, Sonography, Radiologic Technology; job placement assistance, financial aid advising, and certification preparation.
2. The School for Cooperative Technical Education

New York, NY • Public CTE center (ages 17 to 21) • Delivery: Campus (AM/PM sessions) • Approvals: NYSED CTE-approved programs
As a half-day public program for NYC students (17 to 21), Co-op Tech provides hands-on career training that complements their high school education. Learning occurs in labs and shops with flexible AM/PM scheduling, and students gain real-world experience through paid internships, clinicals, and pre-apprenticeships with employer partners.
Programs: Automotive, Construction, Electrical, Health, IT, Culinary Arts; offers work-based learning, industry certification prep (OSHA, ASE, CNA), and pre-apprenticeship pathways.
3. Champlain Valley BOCES

Plattsburgh, NY • Public CTE • Delivery: Campus + Online • Accreditation: COE (institutional); NYSED approved programs.
CV-TEC provides hands-on career training for high-demand trades, healthcare, and transportation, leading to industry credentials and licensure. With over 250 employer partners, learning occurs in modern labs and through work-based placements, supported by a graduate follow-up response rate exceeding 90% for placement tracking.
Automotive/Diesel, Electrical, Welding, Healthcare (LPN/CNA), CDL; offers job placement assistance, financial aid advising, and industry certification/licensure preparation.
HVAC, Electrical, and Building Systems
The schools in this section are dedicated to training students in the essential trades of HVAC, electrical systems, and overall building maintenance. These fields are grouped together because they form the backbone of modern infrastructure, ensuring our homes and workplaces are comfortable, safe, and functional. By focusing on these critical systems, these trade schools equip students with the in-demand skills needed to build and maintain the environments we rely on every day.
1. Electrical and HVAC/R Training Center

Copiague, NY • Private trade school • Campus • Accredited: ACCET; Licensed: NYSED BPSS; GI Bill® approved.
This Long Island school prepares entry-level technicians for electrical and HVAC/R trades, reporting a 95% graduation rate. Training is hands-on in dedicated labs and on real jobsites through community partnerships, with flexible day, evening, and weekend schedules available for students.
Programs: HVAC/R, Electrical, Low-Voltage, Renewable Energy, and Licensing. Offers job placement assistance, financial aid advising, and certification prep (EPA, OSHA).
2. Berk Trade & Business School

Long Island City, NY • Private (for-profit) • Campus (Day/Afternoon/Evening) • Accreditation: ACCSC; Licensed by NYSED BPSS.
Berk focuses on intensive, hands-on training for building-systems trades, preparing students for apprenticeship roles in about 30 weeks with high graduation and placement rates. Learning occurs in on-campus labs with flexible day, afternoon, or evening schedules, and the school provides dedicated job placement assistance for all graduates.
Electrical Installation, Comprehensive Plumbing; includes graduate job placement assistance and financial aid guidance for those who qualify.
3. Apex Technical School

Long Island City, NY • 2-year, private nonprofit • Delivery: Campus (day/evening) • Accreditation: ACCSC-accredited, licensed by NYSED BPSS.
Apex delivers fast, hands-on training for building trades, enabling students to graduate job-ready in as little as seven months with an 80% graduation rate. The curriculum emphasizes over 50% shop time in labs, with flexible day/evening schedules and robust placement services designed for direct entry into the workforce.
Programs: HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, Welding, Construction; offers job placement assistance, financial aid guidance, and preparation for EPA 608 certification.
Welding and Metal Fabrication
In this section, we highlight the premier schools for welding and metal fabrication, trades that are fundamental to countless industries, from construction to manufacturing. These schools are grouped together because they specialize in the art and science of working with metals, teaching students the precision and techniques required to create and repair structures and products. A career in welding and metal fabrication offers a unique blend of creativity and technical skill, making it a rewarding path for those who enjoy hands-on work.
1. Long Island Welding School

