New Castle School of Trades

1. General Information

About (Overview)

New Castle School of Trades (NCST) is a private, for-profit technical institution established in 1945, with campuses in New Castle, Pennsylvania, and East Liverpool, Ohio. Specializing in hands-on training for skilled trades, NCST offers programs designed to prepare students for immediate employment in various technical fields. The school has a rich history of providing practical education, evolving over the decades to meet the demands of the modern workforce. With a focus on experiential learning, NCST equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen trades. NCST’s programs emphasize real-world applications, ensuring students gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge.

The institution fosters an environment that encourages student engagement, technical competence, and career readiness, helping graduates secure positions in competitive industries. The school’s mission is to provide high-quality trade education, offering both day and evening programs to accommodate diverse student needs and schedules. NCST has earned a reputation for producing skilled professionals in fields such as automotive technology, welding, electrical systems, HVAC, and heavy equipment operation. Through its committed faculty and industry-relevant curriculum, NCST continues to meet the growing demand for skilled labor while helping students achieve long-term career success.

Contact Information

New Castle, PA Campus
Address: 4117 Pulaski Rd, New Castle, PA 16101
Phone: (724) 964-8811
Hours: Mon–Thurs: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm; Fri: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm; Sat: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

East Liverpool, OH Campus
Address: 129 E 5th St, East Liverpool, OH 43920
Phone: (330) 368-3130
Hours: Mon–Fri: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

School Facts

CategoryDetails
Founded1945
TypePrivate, For-Profit Technical School
CampusesNew Castle, PA; East Liverpool, OH
AccreditationAccrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology
Motto“Teaching America’s Trades Since 1945”

New Castle School of Trades Rankings

RankDetails
National RankNot ranked nationally
Global RankNot ranked

2. New Castle School of Trades Academics

New Castle School of Trades Faculties / Departments

  • Automotive Technology
  • Building Technology
  • Combination Welding
  • Electrical Technology
  • Heavy Equipment Operations
  • Diesel & Heavy Equipment Repair
  • Refrigeration & A/C Technology
  • Industrial Electro-Mechanical Technology
  • Machinist & CNC Manufacturing
  • Motorcycle & Power Equipment Technology

New Castle School of Trades Courses and Programs / Majors

  • Automotive Technology: Focuses on vehicle maintenance and repair, engine diagnostics, and electrical systems
  • Building Technology: Covers construction techniques, blueprint reading, and building codes
  • Combination Welding: Provides training in various welding methods and safety practices
  • Electrical Technology: Emphasizes electrical systems, wiring, and troubleshooting
  • Heavy Equipment Operations: Teaches operation and maintenance of construction machinery
  • Diesel & Heavy Equipment Repair: Specializes in diesel engine repair and heavy equipment maintenance
  • Refrigeration & A/C Technology: Offers knowledge in HVAC systems, refrigeration cycles, and system installation
  • Industrial Electro-Mechanical Technology: Combines electrical and mechanical systems for industrial applications
  • Machinist & CNC Manufacturing: Focuses on machining processes, CNC programming, and precision manufacturing
  • Motorcycle & Power Equipment Technology: Covers maintenance and repair of motorcycles and small engines

Online Learning

New Castle School of Trades does not currently offer online learning. All programs are conducted in-person to provide hands-on, practical training.

Average Test Scores

TestAverage Score
SATNot applicable
ACTNot applicable
GRENot applicable

Retention and Graduation Rates

  • Freshman Retention Rate: 80%
  • 4-Year Graduation Rate: 71%
  • 6-Year Graduation Rate: 73%

3. New Castle School of Trades Admissions

GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range

NCST does not specify a minimum GPA, SAT, or ACT score for admissions. Applicants are considered based on completion of high school or equivalent and suitability for trade programs.

New Castle School of Trades Acceptance Rate

CategoryDetails
Acceptance RateNot publicly disclosed

New Castle School of Trades Application Requirements

Prospective students must complete an application form, submit proof of high school graduation or GED, and participate in an interview. Requirements may vary slightly depending on the program, and financial aid options are available for eligible applicants.

Application Process

  1. Complete the application form
  2. Submit high school transcripts or GED
  3. Attend an interview with an admissions counselor
  4. Receive acceptance notification
  5. Enroll in chosen program

New Castle School of Trades Application Deadlines / Important Dates

EventDate
Fall Semester StartAugust
Spring Semester StartJanuary

Essay Prompt

An essay is not required for admission.

New Castle School of Trades Scholarships

NCST offers scholarships to support students financially, including merit-based and need-based awards.

New Castle School of Trades Tuition and Fees

ProgramTuitionBooks & Supplies
Automotive Technology$21,582$948
Building Technology$19,764$968
Combination Welding$19,260$912
Electrical Technology$20,736$1,706
Machinist Technology$20,466$1,274
Diesel & Heavy Equipment Repair$24,390$1,332
Refrigeration & A/C Technology$20,142$1,208

4. Student Profile and Demographics

Student Demographics

  • Gender: 90% male, 10% female
  • Age: 1% under 18, 32% 18–19, 14% 20–21, 14% 22–24
  • Race/Ethnicity: 80% White, 15% African American, 2% Hispanic, 3% Multiracial

Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities

Approximately 68% of students come from households earning less than $30,000 annually. Information on students with disabilities is not publicly available.

Student Body

CategoryDetails
Total EnrollmentApproximately 623 students
International StudentsNot specified

University Diversity

New Castle School of Trades has a predominantly male and White student body, with a significant proportion of African American students. The school attracts individuals seeking hands-on technical education and creates a learning environment that values practical experience. NCST is committed to providing access to students from diverse backgrounds through scholarships, outreach programs, and supportive faculty engagement. The diversity in student experiences and backgrounds enhances the classroom environment, encouraging collaboration, skill-sharing, and cultural understanding.

Average Earnings

Graduates of NCST enter the workforce with practical, industry-ready skills. Salaries vary by trade and location but generally provide competitive compensation in fields such as automotive repair, electrical work, welding, HVAC, and heavy equipment operation. Graduates often benefit from high demand for skilled tradespeople, leading to strong employment prospects and career stability.

5. New Castle School of Trades Faculty and Staff

Teachers and Staff

The faculty consists of experienced professionals with extensive backgrounds in their respective trades. Instructors combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on expertise, ensuring students receive comprehensive training.

Faculty Profiles

Faculty members are certified and licensed in their trade areas, with years of industry experience. Their practical skills and mentoring help students develop technical proficiency and confidence to succeed in competitive work environments.

6. New Castle School of Trades Campus and Student Life

Campus Life / Housing

NCST does not provide on-campus housing. Students typically reside in nearby communities. Both campuses feature modern facilities, labs, and equipment to support hands-on learning and professional development.

Transportation

The New Castle campus is accessible via local public transportation, and students may use personal vehicles to commute. Ample parking is available on both campuses for students and staff.