Do you want to study at a school where you can learn practical skills and start working within a year or two? Then a trade school might be exactly what you’re looking for. Trade schools, also known as vocational or technical schools, focus on hands-on training that prepares students for specific careers. Instead of spending four years in a traditional college, you’ll learn job-ready skills in areas like welding, HVAC, healthcare, automotive technology, and electrical work.
At a trade school, classes are often smaller, and the learning style is more practical than theoretical. You spend more time doing the actual work, fixing, building, assisting, or operating equipment, so by the time you graduate, you already have real experience.
Indiana is home to many great trade schools that train students for in-demand careers across different industries. Some of these schools stand out because of their strong programs, experienced instructors, and excellent job placement rates. So, if you’re ready to learn a valuable skill and start your career faster, check out our list of the best trade schools in Indiana below.
Best Trade Schools in Indiana
These are the top five trade schools in Indiana.
1. Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana’s largest public postsecondary institution. It offers a wide range of programs designed to prepare students for both immediate employment and further education.
With more than 70 programs across fields like healthcare, advanced manufacturing, automotive technology, business, information technology, criminal justice, and more, Ivy Tech equips students with practical skills and industry knowledge.
The programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on training, giving students real-world experience that is highly valued by employers.
2. Lincoln College of Technology (Lincoln Tech)
Lincoln College of Technology (Lincoln Tech) in Indianapolis, Indiana, is a private, two-year technical college that has been a cornerstone of the city’s professional training scene since 1961.
The campus offers a range of hands-on training programs designed to prepare students for careers in various industries. Programs include Automotive Service Technology, Collision Repair and Refinishing, Diesel and Truck Service Technology, Electrical and Electronic Systems Technology, Medical Assistant, Medical Assistant Technology, HVAC, and Welding Technology.
These programs combine classroom instruction with practical experience, equipping students with the skills needed to succeed in their chosen fields. The Indianapolis campus is strategically located less than 10 miles from landmarks like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, providing students with access to a vibrant professional community.
3. Hoosier Trade School
Hoosier Trade School, located in Indianapolis, Indiana, is a specialized institution focused on providing hands-on training in the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) and Electrical fields.
Their programs are designed to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in these high-demand trades. The HVAC program, for instance, covers areas such as system installation, maintenance, and repair, preparing students for various roles in residential and commercial settings.
Similarly, the Electrical program offers training in electrical systems, wiring, and safety protocols, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in the electrical industry.
4. International Business College (IBC)
International Business College (IBC) in Indianapolis, Indiana, is a private, for-profit institution that has been providing career-focused education since 1889. IBC offers a range of programs designed to prepare students for immediate employment in various fields.
The college emphasizes hands-on learning, ensuring that students acquire practical skills that are directly applicable to their chosen careers. Programs are structured to be completed quickly, allowing graduates to enter the workforce without unnecessary delays.
5. Fortis College in Indianapolis
Fortis College in Indianapolis, Indiana, is a private, for-profit institution that offers a variety of career-focused programs designed to prepare students for immediate employment in high-demand fields.
Established in 2009, the college provides diploma and degree programs in areas such as nursing, dental assisting, medical assisting, HVAC-R (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration), and welding technology.
The nursing programs, including the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue careers as registered nurses in various healthcare settings.
The HVAC-R program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training to prepare students for roles in maintaining and repairing heating and cooling systems. Dental and medical assisting programs focus on providing students with the practical skills needed to support dental and medical professionals in their daily operations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much do trade school programs cost in Indiana?
Tuition costs vary by program and school, but most trade programs in Indiana are far more affordable than traditional four-year universities. On average, students can expect to spend between $5,000 and $20,000 for the entire program, depending on the field and duration.
2. What kind of jobs can I get after trade school?
Graduates from trade schools in Indiana can work in a wide range of industries. For example, HVAC technicians, electricians, and welders often move directly into full-time positions with construction companies or manufacturing firms. Medical assistants, dental hygienists, and nursing graduates find work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Many trade fields also allow for self-employment once you gain experience and certification.
3. How is employment for trade school graduates in Indiana?
Employment prospects for trade school graduates in Indiana are very strong. The state continues to see growth in skilled trades, healthcare, and technology. According to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, many of these careers have faster-than-average job growth and competitive salaries. Employers actively seek graduates with hands-on training, meaning you can start earning soon after completing your program.
4. Do trade schools offer job placement assistance?
Yes, most trade schools in Indiana provide job placement support. They often partner with local employers and industries to connect graduates to open positions. Many schools also host career fairs, offer resume workshops, and help with interview preparation to make the job search easier.
5. Can I continue my education after trade school?
Absolutely. Many trade school graduates choose to continue their education later, either by earning additional certifications or transferring credits to a community college or university. Schools like Ivy Tech Community College make this process easier through established transfer partnerships.
Conclusion
Before you make your final choice, take some time to look closely at each of these trade schools. Think about what matters most to you, the kind of program you want, how long it takes, tuition costs, hands-on training, and job placement support.
Visit their websites, read reviews, and if possible, talk to current or former students. The right school for you is the one that fits your goals and gives you the confidence and skills to start your career strong.