Trade SchoolsTrade schools offer career-focused programs that can be completed in less than two years and prepare students for entry-level employment immediately after graduation.
The instruction focuses only on the topics relevant to the student’s future profession and includes a significant part of hands-on training.
If you live in the St Augustine region of Florida and you want to start a rewarding career without spending four years in college, this page is for you.
Here you will find more about the top trade schools available in the region.
1First Coast Technical College
About the School
First Coast Technical College offers a variety of career training programs.
Costs vary depending on the program and the duration.
The programs prepare students for certification, immediate employment, or further college education.
The 40-week dental assisting program covers 1,230 hours of training and costs approximately $5,070- which includes tuition and lab fees.
The 48-week paramedic program costs $4,543 for tuition and lab.
Tuition and lab fees sum up to $4,515 for the welding technology program- which can be completed in 32 weeks by daytime students.
The 24-week advanced welding program costs $3,405.
First Coast Technical College is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education.
Prospective students can enroll by following four steps:
- Step 1: Attending a Virtual Program Information Session
- Step 2: Apply for Federal Student Aid
- Step 3: Gather documents and take the Test for Basic Education
- Step 4: Register for Classes
Courses Offered
The school’s catalog includes programs that prepare students for careers in:
- Dental Assisting
- Emergency Medical Technician
- Medical Assisting
- Paramedic
- Culinary Apprenticeship
- Cosmetology
- Facials Specialty
- Welding Technology
- Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning/Refrigeration
- And more
Contact Information
- Address: 2980 Collins Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084
- Phone: (904) 547-3282
- Website: https://fctc.edu
2St. Johns River State College
About the School
St. Johns River State College is offering a variety of degree and technical programs.
Costs for advanced and professional training sum up to $108 per credit hour for residents students and $388.94 for non-resident students.
Career Certificates cost $82.50 per credit hour for residents and $324.25 for non-residents.
Admission requirements vary depending on the program.
Those who seek admission to college credit courses need one of the following:
- A high school diploma with an official transcript
- GED
- Complete a Florida home education program
- Approval for High School Dual Enrollment or Early Admission
Courses Offered
The following courses are available at the school:
Associate of Science Degrees in Accounting Technology, Acting, Emergency Medical Services, Engineering Technology, Nursing, Stage Management, and more.
Career Certificates in:
- Correctional Probation Officer Cross-Over Training To Florida Enforcement Academy
- Correctional Probation Officer Cross-Over Training To Florida Corrections Academy
- Correctional Officer Cross-Over Training to Florida Law Enforcement Academy
- Law Enforcement Officer Cross-Over Training to Florida CMS Correctional Basic
- Recruit Training Program
- Medical Assisting
- Nursing Assistant
- Practical Nursing
Contact Information
- Address: 2990 College Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32084
- Phone: (904) 808-7400
- Website: https://www.sjrstate.edu
3JTech Institute
About the School
JTech Institute is a nonprofit institution that offers training programs at its 168,000 square foot facility.
To qualify for admission, applicants need to follow the next steps:
- Have a personal interview with an admissions representative
- Complete and submit all the required forms
- JT determines the applicant’s eligibility
- The applicant then meets with a Financial Aid Officer to determine their financial aid eligibility.
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the program.
Applicants to the Truck Driving program must:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record
- Pass a physical exam
- Complete a vision exam
- Complete drug screening
- Complete a background check
Courses Offered
JTech provides the following programs:
- Automotive Technology- a program that covers the basics of automotive mechanics, diagnostic procedures, effective repair methods, as well as electrical, HVAC, engine performance, brake systems, and more
- Diesel Technology- the 91-credit program offers a curriculum designed to equip students with the hands-on skills needed to launch a successful career in the industry
- Commercial Truck Driving- a program that prepares students for the Class A Commerical Driver’s License exam
- HVAC-R- a program that teaches students about Electrical Systems AC&DC, HVAC-R Systems Design, Piping Systems, Residential HVAC-R, Transport HVAC-R, and more
- Marine and RV Technology- students enrolled in this program learn diagnostic and repair procedures for motorhomes and RVs, powerboats, Jet Skies, and a variety of other recreational vehicles.
Contact Information
- Address: 8813 Western Way Jacksonville, FL 32256
- Phone: 877-447-0442
- Website: https://www.jtech.org
4Florida Flyers Flight Academy
About the School
Florida Flyers Flight Academy is one of the largest flight schools in the United States.
The Academy has many airplanes available and state-of-the-art glass cockpits that are used during the students’ training.
The school has an instructor to students ratio of 1:4 to 1:5.
Those interested can apply by filling out an application on the school’s website.
Total training costs vary depending on the rating.
Module 1: Private Pilot Training is approximately $7,600 while Module 2: Instrument Rating costs approximately $9,000.
The third module is Commercial Pilot Single Engine FAR Par 141.55(d) which costs approximately $14,900.
