Second Chance Guide — Trades Training Directory
Trade schools, community college programs, apprenticeships, and nonprofit training programs across the US — with felony acceptance policies noted for each entry. Welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and construction. Licensing restrictions vary by trade and state — each state note explains what to watch for. Updated April 2026. See also: Best Trades for Felons.
Licensing vs. training: Getting trained and getting licensed are two separate steps. Most trade training programs accept felony applicants — the barrier comes at the licensing stage. Welding and construction labor require no license in most states. HVAC licensing is state-regulated but generally more accessible than electrical or plumbing. Electrical and plumbing licenses involve background checks in many states. Confirm licensing eligibility in your state before investing in a training program. Full breakdown here →
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Alabama
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Alabama
Alabama electrical and plumbing licenses involve background checks — individual review applies. HVAC and welding are more accessible. Alabama’s community college system (ACCS) offers trade programs at significantly lower cost than private schools — WIOA funding available through Alabama Career Centers.
ACCS Alabama
Alabama Community College System — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, AL Community College
Public community college trade programs statewide covering welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction technology. Significantly lower cost than private trade schools. WIOA funding available for qualifying reentry candidates. No felony exclusion at admission — licensing is the post-graduation filter, not school entry.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA funding through Alabama Career Centers. Confirm licensing eligibility for your specific trade before enrolling.
Job Corps AL
Job Corps — Alabama Centers
Free Trade Training (Federal) · Statewide, AL Free Program
Federally funded program providing free trade training — welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and more. Room, board, and a living allowance included. Alabama Job Corps centers in Gadsden and Montgomery. Accepts applicants with felony records — violent felonies and sex offenses are typical exclusions.
Felony policy: Federally funded — accepts most felony applicants. Drug trafficking, violent felonies, sex offenses may disqualify. Free including housing and living stipend.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Alabama? Get listed →
Alaska
Alaska’s construction and resource extraction industries create strong demand for trade workers year-round. Electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks. Welding is particularly valuable for oil field and pipeline work — no licensing required. WIOA funding through Alaska Job Centers.
UAA AK Trades
University of Alaska Anchorage — Applied Technology Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Anchorage, AK Community College
Public trade training in Anchorage covering welding, HVAC, electrical technology, and construction. WIOA funding available for qualifying reentry candidates. No felony exclusion at admission. Welding and HVAC are particularly strong pathways — oil field and pipeline demand creates robust post-graduation hiring.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA funding available. Welding and HVAC recommended for those with licensing concerns.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Alaska? Get listed →
Arizona
Arizona has no statewide contractor licensing board for all trades — licensing is handled at the city/county level in many cases. HVAC technician certification is more accessible here than in many states. Arizona’s Maricopa Community Colleges system offers one of the strongest trade training networks in the Southwest.
Maricopa CC AZ
Maricopa Community Colleges — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Phoenix metro, AZ Community College
Ten-campus system covering the Phoenix metro with trade programs in welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction. One of the most comprehensive public trade training systems in the Southwest. WIOA funding available through Arizona@Work. No felony exclusion at admission.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA available through Arizona@Work. Welding and HVAC most accessible for candidates with licensing concerns.
Job Corps AZ
Job Corps — Arizona Centers
Free Trade Training (Federal) · Statewide, AZ Free Program
Free federal trade training with centers in Phoenix and Tucson. Programs include welding, HVAC, electrical, carpentry, and construction. Housing and living stipend included. Accepts most felony applicants — one of the few completely free trade training options in the state.
Felony policy: Federal program — accepts most felony applicants. Violent felonies and sex offenses may disqualify. Completely free including housing.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Arizona? Get listed →
Arkansas
Arkansas electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks with individual review. HVAC and welding have lower licensing barriers. Arkansas’s technical college system offers affordable trade training statewide — WIOA funding available through Arkansas Workforce Centers.
Arkansas Tech System
Arkansas Community Colleges — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, AR Community College
Statewide public trade training through Arkansas’s technical college network. Programs cover welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction at multiple campuses. WIOA funding available. No felony exclusion at the public institution level — licensing is the post-graduation consideration.
Felony policy: Public institutions — no blanket exclusion. WIOA funding available through Arkansas Workforce Centers. Welding is particularly accessible — no state licensing required.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Arkansas? Get listed →
California
California contractor licensing (CSLB) involves background checks — felony convictions are reviewed individually. Working as a journeyman under a licensed contractor does not require personal licensure, which opens electrical and plumbing pathways. HVAC and welding have lower barriers. California’s community college system is the most accessible trade training network in the country.
CA Community Colleges
California Community Colleges — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, CA Community College
116 campuses statewide offering welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction programs at minimal cost. WIOA and Pell funding available. No felony exclusion at admission. California’s CSLB reviews contractor license applications individually — journeyman work under a licensed employer is available without personal licensure.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA and Pell available. Working as a journeyman bypasses licensing issues at the entry level.
