Exploring Career and Technical Education Programs in Central Ohio: Unlocking Your Professional Potential

Are you looking to unlock your professional potential and explore your passions while gaining real-world experiences that can lead to a successful career? Professional technology can help you identify paths to future success and provide you with the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge and skills needed to graduate from high school and beyond. In Central Ohio, there are nearly 40 career and technical education (CTE) programs available for students to take advantage of. These programs offer personalized learning that aligns students' passions and interests with their professional aspirations. Through College Credit Plus, Ohio's dual enrollment program, students in grades 7 through 12 can earn college and high school credits simultaneously by taking courses from Ohio colleges or universities.

Businesses and industries also participate in the professional preparation of students in Ohio, providing formal ways for students to gain real-world experience. The state evaluation system allows for a smooth transition between secondary and post-secondary education by integrating evaluations into articulated credit transfer agreements at the state level. Sophomore students interested in applying to classes starting in their third year should visit their Careers and Community Resources Coordinator (CCRC) or guidance counselor at their home country's high school. Students pursuing CTE programs are subject to the same academic requirements as students who do not participate in CTE programs.

Regional centers work with their educational partners to increase student access to quality technical and professional education pathways that provide opportunities to earn college credit while in high school. Ohio presents its CTE plan as part of a combined state plan of the Innovation and Workforce Opportunity Act. Certificate programs must receive a technical designation to be considered CTE programs in Ohio. The state is also committed to expanding access to secondary vocational and technical education programs through the use of capital laboratories, ongoing technical support, and professional development. This includes an internal team dedicated to expanding and improving work-based learning opportunities for students with disabilities, the development of a frequently asked question document on this topic, and the drafting of a joint memorandum for CTE educators on the provision of special education services in technical professional pathways. Ohio secondary vocational and technical education students have a variety of options for earning post-secondary credit while in high school and completing competency-based options.

The Engineering Technology (ET) program at Ohio Central Technical School prepares graduates for exciting careers in a wide range of STEM-based career paths. Central Ohio Higher Technical School offers a four-semester transition option for licensed practical nurses. The instrument, developed in collaboration with education support agencies, establishes indicators for each of the 10 standards. Ohio supports 39 CTE study programs in 16 professional fields, such as engineering technology, licensed practical nursing, and more. If you're looking for an opportunity to unlock your professional potential while gaining real-world experience that can lead to a successful career, consider one of these CTE programs in Central Ohio.