AVTEC named one of America's top vocational schools by USA Today

The Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC) has been selected as one of USA Today's "America's Top Vocational Schools" of 2025, a ranking of 250 top-performing institutions recognized for student success and overall educational value.

The ranking is based on key performance indicators such as graduation rate, graduate salary, years to pay off net price, diversity, and social mobility. These data-driven metrics highlight AVTEC's commitment to providing cost-effective, workforce-aligned training that prepares students for high-demand careers.

"Our programs are built in partnership with industry, and this recognition validates that model. At AVTEC, we train Alaskans for real jobs, in real time, with real results," said Dr. Cory Ortiz, AVTEC Director.

AVTEC was originally created as a post-secondary component of the State of Alaska Department of Education in 1969. Originally called the Alaska Skills Center, it was established in response to emerging demand for a skilled workforce statewide and was associated with the 1968 discovery of oil in Prudhoe Bay.

AVTEC is now a division of the Department of Labor and Workforce Development (DOLWD), reporting to the Commissioner of Labor, and the only post-secondary career and technical training center owned and operated by the State of Alaska.

Programs include Construction, Culinary Arts, Industrial Electricity, Industrial Welding, Information Technology, Plumbing and Heating, Refrigeration, Industrial Machine and Maintenance, and Diesel/Heavy Equipment Technologies. Students who successfully complete the program are able to earn industry-recognized credentials and licenses.

"Vocational education is highly important for Alaska, offering pathways for rewarding careers throughout Alaska. The Department of Labor and Workforce Development is proud to celebrate AVTEC's accomplishment to be listed among the nation's top vocational schools," said Catherine Muñoz, Commissioner of the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development.

For information about the training opportunities at AVTEC, visit avtec.edu or contact admissions at (907) 224-3322 or admissions@avtec.edu.