Top Skilled Trades Schools in Minnesota: Best Programs for In-Demand Careers
Why Choose a Skilled Trades School in Minnesota?
Skilled trades offer high-paying, stable careers without the need for a traditional four-year degree. Minnesota has excellent trade schools and technical colleges that provide hands-on training in construction, welding, HVAC, electrical work, auto repair, healthcare trades, and more.
If you’re looking for a fast and affordable education leading to a rewarding career, here are the best skilled trades schools in Minnesota, along with direct links to financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

Top Skilled Trades Schools in Minnesota
Best Skilled Trades Schools in Minnesota
Dunwoody College of Technology
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Dunwoody is one of the top technical schools in Minnesota, offering hands-on programs and strong job placement rates.
Popular Programs:
- Electrical Construction & Maintenance
- HVAC Installation & Repair
- Automotive Collision Repair & Refinishing
- Welding & Fabrication
Hennepin Technical College
Locations: Brooklyn Park & Eden Prairie, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Hennepin Tech offers a wide range of skilled trades programs, making it one of the most affordable options in Minnesota.
Popular Programs:
- Carpentry & Construction
- Electrician
- HVAC-R Technology
- Machine Tool Technology
Saint Paul College
Location: St. Paul, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Saint Paul College is one of the top-ranked community colleges in the Midwest, offering excellent trade programs with strong employer connections.
Popular Programs:
- Plumbing Technology
- Welding Technology
- Automotive Service Technician
- Pipefitting
Minnesota State College Southeast
Locations: Red Wing & Winona, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Minnesota State College Southeast specializes in hands-on, career-focused programs with strong employer demand.
Popular Programs:
- CNC Precision Machining
- Auto Body Collision Repair
- Electrical Lineworker Technology
- Welding & Metal Fabrication
Northland Community & Technical College
Locations: East Grand Forks & Thief River Falls, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Northland Community & Technical College offers affordable and flexible skilled trades programs, preparing students for high-demand careers.
Popular Programs:
- Diesel Mechanic Technology
- HVAC-R
- Electrical Construction
- Carpentry
Alexandria Technical & Community College
Location: Alexandria, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Alexandria Tech is a top-rated technical college offering skilled trades programs in construction, manufacturing, and transportation.
Popular Programs:
- Mechanical Drafting & Design
- Diesel Mechanics
- Carpentry & Construction
- Mechatronics
Minnesota West Community & Technical College
Locations: Multiple Campuses Across MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Minnesota West offers a variety of skilled trades programs, ideal for students looking for quick entry into high-paying careers.
Popular Programs:
- Wind Energy Technology
- Auto Mechanics
- Welding & Fabrication
- Industrial Maintenance & Automation
Lake Superior College
Location: Duluth, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Lake Superior College offers high-demand technical programs, focusing on construction, transportation, and industrial careers.
Popular Programs:
- Commercial & Residential Wiring
- CNC Machining
- Plumbing & Pipefitting
- Diesel & Heavy Equipment Maintenance
Ridgewater College
Locations: Willmar & Hutchinson, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Ridgewater College offers comprehensive trade programs that prepare students for in-demand careers across various industries.
Popular Programs:
- Electrical Technology
- Machine Tool Technology
- Welding & Fabrication
- Agriculture Mechanics
Choosing the Best Skilled Trades School in Minnesota
Minnesota offers a variety of top skilled trades schools, each with unique strengths:
Best Overall Trade School: Dunwoody College of Technology
Best for Construction Trades: Hennepin Technical College
Best for Welding Programs: Saint Paul College
Best for Automotive & Diesel Tech: Northland Community & Technical College
Best for Electrical & HVAC Training: Lake Superior College
Best for Renewable Energy Trades: Minnesota West Community & Technical College
No matter which skilled trade you’re interested in, these schools provide excellent training, industry connections, and job opportunities.
Start your career in the skilled trades today by exploring one of Minnesota’s top trade schools!

Graduating?
Ready to start your career?
Are you a new graduate looking for work?
Are you a new graduate looking for work? Headhunters Directory is an online directory of headhunters, recruiters, and employment agencies in the USA.
Connect with the top Minnesota recruiters and headhunters when you are in active job search mode.