Trade schools in Washington offer adults accessible, flexible, and accredited vocational and technical training in high-demand fields. Whether you’re seeking short-term certification, hands-on apprenticeships, or career-focused diplomas, Washington’s trade schools provide pathways to employment and career advancement. With strong financial aid options, veteran support, and career services, these institutions deliver significant value for students pursuing a skilled trade or technical career.
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List of Best Trade Schools in Washington
160 Driving Academy
160 Driving Academy is the largest U.S. commercial truck driving school, with 150+ locations across 44 states. Training blends 40 hours of classroom prep with 120 hours of behind-the-wheel practice to prepare students for the CDL exam, usually in about four weeks.- 2310 Mildred St.West, Suite #124 Tacoma, WA 98466
- 4500 Steilacoom Blvd SW. Building 14 Lakewood, WA 98499
- Skilled Trades
Aveda Institutes
Washington has two Aveda Institutes with different owners: Aveda Arts Seattle, on East Pike Street, and the Vancouver campus of Aveda Institute Portland. Both teach 1,600-hour cosmetology and 750-hour esthetics; Seattle adds instructor training and Vancouver 1,400-hour hair design. Seattle listed $24,600 for cosmetology for the 16 November 2026 start. NACCAS placed Vancouver, with the Portland school, on financial monitoring in December 2024 (current status unconfirmed).- 802 E Pike St Seattle, WA 98122
- 6615 NE Fourth Plain Blvd Vancouver, WA 98661
- Cosmetology and Barbering, Massage Therapy
Carrington College
Carrington's Washington campus in Spokane teaches dental and medical assisting, pharmacy technology (approved by the Washington Board of Pharmacy), veterinary assisting and massage therapy, plus a Health Studies associate degree. Spokane and Boise are the only Carrington campuses still taking new massage students. Washington residents who take Carrington's online programs enroll through Spokane. There is no nursing program here. ACCJC accredited; federal aid accepted.- 10102 E. Knox Ave., Ste 200 Spokane, WA 99206
- Dental, Healthcare Administration, Healthcare and Nursing, Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Tech, Phlebotomy Technician, Radiology, Veterinary Services
Charter College
Charter College has four Washington campuses, in Lacey, Pasco, Vancouver and Yakima, with degrees approved by the Washington Student Achievement Council and certificates by the Workforce Board. All four teach the 10-month medical assistant certificate; Lacey, Pasco and Vancouver add HVAC/R, Pasco dental assisting and Vancouver welding. Charter's 2026 catalog supplement lists $24,250 for medical assistant. Former Fife and East Wenatchee sites no longer appear in the catalog.- 4520 Lacey Blvd SE, Suite 40 Lacey, WA 98503
- 5278 Outlet Dr Pasco, WA 99301
- 17200 SE Mill Plain Blvd, Suite 100 Vancouver, WA 98683
- 2706 West Nob Hill Blvd, Suite 106 Yakima, WA 98902
- Business, Dental, Healthcare Administration, Healthcare and Nursing, HVAC and Building Services, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Tech, Radiology, Veterinary Services, Welding
Construction Industry Training Council of Washington
The Construction Industry Training Council of Washington (CITC) is a state-licensed, nationally accredited vocational school offering comprehensive construction training programs. With seven locations across Washington, CITC provides apprenticeship programs, continuing education, and specialized courses in fields like HVAC, plumbing, and heavy equipment operation. Flexible class schedules and hands-on apprenticeships make it a top choice for both aspiring and experienced construction professionals.- 1930 116th Ave NE UNIT 201 Bellevue, WA 98004
- Skilled Trades
Divers Institute of Technology
The Dive Institute of Technology in Seattle, Washington prepares students for work in the commercial diving field. The trade school offers two-week programs for learners who are scuba certified and want to earn extra credentials to become dive site medics.- 1341 N. Northlake Way, Suite 150 Seattle, WA 98103
- Diving
Evergreen Beauty College
Evergreen Beauty College is a long-established, family-owned beauty school in Washington founded in 1996 by veteran cosmetologist and educator Ms. Thi Trieu. With eight campuses and over 1,000 students enrolled in 2023, Evergreen offers accredited training in fields like cosmetology, esthetics, massage, barbering, and nail technology using flexible “EverFlex” schedules that mix on-campus and online learning. Tuition typically ranges from about $8,400 for the Instructor Trainee program to around $21,200 for the full Cosmetology program, plus supplies.- 1414 Cornwall Ave. Bellingham, WA 98225
- 509 S 1st Street Mount Vernon, WA 98273
- 802 SE Everett Mall Way (Suite A) Everett, WA 98208
- 18336 Aurora Ave. North #103 Shoreline, WA 98133
- 1222 Bronson Way North Renton, WA 98057
- 2703 Capital Mall Dr SW Olympia, WA 98502
- 401 North First Street Yakima, WA 98901
- Professional Services
Health Professionals Institute
