Trade School

What you need to know about the Trades Industry

To start, check out our comprehensive Trades & Vocational Careers Guide. This overview of the process and opportunities will help you to understand and pursue a career in the trades. It offers valuable insights and actionable advice to help you navigate and take control of your career paths in this vital and growing industry.  

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What are Career Technical Education Districts (CTED’s)?

Career Technical Education Districts (CTED) provide students with the academic and technical skills, and with the knowledge and training necessary to succeed in future careers. CTED’s allow high school students to earn certifications in high-need fields while still in high school. Some of the Arizona CTED’s are also open to high school graduates for adult learning and certifications.

The core of the CTE programs are industry technical standards developed by professionals active in the field. CTE prepares learners for the world of work by introducing them to workplace competencies and makes academic content accessible to students by providing it in a hands-on context.

Arizona Private Trade Schools - after high school graduation

Community College Certification Programs

The Arizona Community Colleges also offer entry-level job certification programs for various career fields. Each campus has different programs available. To learn more:

  1. Visit the In-State Community Colleges section on the College Exploration Panning & Applications page

  2. Find the community college nearest you

  3. Expand the college’s listing to explore Degree Programs & Certificates on their website.

Know that these are just a handful of the trade or skills opportunities in Arizona. You can do a quick internet search for any career field you might be interested in.

How To Pay For Trade School

Visit our Financial Aid & Scholarships page to learn how you can pay for Trade School.

Free Career Certificates
You Can Earn Before Graduation

These free training opportunities can help students explore careers, develop workplace skills, strengthen resumes, and demonstrate initiative to employers, apprenticeship programs, colleges, and scholarship committees.

Fast Certificates
(Approximately 1–5 Hours)

Weekend Certifications
(Approximately 5–15 Hours)

Longer Self-Paced Learning