Rubicon Programs CA
Rubicon Programs
Reentry Trade Training · Oakland, CA Felony-Friendly
Oakland nonprofit providing construction and trade training specifically for justice-involved individuals and other barriers-to-employment populations. Hands-on construction skills training with job placement support. Explicitly accepts returning citizens — peer coaches with lived experience on staff.
Felony policy: Explicitly serves returning citizens. Construction skills training with job placement. Oakland focus — free to qualifying participants.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in California? Get listed →
Colorado
Colorado electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks — individual review. HVAC and welding are accessible without licensing barriers. Emily Griffith Technical College in Denver is the primary public trade training option — one of the most affordable in the Mountain West.
Emily Griffith CO
Emily Griffith Technical College
Trade Training (Public) · Denver, CO Community College
Denver public technical college with welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction programs. Significantly lower cost than private trade schools. WIOA and Pell funding available — reentry candidates commonly qualify. No felony exclusion at admission.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA funding through Colorado Workforce Centers. One of the most affordable trade training options in the Mountain West.
Job Corps CO
Job Corps — Colorado
Free Trade Training (Federal) · Denver, CO Free Program
Free federal trade training at the Denver Job Corps center. Programs include welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction. Housing and living stipend included. Accepts most felony applicants — one of the few completely free options for returning citizens in Colorado.
Felony policy: Federal program — accepts most felony applicants. Completely free including housing and living allowance.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Colorado? Get listed →
Connecticut
Connecticut electrical and plumbing licenses require background checks — individual review. HVAC technician certification does not require a background check at the training level. Connecticut’s technical college system is well-funded and accessible for reentry candidates via WIOA.
CT State CC
CT State Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, CT Community College
Connecticut’s public community college system with trade programs at multiple campuses. Covers welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction. WIOA funding available through American Job Centers. No felony exclusion at admission — licensing is the post-graduation filter.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA funding available. HVAC and welding are most accessible for candidates with licensing concerns.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Connecticut? Get listed →
Delaware
Delaware electrical and plumbing licensing involves individual background review. HVAC and welding more accessible. Delaware Technical Community College is the primary public trade training option — WIOA funding available through Delaware JobLink.
Delaware Tech
Delaware Technical Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, DE Community College
Delaware’s primary public trade training option with programs in HVAC, electrical, welding, and construction technology. WIOA funding available through Delaware JobLink. No felony exclusion at admission — covers most of the state’s trade training needs given Delaware’s small geography.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA funding through Delaware JobLink. Confirm licensing eligibility for your trade before enrolling.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Delaware? Get listed →
District of Columbia
DC has strong reentry trade training infrastructure — the DC Infrastructure Academy is specifically designed for returning citizens. DC electrical and plumbing licensing reviews felony convictions individually. Construction labor requires no license and has strong union demand in DC’s active development market.
DC Infrastructure Academy
DC Infrastructure Academy
Reentry Trade Training · Washington, DC Felony-Friendly
DC government-funded trade training program specifically designed for returning citizens and other barriers-to-employment populations. Covers construction, electrical, HVAC, and infrastructure trades. Partners with DC employers for post-graduation placement. Free to qualifying DC residents — one of the most reentry-forward trade programs in the country.
Felony policy: Specifically designed for returning citizens. Free to DC residents. Government-backed — direct employer partnership for placement.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in DC? Get listed →
Florida
Florida contractor licensing (DBPR) involves background checks with individual review. Working as an apprentice under a licensed contractor does not require personal licensure. HVAC and welding accessible without licensing barriers. Florida’s technical college system offers affordable trade training statewide.
Florida Tech Colleges
Florida Technical Colleges — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, FL Community College
Florida’s public technical college system with trade programs at multiple campuses statewide. HVAC, electrical, welding, plumbing, and construction. WIOA funding available through CareerSource Florida. No felony exclusion at admission. Florida’s active construction market creates strong post-graduation demand.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through CareerSource Florida. Apprentice work under licensed contractor available without personal licensure.
Job Corps FL
Job Corps — Florida Centers
Free Trade Training (Federal) · Statewide, FL Free Program
Free federal trade training with multiple Florida centers including Jacksonville, Miami, and Tampa. Programs include welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction. Housing and living stipend included. Accepts most felony applicants.
Felony policy: Federal program — accepts most felony applicants. Violent felonies and sex offenses may disqualify. Completely free including housing.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Florida? Get listed →
Georgia
Georgia contractor licensing involves background checks with individual review — First Offender Act records may still appear on FMCSA and state license checks. HVAC and welding accessible. Georgia’s Technical College System (TCSG) is the primary public trade training network statewide.