Westbury, NY • Private non-degree training center • Delivery: Campus • Approvals: AWS Accredited Test Facility, NYSDOT testing recognized
This dedicated welding school provides practical, job-focused training for industry-recognized credentials like the AWS Certified Welder qualification. Learning is fully hands-on in small groups with flexible weekday, evening, and Saturday schedules, and its on-site AWS test center directly aligns training with certification outcomes.
Stick (SMAW), MIG (GMAW), TIG (GTAW), Structural/Plate Welding, Pipe Welding; offers on-site AWS certification testing and job search guidance.
2. The Welding Expert Inc

Farmingdale, NY • Private (non-degree) • In-person training • AWS ATF partner; NYSDOT & NYC DOB test prep.
This Long Island center focuses on code-level qualifications for structural and pipe welding with strong employer and union ties. Its hands-on approach uses individual booths and flexible day, evening, or weekend scheduling, providing a direct path to certification testing and job referrals.
Programs: Structural, Pipe, Pipeline, and NYSDOT welding; services include job referrals and direct assistance scheduling AWS/ASME/DOT certification tests.
3. Lincoln Tech

Multiple campuses nationwide • Private career school network • Delivery: Campus/Hybrid (day/evening) • Accreditation: ACCSC; program alignments with AWS, ASE, NATE.
Lincoln Tech offers skills-focused training across the nation with strong employer ties and high placement rates, recently earning ACCSC and USA Today honors. Its learning model emphasizes hands-on training in industry-equipped labs with flexible day and evening schedules designed to get graduates into the workforce quickly and efficiently.
Programs: Welding, HVAC/R, Electrical, Automotive, CNC. Career Services offers job placement aid, financial aid advising, and prep for certifications like AWS/NATE/ASE.
Cosmetology and Beauty
This section is dedicated to the top schools for cosmetology and beauty, where creativity and personal care converge to create fulfilling careers. These institutions are grouped together because they all focus on the art of enhancing appearance and well-being, from hair and makeup to skincare and spa treatments. If you have a passion for style and a desire to help others look and feel their best, these schools provide the perfect foundation for a vibrant career in the beauty industry.
1. Aveda Institutes

Multiple U.S. locations • Private career school • Delivery: Campus-based • Accreditation: NACCAS & state board licensed
Aveda Institutes deliver brand-forward training in beauty and wellness, emphasizing client service and business skills for the Aveda salon network. Students gain extensive hands-on experience in public student spas through flexible day or evening schedules, preparing them for state licensure exams and successful careers in the industry.
Cosmetology, Esthiology, Barbering, Massage Therapy; support includes licensure prep, portfolio coaching, access to the Aveda network, and financial aid guidance.
2. Empire Beauty Schools

Pottsville, PA (HQ) • Private certificate school • Delivery: Campus, with select hybrid options • Accreditation: NACCAS, state board approvals.
As a large, multi-state network, Empire focuses on preparing students for state licensure and professional careers with strong employer connections. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on training in student salons open to the public, with many campuses offering flexible day and evening schedules to accommodate diverse student needs.
Programs include Cosmetology, Esthetics, Nail Technology, and Educator Training; offers placement assistance, financial aid advising, and state licensure preparation.
3. Paul Mitchell Schools

90+ U.S. Locations • Private certificate programs • Delivery: Campus & Hybrid • Accreditation: NACCAS (institutional); state board approved
This nationwide network prepares graduates for salon employment, reporting a 94% licensure and 79% placement rate for its 2022 cohort. Students gain experience through hands-on training in a student salon, with flexible day or night schedules available at many of the 90+ campuses nationwide.
Cosmetology, Barbering, Esthetics, Nail Technology, Makeup; offers job placement assistance, financial aid guidance, and robust state board licensure exam preparation.
Healthcare and Funeral Services
The schools featured in this section are leaders in training for the vital fields of healthcare and funeral services, professions dedicated to caring for individuals and families during times of need. These seemingly different fields are grouped together because they both require a unique combination of technical skill, compassion, and a commitment to serving others with dignity and respect. Whether in a clinical setting or a funeral home, these careers offer the opportunity to make a profound and positive impact on people’s lives.
1. New York School for Medical & Dental Assistants

