If you’re ready to start a new career fast, you may be wondering: “What trade school programs are actually available near me?”
At STVT (South Texas Vocational Technical Institute), you’ll find career-focused programs designed to get you job-ready in under 15 months — no general education, no fluff.
Whether you’re in Brownsville, McAllen, Corpus Christi, Weslaco, San Antonio, or Arlington, STVT offers hands-on training in healthcare, transportation, skilled trades, and technology.
Let’s take a closer look at what you can study.
Transportation Programs
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Training: Class A Tractor Trailer
CDL Training: Class B
- Duration: 4–8 weeks
- Careers: Local or over-the-road truck driver
- Locations: Available at multiple campuses
This program prepares you for the Class A or Class B CDL exam and gets you on the road fast.
Skilled Trades Programs
HVAC & Basic Refrigeration
- Duration: 10 months
- Careers: HVAC installer, repair tech, refrigeration specialist
- Includes: EPA certification prep
Combination Welding
- Duration: 10 months
- Careers: Structural welder, fabrication, pipeline work
- Hands-On: Real welding booths and industry tools
Explore Welding or HVAC Training
Healthcare & Medical Programs
Medical Clinical Assistant
- Duration: 13 months
- Careers: Clinical assistant, phlebotomy, front-office support
- Includes: Clinical labs + externship
Dental Assisting
- Duration: 15 months
- Careers: Chairside dental assistant, sterilization tech
- Includes: Radiography and chairside skills
Medical Billing & Coding
- Duration: 15 months
- Careers: Insurance billing clerk, coding specialist, data entry
- Includes: CPT, ICD-10, and HIPAA basics
Learn More About Healthcare Programs at STVT
Automotive Technology
Automotive Service Technician
- Duration: 13 months
- Careers: Brake specialist, service advisor, engine diagnostics
- Skills: Engine repair, suspension, electrical, emissions
Available only at select campuses — check your local STVT location for availability.
Which Programs Are at Which STVT Campus?
| Campus Location | Sample Programs Offered |
|---|---|
| Brownsville | HVAC & Basic Refrigeration, CDL Training: Class A Tractor Trailer, Electrical, Medical Clinical Assistant, Dental Assisting, Medical Billing & Coding |
| McAllen | Dental Assisting, Medical Billing & Coding, Medical Clinical Assistant, Business Studies, HVAC & Basic Refrigeration, CDL Training: Class A Tractor Trailer, Electrical |
| Corpus Christi | CDL Training: Class A Tractor Trailer, HVAC & Basic Refrigeration, Combination Welding, Dental Assisting, Medical Clinical Assistant, Automotive Service Technician |
| Weslaco | Automotive Service Technician, CDL Training: Class A Tractor Trailer, HVAC & Basic Refrigeration |
| San Antonio | Medical Clinical Assistant, CDL Training: Class A Tractor Trailer, Combination Welding, Dental Assisting, Medical Billing & Coding |
| Arlington | HVAC & Basic Refrigeration, CDL Training: Class A Tractor Trailer, Medical Clinical Assistant, Electrical |
Contact Your Campus for Program Availability
Choosing the Right Program
Ask yourself:
- Do I want to work in healthcare, transportation, or skilled trades?
- Do I enjoy working with people or machines?
- Do I prefer indoor or outdoor work?
Use these answers to narrow down your ideal career — or talk to an STVT admissions advisor who can walk you through your training options.
FAQ: Trade School Programs in Texas
Q: Can I take these programs at night or on weekends?
A: Yes — many STVT campuses offer flexible scheduling.
Q: How long does it take to finish a program?
A: Most programs are designed to be completed in under 15 months.
Q: Do I need prior experience?
A: No! STVT programs are built for beginners with no prior training.