Skilled Trades in Phoenix and surrounding area

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HVAC Training

Here is a list of prominent HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and often Refrigeration - HVAC/R) training programs and schools in the Phoenix metro area (Phoenix, Mesa, Glendale, Avondale, and nearby).

Arizona does not require a state license for entry-level HVAC technicians (you can work under a licensed contractor), but most employers expect EPA 608 certification (Universal is common). To become a licensed contractor (for bidding jobs independently), you typically need 4 years of experience (some school time may count) plus passing trade and business exams through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC). Many programs prepare you for EPA 608, NATE, and other industry certifications.

Programs range from short accelerated certificates (3–10 months) focused on hands-on skills (refrigeration, electrical, installation, troubleshooting, ductwork, etc.) to longer AAS degrees.

  • Arizona Automotive Institute (Glendale)

    • Address: 6829 N 46th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301.

    • Courses/Programs: Air Conditioning, Heating, and Basic Refrigeration Diploma (covers fundamentals of HVAC systems, refrigeration, heating, and service).

    • Cost: Contact school for current tuition (typical diploma programs in the $10,000+ range before aid).

    • Length: Approximately 6–12 months depending on schedule (full-time options available).

    GateWay Community College (Maricopa Community Colleges – Phoenix)

    • Address: 108 N 40th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034 (Central City Campus and other locations).

    • Courses/Programs: HVAC Residential Installation and Service Technician (Certificate of Completion), HVAC Commercial Installation and Service Technician, Air Conditioning/Refrigeration/Facilities (AAS degree), plus shorter certificates. PAHRA-accredited with Johnson Controls partnership; covers electricity, systems, diagnostics, and more.

    • Cost: Affordable – estimated ~$5,315 total for residential clock-hour program (tuition ~$3,300 + fees ~$2,000 + books ~$350); per-credit rates as low as ~$97–$108 for residents (use net price calculator).

    • Length: Residential certificate ~660 clock hours / ~8 months full-time (4 days/week); commercial and AAS options 9–24 months.

    Hands On HVAC School (Phoenix)

    • Address: 4611 E Baseline Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85042.

    • Courses/Programs: Hands-on HVAC training with focus on practical skills and certifications.

    • Cost: Contact for current pricing (competitive with payment plans).

    • Length: Varies; accelerated options available (contact for exact schedules).

    Mesa Community College (Mesa)

    • Address: 1833 W Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85202 (part of Maricopa system).

    • Courses/Programs: H.V.A.C.R. Residential Service (Certificate of Completion) and related HVAC courses (installation, service, refrigeration).

    • Cost: Maricopa resident rates (low cost; similar to GateWay, often a few thousand dollars total with aid).

    • Length: Certificate programs typically 9–12 months; flexible scheduling.

    National Technical Institute (NTI) (Phoenix)

    • Address: 3660 E Wier Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85040.

    • Courses/Programs: HVAC Technician Training, Commercial Refrigeration; accelerated curriculum with EPA prep.

    • Cost: Affordable tuition (often in the $6,000–$10,000 range before aid; financing options available); contact for exact.

    • Length: As little as 3 months (accelerated/full-time); 8-week commercial refrigeration add-on.

    The Refrigeration School, Inc. (RSI) (Phoenix)

    • Address: 4210 E Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034.

    • Courses/Programs: Refrigeration Technologies (HVAC focus), Electro-Mechanical Technologies (HVAC + electrical/mechanical); hands-on labs, EPA 608 prep.

    • Cost: Typically $10,000–$15,000+ range for full programs (varies by length; contact for current quotes and aid).

    • Length: Refrigeration Technologies ~6–7 months; Electro-Mechanical ~9 months.

    UEI College (Phoenix & Mesa)

    • Addresses: Phoenix – 9215 N Black Canyon Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85021; Mesa – 1420 W Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85202.

    • Courses/Programs: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) program (hybrid format); covers installation, maintenance, repair, EPA 608, and Low GWP Refrigerant Safety.

    • Cost: Contact for current total (hybrid diploma programs often $12,000–$18,000 range before aid).

    • Length: Approximately 10 months (hybrid with 9 course modules).

    Universal Technical Institute (UTI) (Avondale)

    • Address: Avondale campus (Phoenix metro west side; exact address on uti.edu).

