Trade Schools in San Diego, California
Updated September 12, 2025 | Brad Fishbein
San Diego's economy is driven by healthcare, construction, defense, and green energy, making it one of California's best cities for vocational students. The region offers a wide range of community colleges, private trade schools, and apprenticeship programs that prepare students for careers without requiring a four-year degree.
Top Trade Schools in San Diego
| School | Programs Offered | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| San Diego City College (SDCCD) | HVAC, Welding, Automotive, Nursing, Culinary, IT | Affordable, accredited, strong employer network |
| UEI College – San Diego | HVAC, Dental Assistant, Medical Assistant | Career-focused training with flexible schedules |
| Concorde Career College – San Diego | Dental Hygiene, Surgical Tech, LVN, Medical Assistant | Healthcare-specific programs |
| Center for Employment Training (CET – San Diego) | HVAC, Welding, Green Building Construction | Nonprofit career training with employer partnerships |
| Pima Medical Institute – San Marcos (near San Diego) | Veterinary Tech, Respiratory Therapy, Medical Assistant | Healthcare-only training with externships |
| Job Corps – San Diego | Welding, Healthcare, Culinary, Office Administration | Tuition-free training for eligible students |
Apprenticeships in San Diego
- IBEW Local 569 Electrical Apprenticeship (San Diego) — Paid training for inside wiremen.
- UA Local 230 Plumbers & Pipefitters (San Diego) — Apprenticeships in plumbing, HVAC, and pipefitting.
- Southern California Carpenters Training Fund (San Diego) — Apprenticeships in carpentry, drywall, flooring, and finishing.
- Operating Engineers Local 12 — Heavy equipment operator apprenticeships in San Diego County.
Trade Job Salaries in San Diego (2025)
| Trade Career | Entry-Level | Average | Experienced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $23/hr ($48k) | $32/hr ($67k) | $41/hr ($85k) |
| HVAC Technician | $22/hr ($46k) | $30/hr ($62k) | $39/hr ($81k) |
| Welder | $19/hr ($40k) | $27/hr ($56k) | $35/hr ($73k) |
| CDL Truck Driver | $22/hr ($46k) | $30/hr ($62k) | $38/hr ($79k) |
| Diesel Mechanic | $23/hr ($48k) | $31/hr ($65k) | $39/hr ($81k) |
| Medical Assistant | $17/hr ($35k) | $21/hr ($44k) | $26/hr ($54k) |
Licensing Steps in California
Electricians
- Register as trainee → Complete apprenticeship/trade program → Pass state exam.
HVAC
- No state license for technicians, but C-20 Contractor License required for independent work.
Plumbers
- Work as apprentice → Gain required hours → Apply for CSLB C-36 Plumbing license if contracting.
Healthcare (LVN)
- Graduate from BVNPT-approved program → Pass NCLEX-PN → Apply for California LVN license.
Why San Diego Works for Trade Students
- Defense sector. Naval bases and defense contractors create demand for electricians, welders, and diesel mechanics.
- Healthcare expansion. Systems like Scripps Health and UC San Diego Health drive medical careers.
- Green energy. California's renewable energy policies fuel demand for solar installers and electricians.
- Union access. Strong apprenticeships provide earn-while-you-learn training.
Financial Aid in San Diego
- California College Promise Grant (community college tuition waivers)
- Pell Grants and FAFSA for Title IV programs
- WIOA funding through San Diego Workforce Partnership
- Paid apprenticeships that cover training costs
FAQs
What's the fastest trade to train for in San Diego?
HVAC, welding, and medical assisting programs can be completed in under 12 months.
Which trades pay the most in San Diego?
Electricians, plumbers, and heavy equipment operators often exceed $80k annually.
Can I work while studying?
Yes. Most schools offer evening classes, and apprenticeships provide paid training.
San Diego is one of California's strongest trade school markets, with a unique mix of defense, healthcare, construction, and renewable energy careers. Students here can train affordably and step into jobs that pay well above the national average.
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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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