Georgia TCSG
Technical College System of Georgia — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, GA Community College
22-campus system statewide offering welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction programs. WIOA funding available through Georgia WorkSource. No felony exclusion at admission. Georgia’s active construction and manufacturing sectors create strong post-graduation demand.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Georgia WorkSource. Welding and HVAC recommended for candidates with licensing concerns.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Georgia? Get listed →
Hawaii
Hawaii contractor licensing involves background checks. Construction labor demand is consistently strong — Hawaii’s construction market is one of the most active per capita in the country. Honolulu Community College offers the most accessible trade training in the state.
Honolulu CC
Honolulu Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Honolulu, HI Community College
Hawaii’s primary public trade training college with programs in welding, HVAC, electrical, auto mechanics, and construction. WIOA and Pell funding available. No felony exclusion at admission. Hawaii’s active construction market creates consistent post-graduation demand for trade workers.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA funding through Hawaii’s Job Centers. Welding and construction labor most accessible for those with licensing concerns.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Hawaii? Get listed →
Idaho
Idaho electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks. HVAC and welding more accessible. Idaho’s agricultural and construction sectors create strong demand for trade workers. College of Western Idaho in Nampa is the most accessible public trade training option in the Treasure Valley.
College of Western Idaho
College of Western Idaho — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Nampa, ID Community College
Public trade training in the Boise-Nampa metro with programs in welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction. WIOA funding available through Idaho Department of Labor. No felony exclusion at admission. Strong post-graduation demand from Idaho’s construction and agricultural equipment sectors.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA funding available. Welding particularly strong — no licensing required in Idaho.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Idaho? Get listed →
Illinois
Illinois electrical licensing (IBEW-heavy in Chicago) varies by municipality — Chicago has additional requirements. HVAC and welding are accessible without licensing barriers. Illinois has strong union apprenticeship infrastructure — LIUNA (laborers) is generally the most accessible union for returning citizens. WIOA funding available through Illinois workNet.
City Colleges Chicago
City Colleges of Chicago — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Chicago, IL Community College
Seven-campus public college system covering Chicago with welding, HVAC, electrical, construction, and manufacturing programs. WIOA funding available through Illinois workNet. No felony exclusion at admission. Chicago’s active construction market creates strong post-graduation hiring.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Illinois workNet. Welding and HVAC most accessible for candidates with licensing concerns in Cook County.
LIUNA Illinois
LIUNA — Laborers Local Apprenticeships
Union Apprenticeship · Chicago, IL Apprenticeship
Laborers International Union of North America — Illinois locals offer paid apprenticeships in construction labor, demolition, and infrastructure. LIUNA is generally the most accessible building trade union for returning citizens. Paid from day one — no tuition. Felony applications reviewed individually by the local.
Felony policy: Case-by-case review by local union. Generally more accessible than electrical or plumbing unions. Paid apprenticeship — no tuition cost. Contact local LIUNA chapter directly.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Illinois? Get listed →
Indiana
Indiana electrical and plumbing licensing involves individual background review. Welding and HVAC do not require state licensing — more accessible for returning citizens. Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana’s primary public trade training network with campuses statewide.
Ivy Tech IN
Ivy Tech Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, IN Community College
Indiana’s statewide community college with trade programs at multiple campuses. Welding, HVAC, electrical, construction, and industrial maintenance. WIOA funding through WorkOne centers. No felony exclusion at admission — Indiana’s manufacturing and construction sectors create strong post-graduation demand.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Indiana WorkOne. Welding and HVAC most accessible for candidates with licensing concerns.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Indiana? Get listed →
Iowa
Iowa electrical licensing involves background checks. Welding, HVAC, and construction labor do not require state licensing. Iowa’s agricultural machinery repair and manufacturing sectors create strong welding demand. Iowa’s community college system provides accessible public trade training statewide.
Iowa Community Colleges
Iowa Community Colleges — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, IA Community College
Iowa’s 15 community colleges offer welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction programs statewide. WIOA funding available through IowaWORKS centers. No felony exclusion at admission. Welding is particularly strong — Iowa’s agricultural and manufacturing sectors create consistent demand.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through IowaWORKS. Welding recommended — no state licensing requirement, strong agricultural sector demand.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Iowa? Get listed →
Kansas
Kansas electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks with individual review. Welding and HVAC do not require state licensing — most accessible for returning citizens. Kansas’s technical college system offers trade programs at multiple locations statewide.