Health Professionals Institute, founded in 2003, is a state-approved private vocational school known for being the first in Washington to offer medication assistant endorsement certification. The school provides healthcare certifications like Medical Assistant, Nursing Assistant, and Phlebotomy Technician, with flexible online and on-campus schedules. Tuition ranges from $85 for specialty courses to $17,000 for full programs, and students benefit from job placement assistance through a staffing agency partnership.- 33305 1st Way South B-100 Federal Way, WA 98003
- Healthcare and Nursing
Lake Washington Institute of Technology
Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWTech) offers over 100 professional and technical degree and certificate programs, including nursing, engineering, and culinary arts. Located in Kirkland, WA, near Seattle, the school provides flexible schedules with in-person, online, and hybrid options, making it accessible to a wide range of students.- 11605 132nd Avenue NE Kirkland, WA 98034
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Computer and Information Technology
National School of Dental Assisting
The National School of Dental Assisting offers hands-on clinical programs and online training for dental assisting. E-Learning courses are self-paced with guidance from an experienced instructor. The school has eight physical locations across Colorado, Nevada, and Washington, some of which are in major cities such as Denver and Reno.- 10317 122nd Street East, Suite D (Pullyap) Seattle, WA 98374
Northwest Career & Technical Academy
Northwest Career & Technical Academy provides free, hands-on technical and professional training for high school students, offering programs like Core Plus Aerospace, Veterinary Assisting, and Video Game Development. Students split their day between the academy and their regular high school, gaining practical skills through experiential learning and optional internships. As a Washington State Skills Center, NCTA is a legitimate institution with industry and educational oversight, making it an excellent option for career-focused students.- 2205 West Campus Place Mount Vernon, WA 98273
- 1235 Third Street Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284
- 194 West Laurel Road Bellingham, WA 98226
- 1606 R Avenue, Anacortes, WA 98223
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Northwest HVAC School
The Northwest HVAC/R Association and Training Center, established in 1991, is a private vocational college specializing in HVAC/R training. Known for its 100% job placement rate, the center offers certifications in topics like gas codes, refrigeration, and troubleshooting. Accredited by the Council of Occupational Education (COE), the school provides hands-on internships and a focused learning environment for its 35-student enrollment.- 204 E Nora Ave Spokane, WA 99207
- Skilled Trades
Northwest Phlebotomy School
Northwest Phlebotomy School, founded in 2019, trains students at 50+ locations with small classes and fully in-person instruction. The core phlebotomy course takes 2–3 days, with an optional 4-hour IV Therapy add-on; tuition is $675–$775 for phlebotomy and $250–$375 for IV Therapy, plus an optional $50 NHA exam. Admission is open (18+ with a high school diploma/GED), and the school is not accredited by USDOE-recognized agencies.- 304 W Pacific Ave Suite 210 Spokane, WA 99201
- 1700 Westlake Ave N #200 Seattle, WA 98109
- 1120 Pacific Ave Suite 100 Tacoma, WA 98402
- 1050 Larrabee Ave Bellingham, WA 98225
- 4920 Evergreen Wy #1164 Everett, WA 98203
- 2512 E Evergreen Blvd Vancouver, WA 98661
- Healthcare and Nursing
Northwest Phlebotomy School
Northwest Phlebotomy School provides 3 day certification programs that are designed to ready participants for roles in the phlebotomy field. Classes emphasize safety practices, introduces students to diverse patient demographics, and provides tailored coaching in an intimate group environment.- 1800 Yale Ave Seattle, WA 98101
- Phlebotomy Technician
Paul Mitchell Schools
Washington has three Paul Mitchell schools: Federal Way, Richland and Spokane Valley. All teach 1,600-hour cosmetology, 1,000-hour barbering, 600-hour manicuring and instructor training; Richland and Spokane add esthetics (750 hours) and master esthetics (1,200). Federal Way took over the former Gene Juarez Academy in 2023 and held its grand opening in September 2024.- 2222 South 314th St Federal Way, WA 98003
- 71 Gage Blvd Richland, WA 99352
- 15303 E. Sprague Avenue, Suite C Spokane Valley, WA 99037
- Cosmetology and Barbering
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute, a private, non-profit school in Yakima, WA, has provided hands-on technical training since 1939. With over 700 students enrolled annually, Perry Tech offers 14 in-demand programs, including Automotive Technology, Electrical Technology, and HVAC/R, emphasizing practical skills and real-world experience through externships. The school is nationally accredited and has an open-admission policy, making technical education accessible.- 2011 W Washington Ave Yakima, WA 98903
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology
Pima Medical Institute
