Vermont’s trade school landscape reflects the state’s commitment to workforce development and technical education, with institutions concentrated around regional career centers and specialized training programs. While smaller in scale compared to other states, Vermont’s vocational education system provides focused, quality training aligned with local industry needs.
Table of Contents
- Best Schools by Specialty
- Cost Analysis and Program Investment
- List of Top Trade Schools in Vermont
- Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
- Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
- Financial Accessibility and Support
- Most Popular Program Categories
- Accreditation and Quality Standards
- Regional Industry Connections
- Career Services and Employment Support
- Unique Vermont Advantages
- Geographic Considerations
Best Schools by Specialty
Regional Career Centers Excellence
Northwest Technical Center leads Vermont’s career education with 400 annual students across 10 comprehensive programs including Automotive Technology, Building Trades, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, and Medical Professions. Accredited by NEASC and offering dual enrollment opportunities.
Stafford Technical Center serves as Vermont’s second-largest regional career center with 14 programs supporting over 100 local business partnerships. Programs include Health Careers, Automotive Technology, Electrical/Plumbing, and Welding with strong industry alignment.
Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center offers 16 total programs (12 technical, 4 foundational) across two Middlebury locations, emphasizing Construction Technology, Human Services, Culinary Arts, and STEM foundations.
Specialized Technical Training
Burlington Technical Center stands out with 17,631 total enrollment serving the Burlington School District since 1968, offering programs in Aviation and Aerospace, Healthcare, Digital Media, and Engineering/Fabrication.
Central Vermont Career Center provides focused training for 231 students annually in specialized programs including Electrical Technology, Plumbing/Heating, Welding, and Medical Professions since 1969.
Beauty and Wellness
Aveda Institutes operates one Vermont location in Williston, offering comprehensive beauty education in Cosmetology ($16,716), Esthetics ($9,966), and Therapeutic Massage ($10,961) with 80% externship-to-job-offer conversion rate.
Distance Learning
Stratford Career Institute provides flexible online education with over 60 career-focused programs ranging from $899-$1,089 total cost, serving over 1 million students across North America with 95% graduate satisfaction rates.
Cost Analysis and Program Investment
Tuition Range Overview
Vermont trade schools demonstrate significant cost variation based on program type and delivery method:
Most Affordable Options:
- Online programs: $350-$450 (DuCharme HVAC Training)
- Distance learning: $899-$1,089 total program cost (Stratford Career Institute)
- Short-term certifications: $45-$685 (various regional centers)
Mid-Range Investment:
- Comprehensive programs: $2,195-$6,950 (Stafford Technical Center)
- Beauty programs: $9,966-$16,716 (Aveda Institutes)
- Adult education courses: $640-$3,550 (various centers)
Specialized Training:
- High school integration: Often tuition-free through public school systems
- Dual enrollment: No cost for high school students
- Adult education: Program-specific pricing with wide variation
Average Cost Estimate
Based on available data, Vermont trade schools average $3,000-$8,000 for most certificate programs, with significant variation based on program length and complexity. Many high school programs are offered at no cost through public education funding.
