Career Start Program

Career Start Program (formerly AVP)

Pikes Peak Community College

The PPCC Career Start Program provides occupational and technical skill development and training for juniors and seniors interested in getting a jump-start on training for challenging, high-demand work directly after high school. D49 pays the cost of the program, and students earn both high school and college credit towards professional certificates and Associate of Applied Science degrees. In addition to teaching occupational and technical skills, the Career Start Program prepares students for the world of work by teaching related academics and workplace skills for entry-level employment.

Auto Collision Technology Fire Science Technology

Auto Service Technology Healthcare Exploration

Construction Health Science Technology

Criminal Justice Interior Design

Culinary Arts Multimedia Graphic Design

Cyber Security Radio & Television

Diesel Power Technology Welding (WEL2 classes located at Springs Fabrication)

Early Childhood Education Zoo Keeping

Instruction is provided in classrooms, computer labs, shops, kitchens, and in business and industry. In most Career Start programs, high school students learn alongside other high school students in the same program. Career Start instructors are occupationally experienced and vocationally credentialed.

Classes follow a typical 5-day-per-week schedule, 2 hour 40 min daily schedule, with free transportation provided to and from PPCC Centennial Campus. Most programs take two years to complete. Credit earned through Career Start fulfills both core and elective high school credit and varies by program. **Although Career Start credits do not fulfill HEAR admissions requirements or NCAA athlete eligibility requirements, all successful Career Start students qualify to apply for an additional year of free college through the 12+1 ASCENT Program.

The application process begins early in the spring semester of the sophomore or junior year. Taking the Accuplacer exam is part of the application process and other considerations include student attendance, discipline, career or college pathway, and remaining graduation requirements. Final approval for admittance is based on program space availability and approval by the high school counselor and the District Career Start coordinator.