Wichita Area Tech
Wichita Area Technical College
Trade Training (Public) · Wichita, KS Community College
Kansas’s primary technical college in Wichita with programs in welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction. WIOA funding available through Kansas workforce centers. No felony exclusion at admission. Wichita’s aerospace and manufacturing sectors create strong welding demand post-graduation.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA funding available. Welding particularly strong given Wichita’s aerospace manufacturing sector.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Kansas? Get listed →
Kentucky
Kentucky electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks. HVAC and welding more accessible. Kentucky’s Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) is one of the strongest public trade training networks in the South — accessible statewide including rural areas.
KCTCS Kentucky
Kentucky Community & Technical College System — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, KY Community College
16-campus system statewide with welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction programs. WIOA funding available through Kentucky Career Centers. No felony exclusion at admission. Kentucky’s manufacturing and construction sectors create strong trade demand.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Kentucky Career Centers. Confirm licensing eligibility for your specific trade before enrolling.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Kentucky? Get listed →
Louisiana
Louisiana contractor licensing (LSLBC) involves background checks. Welding is particularly valuable in Louisiana — oil field, pipeline, and petrochemical sectors create high demand for certified welders. Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS) provides accessible public trade training statewide.
LCTCS Louisiana
Louisiana Community & Technical College System — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, LA Community College
Statewide public trade training with welding, HVAC, electrical, pipefitting, and construction programs. WIOA funding available through Louisiana Workforce Commission. No felony exclusion at admission. Welding is the highest-demand trade in Louisiana — oil field and petrochemical sectors pay premium wages.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Louisiana Workforce Commission. Welding most accessible and highest-demand trade in the state.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Louisiana? Get listed →
Maine
Maine electrical licensing involves background checks. Welding and construction labor more accessible. Maine’s construction sector is active — particularly in coastal and seasonal building. Southern Maine Community College is the primary public trade training option.
SMCC Maine Trades
Southern Maine Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · South Portland, ME Community College
Maine’s primary public trade training option with programs in welding, electrical, HVAC, and construction. WIOA funding available through Maine CareerCenters. No felony exclusion at admission. Maine’s construction and marine sectors create consistent trade demand.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Maine CareerCenters. Welding valued for marine and construction sectors.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Maine? Get listed →
Maryland
Maryland electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks — individual review. Maryland has a strong Opportunity to Compete Act limiting early criminal history inquiry. HVAC and welding are accessible. Baltimore’s construction market is active with significant public infrastructure investment.
CCBC Maryland Trades
Community College of Baltimore County — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Baltimore, MD Community College
Public trade training in the Baltimore metro with welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA funding available through Maryland American Job Centers. No felony exclusion at admission. Baltimore’s active infrastructure and construction market creates strong post-graduation demand.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA funding available. Maryland’s Opportunity to Compete Act also limits early criminal history inquiry from employers.
Job Corps MD
Job Corps — Maryland
Free Trade Training (Federal) · Laurel, MD Free Program
Free federal trade training at the Laurel, MD center. Programs include welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction. Housing and living stipend included. Accepts most felony applicants — one of the few completely free trade training options in the state.
Felony policy: Federal program — accepts most felony applicants. Completely free including housing and living allowance.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Maryland? Get listed →
Massachusetts
Massachusetts electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks. CORI reform laws limit how employers use criminal history — provides additional protection during the hiring process. Massachusetts’s active construction and infrastructure sector creates strong trade demand in Boston and surrounding areas.
Quinsigamond CC MA
Quinsigamond Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Worcester, MA Community College
Public trade training in Worcester with programs in welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction. WIOA funding through MassHire Career Centers. No felony exclusion at admission. Massachusetts CORI reform also limits early criminal history inquiry from trade employers.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through MassHire. CORI reform provides additional employment protection during hiring process.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Massachusetts? Get listed →
Michigan
Michigan electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks. Michigan’s Clean Slate law seals some records — but sealed records may still appear on licensing board checks. Welding and HVAC have lower licensing barriers. Michigan’s automotive manufacturing creates strong welding demand statewide.
Washtenaw CC MI
Washtenaw Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Ann Arbor, MI Community College
Public trade training in the Ann Arbor-Detroit metro with welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA funding through Michigan Works!. No felony exclusion at admission. Michigan’s automotive and manufacturing sectors create strong welding and fabrication demand.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. Michigan Works! WIOA commonly available for reentry candidates. Welding strong given automotive manufacturing demand.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Michigan? Get listed →
Minnesota
Minnesota electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks. HVAC and welding more accessible. Minnesota State Colleges (MnSCU) operates the most comprehensive public trade training system in the Upper Midwest — WIOA funding commonly available through CareerForce centers.
MnSCU Trade Programs
Minnesota State Colleges — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, MN Community College
Statewide public trade training across 30+ campuses. Welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction programs available throughout the state. WIOA through CareerForce centers. No felony exclusion at admission — Minnesota’s active construction and manufacturing sectors create strong demand.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through CareerForce commonly available for reentry candidates. Welding and HVAC most accessible for licensing concerns.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Minnesota? Get listed →
Mississippi
Mississippi electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks. Welding is particularly valuable — Mississippi’s Gulf Coast shipbuilding and oil field industries create strong demand. Mississippi Community College Board coordinates trade training across 15 community colleges statewide.