List of Top Trade Schools in Vermont
Aveda Institutes
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.- 400 Cornerstone Drive Williston, VT 05495
- Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services
Burlington Technical Center
Burlington Technical Center (BTC) has been providing career and technical education since 1968, offering hands-on training in fields such as aviation, engineering, healthcare, and digital media. The school serves over 17,000 students annually and operates on a half-day schedule, allowing students to attend both BTC and their home high schools. Tuition costs are not listed online, but financial aid options may be available.- 29 Church Street LL Burlington, VT 05401
- Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades
Center for Technology Essex
The Center for Technology, Essex (CTE) in Essex Junction, Vermont, provides career-focused education in fields like automotive technology, cosmetology, and computer animation. Students gain hands-on experience through work-based learning programs, including job shadowing and apprenticeships. Tuition details are not publicly listed, but financial assistance options are available.- 2 Educational Drive, Suite 200 Essex Junction,, VT 05452
- Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Central Vermont Career Center
Central Vermont Career Center offers career-focused technical training in cosmetology, electrical technology, welding, medical professions, and more. The school serves 231 students annually, providing hands-on learning but no externships or evening classes. Tuition details are limited, but the CPR/AED First Aid Program costs $60 per person, and further pricing information is available upon request.- 155 Ayers Street Suite #2, Barre, VT 05641
- Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Professional Services
Cold Hollow Career Center
The Cold Hollow Career Center (CHCC) provides career and technical education to high school students in Franklin County, Vermont, with priority placement for those completing PreTech programs. Students can train in medical careers, automotive technology, forestry, construction, and business leadership while gaining hands-on experience through work-based learning. CHCC also offers adult education programs, including online and on-site courses.- 184 Missisquoi Street Enosburg Falls, , VT 05450
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades
DuCharme HVAC Training
DuCharme HVAC Training, founded by industry veteran Gary DuCharme, offers fully online courses in EPA Section 608 certification and A2L refrigerant safety training. The courses are accessible 24/7 and provide flexible learning options for aspiring HVAC professionals. Tuition costs $450 for the EPA 608 course and $350 for A2L safety training.- 142 Cobblestone Cir, South Burlington,, VT 05403
- Skilled Trades
Northwest Technical Center
The Northwest Career & Technical Center (NCTC), founded in 1971, serves high school students and adult learners in northwestern Vermont, offering 10 hands-on technical programs. Accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), the center allows students to earn certifications and college credits through dual enrollment. Tuition varies by program, with LNA training costing $685 and welding courses ranging from $640 to $840, while some grant-funded programs, like Phlebotomy Training, are free.- 71 South Main St. St. Albans, VT 05478
- Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Professional Services
Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center
The Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center (PAHCC) provides career and technical education to high school and adult students in Addison County, Vermont. Students gain hands-on experience in fields such as construction, healthcare, automotive technology, and culinary arts. With dual enrollment opportunities, work-based learning, and evening/weekend courses for adults, PAHCC helps students develop skills for both college and career success.- 51 Charles Ave Middlebury, VT 05753
- Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Professional Services
Stafford Technical Center
Stafford Technical Center, part of the Rutland City Public School District, offers career and technical education programs for high school students and adults. With 14 hands-on training programs, students gain practical skills in fields such as healthcare, automotive technology, welding, and cosmetology. Tuition varies by program, with costs ranging from $2,195 to over $10,000, and schedules include daytime classes for high school students and evening courses for adults.- 8 Stratton Road, Rutland, VT 05701
- Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Stratford Career Institute
For busy students who want to earn an education on their own schedule, Stratford Career Institute (SCI) has a lot to offer. Specializing in distance learning, enrollment and coursework are totally online. There are a variety of vocational programs that take anywhere from 6 to 12 months to complete. Mail correspondence is available for those who prefer it. Stratford Career Institute offers online distance learning courses in Business, Computer Technology, Counseling, Education, Creative Careers, Legal, Medical, and Vocational Trades.- 1 Champlain Cmns., Unit 3, P.O. Box 1560 Saint Albans, VT 05478
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Automotive, Computer and Information Technology, Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, HVAC and Building Services
Windham Regional Career Center
Windham Regional Career Center in Brattleboro, VT, offers career and technical education for high school students across multiple career pathways, including business, aviation, culinary arts, electrical technology, and health careers. Students can earn industry-recognized credentials, gain workplace experience, and in some cases, receive dual enrollment college credit. Tuition details are unclear, but scholarships and Fast Forward Tickets help cover costs for eligible students.- 80 Atwood Street Brattleboro,, VT 05301
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Professional Services
Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
Ultra-Fast Certifications
HVAC Specialization: DuCharme HVAC Training offers EPA 608 certification for $450 and A2L refrigerant safety training for $350, both available online with 120-day access periods.
