Alaska Trade Schools


Alaska Career College

Rating: 3.9 of 5

Alaska Career College (ACC) began in 1985 as a small training center for Alaska’s travel industry and has since grown into an accredited institution offering career-focused education. Serving approximately 268 students annually, ACC provides programs in fields such as Medical Assisting, Business Technology, Phlebotomy, and Therapeutic Massage. Students can choose from day, evening, or weekend classes, with program lengths ranging from 9.5 to 21 months depending on the schedule. Courses combine online and in-person learning, culminating in real-world externships for practical experience. With open admissions, ACC maintains a 100% acceptance rate, offering accessible, flexible, and accredited education.

  • 1415 E. Tudor Road Anchorage, AK 99507
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing

Alaska Electrical Apprenticeships

Rating: 4.9 of 5

Alaska Electrical Apprenticeships, founded in 1957, is known for providing comprehensive training in electrical fields such as wiremen, linemen, and telecom technicians. The program spans five years, combining classroom education with hands-on training, allowing apprentices to gain real-world experience while working alongside professionals in the field. Classes are held five days a week, with a mix of in-person and online options to accommodate students. The program is affiliated with the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), which ensures it meets industry standards and provides apprentices with certifications recognized nationwide. While tuition is covered by the program, apprentices are responsible for their classroom materials and should plan financially for periods without pay while attending school.

  • 5800 B. Street Anchorage, AK 99518
  • Skilled Trades

Alaska Metal & Mechanical

Alaska Metal & Mechanical provides specialized apprenticeship programs in sheet metal and HVAC-R trades, focusing on developing skilled professionals for the region's growing mechanical industries. The school offers training in fields such as architectural sheet metal, commercial HVAC, refrigeration, and HVAC controls, with certifications reflecting expertise in these areas. Classes combine theoretical instruction with extensive practical training, held in the mornings and afternoons to accommodate various schedules. The "Earn While You Learn" model allows apprentices to receive competitive compensation throughout their education, ensuring they gain valuable skills while earning a wage. Alaska Metal & Mechanical is a Gold-level Accredited facility through the International Training Institute (ITI), ensuring its programs meet rigorous industry standards.

  • 1307 East 75th Ave. Suite #4 Anchorage, AK 99518
  • Skilled Trades

Alaska Vocational Technical Center

Rating: 3.8 of 5

AVTEC, the only post-secondary career and technical training center owned by the State of Alaska, has been providing vocational education since 1969. With a range of programs, including industrial machine maintenance, culinary arts, and diesel technology, AVTEC prepares students for careers in high-demand fields with certificates and diploma programs. Class schedules are flexible, offering morning and afternoon classes, and some programs have hybrid or online options to accommodate diverse learning needs. Many programs also include hands-on training and apprenticeships, giving students practical experience in their field. AVTEC is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education, ensuring that the education provided is recognized by employers in various industries.

  • 809 Second Ave | PO Box 889 Seward, AK 99664
  • Business, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services

Alaska Works

Rating: 4.8 of 5

Alaska Works is dedicated to connecting Alaskans with opportunities in the construction industry through training and educational programs. The organization offers programs such as the Alaska Construction Academy, Helmets to Hardhats, and Women in the Trades, which help individuals build careers in construction, maintenance, and related fields. These programs provide hands-on training and certifications, preparing students for high-paying, stable careers with benefits. Flexible schedules allow students to take courses in the morning, afternoon, evening, or weekends, and many programs offer externships or apprenticeships for real-world experience. Alaska Works also offers free training, ensuring that tuition costs do not hinder students from pursuing their goals.

  • 3580 Cartwright Court Fairbanks, AK 99709
  • 619 S Knik Goose Bay Rd, Unit E Wasilla, , AK 99654
  • 161 Klevin St. Suites 203, 204 & 207 Anchorage, , AK 99508
  • Skilled Trades

Charter College

Rating: 3.2 of 5

Charter College provides training in business, information technology, healthcare, veterinary, and other trade fields. They offer certificate and degree programs. The blended learning environment combines in-class and online instruction.

  • 2221 East Northern Lights Blvd #120 Anchorage, AK 99508
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology, HVAC and Building Services, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Tech, Phlebotomy Technician, Veterinary Services

Northern Industrial Training

Rating: 4.5 of 5

Founded in 2003, Northern Industrial Training (NIT) specializes in workforce-oriented education, focusing on fields like truck driving, construction, and occupational safety. The institution offers short-term programs that provide practical training and certifications, enabling students to enter the workforce quickly. NIT provides training in three main areas: vocational programs, high school pathways in trades, and safety training programs for workplace compliance. Classes are available both in-person and online, with hands-on training and externship opportunities built into many of the programs. NIT is accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), ensuring the quality of its training in high-demand industries.

  • 1740 N. Terrilou Ct. Palmer, AK 99645
  • 3201 C Street Suite 308 Anchorage, , AK 99503
  • Skilled Trades

UAF Community & Technical Center

Rating: 4.4 of 5

UAF Community & Technical College (CTC), part of the University of Alaska Fairbanks, is recognized for its emphasis on practical education tailored to local workforce needs. The college offers a variety of programs, including associate degrees in fields like business and fire science, certificates in welding and emergency medical services, and workforce development in areas such as aviation and culinary arts. Flexible scheduling options, including morning, afternoon, and evening classes, accommodate diverse student needs, with many programs using a hybrid model combining in-person and online learning. Practical training is integral to CTC's programs, with opportunities for externships or clinical experience in fields like healthcare and construction trades. UAF CTC is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), ensuring that its programs meet high academic and industry standards.

