Illinois Trade Schools

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Illinois’s trade school system combines the opportunities of Chicago’s major metropolitan market with comprehensive statewide coverage through community colleges and specialized institutions. The state’s diverse economy—manufacturing, healthcare, transportation, technology, and agriculture—creates strong demand for skilled workers across multiple sectors.

Table of Contents

Best Schools by Specialty

Community College Leadership

City Colleges of Chicago leads Illinois’s public education system serving 70,000 students annually across seven campuses, offering comprehensive programs from Healthcare to Advanced Manufacturing with tuition starting at $153 per credit hour for Chicago residents.

Illinois Eastern Community Colleges operates four campuses serving 7,000 students across southeast Illinois, providing Associate degrees and certificates in Automotive Technology, Medical Coding, and Computer Networking with HLC accreditation.

Healthcare Program Excellence

CAAN Academy of Nursing provides specialized nursing education serving 100 students per semester with ABHES accreditation, offering both LPN and RN programs with costs ranging $20,000-$30,000 for complete programs.

Midwestern Career College operates five campuses including two in downtown Chicago, serving 600 students annually with programs in Health Sciences, Business, and Information Technology, accredited by COE.

Skilled Trades Excellence

Universal Technical Institute provides industry-leading automotive training in Lisle with partnerships from 35+ leading brands, offering programs in Automotive Technology, Diesel, and Welding with over $15 million in available scholarships.

Lincoln Tech Chicago campus offers comprehensive vocational training with strong corporate partnerships including BMW and Audi specialized training, serving students with 100% acceptance rate and extensive financial aid.

Specialized Technical Training

ETI School of Skilled Trades provides focused HVAC/R and Welding programs developed by industry contractors with over 40 years of experience, offering programs completing in less than one year.

HVAC Technical Institute operates as a minority-owned institution near Chicago Midway Airport, certifying 175 students annually in HVAC/R and Electrical programs with COE accreditation.

Beauty and Cosmetology

Paul Mitchell Schools operates two Illinois locations providing comprehensive beauty education with access to over 50,000 Paul Mitchell salons worldwide for job placement opportunities.

Tricoci University of Beauty Culture maintains nine Illinois campuses founded by Chicago hair styling veteran Mario Tricoci, serving 200-400 students per campus with flexible six-month programs.

Creative Media and Technology

SAE Institute Chicago campus provides globally-recognized creative media education with programs in Audio, Digital Film, and Game Design, offering diplomas in 12 months and associate degrees in 16 months.

Illinois Media School operates under Be On Air Network with 30+ years of experience, offering specialized training in Broadcasting, Film Production, and Media Sales with maximum 18 students per class.

University-Level Programs

DeVry University operates two Illinois campuses offering technology-focused programs with 46% acceptance rate, providing undergraduate and graduate degrees with tuition at $514 per credit hour for undergraduates.

Rasmussen University Rockford campus provides flexible education for working adults with innovative Empowered Learning curriculum, offering programs in Business, Healthcare, and Technology with 100% acceptance rate.

Cost Analysis and Program Investment

Tuition Range Overview

Illinois trade schools demonstrate significant cost variation based on program type and location:

Most Affordable Options:

  • Community colleges: $130-$505 per credit hour depending on residency
  • Specialized certificates: $1,138-$14,923 for complete programs
  • HVAC/Electrical training: $15,000 per program

Mid-Range Investment:

  • Healthcare programs: $13,972-$30,000 for complete programs
  • Beauty schools: $12,750-$20,425 for comprehensive programs
  • Technical training: $20,000-$35,000 for automotive/skilled trades

Premium Programs:

  • University programs: $514-$776 per credit hour (DeVry)
  • Creative media: $20,000-$25,000 annually (SAE Institute)
  • Comprehensive automotive: $22,900-$51,800 (Universal Technical Institute)

Average Cost Estimate

Based on comprehensive data, Illinois trade schools average $15,000-$22,000 for complete certification programs, with community colleges offering the most affordable pathway at approximately $5,000-$8,000 for associate degrees.