MS Community Colleges
Mississippi Community College System — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, MS Community College
15 community colleges statewide with welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA funding through Mississippi Works. No felony exclusion at admission. Welding is particularly strong on the Gulf Coast — shipbuilding and offshore industry demand is consistent.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Mississippi Works. Welding most accessible and highest-demand trade in the state.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Mississippi? Get listed →
Missouri
Missouri electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks with individual review. HVAC and welding more accessible. Kansas City and St. Louis both have strong trade labor markets. Metropolitan Community College in Kansas City offers one of the most comprehensive public trade programs in the state.
Metro CC Kansas City
Metropolitan Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Kansas City, MO Community College
Kansas City public college system with welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA funding through Missouri’s Job Centers. No felony exclusion at admission. Kansas City’s active construction and manufacturing sectors create strong post-graduation demand.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA funding available. Welding and HVAC most accessible for candidates with licensing concerns.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Missouri? Get listed →
Montana
Montana electrical licensing involves background checks. Welding and construction labor do not require state licensing — most accessible for returning citizens. Montana’s oil field, mining, and agricultural equipment sectors create consistent welding demand. Montana’s community college system provides accessible trade training statewide.
Flathead Valley CC MT
Flathead Valley Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Kalispell, MT Community College
Public trade training in Northwest Montana with welding, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA funding through Montana Job Service. No felony exclusion at admission. Welding is particularly strong for Montana’s resource extraction and agricultural equipment sectors.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Montana Job Service. Welding recommended — no state licensing requirement, consistent oil field demand.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Montana? Get listed →
Nebraska
Nebraska electrical licensing involves background checks. Welding and HVAC accessible without licensing barriers. Nebraska’s manufacturing and agricultural equipment sectors create strong welding demand. Metropolitan Community College in Omaha is the strongest public trade training option in the state.
Metro CC Omaha NE
Metropolitan Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Omaha, NE Community College
Omaha public college with welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA funding through Nebraska’s American Job Centers. No felony exclusion at admission. Nebraska’s manufacturing and meatpacking sectors create consistent trade demand post-graduation.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA funding available. Welding strong given Nebraska’s manufacturing and agricultural equipment sectors.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Nebraska? Get listed →
Nevada
Nevada contractor licensing (NVSLB) involves background checks with individual review. HVAC and welding more accessible. Las Vegas’s constant construction activity — hotels, casinos, infrastructure — creates massive and consistent demand for trade workers. Truckee Meadows CC serves the Reno market.
CSN Las Vegas NV
College of Southern Nevada — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Las Vegas, NV Community College
Public trade training in Las Vegas with welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA through Nevada JobConnect. No felony exclusion at admission. Las Vegas’s construction sector is one of the most active in the country — consistent trade demand year-round.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Nevada JobConnect. Las Vegas construction market creates strong post-graduation hiring opportunities.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Nevada? Get listed →
New Hampshire
New Hampshire electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks. HVAC and welding more accessible. NH’s construction sector is active — the state is growing faster than its New England neighbors. WIOA funding through NH Works centers.
NHTI Concord
NHTI — Concord’s Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Concord, NH Community College
New Hampshire’s primary technical college with HVAC, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA funding through NH Works. No felony exclusion at admission. NH’s growing construction market creates consistent demand — HVAC is particularly strong given the state’s climate.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through NH Works. HVAC and welding most accessible for candidates with licensing concerns.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in New Hampshire? Get listed →
New Jersey
New Jersey electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks. NJ’s Opportunity to Compete Act limits when employers can ask about criminal history. Active construction sector — especially in infrastructure and transit. County community colleges are the primary affordable trade training option.
Essex CC NJ
Essex County College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Newark, NJ Community College
Newark public college with welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA funding through NJ Career Connections. No felony exclusion at admission. NJ’s Opportunity to Compete Act limits early criminal history inquiry — beneficial for trade employment in the state.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA available. NJ Opportunity to Compete Act provides additional protection during trade employer hiring.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in New Jersey? Get listed →
New Mexico
New Mexico contractor licensing involves background checks. Welding is particularly valuable — oil field and pipeline demand in southeastern New Mexico is strong. CNM in Albuquerque offers the most comprehensive public trade training in the state.
