In short
Columbus residents can train for the trades at Columbus State Community College, through union apprenticeships for electricians (IBEW Local 683) and plumbers (Local 189), or at private trade schools for fast programs like CDL, welding, and medical assisting. Ohio's College Opportunity Grant and Ohio Means Jobs workforce program can help cover training costs. Most programs take 4 weeks to 2 years. Fill out the form to hear from schools near you.
Jobs hiring in Columbus
Columbus has one of the strongest economies in the Midwest — state government, Ohio State University, insurance companies, and a growing tech sector all need trades. Here's what the common trades pay in Columbus and how long it takes to get in:
| Job | Training time | Typical pay in Columbus | How you get in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | 9–12 months of school, or 4–5 year paid apprenticeship | About $54,000–$64,000 | IBEW Local 683 apprenticeship, or trade school then a job |
| HVAC technician | 6–12 months | About $50,000–$58,000 | Trade school or Columbus State, then EPA 608 card |
| Welder | 7–9 months | About $46,000–$54,000 | Trade school or Columbus State; certifications from the school |
| Plumber | 1 year school, or 5-year paid apprenticeship | About $54,000–$64,000 | Plumbers Local 189 apprenticeship, or trade school |
| CDL truck driver | 3–7 weeks | About $48,000–$56,000 | CDL school; Columbus is a major logistics hub with many carriers |
| Medical assistant | 9–12 months | About $37,000–$43,000 | Trade school or Columbus State; hospitals and clinics hire constantly |
| Diesel mechanic | 1–2 years | About $50,000–$60,000 | Trade school or Columbus State; logistics fleets hire from programs |
Pay is a typical range for experienced workers in the Columbus metro, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics area data (May 2024), rounded. Starting pay is lower. Union apprentices start around half of journeyman pay and get raises every six months to a year.
Ready for the list for Columbus?
Pick a trade on the form and only schools that teach it near you will reach out.
Where to train
Columbus State Community College
Columbus State is the public community college for central Ohio, offering affordable programs in HVAC, welding, electrical, automotive, and IT. It also runs CDL training and has strong connections with local employers. Cheaper than private schools and Ohio aid programs work here.
Union apprenticeships
Columbus has strong union presence. Electricians (IBEW Local 683), plumbers and pipefitters (Local 189), and sheet metal workers all run apprenticeships. You work full time, earn a paycheck, and attend classes — no tuition. Takes 4–5 years to reach full pay with regular raises.
Private trade schools
Faster programs with rolling start dates: CDL in a month, welding or HVAC in under a year, medical assisting in about nine months. Cost more than Columbus State but often include job placement help. Ask for accreditation and placement numbers before you sign.
What Ohio will help pay
Ohio money for training
- Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG)
- Need-based grant for Ohio residents attending Ohio public colleges (including Columbus State). Amount depends on income and school. Not available at private for-profit schools. Apply through FAFSA.
- Career-Technical Credit Transfer (CT) for high schoolers
- Ohio high school students can earn college credit for career-technical classes taken during high school. Ask your school about CT credit transfer options to Columbus State.
- Ohio Means Jobs (WIOA)
- Free training through Ohio Means Jobs centers in Columbus if you qualify. Covers community college or trade school for adults who meet income or job-loss guidelines. Ask about it before you enroll anywhere.
- Pell Grant
- Federal. Up to about $7,400 a year, based on income. Fill out the FAFSA at studentaid.gov. Free.
- GI Bill
- Covers Columbus State, most trade schools, CDL school, and apprenticeships for veterans.
Sources: Ohio Department of Higher Education (OCOG, CT); Ohio Means Jobs; Federal Student Aid. Rules and amounts change; confirm with the school's financial aid office.
Put those together and many Columbus residents can attend Columbus State for very little out of pocket. Private schools take Pell, GI Bill, and WIOA but not OCOG.
Intel and the future
Questions from Columbus
Is Columbus State Community College affordable?
Yes. Columbus State is one of the most affordable options in Ohio, and the Ohio College Opportunity Grant can cover tuition for many students. Fill out the FAFSA and ask Columbus State's financial aid office what OCOG can do for you.
What's the job outlook for electricians in Columbus right now?
Strong. Columbus is growing fast — new buildings and infrastructure projects everywhere. Intel's semiconductor plants are creating additional demand. IBEW Local 683 runs an apprenticeship program that's well regarded. Expect good prospects for the next several years.
Can I start a trade program while still in high school?
Yes. Ohio's Career-Technical Credit Transfer program lets high school students earn college credit for career-tech classes. Columbus State also has dual enrollment options. Talk to your high school counselor about what's available in your district.
How do I find CDL training in Columbus?
Columbus State offers CDL training through its workforce development arm. There are also private CDL schools. Many trucking companies in the area offer paid training if you commit to driving for them — that's worth comparing with school costs.