Career Start

Career Start inspires high school students to start exploring career and technical education opportunities, gain knowledge and skills toward career goals all while earning college credits and certificates. If you are a qualified sophomore or junior and have a passion for designing, building, repairing, rescuing, welding, or caring for others, career start may be right for you. The majority of the programs offered through Career Start are designed for students who are looking to enter the work force after completion.

Thank you for your interest in PPSC Career Start!

The steps to apply to Career Start can be found below. Please make sure you complete each step before proceeding to the next one!

How to Apply to Career Start

Fill out Career Start Interest Form
Make an appointment with your school counselor to discuss your plans and verify that you are on track to graduate.
Apply to PPSC by 1/23/26 (you will need your PPSC S number to complete the next step)
Sign up to take a placement test by 1/29/26
Apply to VRHS Career Start by 2/9/26
Alexis Corral will contact you with next steps.

Pikes Peak State College Career Start Programs

Click this link and scroll down to 'Program Options' to view different programs and details.

If you miss the sign up dates for the Accuplacer given at Vista Ridge, you can test at the testing center at Pikes Peak State College and then continue with STEP 3 in the application process. Please click on the link for more information. Take Accuplacer at a PPSC location

If you need accommodations/modifications for your future college classes, you will need to meet with the PPCC Accessibility Services Office. We are happy to provide more information/details regarding that during our Advising Appointment or if you send your counselor an email after your application has been completed.