From flight simulators to medical labs, Washoe County students are getting a head start on careers while still in high school.
The district is using Career and Technical Education Month in February to highlight programs that give students practical experience and prepare them for high-demand jobs.
More than 8,000 students are enrolled in courses spanning healthcare, education, construction, business, engineering, IT, forensic science, fire science, aviation, performing arts, culinary arts, manufacturing, military science, and other fields.
Programs include flight simulators at the AACT Aviation Academy, building and metalworking facilities at Debbie Smith CTE Academy, medical programs at Procter R. Hug High School, and a broadcast studio at Spanish Springs High School.
“WCSD is proud to be the preferred choice for students in Washoe County, and we provide a vast variety of CTE courses, subjects, and learning opportunities,” said WCSD Superintendent Joe Ernst. “WCSD students who want to participate in one of our CTE programs – even if it is located at a school outside their zone – may choose to submit an application to attend that school. We encourage them to explore all the CTE options available in our district as they make these important decisions.”
Dr. Josh Hartzog, director of Career and Technical Education for WCSD, said, “CTE Month gives us the opportunity to highlight how hands-on, career-focused learning transforms students' futures. Whether a student pursues aviation, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, or any of our other pathways, they're gaining the technical and professional skills to succeed in the careers they choose.”
All traditional high schools in the district offer CTE courses, while AACT and Debbie Smith CTE Academy provide specialized programs with state-of-the-art facilities.
Many students can earn college credit through dual enrollment while still in high school, with some completing requirements for an associate’s degree before graduation.
Programs integrate academic, employability, and technical skills, and offer students the chance to earn industry-recognized credentials while participating in work-based learning.
Dr. Hartzog said, “We are proud to partner with dozens of businesses, employers, and local industry leaders to provide apprenticeships, training, and on-the-job experience for our students. These partnerships help us to keep our CTE program offerings timely and relevant for our students, as we continue to assess which professions, services, and trades will be most needed in our world going forward and adapt our courses to best fit those needs.”
Superintendent Ernst added, “Our district promise is to provide our students with the resources and support they need to graduate prepared for the future they choose. Our CTE programs are an important part of that commitment, and we celebrate them and the opportunities they provide to our students.”
