Best Trade Schools in Hawaii (2025)
Updated August 14, 2025 | Brad Fishbein
Hawaii needs skilled workers to keep homes, hotels, hospitals, and infrastructure running. Trade schools help you learn practical skills fast so you can start working in months, not years. Whether you’re on Oahu, Hawaii Island, Maui, or Kauai, you’ll find accredited programs that fit your life.
Many programs connect directly with employers and apprenticeships so graduates move quickly into paid roles.
Best Trade Schools in Hawaii
From HVAC and electrical to welding and allied health, these schools offer job-ready training.
Top Accredited Trade Schools
| Trade School | Location(s) | Top Programs | Accreditation/Approvals | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honolulu Community College | Honolulu (Oahu) | Electrical, HVAC, Welding, Automotive, Aeronautics | ACCJC (WASC) | Visit Site |
| Hawai‘i Community College | Hilo & Palamanui (Hawaii Island) | Carpentry, Electrical, Diesel/Auto, Welding, Culinary | ACCJC (WASC) | Visit Site |
| UH Maui College | Kahului (Maui) | Construction Tech, Sustainable Science, Auto, Culinary | ACCJC (WASC) | Visit Site |
| Kaua‘i Community College | Līhu‘e (Kauai) | Automotive Tech, Facilities Maintenance, Welding | ACCJC (WASC) | Visit Site |
| Kapi‘olani Community College | Honolulu (Oahu) | Allied Health (MA, Phlebotomy), Culinary, Hospitality | ACCJC (WASC) | Visit Site |
| Leeward Community College | Pearl City & Wai‘anae (Oahu) | Facilities Maintenance, IT/Tech, Business Skills | ACCJC (WASC) | Visit Site |
| Hawaii Institute of Hair Design | Honolulu (Oahu) | Cosmetology, Barbering | NACCAS; State Board | Visit Site |
| Paul Mitchell The School Honolulu | Honolulu (Oahu) | Cosmetology, Esthetics | NACCAS; State Board | Visit Site |
Regional Strengths and Opportunities
- Oahu: Highest demand across electrical, HVAC, facilities, and hospitality maintenance for hotels and healthcare.
- Hawaii Island: Building trades, automotive and diesel, energy, and public works.
- Maui County: Construction tech, sustainable energy, and resort facilities.
- Kauai: Automotive, facilities maintenance, and welding to support local infrastructure and tourism.
Why Hawaii Trade Schools Stand Out
- Short programs: Many certificates finish in 6–18 months; associate degrees take about 2 years.
- Employer pipelines: Strong ties to contractors, hotels, hospitals, and facilities companies.
- Financial help: Eligible students may qualify for Pell Grants, WIOA, and the Hawai‘i Promise scholarship at UH community colleges.
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 Hawaii?
Honolulu CC is a top choice for electrical, HVAC, welding, automotive, and aeronautics. Hawai‘i CC and UH Maui College also deliver strong hands-on training.
Are Hawaii community colleges considered trade schools?
Yes. The UH community colleges offer accredited, career-focused programs that function like trade schools with employer partnerships and job placement support.
Are there tuition-free trade schools in Hawaii?
Programs aren’t fully free for everyone, but many UH community college students qualify for the Hawai‘i Promise scholarship, plus Pell and WIOA can reduce costs.
Can I get financial aid at a trade school in Hawaii?
Yes. Accredited schools may accept Pell Grants, federal loans, scholarships, WIOA, and Hawai‘i Promise where eligible. Confirm Title IV status.
What trades are in demand in Hawaii in 2025?
Electricians, HVAC techs, solar PV installers, carpenters, welders, plumbers, medical assistants, CNAs, and facilities maintenance roles are in steady demand.
Hawaii’s trade programs offer practical training, recognized credentials, and direct ties to local employers. Pick a program that matches your goals, get certified, and step into a reliable career.
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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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