NCCTE

North Carolina Career and Technical Education (CTE) prepares students for college, careers, and life by providing hands-on learning, industry-recognized credentials, work-based learning opportunities, and pathways to high-demand careers while earning high school credit.

Find out more about the NCCTE Career Pathways, Courses, and Credentials at this link,

9th Grade: Explore Career Interests

Career Exploration

Complete career interest inventories and assessments.
Explore different career clusters and pathways.
Learn about local industries and workforce opportunities.

Academic Planning

Review graduation requirements.
Select introductory CTE courses that align with interests.
Develop strong study habits and workplace skills.

Skills Development

Practice communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Participate in Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) when available.

Activities & Experiences

Attend career fairs and industry presentations.
Begin learning about internships, apprenticeships, and credential opportunities.

Summer

Volunteer, attend camps, job shadow, or participate in career-focused programs.

10th Grade: Explore and Prepare

Course Selection

Choose a CTE pathway that matches your interests and goals.
Enroll in foundational and intermediate pathway courses.

Career Exploration

Research careers related to your pathway.
Learn about education, training, certification, and salary expectations.

Skills Development

Build technical and employability skills.
Become active in CTSOs and leadership opportunities.

Experiences

Participate in job shadowing opportunities.
Attend college, trade school, and workforce events.

Summer

Seek volunteer experiences, camps, or part-time jobs related to career interests.

11th Grade: Plan and Narrow Choices

Course Selection

Continue pathway coursework and advanced classes.
Ensure pathway completion requirements are on track.

Career Preparation

Develop a professional resume.
Practice interviewing and workplace communication skills.

Credentials & Certifications

Prepare for industry-recognized credential opportunities when available.
Explore dual enrollment and Career & College Promise (CCP) options.

Work-Based Learning

Participate in internships, apprenticeships, clinical experiences, or work-based learning opportunities.
Network with professionals in the field.

Postsecondary Planning

Research colleges, trade schools, apprenticeship programs, military options, and workforce entry requirements.

Summer

Pursue internships, employment, apprenticeships, or career-related training.

12th Grade: Transition to Career and Postsecondary Success

Fall

Complete pathway coursework.
Earn industry credentials and certifications.
Finalize resume and portfolio.

Winter

Apply to colleges, trade schools, apprenticeships, military programs, or employment opportunities.
Complete FAFSA if pursuing postsecondary education.

Spring

Participate in mock interviews and career readiness activities.
Complete work-based learning experiences.
Finalize post-graduation plans.

Graduation & Beyond

Graduate with a completed CTE pathway.
Transition to employment, apprenticeship, military service, community college, technical college, or a four-year university.
Continue developing skills and credentials in your chosen field.

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