Best Trade Schools in Mississippi (2025)

Updated August 14, 2025 | Brad Fishbein

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Mississippi's economy depends on skilled workers in manufacturing, shipbuilding, construction, and healthcare. Trade schools give students the skills to enter these industries quickly — often in less than two years. Whether you're in Jackson, Gulfport, Biloxi, or rural areas, there are accredited programs statewide.

Many Mississippi trade schools partner with employers and state workforce programs to help graduates secure jobs right after training.


Best Trade Schools in Mississippi

From HVAC and welding to allied health and marine trades, these schools offer practical, job-ready programs.

Top Accredited Trade Schools

Trade School Location(s) Top Programs Accreditation/Approvals Website
Hinds Community College Multiple campuses Welding, HVAC, Electrical, Nursing, Aviation SACSCOC Visit Site
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC) Gulfport, Biloxi, Perkinston Welding, HVAC, Marine Technology, Culinary, Nursing SACSCOC Visit Site
Jones College Ellisville Welding, HVAC, Electrical, Culinary, Allied Health SACSCOC Visit Site
Holmes Community College Multiple campuses Welding, HVAC, Electrical, Diesel, Healthcare SACSCOC Visit Site
Coahoma Community College Clarksdale Welding, HVAC, Automotive, Nursing SACSCOC Visit Site
Delta Technical College Horn Lake & Ridgeland HVAC, Welding, Medical Assisting, CDL ACCSC Visit Site
Pearl River Community College Poplarville & Hattiesburg Welding, HVAC, Electrical, Nursing SACSCOC Visit Site

Regional Strengths and Opportunities

  • Gulf Coast: Marine trades, shipbuilding, HVAC, and hospitality roles fueled by tourism and defense contracts.
  • Central Mississippi: Demand for healthcare workers, welders, and electrical technicians.
  • Northern Mississippi: Manufacturing, automotive, and logistics careers.

Why Mississippi Trade Schools Stand Out

  • Fast training: Many programs finish in 6–18 months, with associate degrees in about 2 years.
  • Employer links: Strong ties to shipyards, manufacturers, and healthcare systems.
  • Financial aid: Eligible students may qualify for Pell Grants, WIOA, and Mississippi's Workforce Enhancement Training funds.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best trade school in Mississippi?

Hinds Community College is a leading choice for welding, HVAC, nursing, and aviation. MGCCC is also highly respected for marine technology and allied health programs.

Are Mississippi community colleges considered trade schools?

Yes. Community colleges like Hinds, MGCCC, and Jones College offer accredited, career-focused programs similar to trade schools.

Are there tuition-free trade schools in Mississippi?

Mississippi offers Workforce Enhancement Training programs and WIOA funding that can cover tuition for eligible students in high-demand fields.

Can I get financial aid at a trade school in Mississippi?

Yes. Accredited programs often accept Pell Grants, federal loans, scholarships, WIOA, and state funding. Confirm Title IV eligibility.

What trades are in demand in Mississippi in 2025?

Welders, HVAC techs, electricians, marine technicians, nurses, CNAs, and diesel mechanics are in steady demand.


Mississippi's trade schools prepare students with the skills, certifications, and employer connections needed for well-paying careers. Whether you want to work in marine trades, healthcare, or skilled manufacturing, these programs can help you get there quickly.



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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.