Best Trade Schools in Vermont for 2025

Finding employment can be a stressful process for graduates of traditional college degree programs. Trade schools are designed to give students a clear path to in-demand jobs.

Vocational or trade schools give students specific practical skills in areas such as welding, electricity, carpentry, cosmetology, healthcare professions, and more.

Trade schools in Vermont can be a smart choice for students who enjoy practical skill-based roles and wish to start working quickly.

Featured Trade Schools in Vermont

Find out more about some of the best trade schools in Vermont.

1. Vermont Technical College

Vermont Technical College is dedicated to workforce development and continuing education for adults of all ages.

Students can enroll in technical training across a variety of industries including electric and plumbing apprenticeships, manufacturing, and wastewater programs.

These programs provide an alternative route to employment for students who are not interested in earning a traditional bachelor's degree. Many of these programs are hands-on and teach real-life job skills that can be immediately applied.

2. Central Vermont Career Center

Central Vermont Career Center was established in 1969 and is an excellent choice for those looking for esteemed trade schools in Vermont.

They offer unique programs such as:

• design and fabrication
• culinary arts
• exploratory technology
• automotive technology

Students spend an average of 800 hours practicing their skills during their program. Some programs can help you earn college credits that can be transferred to an associate degree or bachelor's degree at a later time.

3. Center for Technology, Essex

Center for Technology, Essex, provides skills training to support students who wish to jumpstart their career with trade school.

They offer 14 training programs in areas such as cosmetology, automotive technology, and dental assisting.

Graduates will earn valuable qualifications and skills that can be useful when applying for jobs. Students will be prepared to sit for any relevant exams for their chosen career path.

4. Green Mountain Technology and Career Center

Green Mountain Technology and Career Center offers 14 career preparatory programs. With many options to choose from, graduates have gone on to work in culinary arts, automotive industries, and computer networking.

Adult education programs are open to adults of all ages who are looking to gain new skills and open new doors and employment opportunities.

Courses are filled on a first-come first-serve basis so students are advised to apply early to ensure they can enroll in their course.

5. Hartford Area Career and Technology Center

Students looking for high-quality trade schools in Vermont should consider Hartford Area Career and Technology Center.

With 14 programs available, students are likely to find a program that fits their career goals. Programs available include cosmetology, health sciences, culinary arts, and welding.

There are additional adult education programs available in dental assisting and nursing assisting. These programs are available for all adults, regardless of age.

6. Stafford Technical Center

Stafford Technical Center is an excellent choice for students looking for an affordable and accessible entry point into exciting careers.

An impressive 100% of graduates from the health and human services program were employed or enrolled in a secondary education program after completing their program.

There are 14 career programs available in healthcare, automotive technology, electrical technology, plumbing, and more.

7. River Bend Career and Technical Center

Students interested in gaining practical career skills should consider River Bend Career and Technical Center.

The center seeks to give students the practical skills and industry-recognized certifications they need to start working right away.

All programs have been developed with feedback from local industries to ensure that graduates are well-prepared for their careers.

8. Burlington Technical Center

Burlington Technical Center gives students a well-rounded education to complement the skills they acquire in their area of specialty.

The center has cutting-edge facilities, warehouses, and labs, and has also won awards for the quality of its instruction.

Experiential learning programs are offered in subjects like automotive technology, aviation technology, illustration and design, health sciences, and criminal justice.

9. River Valley Technical Center

River Valley Technical Center (RVTC) is another one of the great trade schools in Vermont.

The high quality of education provided has resulted in a 98% student satisfaction rating and many successful careers.

Common areas of study include advanced manufacturing, audio and video production, information technology, and criminal justice.

RVTC offers 12 different training programs and currently supports over 300 students.

10. Advanced Welding Institute

Skilled welders are always in high demand and the Advanced Welding Institute gives students a clear path into the field.

The institute believes in the unique potential of each student and provides personalized hands-on instruction to ensure each student graduates with a bright future.

Students will learn about sheet metal welding, pipe welding, gas tungsten arc welding, and structural welding.

Students can apply for federal financial aid to reduce their tuition costs as they gain valuable skills.

Common Trade Jobs in Vermont

Vermont has many great career options for skilled workers. Common trade jobs in Vermont include:

• carpenter
• electrician
• auto mechanic
• medical assistant
• cosmetician
• welder
• heavy machinery operator
• dental assistant

Learning practical skills in any of these trades can lead to a fruitful career and financial independence.

How Much Does Trade School Cost in Vermont?

The average cost for an entire trade school program is $17,600 but costs can vary depending on several factors.

Public trade schools will typically be more affordable than private programs. Students who live in the state or county may also be eligible for reduced tuition rates.

Trade schools are usually a wise educational investment and can allow students to graduate with little to no student debt.

Are There Online Trade Schools in Vermont?

Some trade schools connected to community and technical colleges may offer online trade classes but most trade school programs involve intensive in-person training.

Earning professional certification in most trades requires a high degree of hands-on skills that are most readily taught in face-to-face formats.

Explore Trade Schools Today

Trade schools in Vermont can help you build marketable skills and forge a successful career. Find a practical vocational training program and start learning right away.