Top Skilled Trades Schools in Kansas: Your Path to a High-Paying Career
If you’re looking for a stable, high-paying career without committing to a four-year degree, skilled trades are an excellent choice. Skilled trades professionals—including welders, electricians, HVAC technicians, plumbers, automotive technicians, and construction workers—are in high demand across Kansas.
This article highlights the best skilled trades schools in Kansas, detailing their programs, certifications, hands-on training opportunities, and financial aid options.
Top Skilled Trades Schools in Kansas
Why Choose a Skilled Trades Career in Kansas?
Kansas has a strong job market for skilled trades professionals due to expanding industries, retiring workers, and increased infrastructure projects.
Key Benefits of Skilled Trades Careers:
High Demand – Kansas industries are actively seeking trained professionals in manufacturing, construction, and mechanical trades.
Short Training Period – Most programs take 6 months to 2 years, allowing you to start earning quickly.
Affordable Education – Trade school tuition is significantly lower than a four-year college, and scholarships and financial aid are available.
Job Security – Trades jobs are essential and resistant to automation, ensuring long-term career stability.
Great Salary Potential – Many skilled trades jobs pay between $50,000–$90,000 per year, with room for advancement.
Top Skilled Trades Schools in Kansas
Wichita State University Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech)
Location: Wichita, KS
WSU Tech is one of Kansas’s top technical schools, offering state-of-the-art training facilities, strong industry partnerships, and high job placement rates. The school specializes in aviation, manufacturing, construction, HVAC, electrical work, and welding.
Popular Skilled Trades Programs
- Aviation Maintenance Technology – Prepares students for FAA certification and aircraft repair jobs.
- HVAC and Refrigeration – Covers heating, cooling, and refrigeration system installation and repair.
- Welding Technology – Teaches MIG, TIG, and arc welding, with AWS certification opportunities.
- Electrical Technology – Provides training in residential and commercial electrical systems.
Visit WSU Tech
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
Johnson County Community College (JCCC) – Career and Technical Education
Location: Overland Park, KS
JCCC offers industry-leading skilled trades programs in automotive, HVAC, electrical work, and construction. Their hands-on training facilities ensure students develop real-world experience before graduation.
Popular Skilled Trades Programs
- Automotive Technology – Prepares students for ASE certification and careers in auto repair.
- HVAC Technology – Provides hands-on training for heating and cooling systems.
- Construction Management – Covers project planning, blueprint reading, and structural safety.
- Electrical Technology – Trains students for residential and commercial electrical work.
Visit JCCC
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
Flint Hills Technical College
Location: Emporia, KS
Flint Hills Technical College provides cutting-edge training in high-demand skilled trades fields. Their programs are designed for quick job placement and offer apprenticeships with local businesses.
Popular Skilled Trades Programs
- Power Plant Technology – Trains students for energy industry careers.
- Industrial Engineering Technology – Focuses on automation, robotics, and modern manufacturing techniques.
- Welding Technology – AWS-certified program covering multiple welding processes.
- Automotive Technology – Prepares students for ASE certification and careers in auto repair.
Visit Flint Hills Technical College
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
Salina Area Technical College
Location: Salina, KS
Salina Tech offers highly specialized trade programs, with a focus on career placement and employer partnerships.
Popular Skilled Trades Programs
- Diesel Technology – Training for careers in heavy equipment and truck repair.
- Construction Technology – Covers carpentry, blueprint reading, and safety.
- Welding Technology – Offers training in industrial welding techniques.
- Electrical Technology – Provides education in electrical installation and maintenance.
Visit Salina Tech
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
Manhattan Area Technical College (MATC)
Location: Manhattan, KS
MATC provides affordable, career-driven programs in construction, welding, and electrical work. The school has a high graduate employment rate thanks to strong employer partnerships.
Popular Skilled Trades Programs
- HVAC and Refrigeration – Industry-standard training for climate control systems.
- Construction Technology – Teaches framing, roofing, and project management.
- Welding Technology – AWS-certified program with hands-on experience.
- Electrical Technology – Focuses on wiring, circuitry, and electrical safety.
Visit MATC
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
Kansas City Kansas Community College (KCKCC)
Location: Kansas City, KS
KCKCC specializes in technical training for skilled trades careers with modern facilities and strong employer connections.
Popular Skilled Trades Programs
- Automotive Technology – Prepares students for ASE certification.
- Diesel Technology – Hands-on training in heavy machinery and truck repair.
- HVAC Technology – Focuses on refrigeration and air conditioning.
- Welding Technology – Industry-standard training with AWS certification.
Visit KCKCC
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
Northwest Kansas Technical College
Location: Goodland, KS
Northwest Kansas Technical College is known for small class sizes, hands-on learning, and strong job placement.
Popular Skilled Trades Programs
- Automotive Collision Repair – Prepares students for careers in vehicle bodywork.
- HVAC Technology – Trains students in heating and cooling systems.
- Diesel Technology – Teaches heavy machinery maintenance.
- Welding Technology – Covers multiple welding processes with AWS certification options.
Visit Northwest Kansas Technical College
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
How to Choose the Right Skilled Trades School in Kansas
Accreditation and Certification Opportunities – Look for schools that offer industry-recognized certifications like AWS (welding), ASE (automotive), and EPA (HVAC).
Hands-on Training and Apprenticeships – Select programs that include real-world training and employer partnerships.
Job Placement and Career Services – Schools with high job placement rates and strong employer connections improve your career prospects.
Financial Aid and Scholarships – Many trade schools offer grants, tuition assistance, and scholarships to help reduce costs.
Start Your Skilled Trades Career in Kansas Today!
Kansas offers excellent skilled trades schools with hands-on training, employer partnerships, and strong job placement rates. If you’re ready for a high-paying, in-demand career, check out the official school links above to explore program options, admissions details, and financial aid opportunities.
Your future in skilled trades starts now!
With this guide, you are well on your way to finding the right college or university in Kansas to achieve all of your academic goals!
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