    • Courses/Programs: HVACR Technician program (covers core HVAC, electricity, refrigeration, heating, ventilation, ductwork, indoor air quality, and certification prep).

    • Cost: Contact admissions for current tuition (trade programs typically higher-end; financial aid and military benefits available).

    • Length: Approximately 9 months (full-time, blended learning with hands-on labs).

    Vocational Training Institute (Phoenix)

    • Address: Phoenix, AZ (exact address on myvocationaltrainingaz.com; central Phoenix area).

    • Courses/Programs: HVAC/R Entry-Level Technician Training (hands-on with real equipment from brands like Carrier, Lennox; diagnostics, troubleshooting).

    • Cost: Example ~$10,245 tuition + ~$700 materials (total around $11,000; includes some exam/license support; confirm current).

    • Length: Short-term/fast-paced (contact for exact weeks/months; designed for quick workforce entry).

    West-MEC Adult Education HVAC-R Program (Phoenix area)

    • Address: Northeast Campus or partner locations in Phoenix metro (e.g., near 85027 area).

    • Courses/Programs: HVAC-R Certification (comprehensive entry-level: electrical, refrigeration, diagnostics); EPA 608 prep.

    • Cost: Affordable (contact for current rates; eligible for FAFSA, GI Bill).

    • Length: 600 clock hours / approximately 10 months.

Carpentry

Here is a list of carpentry training programs and schools in the Phoenix metro area (Phoenix, Mesa, and nearby), sorted alphabetically. Arizona does not have a strict state licensing requirement for general carpenters (you can work as a helper or under a licensed contractor), but many programs prepare students for entry-level jobs, apprenticeships, NCCER certifications, OSHA 10, and other credentials. Advanced careers (e.g., independent contractor) often require experience and passing exams through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC).

Programs range from short pre-apprenticeship or certificate courses (focused on framing, safety, tools, blueprints, wall/roof/floor systems) to longer apprenticeships or college certificates.

  • GateWay Community College (Maricopa Community Colleges)

    Address: 108 N. 40th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034 (Washington Campus and other locations).

    Courses/Programs: Construction Trades programs with carpentry focus (introductory skills, safety, tools, framing, etc.); credit for prior learning/journeyworker pathways toward AAS in Construction Trades; partners with Southwest Carpenters Training Fund for apprenticeship-related training.

    Cost: Low community college rates (often a few thousand dollars total for certificates; use net price calculator; significantly lower for Maricopa residents).

    Length: Varies by certificate (typically one or more semesters / 4–12 months); apprenticeship pathways longer (years, with paid on-the-job training).

  • Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona – Construction Training Program (CTP)

    Address: 2830 W Glendale Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85051.

    Courses/Programs: Pre-apprenticeship residential construction training (classroom, lab, and field work in carpentry/framing, safety, tools, and building homes); NCCER-based.

    Cost: Often low-cost or scholarship-supported (contact for current details; focused on workforce development).

    Length: 9–12 weeks (hands-on residential focus).

  • Home Building Academy (Phoenix)

    Address: 3100 E. Broadway Road, Suite 100, Phoenix, AZ 85040.

    Courses/Programs: Carpentry and Framing Training (hands-on wood framing, blueprint reading, structural assembly, residential construction skills).

    Cost: Tuition-free for eligible participants (18+ in Central Arizona; designed for quick workforce entry).

    Length: Varies; focused short-term intensive program (contact for current cohort length).

  • Mesa Community College (Maricopa Community Colleges)

    Address: 1833 W Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85202.

    Courses/Programs: Construction Trades: Carpentry specialization (CCL – Certificate of Completion); covers safety, tools, framing, residential/commercial skills; electrical also available.

    Cost: Affordable Maricopa resident rates (typically a few thousand dollars total before aid; per-credit pricing).

    Length: Approximately one semester or more (30 credits option; full- or part-time).

  • Phoenix Training Center – Western States Carpenters Training Fund (WSCTF)

    Address: 4547 W. McDowell Road, Suite 5, Phoenix, AZ 85035.

    Courses/Programs: Union-affiliated carpentry apprenticeship and journey-level training (framing, formwork, finishing, safety, commercial/residential); comprehensive trade skills.

    Cost: Often low or covered through union sponsorship/apprenticeship wages (contact for details; paid training model common).