List of Top Trade Schools in Illinois

Americare Technical School

Rating: 4.2 of 5

Americare Technical School offers nursing education programs tailored to accommodate students' schedules, including weekend and weeknight classes for Basic Nursing Assistant certificates and Practical Nursing diplomas. The Practical Nursing program combines classroom learning with clinical training, covering key areas such as Medical-Surgical Nursing, Pediatrics, and Pharmacology to ensure graduates are well-prepared for their careers. Upon completion, students can pursue licensure and are ready for entry-level nursing roles in various healthcare settings. ATS prides itself on a supportive learning environment with experienced faculty, emphasizing a curriculum that equips students to excel in the healthcare industry as knowledgeable and compassionate professionals.

  • 505 Busse Highway Chicago, IL 60068
  • Healthcare and Nursing

Aveda Institutes

Rating: 4.5 of 5

Aveda Institutes, established in 1982, operates 63 accredited schools nationwide, offering programs in cosmetology, esthiology, and massage therapy. Known for hands-on training and externships that lead to job placements, the institute provides flexible class schedules and tuition ranging from $9,966 to $16,716 depending on the program.

  • 2828 N. Clark Street Chicago, IL 60657
  • Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services

Aviation Institute of Maintenance

Rating: 3.6 of 5

The Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) is known for its specialized training in aviation maintenance, offering programs in fields such as Aviation Maintenance Technology and Avionics. With campuses across the U.S., AIM provides flexible schedules and hands-on training to prepare students for careers in aviation and trades. The institution is accredited by the ACCSC and licensed by the FAA.

  • 3711 South Ashland Avenue Chicago, IL 60609
  • Skilled Trades, Aviation

CAAN Academy of Nursing

Rating: 4.5 of 5

CAAN Academy of Nursing is a specialized institution offering comprehensive programs for aspiring nurses, including Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Registered Nurse (RN) certifications. With small class sizes and flexible scheduling options, students receive personalized education and hands-on clinical experience.

  • 4747 Lincoln Mall Dr Suite 420 Matteson, IL 60443
  • Healthcare and Nursing

Capital Area Career Center

Rating: 3.5 of 5

The Capital Area Career Center, established in 1966, provides career-focused education for high school students and adults in fields like nursing, cosmetology, and skilled trades. It offers 22 hands-on programs, with most high school courses available at no cost and the Adult CNA program priced at $1,138. With in-person training, industry-standard equipment, and an open admissions policy, the center helps students earn high school and college credits while preparing for careers in high-demand industries.

  • CACC, 2201 Toronto Road, Springfield, IL 62712
  • Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services

Capital Area School of Practical Nursing

Rating: 3.3 of 5

The Capital Area School of Practical Nursing has trained nurses since 1957 and offers a nine-month Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program and an Adult Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program. With in-person, weekday-only classes, students gain hands-on experience through labs and clinical rotations at healthcare facilities. Tuition is $13,972.50 for the LPN program and $1,138 for the CNA program, with graduates eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam for state licensure.

  • 2201 Toronto Road, Springfield, IL 62712
  • Healthcare and Nursing

Chicago Vocational Career Academy

Rating: 3.7 of 5

Chicago Vocational Career Academy (CVCA), established in 1940 in Chicago's Calumet Heights neighborhood, is a public high school focusing on career and technical education. CVCA offers programs like carpentry, medical technology, and culinary arts, alongside a STEM program and an Early College Program that allows students to earn college credits. Recognized as a Level 2 "Creative Certified School," CVCA prepares students for both college and career pathways.

  • 2100 East 87th Street Chicago , IL 60617
  • Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services

City College of Chicago

Rating: 4.4 of 5

City Colleges of Chicago, established in 1911, is a network of seven community colleges serving approximately 70,000 students annually in the Chicago metropolitan area. The colleges offer diverse programs, including associate degrees and certificates, with flexible class schedules and online or hybrid options. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), City Colleges of Chicago provides affordable, accessible education tailored to workforce and academic advancement.

  • 180 N. Wabash, Chicago, IL 60601
  • Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services

Cortiva Institute

Rating: 3.1 of 5

With over 30 locations in 13 states, Cortiva Institute serves many people looking for careers in massage therapy or skin care. Students can complete accelerated programs in less than a year. All tracks are nationally accredited. During schooling, attendees are able to grow as professionals to prepare for their futures.

