The Kaw Area Technical School (KATS) is committed to providing high quality instruction and programs consistent with current educational technologies. The school strives to offer each student the best opportunity to succeed outside the classroom and in the work force. Over 98% of KATS graduates are hired after course completion, a statistic we're quite proud of.

What can you expect to find at KATS?

History of KATS

In 1941, Topeka High School established Topeka Trade School at 602 SW Harrison Street. The first courses were Machine Shop and Auto Mechanics and additional courses were soon added. Wartime and civil service training for Topeka Army Air Field personnel took place at the school during World War II as well as pre-induction training for Topeka Public School students bound for military service. Following WWII and the Korean War, many veterans received training from Topeka Trade School at the Forbes Center location.

In 1964, legislation allowed the creation of Northeast Kansas Vocational Technical School. The school's name was changed to Kaw Area Vocational Technical School in 1967, and changed again in 1992 to its current name, Kaw Area Technical School. Land for the current location was purchased from Mrs. Alf Landon, wife of the former governor, and the new building was dedicated on November 11, 1968. KATS began with the creation of a consortium of the Boards of Education of five school districts. That consortium has grown to seventeen school districts in Topeka and the surrounding areas with USD 501 as the Board of Control.

Student Services

Kaw Area Technical School is committed to providing high quality instruction and programs consistent with current needs in today's technologies. Learn about what KATS does to enhance the student opportunities including financial aid, schedules, calendars, counseling, and other general information.

Programs of Study

KATS' courses vary greatly, from computers to welding, from graphic design to automotive. Explore the many different programs to find what interests you.

Business & Industry Training

If you are a business interested in customized training in business or industry for your employees, KATS provides information on how we can help you. KATS can help upgrade the skills of your current employees and provide high quality training for new employees.

Academic Calendar

Plan ahead with the KATS calendar! View upcoming school holidays, special events, and other important information.

KATS/Washburn Connection

KATS and the School of Applied Studies at Washburn University have teamed up for a fantastic offer for students seeking to extend their academic careers by providing Associate Degrees. Learn about how a KATS degree can get you discounts and special degree options at a premier public university.

KATS Annual Report

The Kaw Area Technical School Annual Report is produced yearly by our Graphics/Printing Technology students. The report contains the Director's Report, Business/Industry Training, Student Enrollment statistics, Graduation, Student Honors, and Skills USA Championships.

• Download Annual Report (updated February 2008): PDF (2.63 MB)