Long Island City, NY • Private career college • Delivery: Hybrid • Accreditation: ACCSC, New York State Education Department
Since 1967, this school provides focused allied-health training for entry-level roles in NYC clinics and hospitals with high job placement rates. Its learning model combines hands-on campus labs with extensive clinical externships and flexible day/evening schedules to ensure graduates are practice-ready for immediate employment and career success.
Programs: Medical Assisting, Dental Assisting; offers job placement assistance, externships, financial aid guidance, and preparation for RMA and DANB certifications.
2. ABC Training Center

Bronx, NY • Private Career School • Delivery: Campus/Hybrid • Approvals: NYSED BPSS, NHA/Prometric Testing Site
Serving NYC since 1972, ABC Training Center provides fast, job-focused allied health training for entry-level healthcare roles. Its approach combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience, flexible day, evening, and weekend schedules, and strong employer connections to ensure graduates are workplace-ready with high placement success.
Programs & Career Support: Nurse Aide, Medical Assistant, EKG/Phlebotomy, Pharmacy Tech; job placement assistance, flexible payment plans, and on-site certification testing.
3. Hunter Business School

Levittown & Medford, NY • Career School (Private) • Delivery: Campus/Hybrid/Online • Accreditation: MSA-CESS (institutional); CAAHEP, JRCERT (programmatic)
Hunter Business School provides fast, job-ready allied health training, achieving impressive 91% retention and 80 to 81% job placement rates. Its learning model combines hands-on labs and clinical externships at partner facilities with flexible day and evening schedules to support career-focused students across the New York metropolitan area.
Programs include Practical Nursing, Medical Assisting, Sonography, and Radiologic Technology, with job placement assistance, financial aid advising, and certification prep.
4. American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service

New York, NY • 2-year private college • Delivery: Campus/Online • Accreditation: ABFSE; authorized by NYS Board of Regents.
As NYC’s sole funeral service college, AAMI prepares graduates for licensure and the National Board Exam, achieving an 88% employment rate. Students receive hands-on training through required clinical embalming and restorative art labs, with flexible online or campus options and three yearly start dates for the program.
Programs include Funeral Directing, Embalming, and Business Management; career support offers job placement aid, financial advising, and National Board Exam preparation.
Design, Drafting, and Transportation Technologies
This section explores the top schools for design, drafting, and transportation technologies, fields that are at the forefront of innovation and infrastructure. These schools are grouped together because they all involve the planning, creation, and maintenance of the systems and vehicles that keep our world moving. From designing blueprints to repairing complex engines, these programs offer a dynamic blend of technical expertise and creative problem-solving, preparing students for exciting careers in a variety of industries.
1. Island Drafting and Technical Institute

Amityville, NY • 2-year, private • Campus • Approved: NYSED, Autodesk ATC • Important: School ceased all operations in May 2025.
For nearly 70 years, this institute specialized in CAD-driven drafting and electronics, reporting high job placement rates (80 to 85%) for graduates entering technical careers. The school emphasized hands-on learning in dedicated labs with flexible day/evening schedules tailored for direct entry into the workforce.
Programs: Architectural CADD, Electronics Service, AutoCAD; provided individualized job placement assistance, financial aid guidance, and official Autodesk certification preparation.
2. New York City College of Technology

Brooklyn, NY • Public 4-year (CUNY) • Delivery: Campus/Hybrid/Online • Accredited: MSCHE, ABET, NAAB, NASAD.
As CUNY’s college of technology, City Tech delivers applied design and engineering-technology education for NYC’s core industries. Training emphasizes hands-on labs and studios with strong employer internships, flexible day and evening scheduling, and transparent graduate wage outcomes to ensure students are career-ready upon graduation.
Engineering (Architectural, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical), Industrial Design, Communication Design; includes job placement assistance, financial aid guidance, and OSHA/ACI certification prep.
3. New York Automotive & Diesel Institute

Jamaica, NY • 2-year private college • Campus • Accreditation: ACCSC, ASE Education Foundation Master, I-CAR partner, VA approved.
NYADI is a specialized college preparing professionals for automotive, diesel, and collision careers with manufacturer-aligned training leading to employment. Students learn from ASE-certified instructors in shop-bays using industry-level equipment, with flexible day/evening options and a reported 78% in-field employment rate for graduates of specific programs.
Programs & Career Support: Automotive/Diesel Technology, Collision Repair, Service Management; job placement assistance, financial aid counseling, and preparation for ASE and I-CAR certifications.
4. Lincoln Trade School