The multi-engine add-on costs approximately $6,500.
Courses Offered
Florida Flyers Flight Academy offers an FAA Pilot Program: a fast-track Airline Career program that prepares students for FAA Commercial Pilot Single Engine or FAA Commercial Pilot Multi-Engine pilot certification.
Their career programs are designed to be completed in 12 months.
Students need to be at least 17 years of age to receive the Certificate, and they must be able to speak, read, and understand English.
Contact Information:
- Address: 4730 Casa Cola Way, Suite 100, St. Augustine, Florida 32095 U.S.A.
- Phone: 904.209.3505
- Website: https://www.flightschoolusa.com
5Sea School
About the School
Sea School offers maritime training programs approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
The school has been offering classes for over 42 years.
Admission requirements vary depending on the program.
The able seaman program enrolls candidates who meet requirements such as:
- Are at least 18 years of age
- Pass a drug screen and physical exam
- Provide proof of citizenship
There are different levels of AB:
AB Unlimited- requires 1080 days of qualifying sea service experience on the deck of vessels operating on ocean waters or the Great Lakes
AB Limited- requires 540 days of experience at sea on vessels greater than 100 tones operating on federally navigable inland waters of the US or ocean waters
AB Special- requires 360 days of sea service experience on vessels on federally navigable waters of the United States, or on ocean waters or the Great Lakes.
Courses Offered
The following programs are available at the school:
- Able Seaman- this rating or an Ordinary Seaman rating is required for those who want to work on ocean commercial vehicles of greater than 100 gross tons
- Advanced Firefighting Revalidation
- Apprentice Mate Steersman- 2-day upgrade course
- Assist Towing- a program that is also available online
- Auxiliary Sail
- Basic Firefighting
- OUPV- Captain’s License- also available online
- And more
Contact Information
- Address: 8440 4th Street N. St. Petersburg, FL 33702
- Phone: 800-237-8663
- Website: https://www.seaschool.com
6Florida Aviation Career Training, Inc.
About the School
Florida Aviation Career Training, Inc. is offering flight training for those who want to add ratings and for seasoned pilots who are looking to rent an aircraft.
The school’s instructors have 210 years of combined flight experience.
Before earning a flight rating, students need to meet specific requirements established by the Federal Aviation Administration Part 141 Certification Standards.
Training costs vary depending on the rating.
For example, the Private Pilot Certification Course – dual time which includes 24 hours dual flight instructor, 35 hours of ground instruction, and 5 hours of dual pre/post-flight ground instruction costs approximately $5,850.
The solo time training costs an additional $1,500.
Other fees include a $110 medical fee, an FAA written test fee of $165, and a $500 flight test fee.
The private pilot course material costs $290.
In total, the cost of the Private Pilot certificate is approximately $8,000.
Courses Offered
The following training programs are available:
- Private Pilot Certification Course Part 141
- Commercial/Instrument Pilot Certification Course
- Private Pilot Certification Course Part 61
- Instrument Pilot Certification Course
- Multi-Engine Rating Course Part 61
- Flight Instructor Certification Course
- Sport Pilot Certification Course
Contact Information
- Address: 4900 US1 North Suite 200, Saint Augustine, Florida 32095
- Phone: (904) 824-9401
- Website: http://www.florida-aviation.com
7North Florida Technical College
About the School
North Florida Technical College is a post-secondary career, technical and adult education institution located in Starke, Florida.
The college operates under the authority of the Bradford County School Board.
The school offers courses in health sciences, human services, manufacturing, adult education, hospitality, information technology, transportation, and more.
Tuition costs vary depending on the program.
For example, the 1050-hour Welding Technology program costs approximately $4,785- a cost that includes tuition, lab fees, certification exam, welding kit, textbooks, student ID badge, parking permit.
The Practical Nursing program costs approximately $7,660 in total.
Admission requirements vary depending on the program.
Applicants for the Welding Technology program must:
- Be at least 16 years of age
- Complete the Test of Adult Basic Education
Courses Offered
The following manufacturing courses are available:
- Welding Technology- a program that includes 1,050 classroom hours
- Welding Technology-Advanced- a 750-hour program
Health Science programs are also available on the following topics:
- Medical Assisting- a 1,300 classroom hour program
- Nursing Assistant- Long Term Care- a 120-hour program
- Practical Nursing- a 1,350-hour program
A 320-hour Class “A” Commercial Vehicle Driving program is also available for students who are at least 18 years of age.
Contact Information
- Address: 609 North Orange StreetStarke, Fl 32091
- Phone: 904-966-6764
- Website: https://www.bradfordschools.org
8Tulsa Welding School
About the School
Tulsa Welding School is offering welding classes at its Jacksonville campus.
Scholarships are available for students who qualify.
The school provides hands-on career training that helps students start a career in only a few months.
