Updated August 2, 2025 | Brad Fishbein
Virginia's economy is fueled by construction, logistics, energy, and healthcare-making it a great place to launch a skilled trade career. Whether you live in Richmond, Norfolk, Roanoke, or a rural part of the state, trade schools in Virginia offer hands-on training to prepare you for high-demand jobs.
From HVAC and CDL certifications to welding, allied health, and mechatronics, Virginia trade programs help students get certified and hired in under two years.
These accredited trade schools provide practical training, employer connections, and strong placement outcomes.
Trade School | Location | Top Programs | Accreditation | Website |
---|---|---|---|---|
Virginia Community College System (VCCS) | Statewide (23 colleges) | HVAC, CDL, Welding, Electrical, Healthcare | SACSCOC, State Approved | Visit Site |
Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) | Virginia Beach | Automotive, Diesel, HVAC, Welding | ACCSC | Visit Site |
Centura College | Multiple Locations | Medical Assisting, HVAC, Electrician | ACCSC | Visit Site |
New Horizons Regional Education Centers | Hampton | Welding, HVAC, Construction, Mechatronics | COE, State Approved | Visit Site |
ECPI University - College of Technology | Richmond, Newport News | Mechatronics, Electronics, HVAC | SACSCOC | Visit Site |
Blue Ridge Community College | Weyers Cave | Welding, CDL, HVAC, Health Sciences | SACSCOC | Visit Site |
Top picks include the VCCS system, ATI in Virginia Beach, and ECPI University for hands-on programs in HVAC, CDL, welding, and electronics.
Yes. Many VCCS schools offer short-term career and technical education (CTE) in high-demand skilled trades.
Yes. The G3 program and FastForward initiative make many career-focused programs tuition-free for qualifying students.
Yes. Eligible students can apply for Pell Grants, WIOA, G3 funding, and FastForward tuition assistance.
According to the Virginia Employment Commission and BLS:
If you're ready to start a skilled trade career in Virginia, these accredited schools can help you get trained, certified, and working. Explore your options and apply today.
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Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. Heβs 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.