Trade Schools in Houston, Texas
Updated September 12, 2025 | Brad Fishbein
Houston is one of the largest trade hubs in the United States, powered by energy, healthcare, shipping, and construction. For students who want to build a career without a four-year degree, Houston offers an unmatched mix of options:
- Affordable community colleges
- Private trade and career schools
- Specialized welding and maritime training centers
- Strong apprenticeship programs backed by unions
This guide gives you the complete roadmap to starting a skilled trade career in Houston — from schools and apprenticeships to wages, licensing, and financial aid.
Top Trade Schools in Houston
| School | Programs Offered | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Houston Community College (HCC) | HVAC, Welding, Machining, Automotive, Nursing, Dental Hygiene | Low-cost tuition, multiple campuses, regionally accredited |
| Lone Star College | Diesel Tech, HVAC, Welding, Construction, IT, Healthcare | One of the largest college systems in Texas; strong employer partnerships |
| Tulsa Welding School – Houston | Welding, Pipefitting | Nationally recognized, hands-on labs; employer demand is strong |
| Texas State Technical College (TSTC – Fort Bend near Houston) | Welding, HVAC, Electrical Lineworker, Diesel | Career-focused with excellent job placement support |
| Remington College – Houston North Campus | HVAC, Medical Assisting, Construction | Nonprofit career school with flexible scheduling |
| UEI College – Houston | HVAC, Dental Assistant, Medical Assistant | Accelerated training, short program lengths |
| Pima Medical Institute – Houston | Veterinary Technician, Medical Assistant, Respiratory Therapy | Accredited healthcare-focused training |
| Texas School of Business (Houston) | Allied Health, IT Support, Business Admin | Office and healthcare programs, accelerated diplomas |
Pro tip: Public colleges like HCC and Lone Star usually offer the lowest tuition, while specialized schools like Tulsa Welding can get you job-ready faster in specific fields.
Apprenticeships and Union Training in Houston
Houston is a union apprenticeship hub. These programs let you earn a paycheck while training:
- IBEW Local 716 Electrical Apprenticeship — inside wireman program; requires application, aptitude test, and interview. Paid training with health and retirement benefits.
- UA Local 68 Plumbers & Pipefitters — apprenticeships in plumbing, HVACR, pipefitting, and welding. Five-year programs with wage increases as you progress.
- Ironworkers Local 84 (Houston) — structural ironwork apprenticeship with OSHA and NCCER certifications.
- Texas Carpenters & Millwrights Training Trust Fund — apprenticeships in carpentry, drywall, and millwright work.
For pre-apprenticeship pathways, check Houston Job Corps Center, which offers construction, welding, and healthcare basics.
Trade Job Salaries in Houston (2025)
| Trade Career | Entry-Level | Average | Experienced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $21/hr ($44k) | $29/hr ($61k) | $36/hr ($75k) |
| HVAC Technician | $20/hr ($42k) | $27/hr ($56.8k) | $34/hr ($70k) |
| Welder | $18/hr ($37k) | $25/hr ($51.2k) | $31/hr ($65k) |
| CDL Truck Driver | $22/hr ($46k) | $28/hr ($59k) | $34/hr ($71k) |
| Diesel Mechanic | $23/hr ($48k) | $29/hr ($60.5k) | $36/hr ($75k) |
| Medical Assistant | $16/hr ($33k) | $19/hr ($40k) | $23/hr ($48k) |
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas Workforce Commission, 2025)
Why Houston Works for Trade Students
- Energy industry jobs. Oil, gas, and renewables keep electricians, welders, and pipefitters in demand.
- Healthcare hub. The Texas Medical Center is the world’s largest, employing thousands of allied health professionals.
- Port of Houston. Diesel mechanics, CDL drivers, and logistics specialists thrive in shipping and freight.
- Population growth. Houston is one of the fastest-growing U.S. metros, fueling demand for construction and HVAC.
Licensing Steps in Texas
Electricians
- Register as apprentice → Work 8,000 hours → Apply and pass journeyman exam.
HVAC
- Register as technician at 16+ → Gain experience → Apply for ACR Contractor License with exam and insurance.
Plumbers
- Register as apprentice → Work 8,000 hours → Apply and pass journeyman exam → Advance to Master.
LVNs (Nursing)
- Graduate from state-approved program → Pass NCLEX-PN → Apply to Texas Board of Nursing.
Financial Aid for Houston Students
- Pell Grants & FAFSA — for eligible students in Title IV programs.
- Texas Public Education Grant (TPEG) — available at HCC and Lone Star.
- WIOA funding — job seekers may qualify through Workforce Solutions Gulf Coast.
- Apprenticeships — cover tuition while paying wages.
FAQs
What is the fastest trade to learn in Houston?
HVAC, welding, and medical assisting can all be completed in 9–12 months.
Which trade pays best in Houston?
Electricians, diesel mechanics, and experienced welders often earn over $70k with overtime.
Can I work while in school?
Yes. Many programs offer evening classes, and apprenticeships pay while you train.
Houston offers more trade schools, apprenticeships, and job opportunities than any other Texas city. With above-average wages, strong employer demand, and multiple training options, it’s one of the best places in America to launch a skilled trade 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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