Best Trade Schools in Oregon (2025)

Q: What is the best trade school in Oregon?

Portland Community College is the largest and most comprehensive, offering programs in welding, HVAC, automotive, and healthcare. Lane Community College is also highly regarded for aviation and renewable energy.

Q: Are Oregon community colleges considered trade schools?

Yes. Many Oregon community colleges provide accredited, hands-on training leading to skilled trade careers.

Q: Are there tuition-free trade schools in Oregon?

While no schools are entirely free, the Oregon Promise Grant and other aid can make community college nearly tuition-free for eligible students.

Q: Can I get financial aid at a trade school in Oregon?

Yes. Accredited trade schools in Oregon often accept Pell Grants, federal loans, scholarships, and state aid such as the Oregon Opportunity Grant.

Q: What trades are in demand in Oregon in 2025?

Welders, HVAC technicians, electricians, nurses, renewable energy specialists, and automotive service technicians are in high demand.

Updated August 14, 2025 | Brad Fishbein

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Oregon's diverse economy relies on skilled workers in manufacturing, healthcare, renewable energy, and construction. Trade schools across the state offer short-term, career-focused training designed to prepare students for high-demand jobs in these industries. Programs can often be completed in less than two years, and many include internships or apprenticeships for hands-on experience.

Whether you live in Portland, Eugene, Salem, or rural Oregon, you can find accredited programs that match your career goals and schedule.

Best Trade Schools in Oregon

These accredited schools provide practical, job-ready training for in-demand careers.

Top Accredited Trade Schools

Trade School	Location(s)	Top Programs	Accreditation/Approvals	Website
Portland Community College (PCC)	Portland Metro	Welding, HVAC, Electrical, Automotive, Healthcare	NWCCU	Visit Site
Chemeketa Community College	Salem, McMinnville	Welding, HVAC, EMT, Fire Science, Dental Assisting	NWCCU	Visit Site
Lane Community College	Eugene	Aviation, Welding, Automotive, Nursing, Renewable Energy	NWCCU	Visit Site
Clackamas Community College	Oregon City	Welding, Electrical, Horticulture, Criminal Justice	NWCCU	Visit Site
Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT)	Klamath Falls, Wilsonville	Renewable Energy, Civil Engineering Tech, Healthcare	NWCCU	Visit Site
Pioneer Pacific College	Springfield	Medical Assisting, Paralegal, Culinary Arts	ACICS	Visit Site
Northwest College	Multiple OR Locations	Cosmetology, Barbering, Esthetics	NACCAS	Visit Site

Regional Strengths and Opportunities

Portland Metro: Strong demand for construction trades, healthcare workers, and green technology specialists.
Willamette Valley: Growth in manufacturing, agriculture tech, and healthcare.
Eastern & Southern Oregon: High demand for diesel mechanics, welding, and electrical trades.

Why Oregon Trade Schools Stand Out

Short programs: Certificates often finish in 6–18 months, associate degrees in 2 years.
Hands-on training: Many programs integrate labs, fieldwork, and apprenticeships.
Financial aid: Oregon offers state grants, Pell Grants, and the Oregon Promise for eligible students.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best trade school in Oregon?

Portland Community College is the largest and most comprehensive, with programs in welding, HVAC, automotive, and healthcare. Lane Community College is also highly regarded for aviation and renewable energy programs.

Are Oregon community colleges considered trade schools?

Yes. Many Oregon community colleges offer accredited, hands-on training that leads directly to skilled trade careers.

Are there tuition-free trade schools in Oregon?

Not entirely, but the Oregon Promise Grant and other state programs can make community college nearly tuition-free for eligible students.

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

Yes. Most accredited trade schools accept Pell Grants, federal loans, scholarships, and state-specific aid like the Oregon Opportunity Grant.

What trades are in demand in Oregon in 2025?

Welders, HVAC techs, electricians, nurses, renewable energy specialists, and automotive service technicians are in high demand.

Oregon's trade schools combine hands-on training, strong employer partnerships, and financial aid options to prepare students for stable, well-paying careers.

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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.