CNM New Mexico
Central New Mexico Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Albuquerque, NM Community College
Albuquerque public college with welding, HVAC, electrical, construction, and pipefitting programs. WIOA funding through New Mexico Workforce Connection. No felony exclusion at admission. Welding strong for NM oil field and pipeline sector; construction active in Albuquerque metro.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through NM Workforce Connection. Welding and pipefitting strong for oil field sector in southeastern NM.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in New Mexico? Get listed →
New York
New York electrical and plumbing licensing is heavily union-controlled in NYC — background checks involved. New York’s Correction Law Article 23-A requires licensing boards to consider the relationship between the offense and the trade. Construction labor (LIUNA) is the most accessible pathway in the NYC market. CUNY’s trade programs are the most affordable public option.
CUNY Kingsborough NY
CUNY Kingsborough Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Brooklyn, NY Community College
CUNY public trade training in Brooklyn with welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA funding through NY DOL. No felony exclusion at admission. NY’s Correction Law Article 23-A requires licensing boards to consider the direct relationship between offense and trade.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. NY Article 23-A provides additional licensing protection. WIOA through NY DOL Workforce Development.
Nontraditional Employment NY
Nontraditional Employment for Women (NEW)
Trade Training (Nonprofit) · New York City, NY Felony-Friendly
NYC nonprofit providing free trade training for women — welding, electrical, construction, and other skilled trades. Explicitly accepts women with criminal records. Provides hands-on training plus union apprenticeship placement support. One of the few trade programs specifically designed for women with records in NYC.
Felony policy: Explicitly accepts women with criminal records. Free trade training with union apprenticeship placement. NYC — women only.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in New York? Get listed →
North Carolina
North Carolina contractor licensing involves background checks with individual review. HVAC and welding more accessible — no licensing barriers. NC’s community college system is one of the strongest in the Southeast — 58 campuses providing accessible trade training statewide.
NC Community Colleges
NC Community College System — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, NC Community College
58-campus system statewide with welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction programs. WIOA funding through NC Works Career Centers. No felony exclusion at admission. NC’s active manufacturing, construction, and automotive sectors create strong trade demand statewide.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through NC Works commonly available for reentry candidates. Welding and HVAC most accessible for licensing concerns.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in North Carolina? Get listed →
North Dakota
North Dakota electrical licensing involves background checks. Welding is the highest-demand and most accessible trade — oil field and pipeline activity in the Bakken creates consistent demand for certified welders at premium wages. No welding licensing required in North Dakota.
NDSCS North Dakota
North Dakota State College of Science — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Wahpeton, ND Community College
Public technical college with welding, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA funding through Job Service North Dakota. No felony exclusion at admission. Welding is the most valuable trade in North Dakota — Bakken oil field demand creates premium wages for certified welders.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA available. Welding most recommended — no state licensing requirement, highest-paying trade in ND.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in North Dakota? Get listed →
Ohio
Ohio electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks with individual review. HVAC and welding more accessible. Ohio’s manufacturing belt creates strong welding demand. OhioMeansJobs WIOA funding commonly available for trade training — confirm eligibility before enrolling.
Columbus State OH
Columbus State Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Columbus, OH Community College
Columbus public college with welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction programs. OhioMeansJobs WIOA funding available. No felony exclusion at admission. Columbus’s active manufacturing and construction sectors create strong trade demand post-graduation.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. OhioMeansJobs WIOA available — confirm eligibility before enrolling. Welding strong for Ohio’s manufacturing sector.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Ohio? Get listed →
Oklahoma
Oklahoma electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks. Welding is particularly valuable — oil field and pipeline industries create consistent demand. Tulsa Tech is the strongest public trade training option in the state — affordable and accessible statewide.
Tulsa Tech OK
Tulsa Technology Center
Trade Training (Public) · Tulsa, OK Community College
Public career tech center with welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction programs. WIOA funding through Oklahoma Works. No felony exclusion at admission. Welding is particularly strong — Tulsa’s oil and gas sector creates consistent demand for certified welders at premium wages.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Oklahoma Works. Welding most accessible and highest-demand trade in Oklahoma.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Oklahoma? Get listed →
Oregon
Oregon electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks. Oregon’s Ban the Box law also limits early criminal history inquiry from trade employers. HVAC and welding accessible without licensing barriers. Portland Community College is the strongest public trade training option in the state.
Portland CC OR
Portland Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Portland, OR Community College
Oregon’s largest public college with welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction programs. WIOA through Oregon WorkSource. No felony exclusion at admission. Oregon’s Ban the Box law also limits early criminal history inquiry from trade employers hiring post-graduation.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Oregon WorkSource. Oregon Ban the Box provides additional employer protection during hiring.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Oregon? Get listed →
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks with individual review. Pennsylvania’s Clean Slate Act seals some records — but licensing boards access sealed records in many cases. HVAC and welding more accessible. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh both have strong union apprenticeship infrastructure.