  • 17 N. State St., #500 Chicago, IL 60602
  • 241 Commerce Dr. Crystal Lake, IL 60014
  • 3033 W. Jefferson St., #105 Joliet, IL 60435
  • Cosmetology and Barbering, Massage Therapy, Wellness

Dental Academy of Chicago

Rating: 4.0 of 5

Dental Assisting of Chicago (DAOC) offers an immersive learning experience with hands-on training in a full dental facility. Their 12-week dental assistant and 14-week dermatology assistant programs provide flexible schedules, small class sizes, and a certificate of completion for graduates.

  • Address 25 E Washington St #510 Chicago, IL 60602
  • Dental, Dermatology

DeVry University

Rating: 2.8 of 5

DeVry University, founded in 1931, is renowned for its emphasis on technology and innovation, offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as Technology, Healthcare, Business, and Accounting. With campuses in over 25 states and options for online and hybrid learning, DeVry provides flexible education opportunities aligned with modern academic needs.

  • 4225 Naperville Rd., Suite 400, Lisle, IL 60532
  • 1900 W. Lawrence Ave, Ste. 100, Chicago, IL 60640
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Technology

Empire Beauty Schools

Rating: 4.5 of 5

Empire Beauty Schools offers hands-on experience in cosmetology, skincare, and cosmetology education at all of their locations. Attendees receive training for in-demand beauty jobs. Full and part-time programs are available to fit each student’s lifestyle. High-quality career tracks include cosmetology and hair styling.

  • 1167 E Lake St. Hanover Park, IL 60133
  • 3106 W North Ave. Stone Park, IL 60165
  • 226 Hawthorn Village Cmns. Vernon Hills, IL 60061
  • Cosmetology and Barbering

ETI School of Skilled Trades

Rating: 4.0 of 5

The mission of ETI School of Skilled Trade is to provide students with the necessary technical and professional skills required to secure entry-level employment in the expanding HVAC/R or Skilled Welder industries.

  • 500 Joliet Rd Suite #100 (Willowbrook) Chicago, IL 60527
  • HVAC and Building Services, Welding

First Institute

Rating: 4.0 of 5

First Institute is a reputable school located in the Chicago area that offers a range of career-focused programs. First Institute provides hands-on training and comprehensive education in fields such as dental and medical assisting.

  • 139 S Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville, IL 60048
  • 405 N. Eola Road, Suite C, Aurora, IL 60502
  • Medical Assisting

Fox College

Fox College is a small, private career college in Tinley Park, IL (about 239 undergrads) that has trained allied-health professionals for 90+ years. Programs are cohort-based and hands-on—no fully online options—with externships in real clinical settings and institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

  • 18020 Oak Park Avenue Tinley Park, IL 60477
  • Healthcare and Nursing

HVAC Technical Institute

Rating: 4.7 of 5

Located in Chicago, Illinois, HVAC Technical Institute is a trade school with a minority ownership. Since its establishment in 1994, the institute has been dedicated to preparing students for successful HVAC and electrical careers. Each year, an average of 175 students receive certifications from the institute, solidifying its reputation as a trusted provider of qualified service technicians to the Chicagoland area. By enrolling in HVAC Technical Institute, you can acquire the essential skills and certifications essential for a prosperous career.

  • Address: 4532 S. Kolin Avenue Chicago, IL 60632
  • HVAC and Building Services

Illinois Eastern Community Colleges

Rating: 4.6 of 5

Illinois Eastern Community Colleges (IECC), with four campuses in southeast Illinois, offers a wide range of associate degrees, certificates, and diploma programs. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, IECC provides flexible class schedules, including online and in-person options, and operates with an open admissions policy.

  • 305 North West Street Olney, IL 62450
  • 2 Frontier Drive Fairfield, IL 62837-2601
  • 11220 State Highway 1 Robinson, IL 62454
  • 2200 College Drive Mt. Carmel, IL 62863
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Automotive, Law

Illinois Health Careers

Rating: 4.6 of 5

Illinois Health Careers is a specialized institution offering a variety of healthcare programs, including Dental Assistant Training, Phlebotomy, and Medical Office Administration. With four campus locations and flexible class schedules, the school caters to a diverse student body, providing both in-person and online learning options.

