Virgina
Attending a trade school in Virginia can be an efficient and focused way to build in-demand skills and enter the workforce with confidence. Many technical colleges and private training centers in the state offer hands-on programs in trades like welding, HVAC, electrical systems, plumbing, automotive repair, and industrial maintenance. Because trade programs are usually shorter than traditional degree tracks and emphasize real-world experience, students can often complete training in months to a couple of years and begin working sooner. Virginia also has supportive policies, such as the FastForward workforce training grants, that help offset costs for eligible students.

The Apprentice School
Shipbuilding trades: electrician, millwright, machinist, sheet metal, rigger, dimensional control, advanced shipyard operations
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Advanced Technology Institute (ATI)
​Automotive, diesel / heavy vehicle, HVAC & refrigeration, welding​
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Centura College
Combination welding, construction electrician, HVAC
https://www.centuracollege.edu/
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Tidewater Technical
Auto technician, construction trades, HVAC, welding (including maritime welding)
https://tidewatertechtrades.edu/
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Virginia Technical Institute (VTI)
Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, building trades, industrial maintenance
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ECPI University – VA (Tech / trade programs)
Mechatronics, HVAC / electronics / technical trades, electronics systems
https://www.ecpi.edu/college-of-technology
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Aviation Institute of Maintenance
Aviation maintenance / aircraft trades
https://aviationmaintenance.edu/
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South University
Allied health / technical support programs (e.g. diagnostic techs) and possibly trades-related technical programs
https://www.southuniversity.edu/virginia-beach
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CDS Tractor Trailer Training
Commercial Truck Driving (CDL) training