Pima Medical Institute has two Washington campuses. Seattle (since 1989) teaches dental hygiene, PTA, radiography, surgical technology, sterile processing and vet tech alongside dental, medical and veterinary assisting. Renton (2004) teaches sonography, respiratory therapy, vet tech, pharmacy technician and phlebotomy, plus dental, medical and veterinary assisting. Medical Assistant cost $19,997 in total on Renton's 1 Jul 2026 price list.- 555 S. Renton Village Pl, Suite 400 Renton, WA 98057
- 9709 Third Ave NE, Suite 400 Seattle, WA 98115
- Dental, Healthcare Administration, Healthcare and Nursing, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Tech, Phlebotomy Technician, Radiology, Sterile Processing Technician, Veterinary Services
Puget Sound Electrical
Puget Sound Electrical, established in the 1940s, is a non-profit organization that trains future electricians through hands-on learning at its training centers in Renton, Sequim, and Bremerton. Offering three career paths—Inside Wire, Limited Energy, and Residential Wire—the program provides night classes to accommodate apprentices working during the day. Tuition is free for IBEW Local 46 members, with other costs varying based on books and materials.- 1606 R Avenue, Anacortes, WA 98223
- Skilled Trades, Electrical
Renton Tech
Renton Technical College is a public technical college in King County, Washington, founded in 1941. It teaches certificates and associate degrees in health care, welding, HVAC-R, machining, automotive, culinary, business and IT, mostly in person and on quarter terms. Its RN degree is on conditional approval from the state nursing board. 2026-27 tuition for Washington residents is $1,697.30 per 15-credit quarter, plus about $31 per credit in fees.- 3000 NE 4th St. Renton, WA 98056
- Healthcare and Nursing, Medical Assisting, Phlebotomy Technician, Dental, Massage Therapy, Medical Billing and Coding, Sterile Processing Technician, Education, Skilled Trades, Welding, HVAC and Building Services, Machine Operation, Automotive, Construction, Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Computer and Information Technology
Seattle Pipe Trades
Seattle Pipe Trades, established in 1968 in Renton, WA, specializes in apprenticeship-based training for careers like HVAC mechanics, plumbing, and steamfitting. With no tuition costs, the program is funded through union dues, allowing students to learn hands-on skills through a "earn while you learn" model. Classes are offered during evenings and weekends, providing flexibility for working apprentices.- 595 Monster Rd. SW, Suite 100 Renton, WA 98057-2937
- Skilled Trades
Skagit Valley Technical College
Skagit Valley College (est. 1926) is Washington’s second-oldest community college, serving ~6,500 students annually across campuses in Mount Vernon, Oak Harbor, Friday Harbor, and Clinton. It offers certificates (under a year), associate degrees (~2 years), and applied bachelor’s programs (~4 years), with learning options on campus, virtual, and hybrid.- 2405 East College Way Mount Vernon, WA 98273
- 1900 SE Pioneer Way Oak Harbor,, WA 98277
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
The HVAC School
The HVAC School in Brier, WA, has been training students in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning since 1988, offering intensive programs lasting one to eight weeks. With small class sizes of up to 24 students, the school focuses on hands-on learning to prepare students for entry-level HVAC roles. Courses cover topics like air conditioning, gas furnace troubleshooting, and commercial refrigeration, with tuition ranging from $195 to $3,650.- 23024 Brier Road Brier, WA 98036
- Skilled Trades
UEI College
United Education Institute's Tacoma campus, opened in October 2021, is UEI's only Washington school: a 30,000-square-foot site teaching automotive, HVAC, dental assisting, medical assisting and medical billing and coding. Unlike other UEI campuses it has no electrician program. Medical Assistant cost $18,500 in total in 2024–25. Accredited by ACCSC; programs are on Washington's training-provider list. Federal aid accepted.- 1415 E. 72nd St Tacoma, WA 98404
- Automotive, Criminal Justice and Law, Dental, Electrical, HVAC and Building Services, Healthcare Administration, Healthcare and Nursing, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Tech, Skilled Trades
West Sound Tech
West Sound Technical Skills Center in Bremerton offers free career and technical education for students aged 16-21 from eight school districts. Programs like 3D Animation, Automotive Technology, and Professional Medical Careers provide hands-on learning with flexible schedules. Supported by the state education system, the center charges no tuition and even offers free lunches.- 101 National Avenue North Bremerton, WA 98312
- Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
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Average Cost of Trade Schools
The cost of attending a trade school in Washington varies depending on the program and institution. For example:
- Most Affordable: Northwest Career & Technical Academy offers free tuition as part of the public education system, with optional fees for industry certifications.