  • 4709 N. Harlem Ave Harwood Heights, IL 60706
  • Dental, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Phlebotomy Technician

Illinois Media School

Rating: 4.0 of 5

Be On Air Media Schools opened in 1986 and now operates seven campuses teaching entertainment, digital, and broadcast media. Class sizes cap at 18 for hands-on training with industry professionals. Tuition ranges from $12,375 to $18,875, and net price calculators help students estimate their full costs and aid options.

  • 8501 W Higgins Rd, Suite 450 Chicago, IL 60631
  • Professional Services

Lincoln Tech

Rating: 3.9 of 5

Now with over 20 locations across the United States, Lincoln Tech opened its first New Jersey campus in 1946. Specializing in hands-on technical career training, degree programs include automotive, health sciences, culinary arts, cosmetology, and other skilled trades. Educators work hard to give learners the practical skills needed to succeed in new vocations.

  • 8317 W. North Ave, (Melrose Park) Chicago, IL 60160
  • Healthcare and Nursing, Automotive, Computer and Information Technology, Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, HVAC and Building Services, Machine Operation, Trucking and Transportation

Midwest Technical Institute

Rating: 3.9 of 5

Midwest Technical Institute, known as MTI, is an accredited vocational school that provides an alternative to the conventional four-year college path by offering specialized education in mechanical trades, allied health, cosmetology, and truck driving. Many programs can be completed in under a year. offers training in a variety of fields, including Allied Health, Mechanical Trades, Cosmetology and Trucking & Transportation.

  • 2731 Farmers Market Rd. Springfield, IL 62707
  • 280 High Point Ln. East Peoria, IL 61611
  • 3620 Avenue of the Cities Moline, IL 61265
  • Healthcare and Nursing, Cosmetology and Barbering, HVAC and Building Services, Massage Therapy, Medical Billing and Coding, Phlebotomy Technician, Trucking and Transportation, Welding, Wellness

Midwestern Career College

Rating: 4.2 of 5

Midwestern Career College provides career-focused education with flexible class schedules, offering programs in health sciences, business, IT, and ESL. Accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education, MCC partners with numerous externship sites to provide hands-on training.

  • 203 N. LaSalle Street Chicago, IL 60601
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Technology

Paul Mitchell Schools

Rating: 4.5 of 5

There are more than 100 Paul Mitchell Schools nationwide that prepare future professionals for careers in the beauty industry. Students can learn in-demand skills to become cosmetologists, barbers, estheticians and nail designers.

  • 1225 S Halsted Street Chicago, IL 60607
  • 18454 W Creek Drive Tinley Park, IL 60477
  • Cosmetology and Barbering

Quad City Electrical Training Center

Rating: 5.0 of 5

The Quad City Electrical Training Center, established in 1984, offers specialized apprenticeship programs for electricians in Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois. Focused on residential, commercial, and industrial installations, it combines full-time work with evening classes to provide practical, hands-on training. Tuition is covered by sponsoring contractors, but students pay $600–$800 annually for books and must supply their own laptop.

  • Quad City Electrical Training Center, 1700 52nd Avenue, Suite C, Moline, , IL 61265
  • Skilled Trades

Rasmussen University

Rating: 4.5 of 5

Rasmussen College offers accelerated degrees in over 50 fields. Programs include Business, Design, Education, Health Sciences, Justice Studies, Nursing, and Technology. The school supports a credit policy that allows attendees to transfer past experience. There are locations in Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. In addition to 22 traditional campuses, online classes are an option.

  • 6000 E State St., 44th Floor Rockford, IL 61108
  • Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing

Rockford Career College

Rating: 4.2 of 5

Rockford Career College, is a respected vocational school known for its rigorous diploma and associate degree programs tailored for real-world application. The college offers a flexible class schedule with morning, afternoon, and evening sessions available in online, hybrid, and on-campus formats, catering to diverse student needs across six major fields: Animal Sciences, Business & Legal, Healthcare, Nursing, Cannabis, and Skilled Trades. Rockford Career College is fully accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).