Multiple locations nationwide • Private career school • Delivery: Campus & Hybrid • Accreditation: ACCSC, ASE, AWS
Lincoln Tech provides job-focused training for entry-level technician roles in transportation and skilled trades, leveraging strong employer partnerships for manufacturer-aligned curriculum. Students receive hands-on lab training with flexible day and evening schedules, while career services provide robust job search and placement support, publishing graduate outcomes.
Automotive, Diesel, HVAC, Welding, Electrical, CNC Machining; offers career placement assistance, financial aid advising, and preparation for ASE/AWS certifications.
What You Can Earn: Career and Salary Outlook for Skilled Trades
Pursuing a skilled trade isn’t just about finding a job; it’s about building a career with long term stability and excellent earning potential. The demand for qualified technicians and tradespeople continues to outpace supply, which gives skilled workers significant leverage in the job market.
While entry level wages are competitive, your income can grow substantially with experience, specialization, and further certifications. Many experienced HVAC technicians, electricians, and plumbers earn salaries well above the national average. Furthermore, the skills you gain are portable and in demand everywhere, giving you job security no matter where you live.
Local Opportunities: A Look at Trade Careers in New York
While skills are universal, opportunities can be local. To see what a trade career looks like in a specific region, let’s take New York as an example. A quick search reveals strong demand for HVAC technicians in New York City’s dense commercial and residential landscape. Plumbers are essential for both new construction and maintaining the city’s aging infrastructure.
To succeed in a specific state, you should research:
State and City Licensing: Some states or cities have additional licensing requirements beyond national certifications.
Local Unions: Joining a local union can provide access to apprenticeships, benefits, and job placement services.
Major Employers: Identify the largest HVAC contractors, property management groups, and construction firms in your area to target your job search.
Use this template to research the opportunities and requirements in your own city and state, and browse the HVAC Technician Blog for deeper state-by-state tips and employer insights.
Your Future in the Trades Starts Now
The path to a rewarding and stable career doesn’t have to be a four year journey. Trade schools offer a focused, affordable, and accelerated alternative that equips you with the practical skills employers desperately need. From HVAC to electrical work, the opportunities are immense and the demand is real.
With the rise of flexible and accredited online trade schools, it has never been easier to get started. You can learn on your own schedule, practice with cutting edge simulations, and earn official certifications right from your phone. Your future is in your hands.
Ready to start your journey? Explore hundreds of courses and get certified with SkillCat today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trade Schools
Are online trade schools legitimate?
Yes, as long as you choose a properly accredited one. Look for accreditation from bodies like IACET and specific industry approvals, such as being an EPA approved certifying organization for HVAC credentials. Legitimate online trade schools provide industry recognized certifications that employers trust.
How long does trade school take?
The duration varies by program. Many certification programs can be completed in just a few weeks or months. Unlike traditional colleges, trade schools focus on getting you job ready as quickly as possible.
How much do trade schools cost?
Costs range widely, from a few thousand dollars to over $30,000 for some traditional programs. However, modern online platforms have dramatically lowered the cost, with some offering full access to training and certifications for a low monthly subscription fee.
Can I get a job right after trade school?
Absolutely. Trade schools are designed to provide you with the specific, job ready skills that employers are looking for. Earning foundational certifications like the EPA 608 makes you a valuable candidate for entry level positions right away.
Do employers accept online certifications?
Yes. Employers care about whether a certification is official and verifiable. An EPA 608 certificate earned through an accredited online provider is just as valid as one earned in person. Many online platforms, including SkillCat, offer employers a public verification tool to instantly confirm the legitimacy of a certificate.
What is the easiest trade to get into?
“Easiest” is subjective, but some trades have a very low barrier to entry. Fields like apartment maintenance or appliance repair require foundational skills that can be learned quickly. For HVAC, you can start applying for entry level helper roles immediately after passing the EPA 608 exam, which can be studied for and completed in just a few days.