CCAC Pittsburgh PA
Community College of Allegheny County — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Pittsburgh, PA Community College
Pittsburgh public college with welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA funding through PA CareerLink. No felony exclusion at admission. Pittsburgh’s manufacturing and construction revival creates strong trade demand — welding particularly active in the industrial corridor.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through PA CareerLink. Welding and HVAC most accessible for candidates with licensing concerns.
LIUNA Pennsylvania
LIUNA — Pennsylvania Laborers Apprenticeship
Union Apprenticeship · Statewide, PA Apprenticeship
Pennsylvania LIUNA locals offer paid construction labor apprenticeships — the most accessible building trade union pathway for returning citizens. Paid from day one, no tuition. I-78 and I-81 corridor construction creates strong demand. Contact local LIUNA chapter for application details.
Felony policy: Case-by-case review by local. Most accessible building trade union for returning citizens. Paid apprenticeship — no tuition cost.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Pennsylvania? Get listed →
Rhode Island
Rhode Island electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks. HVAC and welding more accessible. CCRI is the primary and most affordable public trade training option in the state — Rhode Island’s small geography means one campus effectively serves the whole state.
CCRI Rhode Island
Community College of Rhode Island — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Lincoln, RI Community College
Rhode Island’s primary public trade training option with welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA funding through RI Department of Labor and Training. No felony exclusion at admission. Small state geography means this campus effectively serves all Rhode Island residents.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through RI DOL. HVAC and welding most accessible for candidates with licensing concerns.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Rhode Island? Get listed →
South Carolina
South Carolina contractor licensing involves background checks. Welding and HVAC accessible without licensing barriers. SC’s BMW manufacturing plant in Spartanburg and active port construction create strong trade demand. SC Technical College System provides accessible public trade training statewide.
SC Technical Colleges
SC Technical College System — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, SC Community College
16-campus system statewide with welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA funding through SC Works. No felony exclusion at admission. SC’s manufacturing corridor (Spartanburg-Greenville) and port construction create strong welding and industrial trade demand.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through SC Works. Welding strong for Upstate SC manufacturing sector.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in South Carolina? Get listed →
South Dakota
South Dakota electrical licensing involves background checks. Welding and construction labor have no licensing barriers. Lake Area Technical College is one of the most highly regarded technical colleges in the Midwest — strong post-graduation placement rates.
Lake Area Tech SD
Lake Area Technical College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Watertown, SD Community College
Watertown public technical college — one of the most respected in the Midwest. Programs in welding, electrical, HVAC, and construction. WIOA funding through SD Department of Labor. No felony exclusion at admission. Strong post-graduation placement rates for welding graduates.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through SD Department of Labor. Welding recommended — no state licensing, strong agricultural and manufacturing demand.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in South Dakota? Get listed →
Tennessee
Tennessee contractor licensing involves background checks with individual review. HVAC and welding more accessible. Tennessee’s TCAT public career tech system is one of the most accessible trade training networks in the South — multiple campuses, low cost, WIOA funding commonly available.
TCAT Tennessee
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Multiple campuses, TN Community College
Tennessee’s public career tech system with multiple campuses statewide. Welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction programs. WIOA funding commonly available through Tennessee’s American Job Centers. No felony exclusion at admission — one of the most accessible trade training networks in the South.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Tennessee American Job Centers. Multiple campuses minimize travel barrier statewide.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Tennessee? Get listed →
Texas
Texas contractor licensing involves background checks with individual review. Welding is the highest-demand trade in Texas — oil field, pipeline, and petrochemical sectors pay premium wages and actively hire without blanket felony bans. No welding licensing required in Texas. Texas State Technical College is the strongest public trade training network statewide.
TSTC Texas
Texas State Technical College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, TX Community College
Multiple-campus public technical college system with welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, pipefitting, and construction programs. WIOA funding available through Texas Workforce Commission. No felony exclusion at admission. Welding is the strongest pathway — Texas oil field demand is unmatched nationally.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Texas Workforce Commission. Welding most recommended — no licensing required, highest-paying trade in Texas for returning citizens.
Job Corps Texas
Job Corps — Texas Centers
Free Trade Training (Federal) · Statewide, TX Free Program
Free federal trade training with multiple Texas centers. Programs include welding, HVAC, electrical, carpentry, and construction. Housing and living stipend included. Texas centers in San Marcos, Laredo, Gainesville, and other locations. Accepts most felony applicants.
Felony policy: Federal program — accepts most felony applicants. Completely free including housing and living allowance. Multiple TX locations.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Texas? Get listed →
Utah
Utah contractor licensing involves background checks with individual review. Welding and HVAC more accessible without licensing barriers. Salt Lake Community College offers the most comprehensive and affordable public trade training in the Mountain West — strong post-graduation demand from Utah’s active construction sector.