  • 130 S Alpine Rd #100 Rockford, IL 61108
  • Business, HVAC and Building Services, Medical Assisting, Veterinary Services

SAE Institute

Rating: 4.0 of 5

SAE Institute offers hands-on training opportunities to give students real world experience in the entertainment industry. The institution offers programs in entertainment media fields like animation, game development, digital film, graphic design and more. SAE grants bachelor's and associate's degrees, and other certificates for in-demand tech skills.

  • 820 North Orleans Street, Suite 125/135 Chicago, IL 60610
  • Business, Computer and Information Technology, Graphics, Design, and Arts, HVAC and Building Services

Tricoci University of Beauty Culture

Rating: 4.7 of 5

Tricoci University of Beauty Culture, founded by Mario Tricoci in 2004, offers professional training in cosmetology, esthetics, barbering, nail technology, and instructor training across 16 campuses. With flexible scheduling and a focus on hands-on experience, students can complete their programs in as little as six months. Tuition costs average $13,105 annually after financial aid, though this may vary by location and funding.

  • 7350 West 87th Street Bridgeview, IL 60455
  • 5321 N Harlem Ave Chicago, IL 60656
  • 264 S Randall Rd Elgin, IL 60123
  • 530 E North Ave. Glendale Heights, IL 60139
  • 751 E Park Ave Libertyville, IL 60048
  • 1503 E College Ave Suite L, Normal, IL 61761
  • 5485 E State St Rockford, IL 61108
  • 202 E University Ave Urbana, IL 61801
  • Professional Services

Universal Technical Institute

Rating: 4.3 of 5

Universal Technical Institute trains students on skilled trades in the automotive, marine, diesel, and motorcycle fields. The school also teaches vocations like welding and CNC machining. Some locations focus on training for specific products, often with input from big companies such as Yamaha, BMW, and Harley-Davidson. Student support services helps with financial aid, housing and more.

  • 2611 Corporate West Dr. Lisle, IL 60532
  • Automotive, Cosmetology and Barbering, Trucking and Transportation

University of Aesthetics & Cosmetology

Rating: 4.1 of 5

The University of Aesthetics & Cosmetology, established in 1996, offers accredited programs in aesthetics, cosmetology, and instructor training at its Downers Grove and Chicago campuses. With tuition ranging from $5,133 to $20,425, the school provides flexible class schedules and hands-on learning to prepare students for careers in the beauty industry. Accredited by MSA-CESS and NACCAS, the school has a 100% acceptance rate.

  • 1037-1043 Curtiss St. Downers Grove, IL 60515
  • 1357 N Milwaukee Ave Chicago, IL 60622
  • Cosmetology

University of Spa & Cosmetology Arts

Rating: 3.7 of 5

The University of Spa & Cosmetology Arts (USCA) has trained beauty and wellness professionals since 1978, offering certificate programs in cosmetology, barbering, esthiology, nail technology, and teacher training. With a hands-on approach, students gain real-world experience through classroom instruction, practical training, and salon work. Tuition ranges from $1,850 for teacher training to $19,750 for cosmetology, with part-time and evening options available for select programs.

  • 2913 West White Oaks Drive Springfield, IL 62704
  • Professional Services

Upper Iowa University

Rating: 4.6 of 5

UIU’s online Bachelor of Science, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Public Administration degrees are designed to give you the flexibility you need to balance classwork with your career.

  • 1161 Tebala Blvd. Rockford, IL 61108
  • Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Communications and Media, Computer and Information Technology, Graphics, Design, and Arts, Social Services

WorkForce Institute

Rating: 4.5 of 5

The WorkForce Institute, part of Lincoln Land Community College, offers short-term training programs in high-demand trade careers like welding, aviation mechanics, and auto technology. Established in 2021, it provides hands-on, in-person training designed to prepare students for immediate employment. Tuition ranges from $140 to $350 per credit hour, with a 100% acceptance rate and flexible schedules for working adults and career changers.

  • 5250 Shepherd Rd. Springfield, IL 62703
  • Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services

In Depth Guides to Specific Trades

Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch

Ultra-Fast Certifications

Healthcare Quick Start: Multiple institutions offer accelerated programs including CNA training for $1,138 and specialized medical assistant programs completing in 10 months.

