Career and Technical Programs
Career and Technical Education
CTECS offers high school students over 30 Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs! All programs integrate 21st-century employability skills required by business and industry.
Ninth-grade students participate in all of the technical programs offered at their technical high school through the Exploratory Program. This experience allows students to engage in the various career path opportunities before choosing one that will set the framework for their education in grades 10-12.
Graduates earn a Connecticut high school diploma, CTE certificate in their field of study and multiple stackable credentials giving them the “competitive edge.” These credentials include but are not limited to state occupational licensure, national technical skill competency certifications and industry-recognized credentialing.
Click on each CTE area below to learn more about the programs offered, locations, certifications and career paths.
Career Pathways
Agriculture Cluster – 2 Career Pathways: Bioscience, Veterinary Science
Cluster Career Opportunities: Renewable Energy Technician, Water Plant Intern / Technician, Veterinary Intern / Technician, Animal Kennel Operator, Environmental Data Analyst, Energy Sales Consultant, Energy Plant Intern, Energy Project Manager, Sustainable Business Consultant
Construction Cluster – 9 Career Pathways: Architecture, Building and Civil Construction, Carpentry, Electrical, HVAC, Masonry, Plumbing and Heating, Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling
Cluster Career Opportunities: Architect Intern, Construction Technology Manager, Construction Union Apprentice, Construction Project Manager, Construction Sales Manager, General Contractor, Carpenter, Licensed Electrician, Licensed HVAC Technician, Mason, Landscape Designer, Licensed Plumber, Equipment Operator, Building Inspector
Arts, Entertainment, & Design Cluster – 1 Career Pathway: Digital Media
Cluster Career Opportunities: Camera Operator, Television Station Intern / Technician, Sound Coordinator, Digital Media Manager, Social Media Manager, Podcast Editor, TV Commercial Designer
Healthcare & Human Services Cluster – 3 Career Pathways: Biotechnology, Health Technology, Hairdressing and Cosmetology
Hospitality, Events, and Tourism Cluster – 2 Career Pathways: Culinary Arts, Guest Services Management
Cluster Career Opportunities: Line Cook, Sous / Executive Chef, Banquet Manager, Personal Chef, Restaurant Manager, Event & Conference Planner, Front Desk Manager, Corporate Sales, Public Relations, Hotel General Manager, Casino Associate, Tourism Regional Coordinator
Digital Technology Cluster – 3 Career Pathways: Graphic Design, Information Technology
Cluster Career Opportunities: Electronic Appliance Installer, Graphic Design Intern, Digital Marketing Analyst, Community Data Analyst, Software Developer / Engineer, Supply Chain Data Analyst, Warehouse Automation Specialist, Cyber Security Architect, Environmental Data Analyst, Renewable Energy Technician
Public Service & Safety Cluster – 1 Career Pathway: Criminal Justice and Protective Services
Cluster Career Opportunities: Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Fireman, Police Officer, Dispatch Operator, Public Information Officer, Community Outreach Coordinator, Public Safety Program Manager
Advanced Manufacturing Cluster – 5 Career Pathways: Aerospace Component Manufacturing Technology, Mechanical Design and Engineering Technology, Precision Machining Technology, Robotics and Automation, Welding and Metal Fabrication
Cluster Career Opportunities: CNC Machines, Industrial Maintenance Technician, Automation Technician, Manufacturing Product Manager, Technical Sales Engineer, Product Development Manager
Supply Chain & Transportation Cluster – 3 Career Pathways: Automotive Collision, Repair, and Refinishing, Automotive Technology, Diesel and Heavy-Duty Equipment Repair
Cluster Career Opportunities: Automotive Intern / Mechanic, Collision Repair Intern / Technician, Auto parts Sales Associate, Car Dealership Sales, Garage Operator, Fleet Manager, Diesel Repair Intern /Mechanic, Heavy Equipment Operators and Sales, Aircraft Engine Maintenance Technicians