SLCC Utah Trades
Salt Lake Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Salt Lake City, UT Community College
Utah’s most comprehensive public trade training with welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction programs. WIOA funding through Utah’s American Job Centers. No felony exclusion at admission. Utah’s booming construction sector creates strong trade demand statewide.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Utah American Job Centers. Welding and HVAC most accessible for candidates with licensing concerns.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Utah? Get listed →
Vermont
Vermont electrical licensing involves background checks. HVAC and welding more accessible. Vermont Technical College is the primary public trade training option — the state’s small population and construction activity create consistent demand for trade workers across the Green Mountain region.
Vermont Tech
Vermont Technical College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Randolph Center, VT Community College
Vermont’s primary public technical college with electrical, HVAC, and construction programs. WIOA funding through Vermont Department of Labor. No felony exclusion at admission. Vermont’s construction sector creates consistent trade demand — HVAC particularly strong given the state’s climate needs.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Vermont DOL. HVAC strong — Vermont’s climate creates year-round heating and cooling demand.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Vermont? Get listed →
Virginia
Virginia contractor licensing involves background checks with individual review. Virginia’s Certificate of Relief may help with some licensing barriers. HVAC and welding more accessible. Virginia’s Community College System (VCCS) offers trade programs at multiple campuses statewide.
VCCS Virginia Trades
Virginia Community College System — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, VA Community College
23-campus system statewide with welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA funding available. No felony exclusion at admission. Virginia’s Certificate of Relief may assist with some licensing board considerations. Northern Virginia’s construction sector is one of the most active in the Mid-Atlantic.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA available. Virginia Certificate of Relief may assist with licensing board review.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Virginia? Get listed →
Washington
Washington electrical and plumbing licensing involves background checks. Washington’s strong Ban the Box law limits early criminal history inquiry from trade employers. HVAC and welding accessible without licensing barriers. Renton Technical College offers the strongest public trade training in the Seattle metro.
Renton Technical WA
Renton Technical College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Renton, WA Community College
Public trade training near Seattle with welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction programs. WIOA through Washington WorkSource. No felony exclusion at admission. WA’s Ban the Box law limits early criminal history inquiry from employers during the hiring process post-graduation.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through WA WorkSource. Ban the Box law provides additional employer protection post-graduation.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Washington? Get listed →
West Virginia
West Virginia electrical licensing involves background checks. Welding and construction labor have no licensing barriers. West Virginia’s energy and construction sectors create consistent trade demand. BridgeValley Community and Technical College is the primary public trade training option in the state.
BridgeValley WV
BridgeValley Community & Technical College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · South Charleston, WV Community College
West Virginia’s primary public technical college with welding, HVAC, electrical, and construction programs. WIOA funding through WorkForce WV. No felony exclusion at admission. Welding particularly valuable for WV’s energy and industrial sectors — no state licensing required.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through WorkForce WV. Welding recommended — no licensing requirement, consistent energy sector demand.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in West Virginia? Get listed →
Wisconsin
Wisconsin electrical licensing involves background checks. Welding and HVAC more accessible without licensing barriers. Wisconsin’s manufacturing and construction sectors create strong trade demand statewide. Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) is one of the most comprehensive public trade training networks in the Midwest.
WTCS Wisconsin
Wisconsin Technical College System — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Statewide, WI Community College
16-campus system statewide with welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and construction programs. WIOA funding through Wisconsin Job Centers. No felony exclusion at admission. Wisconsin’s manufacturing corridor creates strong welding and fabrication demand — particularly in the Fox Valley and Milwaukee metro.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Wisconsin Job Centers. Welding strong for WI manufacturing sector.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Wisconsin? Get listed →
Wyoming
Wyoming electrical licensing involves background checks. Welding is the highest-demand and most accessible trade — oil field, pipeline, and mining sectors create consistent demand at premium wages. No welding licensing required in Wyoming. Laramie County Community College is the primary public trade training option.
LCCC Wyoming
Laramie County Community College — Trade Programs
Trade Training (Public) · Cheyenne, WY Community College
Wyoming’s primary public trade training with welding, electrical, HVAC, and construction programs. WIOA funding through Wyoming Workforce Services. No felony exclusion at admission. Welding is the strongest pathway — Wyoming’s energy sector creates some of the highest welding wages in the country.
Felony policy: Public institution — no blanket exclusion. WIOA through Wyoming Workforce Services. Welding most recommended — highest-paying trade in WY, no licensing required.
Trade school or apprenticeship program in Wyoming? Get listed →
Note on licensing and listing accuracy: Trade licensing laws and school programs change. Always confirm current program schedules and licensing eligibility directly before enrolling. For licensing with a felony record, contact your state licensing board directly — policies vary by offense type and time elapsed. For the full guide on which trades license with a record: Best Trades for Felons.