What Is It Known For?
John Chapman founded JASA Inc Trade School in 2012 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a purpose shaped by community need. Over the past thirteen years, more than 1,500 learners have completed training through its programs, many coming from military backgrounds, underserved households, or periods of personal transition.
What sets JASA apart is its virtual reality training. Through this learning format, students practice worksite scenarios that help make procedures easier to understand. This technology has also helped hundreds of businesses turn inexperienced workers into competent technicians quickly.
Degrees & Certifications
JASA offers certificate-based trade programs built around short training cycles. Most courses can be completed in about twelve weeks and cover areas such as:
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- HVAC
- Construction
- Facilities Maintenance
- Industrial Maintenance
- Auto Mechanics
Each program includes certification preparation as part of the coursework. Upon completion, students receive a certificate of completion, OSHA safety cards, and, for HVACR participants, an EPA Section 608 card.
Class Schedules
With online access, coursework can be completed at any time of day, which makes it easier to balance training with other responsibilities.
Learning begins online to establish technical knowledge, then moves into VR-based simulations using a headset. That digital practice is followed by hands-on lab sessions, which take place in person at lab locations or through mailed training kits. Lab visits can be scheduled based on availability.
While externships are not part of the structure, apprenticeship opportunities may be available by contacting the school directly.
Is It a Good School?
Yes. JASA Inc Trade School holds accreditation through the International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) and maintains relationships with the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). Courses also carry credit recognition through North American Technician Excellence (NATE) and include transferable continuing education units.
Acceptance Rate
Acceptance figures are not published. Enrollment in JASA generally depends on access to reliable internet, a VR-capable device, and basic comfort with online platforms.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition rates are not listed publicly, and a net price calculator is not currently available. Financial assistance options may apply. For current pricing details, contact the school.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- HVAC
- Construction
- Facilities Maintenance
- Auto Mechanic
Campus Locations
McLean 1765 Greensboro Station Pl Floor 9, McLean, VA 22102
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, JASA Inc. Trade School is a highly specialized institution in Northern Virginia known for its innovative use of Virtual Reality (VR) and online simulations to train aspiring electricians. The school is praised for its flexible, self-paced curriculum and the personal support of its lead instructor, though it has faced recent scrutiny regarding its cost and post-graduation job placement support.
Overall Score: 4.6/5 Stars
Common Praises
Innovative VR Learning: The use of Virtual Reality (VR) and virtual labs is a standout feature. Students find it highly effective for visual learning, stating it makes the information “stick” better and allows for realistic, hands-on practice from home.
Supportive Leadership: The lead instructor is frequently described as “heaven sent,” “patient,” and “dedicated.” Many students shared stories of him going above and beyond—providing personal cell phone access, responding to texts after hours, and even offering financial or personal support during difficult times.
Flexible, Self-Paced Curriculum: The online courses allow students to work at their own pace without outside distractions, which is highly valued by those balancing work or family commitments.
Success for Beginners: Reviewers who entered with “5% knowledge” of the electrical field reported feeling confident and proficient upon completing the program.
Common Criticisms
Job Placement Disputes: A recent detailed review claimed a lack of support for job placement and slow communication post-payment. However, the school’s leadership publicly disputed this, citing specific instances where they placed the student in a union position which the student later vacated.
High Upfront Cost: One prospective student expressed concern over an upfront cost of $7,000, questioning the value of a basics-level course taught primarily through VR headsets rather than in-person instruction.
Communication Delays: While most find the instructor responsive, a small minority of recent feedback suggests that once payment is made, receiving updates or support can sometimes take longer than expected.
Momentum
The momentum for JASA Inc. Trade School is dynamic and generally positive, particularly regarding its technological approach to trade education. While it has deep roots as a community-focused non-profit, the school has successfully transitioned into a modern, tech-forward training center. The instructor’s hands-on involvement remains a primary driver of its high ratings, though the school is currently navigating the challenge of balancing its high-tech, virtual-first model with student expectations for high-cost tuition and long-term career placement.