High School CTE

High school Career & Technical Education (CTE) courses provide students with opportunities to explore career interests, develop technical skills, and gain real-world experience while preparing for college, careers, and life after graduation. Organized into Programs of Study, CTE pathways combine hands-on learning with rigorous academics to help students discover their interests and build a strong foundation for their future.

Through CTE, students can:

• Explore careers in high-demand industries.
• Develop technical and workplace skills using industry-standard equipment and technology.
• Learn from teachers and industry professionals with real-world experience.
• Participate in career-connected learning experiences that build confidence and prepare students for future success.
• Earn dual credit through select courses, allowing students to earn college credit while in high school and potentially save time and money after graduation.
• Earn industry-recognized credentials in qualifying programs, helping students demonstrate their skills to colleges and employers.

CTE also plays an important role in meeting Washington state graduation requirements. All students must earn at least one CTE credit to graduate. In addition, students are required to complete two Personalized Pathway Requirement (PPR) credits aligned with their High School & Beyond Plan. Because CTE courses are designed around career pathways, completing a sequence of courses within a Program of Study can help students fulfill both graduation requirements while preparing for their post-high school goals.

Explore the Programs of Study below to learn about available course sequences, participating schools, dual credit opportunities, industry-recognized credentials, and the exciting career pathways available through Federal Way Public Schools.