- General Costs: Tuition ranges from $1,325 per quarter for apprenticeships at the Construction Industry Training Council (CITC) to approximately $20,917 annually for Perry Technical Institute’s largest programs.
- Specialized Schools: The HVAC School in Brier charges between $195 and $3,650 depending on the course, while UEI College programs range from $19,900 to $21,500.
Accreditation of Trade Schools
Trade schools in Washington are accredited by respected organizations to ensure quality education:
- CITC: Accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).
- Renton Technical College: Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
- Pima Medical Institute: Nationally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
- Cortiva Institute: Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
Accreditation is critical for students to qualify for financial aid and ensures programs meet industry standards.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Many vocational schools in Washington offer financial assistance to reduce costs:
- Federal Aid: Most schools accept FAFSA to determine eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs.
- Veteran Benefits: Institutions like Perry Tech and Divers Institute of Technology (DIT) accept GI Bill benefits and offer tuition assistance for veterans.
- Institutional Aid: UEI College offers grants and scholarships for qualifying students.
- Specialized Assistance: DIT provides fee waivers and discounted refresher courses for alumni.
Top 10 Most Common Trade Programs in Washington
Based on available content, here are the most popular vocational programs in Washington:
- Healthcare: Programs like Medical Assisting, Nursing, and Phlebotomy are offered at Pima Medical Institute and Health Professionals Institute.
- Skilled Trades: Carpentry, Electrical, and Welding are featured at CITC and Renton Technical College.
- HVAC/R: Training is provided by the Northwest HVAC/R Association and Training Center.
- Automotive Technology: Available at Northwest Career & Technical Academy and Renton Technical College.
- Culinary Arts: Taught at schools like Renton Technical College.
- Information Technology: Programs include Cybersecurity and Networking at Charter College and LWTech.
- Massage Therapy: Offered by the Cortiva Institute.
- Construction: Includes Heavy Equipment Operator and Plumbing programs at CITC and Seattle Pipe Trades.
- Aesthetics: Paramedical Esthetician and Makeup Artist training at Cortiva Institute.
- Commercial Diving: Taught at the Divers Institute of Technology in Seattle.
Examples of Trade School Courses
Trade school courses are designed to provide hands-on, practical training. Examples include:
- Gas Furnace Troubleshooting (The HVAC School)
- Dental X-Ray and CPR Certification (National School of Dental Assisting)
- Green Energy Technologies (Puget Sound Electrical)
- Drone and ROV Operation (Northwest Career & Technical Academy)
Average Duration of Trade School Programs
Trade school programs in Washington range from a few weeks to two years:
- Short-Term: Certifications like Northwest Phlebotomy School’s 2-3 day courses.
- Mid-Term: Most diplomas, such as HVAC and Welding, can be completed in 6-12 months.
- Long-Term: Programs like Electrical Apprenticeships can take up to 5 years, combining coursework and paid training.
Value for Veterans
Veterans find significant benefits at Washington trade schools:
- Tuition Assistance: Schools like DIT and Seattle Pipe Trades accept GI Bill funding.
- Housing Support: DIT offers housing assistance for veterans.
- Veteran-Friendly Programs: Puget Sound Electrical and Perry Tech provide veteran-specific guidance and mentorship.
Career Services
Career services play a vital role in vocational training, helping students transition into the workforce. Common offerings include:
- Job Placement Assistance: Schools like Carrington College and UEI College connect graduates with local employers.
- Externships and Internships: Renton Technical College and Pima Medical Institute offer hands-on experience with industry partners.
- Career Fairs and Networking: Hosted by Cortiva Institute and Divers Institute of Technology.