Healthcare Quick Start: Multiple regional centers offer Licensed Nurse Assistant certification ranging from $685 (Northwest Technical Center) to varying costs at other locations, with clinical experience included.
Commercial Driving: Stafford Technical Center offers Commercial “B” License Training for $3,550, preparing students for immediate employment in transportation sectors.
Accelerated Programs
Most regional career centers offer programs designed for completion within 1-2 years, with flexible scheduling accommodating both high school students and working adults.
Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
Multiple Delivery Formats
Vermont institutions emphasize flexibility for working professionals:
- Evening Classes: Available at most regional career centers
- Online Options: Ed2Go partnerships provide over 750 courses
- Weekend Programs: Available at select locations
- Half-Day Schedules: Most centers operate morning/afternoon sessions
Adult Education Leadership
Regional career centers excel at serving adult learners with evening and weekend programs, online course access, and work-based learning opportunities that accommodate existing employment schedules.
Financial Accessibility and Support
Open Enrollment Policies
Most Vermont trade schools maintain accessible admission policies:
- Regional career centers generally follow open enrollment
- High school students receive priority in most programs
- Adult learners welcomed with flexible start dates
Financial Support Systems
- No-cost high school programs: Most technical training included in public education
- Dual enrollment benefits: College credit at no additional cost
- Grant funding: Some programs like Phlebotomy Training offered free through grants
- Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC): State-specific financial aid
- Payment plans: Flexible options available at most institutions
Most Popular Program Categories
Based on regional offerings and enrollment patterns:
- Healthcare Programs – Medical Professions, LNA certification, Health Careers
- Skilled Trades – Automotive Technology, Construction, Electrical, Welding
- Beauty Services – Cosmetology programs available at multiple centers
- Culinary Arts – Strong programs at several regional centers
- Business and Technology – Digital Media, Computer Systems, Business Leadership
Accreditation and Quality Standards
Vermont trade schools maintain quality through recognized accrediting bodies:
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC): Major regional centers
- Vermont Agency of Education: All public career centers
- NACCAS: Beauty and cosmetology programs
- Industry Advisory Councils: Regular program review by current business leaders
Regional Industry Connections
Vermont’s trade schools align with the state’s economic characteristics:
- Rural Industries: Forestry, agriculture, and natural resources programs
- Healthcare Networks: Partnerships with local medical facilities
- Tourism and Hospitality: Culinary arts and service programs
- Manufacturing: Programs supporting Vermont’s manufacturing base
- Construction Trades: Meeting housing and infrastructure needs
Career Services and Employment Support
Vermont institutions emphasize practical career preparation:
- Work-based learning opportunities through Co-op programs
- Clinical experiences in healthcare programs
- Job shadowing and apprenticeship connections
- Industry-recognized credential achievement
- Local employer partnerships for direct placement
Unique Vermont Advantages
Vermont’s trade school system offers distinctive benefits:
- Small Class Sizes: Personalized attention in most programs
- Community Integration: Strong local business partnerships
- Dual Enrollment: High school students earn college credit
- Regional Cooperation: Career centers serve multiple school districts
- Industry Advisory Input: Regular program updates based on employer needs
Geographic Considerations
Vermont’s trade schools strategically serve different regions:
- Northwestern Vermont: Northwest Technical Center (St. Albans)
- Central Vermont: Central Vermont Career Center (Barre)
- Southern Vermont: Windham Regional Career Center (Brattleboro)
- Western Vermont: Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center (Middlebury)
- Chittenden County: Burlington Technical Center, Center for Technology Essex
Vermont’s trade school system, while smaller than other states, provides focused, high-quality career preparation with strong community connections and affordable access. The emphasis on regional career centers ensures programs align with local workforce needs while maintaining quality standards through proper accreditation and industry partnerships.