Tulsa Welding School, Jacksonville campus is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
Those interested in applying for one of their programs can start the enrollment process by contacting the school and scheduling a personalized tour of their campus with an Admissions Representative.
Courses Offered
The following programs are available in Jacksonville:
- Professional Welder- a seven-month program that prepares students for entry-level employment
- Refrigeration Technologies- this program covers the fundamentals of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, climate control, and refrigeration technologies and can be completed in seven months.
- Electrical Applications- a seven-month program that teaches students how to wire buildings, install lighting and fix technical problems.
- Electrical-Mechanical Technologies- this program trains students for careers as HVAC/R technicians, solar panel technicians, and more in nine months
- Professional Welder with Pipefitting- a 10-month program that covers the fundamentals of welding and pipe systems installation
Contact Information
- Address: 3500 Southside Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32216
- Phone: (855) 806-4921
- Website: https://www.tws.edu
9Florida State College at Jacksonville
About the School
Florida State College at Jacksonville is offering more than 150 programs that lead to degrees or certificates.
The college accepts new students throughout the year.
Prospective students can apply online.
Courses Offered
The following health science certificate programs are available:
- Biotechnology Laboratory- a program that includes coursework in College Algebra, Biotechnology Methods, Principles of Biology, Microbiology, Elementary Statistics, and more.
- Radiation Therapy Specialist- this program includes the following professional coursework: Introduction to Radiation Therapy, Oncology, Radiation Physics, Patient Care in Radiation Therapy, Clinical Education, and more.
- Dental Assisting- a program that covers topics such as Introduction to Clinical Procedures, Dental Specialities, Preventive Dentistry, Dental Assisting Clinical Practice, and more.
- Medical Assisting- a 1,300-hour program that offers coursework for Basic Healthcare workers, Phlebotomists, Laboratory Procedures, Administrative Officer procedures, and more
- Practical Nursing- this 1,350-hour program covers Practical Nursing Foundations, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Comprehensive Nursing, and Transitional Skills, and more
- Pharmacy Technician
- And more
The school also offers certificate programs in Advanced Manufacturing, Mechatronics, Automotive Service Technician, Commercial Vehicle Driving, Diesel Systems, Electricity, and many more.
Contact Information
- Address: 101 W State St, Jacksonville, FL 32202, USA
- Phone: (904) 633-8100
- Website: https://www.fscj.edu
10A. Chef's Cooking Studio
About the School
A. Chef’s Cooking Studio offers training for professional cooks, home cooks, and those who want to learn a share.
The studio has been served Jacksonville, The Beaches, Southside, Ponte Vendra, Bartram, Saint Augustine for more than 12 years.
Classes cost $65 per person per class.
Students get a discount if they purchase the entire series.
Most classes are 2-3 hours long.
The studio is open Wednesday-Friday 1-9 p.m. and on Saturdays 12-5 p.m.
The school offers a six-week Home Chef Series with flexible schedules.
The weeknight evening classes are available for ages 18 and up, but some exceptions may apply for teens.
Courses Offered
The following classes and events are available at A. Chef’s Cooking Studio:
- Chef Andrea’s Favorite Cheese Bread- Bread Baker’s Apprentice Series
- Braising/Roasting- this class teaches techniques and skills for meats and vegetables
- Ruben Bread- this class teaches students how to make a filled bread
- Pasta 101
- Bread 101- this class teaches the basics of bread dough, including proofing, yeast, and the best techniques for baking.
- Seasoning Fundamentals
- Restaurant Salads at Home
- Pizza Dough
- Knife Skills
- And more
Contact Information
- Address: 145 Hilden Road, Suite 119, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
- Phone: 904-827-1350
- Website: https://www.achefs.com
Salary Information for Popular Trade Careers
| Career | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paralegals and Legal Assistants | 2,210 | $57,270 | $27.54 | $81,420 | $38,120 |
| Medical Records Specialists | 1,510 | $46,330 | $22.27 | $63,010 | $31,530 |
| Nursing Assistants | 6,810 | $33,250 | $15.99 | $38,500 | $27,160 |
| Dental Assistants | 1,540 | $45,070 | $21.67 | $55,150 | $38,100 |
| Medical Assistants | 5,520 | $38,500 | $18.51 | $46,200 | $31,120 |
| Phlebotomists | 700 | $37,050 | $17.81 | $43,460 | $30,560 |
| Electricians | 3,510 | $51,210 | $24.62 | $64,310 | $37,130 |
| Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters | 2,760 | $49,530 | $23.81 | $61,750 | $36,750 |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | 4,020 | $45,060 | $21.66 | $63,360 | $28,920 |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers | 2,320 | $50,560 | $24.31 | $67,010 | $33,660 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Final Thoughts
If you want to earn a diploma, a career-focused certificate, or an associate degree, St. Augustine trade schools offer a wide range of professional training options.
Now that you have read our list, the next step is to continue with your research and apply for the program that best meets your needs.
Trade Schools by City in Florida