  • 604 Barnette Street Fairbanks, AK 99701
  • Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services

Guide to Trade Schools in Alaska

Trade schools in Alaska offer vocational and technical training designed to prepare adults for careers in high-demand industries.

From healthcare and construction to skilled trades and information technology, these programs combine hands-on learning with flexible schedules to fit the needs of working professionals and career changers.

Below, we’ll explore the average costs, accreditation standards, scholarship opportunities, popular programs, and the unique value trade schools offer to veterans and career-focused adults.

Average Cost of Trade Schools in Alaska

The cost of attending a trade or vocational school in Alaska varies significantly based on the program, institution, and duration. On average:

  • Alaska Career College: $18,117 per year (Medical/Clinical Assistant program).
  • AVTEC: $3,000–$5,000 per program, plus room, board, and supplies.
  • Northern Industrial Training (NIT): CDL Training costs approximately $5,775.
  • St. Petersburg College: $5,540 (example from general trade school tuition).

Most Affordable Option:

AVTEC stands out as one of the most affordable technical schools in Alaska, with programs costing as low as $3,000. Additionally, Alaska Works offers free training programs in construction and skilled trades.

Accreditation of Trade Schools in Alaska

Accreditation ensures that vocational and technical schools meet educational quality standards. Common accrediting bodies for Alaska’s trade schools include:

  • Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) (e.g., Alaska Career College).
  • Council on Occupational Education (COE) (e.g., AVTEC).
  • National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) (e.g., Northern Industrial Training).
  • International Training Institute (ITI) (e.g., Alaska Metal & Mechanical Apprenticeship).

These accreditations ensure that training aligns with industry needs, offering students recognized certifications upon graduation.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Many trade schools in Alaska offer financial aid options, including:

  • Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): Available for accredited institutions.
  • Institution-Specific Scholarships: Offered by schools like Alaska Career College and AVTEC.
  • Grants for Alaska Natives: Specific funding options for Native Alaskan students.
  • Veteran Benefits: Programs such as the GI Bill are available at schools like Charter College and Alaska Works.

Prospective students should use net price calculators on school websites to estimate their total educational costs.

Top 10 Most Common Trade Programs in Alaska

  1. Medical Assistant Specialist (Alaska Career College)
  2. Business Technology Specialist (Alaska Career College)
  3. Electrical Apprenticeships (Alaska Electrical Apprenticeships)
  4. Welding & Industrial Fabrication (AVTEC, Northern Industrial Training)
  5. Commercial HVAC and Refrigeration (Alaska Metal & Mechanical Apprenticeship)
  6. Culinary Arts (AVTEC)
  7. Diesel/Heavy Equipment Technologies (AVTEC)
  8. Construction Craft Laborers Training (Alaska Works)
  9. Phlebotomy Technician (Alaska Career College)
  10. Information Technology Specialist (Charter College, AVTEC)

These programs span industries like healthcare, skilled trades, and technical services, reflecting Alaska’s workforce needs.

Example of Trade School Courses

Trade school programs in Alaska offer diverse and career-focused courses, including:

  • Medical Assistant Specialist (ACC): Health assessment, medical terminology, patient care procedures.
  • HVAC Controls Technician (Alaska Metal & Mechanical Apprenticeship): System diagnostics, repairs, and automation controls.
  • Industrial Welding (AVTEC): Fabrication, advanced welding techniques, safety procedures.
  • Information Technology (Charter College): Cybersecurity, network systems, technical troubleshooting.
  • Construction Craft Labor (Alaska Works): Site preparation, equipment handling, safety compliance.

These hands-on courses ensure students gain industry-relevant skills for immediate employment.

Average Duration of Trade School Programs in Alaska

The length of trade and vocational programs varies based on the field of study and schedule type:

  • Short-Term Programs: As little as 9.5 months (e.g., Alaska Career College day programs).
  • Standard Programs: Between 12 and 18 months (e.g., Pasco-Hernando State College equivalent programs).
  • Apprenticeship Programs: Up to 5 years (e.g., Alaska Electrical Apprenticeships).

Many schools offer day, evening, and weekend classes, with flexible schedules and hybrid options to accommodate working adults.

Value for Veterans

Trade schools in Alaska provide significant support for veterans, including:

  • GI Bill Benefits: Accepted at most accredited institutions, including AVTEC, Charter College, and Alaska Works.
  • Helmets to Hardhats: A program specifically designed for veterans to transition into construction careers.
  • Veteran Support Services: Charter College offers personalized financial aid assistance for military students.

These programs help veterans transition smoothly into civilian careers with practical skills and financial support.

Value of Career Services Provided by Trade Schools

Alaska’s trade schools emphasize strong career services, offering:

  • Externships and Apprenticeships: Real-world experience integrated into programs (e.g., Alaska Electrical Apprenticeships, AVTEC).
  • Job Placement Assistance: Schools like Charter College and Alaska Works provide resume workshops and job fairs.
  • Industry Partnerships: Connections with local employers and unions to secure post-graduation employment.
  • Success Coaching: Available at Charter College to help students navigate challenges and achieve academic success.

These services ensure students have the tools, connections, and confidence to succeed in their chosen fields.

Conclusion

Trade schools in Alaska offer adults flexible, career-focused vocational and technical training across diverse industries, from healthcare to construction and information technology. Programs are generally affordable, with options like AVTEC and Alaska Works standing out for cost-effectiveness. Accredited institutions ensure high-quality education, and robust financial aid and scholarship opportunities make these programs accessible. With strong career services, externship opportunities, and support for veterans, Alaska’s trade schools prepare students for meaningful and rewarding careers in growing fields.