February is #CTEMonth.
Career Technical Education is a focal point at the WV Department of Education. According to WVDE, “West Virginia’s Career Technical Education (CTE) programs empower students to explore potential careers in various hands-on, technical training programs. CTE programs not only teach students real-world knowledge and skills, but also provide opportunities for industry-recognized credentials and meaningful work-based learning experiences.”
In Ohio County, both middle and high school programmatic levels focus on CTE. All four middle schools in OCS utilize “Simulated Workplace.” A variety of class offerings align with the programs available for students to enter at Wheeling Park High School.
WPHS’s Career Center currently offers 16 companies. Students can begin programs in soft skills areas as early as their freshman year. After completing Career Exploration Academy as a Freshman or Sophomore, students then have the opportunity to interview and apply for a variety of companies in our high-wall shop programs. The 16 current companies include:
- Park Inc.: Accounting and Finance, Marketing Management, and Entrepreneurship
- Park View Farms: Agribusiness Systems and Plant Systems
- Patriot Garage: Automotive Technology
- WPHP: Broadcasting Technology
- WPHS Park Builders: Carpentry
- Patriot Tech: Coding, App, and Game Design
- Parkview Collision: Collision Repair Technology
- Patriot Tech: Computer Systems Repair Technology
- Studio235: Graphic Design
- Eagle Precision: Machine Tool Technology
- Park Power Systems Repairs: Power Equipment Systems
- Eagle Innovators: Pre-Engineering
- The Patriot Cafe: ProStart Restaurant Management
- Patriot Logistics: Robotics
- Park Welding and Fabricating: Welding
- The Park Press: Social Journalism
Students can leave high school and get an entry level position in these fields because of the experience, and in many cases, certifications, they gain from being in these courses. Aside from college preparation experience, students in specific companies can earn an OSHA 10 certification, a NIMS certification, and welding certifications.
The courses function as an elective and give the students the opportunity to gain experience in their selected field as early as the first day of classes. It is not uncommon to see students developing marketing strategies or performing routine maintenance on a vehicle.
In addition to our CTE programs at the high school, each middle school also operates a “simulated workplace,” program that aligns with many offerings at the high school level.
For years, WPHS’s CTE program has been a highlight for Ohio County Schools, drawing many students from Park as well as private schools to share in all the program has to offer. In large thanks to the dedication of the Ohio County Community supporting our school systems, we are able to continue exhibiting the best preparation for students’ next steps.
