In short
Wichita residents can train for the trades at WSU Tech (the technical institute of Wichita State University), Butler Community College, through union apprenticeships for electricians (IBEW Local 271) and plumbers (Local 158), or at private trade schools. Aviation manufacturing drives much of the local economy — welders, machinists, and aircraft mechanics are in high demand. Kansas Promise Scholarship can cover community and technical college tuition for many students. Most programs take 4 weeks to 2 years. Fill out the form to hear from schools near you.
Jobs hiring in Wichita
Wichita's economy is built on aviation manufacturing, but construction, healthcare, and logistics also need skilled workers. Here's what the common trades pay in the Wichita area and how long it takes to get in:
| Job | Training time | Typical pay in Wichita | How you get in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | 9–12 months of school, or 4–5 year paid apprenticeship | About $50,000–$60,000 | IBEW Local 271 apprenticeship, or trade school then a job |
| Welder | 7–9 months | About $45,000–$55,000 | WSU Tech or Butler CC; aviation manufacturers hire from these programs |
| HVAC technician | 6–12 months | About $48,000–$56,000 | Trade school or WSU Tech, then EPA 608 card |
| Aircraft mechanic (A&P) | 12–24 months | About $55,000–$68,000 | WSU Tech or private aviation schools; FAA certification required |
| Plumber | 1 year school, or 5-year paid apprenticeship | About $50,000–$60,000 | Plumbers Local 158 apprenticeship, or trade school |
| Machinist / CNC operator | 6–12 months | About $42,000–$52,000 | WSU Tech or Butler CC; aerospace and manufacturing hire directly |
| CDL truck driver | 3–7 weeks | About $45,000–$52,000 | CDL school; many carriers pay for it if you drive for them |
Pay is a typical range for experienced workers in the Wichita 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 Wichita?
Pick a trade on the form and only schools that teach it near you will reach out.
Where to train
WSU Tech (Wichita State University — Technical Institute)
WSU Tech is Wichita's public technical college and one of the best options for trade training in Kansas. It offers programs in welding, aviation mechanics (A&P), machining, HVAC, electrical technology, and information technology. It's affordable and Kansas Promise Scholarship works here. Its aviation and manufacturing programs have direct pipelines to Spirit, Textron, and Airbus.
Butler Community College
Butler CC, based in El Dorado with a Wichita campus, offers welding, HVAC, electrical, and automotive programs. A solid affordable choice, especially if WSU Tech is full or you're in the eastern part of the metro.
Union apprenticeships
IBEW Local 271 covers electricians in Wichita and south-central Kansas. Plumbers and pipefitters (Local 158) also serve the area. You work full time, earn a paycheck, and attend classes with no tuition. Takes 4–5 years to reach full pay with regular raises.
What Kansas will help pay
Kansas money for training
- Kansas Promise Scholarship
- Covers tuition, fees, and some living costs at participating Kansas community colleges and technical colleges. You need a high school diploma or equivalent and must enroll within two years of graduating or earning a GED. Ask WSU Tech or Butler's financial aid office if you're eligible.
- Kansas WIOA
- Free training through the Wichita Workforce Center if you qualify. Covers community college or trade school for people 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 WSU Tech, Butler, most trade schools, and apprenticeships for veterans.
Sources: Kansas Board of Regents (Promise Scholarship); Wichita Workforce Center; Federal Student Aid. Rules and amounts change; confirm with the school's financial aid office.
Put those together and many Wichita residents can attend WSU Tech for close to nothing out of pocket. Private schools take Pell, GI Bill, and WIOA but Promise rules vary by program.
Aviation manufacturing
Questions from Wichita
How do I get into aviation manufacturing without experience?
WSU Tech offers entry-level certificates in machining, welding, and composites that take 6–12 months. Spirit, Textron, and Airbus hire directly from these programs. Starting pay for entry-level is around $18–22 an hour, with raises as you gain skills and certifications.
Is IBEW Local 271 accepting apprenticeships?
Local 271's application period opens periodically — usually once or twice a year. You need a high school diploma or GED, a driver's license, and to pass an aptitude test. Check their website or call the hall for the next application window.
What's cheaper — WSU Tech or Butler Community College?
Both are affordable and both accept Kansas Promise Scholarship. WSU Tech has more aviation-specific programs. Butler is a strong option if you're on the east side or want a broader choice of programs. Compare the specific program costs for the trade you want.
I don't have a diploma or GED. Where can I start in Wichita?
Wichita Public Schools Adult Education offers free GED prep. WSU Tech also has adult basic education programs. Some trade programs let you start training while working toward your GED. Pick "Some high school" on the form and we'll include those options.