    Length: Multi-year apprenticeship (classroom + on-the-job); shorter upgrade courses available.

  • South Mountain Community College – Construction Trades Institute

    Address: 7050 S. 24th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85042.

    Courses/Programs: CCL in Construction Trades: Carpentry (Level One and Commercial/Residential Level Two); hands-on skills in safety, tools, framing, wall/floor/roof systems, blueprints; dedicated student building on campus; also electrical options.

    Cost: In-state ~$1,500–$2,100 per level (out-of-state higher; WIOA-approved; exact totals vary with fees/books).

    Length: One semester per level (16–18 credits for Level One; earn certificate quickly).

  • Southwest School of Woodworking

    Address: 621 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007.

    Courses/Programs: Woodworking and fine carpentry classes (joinery, furniture making, fundamentals, advanced techniques); skill-building for hobbyist to professional levels (not heavy construction framing).

    Cost: Varies by class/workshop (short courses often hundreds of dollars; longer programs higher).

    Length: Short workshops (days/weeks) to multi-week fundamentals programs (e.g., 4+ weeks for some courses).

Plumber Training

Here is a list of plumbing training programs and schools in the Phoenix metro area (Phoenix, Mesa, and nearby), sorted alphabetically. Arizona does not require formal schooling to work as a plumber, but you need 4 years of qualifying experience (some school hours may count toward this) plus passing trade and business exams to become a licensed contractor (C-37/CR-37) through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC). Most programs prepare students for entry-level work, apprenticeships, NCCER or other certifications, safety training, blueprint reading, piping systems, fixtures, codes, and hands-on installation/repair.

Programs range from short pre-apprenticeship certificates (a few weeks to months) to longer college certificates or multi-year paid apprenticeships. Community college options are typically the most affordable. Many qualify for financial aid,

  • East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) (Mesa)

    Address: 1601 W Main Street, Mesa, AZ 85201 (main campus).

    Courses/Programs: Plumbing Program / Plumbing Service & Repair Technician (residential & commercial systems, piping techniques, blueprint reading, isometric interpretation, safety, installation, maintenance, and repair); counts as pre-apprenticeship with multiple certifications.

    Cost: In-state ~$5,690 tuition + ~$160–$1,085 fees/supplies (total program cost around $6,775–$6,895 range; scholarships available through EVIT Foundation).

    Length: 360 clock hours; approximately 4–12 weeks depending on schedule (full-time or part-time options; after-school for high school students or adult programs).


  • GateWay Community College (Maricopa Community Colleges – Phoenix)

    Address: Main/Washington Campus – 108 N 40th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034 (additional locations include Central City and Deer Valley campuses).

    Courses/Programs: Construction Trades: Plumbing (Certificate of Completion – Level One or Commercial/Residential); covers safety, codes, tools, fixtures, pipes/fittings, drain/waste/vent systems, and related mechanical trades; credit for prior learning/journeyworker pathways toward AAS degree.

    Cost: Very affordable for Maricopa residents (~$97–$108 per credit or $5–$6 per clock hour); Level One example total ~$1,500–$2,000 range before aid (16–18 credits); use net price calculator.

    Length: One semester or more per level (full- or part-time; 8–16 weeks for introductory certificate); longer for AAS.

  • Mesa Community College (Mesa)

    Address: 1833 W Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85202.

    Courses/Programs: Construction Trades: Plumbing (Certificate of Completion) and Plumbing, Commercial and Residential (CCL); introductory and advanced skills in safety, tools, codes, piping systems, and construction drawings.

    Cost: Low Maricopa resident rates (similar to GateWay; often a few thousand dollars total for the certificate before aid).

    Length: Approximately one semester or more (16–28 credits; full- or part-time options).

  • National Technical Institute (NTI) (Phoenix)

    Address: 3660 E Wier Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85040.

    Courses/Programs: Entry-Level Plumbing Technician Training (basics, system design, drainage, water conservation, tools, residential/light commercial); Fusion hybrid (online + hands-on labs); Spanish-language option available.

    Cost: Approximately $6,895–$9,995 (tuition + materials/tools; confirm current total including any kit fees).

    Length: 12–16 weeks (accelerated full-time or evening options; ~192+ hours).

  • South Mountain Community College (Phoenix)

    Address: 7050 S 24th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85042 (Construction Trades Institute with dedicated student building).

