Career and Technical Education
Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs of study are available at all high schools and the Career & Technology Center. They offer students the opportunity to prepare for college and/or careers through academic skill development and practical work experiences. A student can earn the distinction of being a CTE completer by completing three or four courses within a specific career pathway. Typically, a CTE completer earns industry recognized credentials and/or college credit and may participate in a Work-Based Learning opportunity. CTE courses progress through career exploration to career preparation to support students with career ready competencies.
Middle School Pathways give students the chance to explore their interests and develop foundational skills for future success. Our three pathways: Engineering, Computer Science, and Business & Consumer Services offer hands-on, project-based courses that foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Each pathway includes three electives focused on building problem-solving, computational thinking, and teamwork skills. These pathways provide a strong foundation for high school CTE programs and beyond.
CTE Pathways in High School programs of study are available at all high schools and the Career & Technology Center (CTC). Each CTE program of study contains three or four courses that lead to the attaining of an industry certification, college credit, and/or the participation in work-based learning. CTE offers 44 different program options across the system. School Counselors and Career Coaches can help students incorporate one of these programs into a high school plans.
Resources
Contacts
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Dr. Kristine Pearl |
Korbin Shoemaker Coordinator of Career and Technical Education Phone: 240-586-7755 |
Tony Bollino CTE Teacher Specialist Phone: 240-586-7766 |
Work Based Learning Teacher Specialist Phone: 240-586-7764 |
Laura Brown Coordinator of Career Coaches Phone: 240-586-7803 |
Julie D. Smith |
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Haley Weldon |
Explore High School CTE Clusters
Additional CTE Opportunities
Career Coach Program The Blueprint for Maryland's Future legislation outlines the mandate to provide all FCPS middle and high school students with individualized Career Coach services. There are 22 Career Coaches who serve our 10 high schools, 13 middle schools, 4 charter schools, Heather Ridge School, CTC, FCC dual enrollment program, virtual high school, and remote virtual program.
Career and Technology Center (CTC) A select number of programs of study are available at the Career and Technology Center (CTC) for students in grades 10-12. Students attend ½-day blocks at the CTC and their home high school to complete their academic and elective courses. Additional information from school career counselors will explain the admissions process due to a limited number of openings.
Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSO) CTSOs are student-led organizations that provide opportunities for students to develop leadership, teamwork, and career-related skills. They often focus on specific career fields such as business, technology, agriculture, or health/human services. These co-curricular student experiences are embedded within various CTE programs. CTSOs can offer a variety of activities, including competitions, conferences, community service projects, and networking events. In FCPS, students have the opportunity to join Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), FFA, SkillsUSA, and Educators Rising.
Work Based Learning Work-Based Learning (WBL) in Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) provides students with opportunities to connect classroom learning to real-world careers through hands-on experience in a professional setting. Designed for high school students, the program offers various pathways, including internships, apprenticeships, and industry-related projects that enable students to explore career interests, develop essential skills, and earn credits toward graduation. WBL experiences are supported by partnerships with local businesses and industry professionals, who mentor students and guide them in applying academic knowledge to practical tasks. These experiences not only enhance students' career readiness but also prepare them for success in post-secondary education and future careers.
Youth Apprenticeship Program FCPS is proud to be one of two counties in Maryland selected to pilot the Maryland Youth Apprenticeship "Earn and Learn" Program. Through this initiative, participating students gain hands-on experience by working in a state-approved industry during the summer after their junior year and throughout their senior year. Under the guidance of a skilled mentor, students develop valuable career skills, earn industry-recognized credentials, and receive high school credit. For more information and to apply, visit our Youth Apprenticeship webpage.