Best Trade Schools in Indiana (2025)
Updated August 2, 2025 | Brad Fishbein
Indiana is a hub for advanced manufacturing, construction, and healthcare-sectors that depend on a steady pipeline of skilled tradespeople. Whether you're in Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, or a rural part of the state, Indiana's trade schools provide direct paths into in-demand careers.
From CDL training to HVAC, welding, and medical assisting, Indiana offers hands-on programs that lead to long-term job stability and growth.
Best Trade Schools in Indiana
These top schools offer accredited training with strong employer partnerships and job placement support.
Top Accredited Trade Schools
| Trade School | Location | Top Programs | Accreditation | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ivy Tech Community College | Statewide | HVAC, Welding, CNC, Healthcare | HLC | Visit Site |
| Lincoln Tech | Indianapolis | Automotive, HVAC, Electrical | ACCSC | Visit Site |
| Vincennes University | Vincennes | Welding, HVAC, Precision Machining | HLC | Visit Site |
| J Everett Light Career Center | Indianapolis | Welding, CNA, HVAC (High school + adult) | State Approved | Visit Site |
| Fortis College | Indianapolis | Medical Assisting, HVAC | ACCSC | Visit Site |
| Walker Career Center | Indianapolis | Welding, Construction, HVAC | State Approved | Visit Site |
Regional Strengths & Opportunities
- Indianapolis Metro: Growth in healthcare, HVAC, and electrical trades driven by urban expansion and new construction.
- Northern Indiana: High demand for CDL drivers and machinists due to the region's manufacturing and logistics base.
- Southern Indiana: Welding, HVAC, and CNA programs are in demand in areas with limited 4-year college access.
Why Indiana Trade Schools Stand Out
- State Workforce Ready Grants: Covers full tuition for high-demand certificate programs.
- Dual Enrollment Options: High school students can start trade careers early through CTE centers.
- Fast-Track Training: Many programs can be completed in 6-18 months.
🔗 Related Trade School Guides
- Best Trade Schools in the U.S.
- How to Choose a Trade School
- Financial Aid for Trade School
- How Long is Trade School?
- How Much Does Trade School Cost?
- Online Trade Schools
- Trade School vs. Apprenticeship
- Trade School vs. College
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best trade school in Indiana?
Ivy Tech is the state's largest trade training network with excellent coverage in HVAC, welding, and healthcare. Lincoln Tech and Vincennes University also offer strong trade programs with good job outcomes.
Are Indiana community colleges considered trade schools?
Yes. Ivy Tech and Vincennes University are community colleges that offer trade-focused training and certifications with strong industry recognition.
Are there tuition-free trade schools in Indiana?
Yes - the Indiana Workforce Ready Grant may cover full tuition for eligible students enrolling in high-demand fields like CDL, HVAC, welding, and healthcare.
Can I get financial aid at a trade school in Indiana?
Yes. Students can apply for Pell Grants, Workforce Ready Grants, and institutional aid. Most accredited schools in Indiana participate in Title IV funding.
What trades are in demand in Indiana in 2025?
According to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development and BLS:
- HVAC Technicians
- Electricians
- Welders
- Truck Drivers (CDL)
- Medical Assistants
- CNC Machinists
- Construction Techs
Whether you're just out of high school or ready for a career change, Indiana trade schools offer a clear, affordable path to success. Choose your program and start training today.
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Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.
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