Best Trade Schools in Des Moines, Iowa (2025 Guide)

Updated September 14, 2025 | Brad Fishbein

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Here are the best schools in Des Moines. Use this guide to compare accredited programs, see which trades are hiring, and learn Iowa licensing steps so you can get licensed fast. Electricians, HVAC techs, welders, and plumbers remain in steady demand across Iowa1.

Top Trade Schools in Des Moines

Below are accredited or state-registered programs in the Des Moines area. Program lengths are typical; confirm exact start dates and formats with each school. Accreditation sources include U.S. Department of Education and recognized boards234.

School Program Length Highlights
Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) – Ankeny & Urban Campuses 1–2 years (diplomas/AAS) HLC-accredited public college with hands-on labs. Programs in HVAC, Electrical Construction, Welding, Automotive, Diesel, CNC/Advanced Manufacturing, Building Trades, and Culinary. Multiple campus locations and day/evening options2.
Mercy College of Health Sciences (Des Moines) 1–2 years (certs/AAS); select bachelor’s HLC-accredited. Focused health programs: Paramedic, Medical Assisting, Radiologic Technology, Respiratory Care, and more. Strong clinical placements with local health systems2.
Des Moines Electrical JATC (IBEW 347/NECA) – Ankeny 4–5 years (registered apprenticeship) Paid apprenticeship training for Inside Wireman, Residential, and VDV. Combines classroom with on-the-job training. Registered with U.S. DOL3.
Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 33 JATC – Des Moines ~5 years (registered apprenticeship) Paid training in Plumbing, Pipefitting, and HVAC-R Service. Earn raises as you progress. U.S. DOL–registered apprenticeship3.
ABC of Iowa Apprenticeship & Training Trust – Grimes (Des Moines metro) 4 years (registered apprenticeship) Merit-shop apprenticeship in Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, and Carpentry. Evening classes with full-time paid work at partner employers. U.S. DOL–registered3.
La’ James International College (Johnston/Des Moines) Varies by program (Iowa Board hours) NACCAS-accredited. Cosmetology, Esthetics, Nail Tech, Massage. Preps for Iowa licensure in appearance-related trades; flexible schedules available4.
DMACC Transportation Institute – Ankeny 6–9 weeks (CDL A) HLC-accredited (as part of DMACC). Commercial Driver’s License training with range and road practice. Employer recruiting and test preparation support2.

Tip: Visit each program’s outcomes page to compare completion rates, placement, and credential pass rates. College Navigator is a good starting point for verified school data2.

Skilled Trades in Demand

  • Electrician

    • Why it’s strong: Ongoing construction, data centers, and renewable energy projects keep demand steady1.
    • Work: Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, commercial sites, and industrial plants.
    • Path: Registered apprenticeship or approved school + Iowa journeyperson exam.

  • HVAC Technician

    • Why it’s strong: Aging equipment, new efficiency standards, and year-round service needs1.
    • Work: Heating, cooling, ventilation, and refrigeration install/service.
    • Path: Technical diploma/AAS or apprenticeship; EPA 608 required for refrigerants.

  • Welder

    • Why it’s strong: Manufacturing, construction, and ag equipment production across Iowa1.
    • Work: Fabrication, structural welding, maintenance, and repair.
    • Path: Short-term certificate plus industry certifications (e.g., AWS) preferred by employers.

  • Plumber

    • Why it’s strong: Residential and commercial growth, plus ongoing service and code upgrades1.
    • Work: Install and service water, sewer, gas, and hydronics systems.
    • Path: Registered apprenticeship; Iowa journeyperson and master licensing.

Salaries vary by experience and specialty, but these trades offer solid pay with overtime potential and benefits. National BLS data shows strong median wages and job stability for these roles1.

Licensing Requirements in Iowa

Below are high-level steps. Always confirm current rules with the state boards before you enroll or test.

  • Electrician (Iowa Electrical Examining Board)

    • Register as an apprentice with the state if you are training on the job.
    • Complete required on-the-job training hours (typically 8,000 for inside wiremen) and classroom instruction through an approved program.
    • Pass the Iowa journeyperson exam; then qualify for master after required experience.
    • Maintain continuing education for renewals5.

  • HVAC/Mechanical (Iowa Plumbing & Mechanical Systems Board – PMSB)

    • Register as an apprentice if training while employed.
    • Complete an approved program or apprenticeship in HVAC/Mechanical.
    • Pass the journeyperson exam; later apply for master when eligible.
    • Contractors need an Iowa contractor license and proof of insurance.
    • EPA Section 608 certification is required to handle refrigerants67.

  • Plumbing (PMSB)

    • Apprentice registration required for OJT.
    • Complete a registered apprenticeship or approved training.
    • Pass the journeyperson exam; qualify for master after required experience.
    • Maintain CE and follow PMSB renewal rules6.

  • Welding

    • No state welder license. Employers often require AWS performance qualifications (e.g., D1.1 structural) or process-specific certs; safety training like OSHA-10/30 improves employability.

  • CDL (Commercial Driving)

    • Complete ELDT-compliant training and pass knowledge, skills, and road tests through the Iowa DOT. Many local employers recruit from DMACC’s CDL program.

Online & Flexible Options

  • Hybrid programs: Many Des Moines programs blend online theory with in-person labs. Examples include DMACC technical diplomas and Mercy’s health programs for certain didactic courses2.
  • Apprenticeships: Earn while you learn. Most JATC and ABC programs offer paid, full-time work plus evening classes, which is ideal for career changers who need income while training3.
  • Fully online caution: Trades that require labs, clinicals, or state-mandated hours (electrical, HVAC, plumbing, cosmetology) cannot be completed 100% online in Iowa. Expect hands-on sessions and proctored exams per board rules56.
  • Short upskilling: Many providers offer night/weekend sections and short certificates in welding processes, HVAC troubleshooting, or electrical code updates. Ask about credit for prior learning or manufacturer trainings.

Next Steps

  • Compare more Iowa programs: visit the state hub at /trade-school/iowa/.
  • Not sure which trade fits you? Start at the trade hub: /trades/.
  • Explore national options and planning resources at /trade-school/.

Talk to admissions, ask about upcoming cohorts, and schedule a lab tour. If you plan to work in a licensed trade, confirm the program meets Iowa board requirements before you enroll.

  1. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook (Electricians, HVAC Mechanics and Installers, Plumbers, Welders). ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩

  2. U.S. Department of Education, College Navigator (institutional accreditation and program information for DMACC and Mercy College of Health Sciences). ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩

  3. U.S. Department of Labor, Registered Apprenticeship Program (program registration and standards). ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩

  4. National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS), Accredited School Directory (La’ James International College). ↩ ↩

  5. Iowa Electrical Examining Board, Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (licensing categories, exams, CE). ↩ ↩

  6. Iowa Plumbing & Mechanical Systems Board (PMSB) (apprentice registration, journeyperson/master licensing, contractor rules). ↩ ↩ ↩

  7. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Section 608 Technician Certification (refrigerant handling). ↩

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Brad Fishbein Licensed Mold Assessor

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.