Trade Schools in Vermont

With key industries such as manufacturing, software development and renewable energy, Vermont has plenty of job opportunities for those with a technical education. In fact, the National Skills Coalition says 49 percent of the state's jobs require middle skills. That means they need workers who have some training or education past high school but not a bachelor's degree.

Solar photovoltaic installers, diagnostic medical sonographers and veterinary technologists and technicians are some of the fastest growing middle-skill occupations in the state, according to the Vermont Department of Labor. In Burlington, phlebotomists should also see strong job growth in coming years while the southern balance of the state is expected to see demand for computer network support specialists, physical therapy assistants and respiratory therapists.

Technical schools in Vermont offer a variety of certificate and degree programs designed to help graduates find jobs in these and other occupations. Depending on their major, they may find work with some of the state's largest employers such as The University of Vermont Medical Center, Ethan Allen, Keurig Green Mountain and GE Aircraft Engines.

Why is Vermont Good for Vocational Schools?

In recent years, Vermont has worked to promote career technical education, also known as CTE. As early as middle school, students are encouraged to consider whether to pursue a curriculum that will prepare them for a specific trade or technical field.

Overall, 93 percent of high school students who choose a CTE curriculum will go on to graduate, according to Advance CTE, an organization made up of career technical education professionals. That's 4% higher than the graduation rate for all students.

After high school, students can choose from a number of traditional and online trade schools in Vermont. These institutions may offer affordable education and flexible scheduling to make it convenient to obtain the training needed for the state's in-demand occupations.

Highest-Paying and Fastest-Growing Careers in Vermont

Financial Aid for Vocational Students in Vermont

You'll spend an average of $8,210 to enroll for a year at a public two-year school in Vermont. Fortunately, financial assistance is available to offset that cost.

Since 1965, the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation has awarded more than $705 million in scholarships and grants to state residents. The VSAC also has loan and college savings options to help make a higher education more affordable.

To receive financial aid in Vermont, the first step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Known as the FAFSA, this form is used to determine eligibility for Vermont scholarships and grants as well as federal and institutional aid. For more on the FAFSA and how to apply for financial aid in Vermont, see our financial aid guide.

Eligible students may receive funding from the following VSAC programs:

• Vermont Incentive Grant: This need-based program is available to those who have not earned a bachelor's degree and are enrolled full-time in a federally approved undergraduate degree or certificate program. Awards range from $1,000 to $12,300 and depend on your financial need and the cost of your college.
• Vermont Part-Time Grant: Similar to the Vermont Incentive Grant, this financial aid is available to part-time students. Grant awards range from $500 to $9,230.
• Advancement Grant: Specifically for those enrolled in non-degree career training programs, Advancement Grants vary in amount depending on the cost of your program, type of program, financial need and fund availability.