Top New York Skilled Trades Schools - College & University Guide

Best Skilled Trades Schools in New York: Top Programs & Career Opportunities

New York offers excellent skilled trades schools that prepare students for high-demand careers in fields like automotive technology, welding, plumbing, HVAC, electrical work, carpentry, and construction. With hands-on training, apprenticeships, and strong job placement programs, these schools help students build rewarding careers without needing a traditional four-year degree.

This guide highlights the best skilled trades schools in New York, their programs, training opportunities, and scholarship options.

Top Skilled Trades Schools in New York

SUNY Alfred State College of Technology

Location: Alfred, NY

SUNY Alfred State is one of the best technical colleges in New York, offering a variety of skilled trades programs with hands-on training.

Notable Programs: Welding, Electrical Construction, HVAC, Heavy Equipment Operations, Automotive Technology
Strengths: Modern training labs, small class sizes, apprenticeship opportunities
Career Outcomes: Graduates work in construction, electrical, HVAC, and automotive industries

Official Website
Scholarships & Financial Aid

CUNY New York City College of Technology (City Tech)

Location: Brooklyn, NY

City Tech offers affordable and high-quality skilled trades programs, making it a top choice for students in New York City.

Notable Programs: Construction Management, Electrical Engineering Technology, Facilities Management
Strengths: Strong industry connections, NYC job market access
Career Outcomes: Graduates work in construction, electrical, and facilities management roles

Official Website
Scholarships & Financial Aid

SUNY Delhi – School of Applied Technologies

Location: Delhi, NY

SUNY Delhi offers hands-on trade programs in fields like plumbing, HVAC, and electrical construction, preparing students for in-demand jobs.

Notable Programs: HVAC, Plumbing, Welding, Carpentry, Electrical Construction
Strengths: Affordable tuition, strong employer connections
Career Outcomes: Graduates work in residential, commercial, and industrial skilled trades

Official Website
Scholarships & Financial Aid

Lincoln Tech – Queens, NY

Location: Queens, NY

Lincoln Tech is a top technical school in New York, offering fast-track training programs in skilled trades.

Notable Programs: HVAC, Welding, Electrical, Automotive Technology
Strengths: Fast-track programs, hands-on training, employer partnerships
Career Outcomes: Graduates find jobs in automotive repair, electrical work, and HVAC industries

Official Website
Scholarships & Financial Aid

Western Suffolk BOCES – Wilson Tech

Location: Dix Hills, NY

Wilson Tech offers skilled trades training programs designed for both high school students and adults.

Notable Programs: HVAC, Welding, Electrical, Plumbing, Automotive Technology
Strengths: Hands-on training, adult education programs, strong job placement
Career Outcomes: Graduates work in construction, manufacturing, and maintenance fields

Official Website
Scholarships & Financial Aid

Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) – National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID)

Location: Rochester, NY

RIT’s NTID offers high-quality skilled trades training, particularly for students with hearing impairments.

Notable Programs: Machine Tool Technology, Welding, Carpentry, Facilities Maintenance
Strengths: Inclusive education, strong job placement
Career Outcomes: Graduates work in manufacturing, carpentry, and industrial maintenance

Official Website
Scholarships & Financial Aid

SUNY Erie Community College (ECC) – Technical Education Center

Location: Buffalo, NY

SUNY Erie offers affordable and hands-on skilled trades programs with strong industry partnerships.

Notable Programs: Welding, Automotive Technology, Electrical, Construction Trades
Strengths: Affordable tuition, apprenticeship opportunities
Career Outcomes: Graduates work in construction, welding, and automotive repair industries

Official Website
Scholarships & Financial Aid

Onondaga Community College – Skilled Trades Programs

Location: Syracuse, NY

Onondaga CC offers skilled trades education for students looking to enter the construction, electrical, and manufacturing fields.

Notable Programs: Construction Management, Electrical Maintenance, Welding
Strengths: Strong employer connections, hands-on training
Career Outcomes: Graduates work in residential and commercial skilled trades

Official Website
Scholarships & Financial Aid

How to Choose the Right Skilled Trades School in New York

Best for Hands-on Training: SUNY Alfred, SUNY Delhi, Lincoln Tech, and Wilson Tech
Best for NYC-Based Students: CUNY City Tech, Lincoln Tech (Queens), and Wilson Tech
Most Affordable: SUNY Delhi, CUNY City Tech, SUNY Erie, and Onondaga CC
Best for Fast-Track Programs: Lincoln Tech, Rochester NTID, and Wilson Tech

Final Thoughts

New York offers some of the best skilled trades schools, helping students launch successful careers without a four-year degree. Whether you’re looking to enter automotive repair, welding, electrical work, HVAC, or construction, these schools provide hands-on training, apprenticeships, and industry connections.

For more details on admissions, scholarships, and job placement opportunities, visit each school’s official website and financial aid page.