Top Trade School for Veterans in Rhode Island

IYRS is proud of its history of educating Veterans as they transition from the military to civilian careers. As a Veteran, IYRS will help you to transform the skills you developed in the military—an ability to work with your hands, to work in teams, to problem solve, and to adapt—into a career as a highly trained craftsperson and technician.

The skills you learn at IYRS will help provide a foundation for a successful career across diverse industries including the marine trades, aerospace, wind energy, medical devices, and many others.

Why Trade Schools Are a Smart Path for Veterans

Veterans gain faster career access through trade schools. Unlike traditional four-year colleges, trade schools like IYRS offer an accelerated route to employment through hands-on learning, expert training, and real-world externships. For those transitioning from military service, the ability to quickly enter the workforce with in-demand technical skills is a major advantage.

Trade schools for veterans offer lower tuition costs, shorter program durations (typically under 12 months), and direct alignment with job openings in fields like marine systems, composites manufacturing, and digital fabrication. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, thousands of veterans each year use their veteran’s education benefits to complete high-impact vocational training that leads to competitive pay and long-term career growth.

At IYRS, the emphasis on skilled trades and vocational training empowers veterans to apply their discipline, adaptability, and technical acumen to industries that value their experience. Through focused training, tuition assistance, and career services, IYRS helps veterans build a rewarding future in sectors where their contributions matter.

Whether you’re pursuing re-entering the workforce or exploring a second career, IYRS stands ready to support your journey with career-focused education, strong employer connections, and a proven path from military service to civilian success.

Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)

This program, formerly called Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment, assists Veterans with job training, resume writing, and job skills coaching. As a Veteran, you'll have access to personalized coaching and support as you use your skills and experience toward a career change. These resources are available to you while you attend IYRS, giving you added support in the job search and application process.

In addition to the career training and support offered by IYRS Career Services department, you can use these services to position yourself for career success in your new industry.

GI Bill® Benefits

The GI Bill exists to help active service members and Veterans with the cost of education or vocational training. Several different bill specifications exist, and they apply towards college degree programs, technical training, apprenticeships, certification reimbursement and others. You may be eligible to tap into your GI Bill benefits and use this assistance toward your tuition or other expenses associated with IYRS, such as textbooks and school supplies.

For the 2024-2025 academic year, the Post-9/11 GI Bill will allow up to $28,937.09 for students training at non-degree granting institutions. You can use the VA’s GI Bill tool to calculate your specific benefits for attendance at IYRS. 

GI Bill benefits can be transferred and according to the VA website, the request has to be made while the servicemember is still on active duty through milConnect. (Info here: Transfer Your Post-9/11 GI Bill Benefits | Veterans Affairs)

Veterans Benefits

Veterans Benefits offer specific assistance to help former service members as they adjust to civilian life and careers. You can access education benefits in addition to pension benefits, disability compensation, home loan benefits, life insurance benefits, and others.

To make the most of VA education benefits, apply online through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website. You can also visit your closest VA regional office or submit your application by mail.

If you need some extra assistance as you apply for Veterans Benefits, please reach out to Student Services at IYRS. We're here to help and want to make the process as smooth and simple as possible. Contact us with any questions and learn more and click here to know how to apply for Veterans Benefits.