Skilled Trades Fast Track: ETI School offers programs completing in less than one year, while specialized welding and HVAC programs provide rapid entry into high-demand careers.

Beauty Industry Entry: Comprehensive cosmetology programs with flexible scheduling, including six-month full-time options and nine-month part-time programs.

Accelerated Technical Training

Lincoln Tech offers credit hour-based programs ranging from 40-65 credit hours with accelerated completion options, while specialized institutions provide intensive hands-on training.

Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults

Multiple Delivery Formats

Illinois institutions excel at accommodating working professionals:

  • Evening Programs: Available at most institutions including community colleges and specialized schools
  • Weekend Classes: Offered through career centers and community colleges
  • Hybrid Learning: Extensive online components combined with hands-on training
  • Flexible Scheduling: Day, evening, and weekend options across most institutions

Chicago Metropolitan Advantage

The Chicago area’s concentration of trade schools provides exceptional access to diverse programs, multiple campus locations, and extensive public transportation connectivity.

Financial Accessibility and Support

Open Admission Policies

Most Illinois trade schools maintain accessible admission policies:

  • Community colleges: 100% acceptance rates with open-door policies
  • Technical schools: Generally 100% acceptance (Universal Technical Institute, Lincoln Tech)
  • Specialized programs: Merit-based but accessible to qualified applicants

Comprehensive Financial Support

  • Federal financial aid: Widely accepted at accredited institutions
  • State programs: Illinois-specific grants and scholarships including community college affordability initiatives
  • Military benefits: Extensive veteran support across most institutions
  • Industry partnerships: Strong employer connections offering tuition reimbursement
  • Payment flexibility: Many institutions offer payment plans and financing options

Based on institutional offerings and regional demand:

  1. Healthcare Programs – Nursing, Medical Assisting, Dental programs leading enrollment statewide
  2. Skilled Trades – HVAC, Electrical, Automotive, Welding serving manufacturing and construction industries
  3. Information Technology – Cybersecurity, Programming, Networking supporting Chicago’s tech sector
  4. Business Programs – Accounting, Administration, Marketing serving diverse economy
  5. Beauty and Wellness – Cosmetology, Massage Therapy, Esthetics programs

Accreditation and Quality Standards

Illinois trade schools maintain strong accreditation through recognized bodies:

  • Higher Learning Commission (HLC): Community colleges and university programs
  • ACCSC: Career-focused institutions and specialized programs
  • ABHES/CAAHEP: Healthcare-specific programs and institutions
  • NACCAS: Beauty and cosmetology schools
  • COE: Occupational education and specialized technical programs

Regional Industry Connections

Illinois trade schools benefit from the state’s strategic location and diverse economy:

  • Manufacturing Hub: Programs supporting automotive, machinery, and advanced manufacturing
  • Transportation Center: Programs serving aviation, trucking, and logistics industries
  • Healthcare Networks: Partnerships with major Chicago-area medical systems
  • Technology Sector: Programs supporting Chicago’s growing tech and fintech industries
  • Agricultural Technology: Programs supporting Illinois’s agricultural economy

Career Services and Employment Support

Illinois institutions emphasize job placement through:

  • Comprehensive career services departments with high placement rates
  • Strong industry partnerships across diverse economic sectors
  • Alumni networks concentrated in Chicago metropolitan area
  • Regional economic development collaborations
  • Union apprenticeship connections in skilled trades

Unique Illinois Advantages

Illinois’s trade school system offers distinctive benefits:

  • Chicago Market Access: Direct access to one of America’s largest job markets
  • Transportation Hub: Central location providing national career opportunities
  • Industry Diversity: Multiple economic sectors providing career flexibility
  • Community College System: Affordable public education options statewide
  • Union Presence: Strong skilled trades apprenticeship opportunities

Illinois combines the opportunities of a major metropolitan market with comprehensive statewide educational coverage, creating exceptional pathways to skilled careers. The state’s central location, diverse economy, and strong institutional network make it an outstanding choice for trade school education across virtually every career sector.