    Courses/Programs: Construction Trades: Plumbing (Level One and Commercial/Residential CCL);

    hands-on skills in safety, tools, framing-related p

  • lumbing, piping, fixtures, blueprints, and codes.

    Cost: Affordable in-state rates (~$1,500–$2,100 per level example before aid; WIOA-approved).

    Length: One semester per level (quick certificate pathway; 16–18 credits for Level One).

Welding

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  • Arizona Automotive Institute (AAI) (Glendale)

    Address: 6829 N 46th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301.

    Courses/Programs: Combination Welding diploma (focus on structural, motorsports, and fabrication applications; includes shop safety, tools, and multiple welding processes).

    Cost: Typically in the $20,000–$25,000 range before aid (contact for current quote; financial aid and military benefits available).

    Length: As little as 10 months (full-time).

  • East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) (Mesa)

    Address: 1601 W Main Street, Mesa, AZ 85201 (Main Campus; adult programs available).

    Courses/Programs: Welding Technologies (hands-on training in multiple processes, AWS certification prep; high school and adult tracks).

    Cost: Affordable (contact for adult program rates; often lower than private schools with scholarships available).

    Length: Varies; adult evening schedule approximately 4:30–9:30 PM (contact for exact weeks/months).

  • GateWay Community College (Maricopa Community Colleges – Phoenix)

    Address: Washington Campus – 108 N 40th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034; also Central City Campus at 1245 E Buckeye Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85034.

    Courses/Programs: Welding certificates including Welding: Fundamentals, Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) Pipe, and other specialized CCTs (Certificates of Competency); hands-on with oxy-fuel, SMAW, GTAW, etc.; pathways to AAS.

    Cost: Very affordable for Maricopa residents (~$5,022–$5,286 total estimated for many clock-hour programs; $5–$6 per clock hour + fees; use net price calculator).

    Length: Individual certificates often 720 clock hours / ~9 months (day or other schedules available); flexible options.

  • Mesa Community College (Mesa)

    Address: 1833 W Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85202.

    Courses/Programs: Welding Certificate of Completion (CCL) and specialized certificates (Fundamentals, GMAW/FCAW, GTAW Ferrous, etc.); pathways to AAS degree; modern equipment and industrial skills focus.

    Cost: Low Maricopa resident rates (~$85–$97 per credit hour; total for a certificate often a few thousand dollars before aid).

    Length: One or more semesters (full- or part-time; credit-based).

  • The Refrigeration School, Inc. (RSI) / Tulsa Welding School (Phoenix)

    Address: 4210 E Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034.

    Courses/Programs: Welding Specialist program (hands-on training in structural, pipe, and fabrication welding; multiple processes with real-world skills).

    Cost: Contact for current tuition (private trade school rates; often in the mid-to-high teens before aid; financial aid, scholarships, and VA benefits available).

    Length: Approximately 7 months (hands-on focus with flexible schedule options; start dates like June/July 2026).

  • Universal Technical Institute (UTI) (Avondale)

    Address: 10695 W Pierce Street, Avondale, AZ 85323 (Phoenix metro west side).

    Courses/Programs: Welding Technology program (combination welder training developed with Lincoln Electric; covers GMAW, SMAW, FCAW, GTAW; entry-level structural and fabrication skills).

    Cost: Contact admissions for current rates (trade school pricing; financial aid and military benefits available).

    Length: Approximately 9–10 months (full-time, blended/hands-on).

  • Vocational Training Institute (VTI) (Phoenix)

    Address: Phoenix, AZ (central Phoenix location; exact address on myvocationaltrainingaz.com).

    Courses/Programs: Welding certification program (metal fabrication, pipe welding, and practical skills; also offers MIG workshops with industry pros like Steve Darnell of WelderUp).

    Cost: Example totals around $18,000+ range before aid (including materials; confirm current pricing).

    Length: Designed for quick workforce entry (contact for exact weeks/months; accelerated options available).

  • West-MEC Adult Education (Glendale & Buckeye)

    Addresses: Programs at Glendale and Buckeye campuses (Phoenix metro).

    Courses/Programs: Welding Technology program (900 clock hours; covers SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW, oxy-fuel cutting; competency-based with certification prep).

    Cost: Contact for current rates (affordable adult education option; WIOA eligible).

    Length: 900 clock hours (typically several months full-time).