The EBR Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) serves as a vital regional hub aimed at enhancing career readiness and technical skills among high school students in the East Baton Rouge School System.  These programs ensure that all students throughout the parish have equitable access to all LDOE Career Diploma Jump Start Pathways and TOPS University Diploma coursework regardless of which high school they attend.  CTEC has a business-led advisory board to ensure programs are aligned to community and industry needs.  

Purpose of CTEC

• High-Demand Job Training: CTEC focuses on preparing students for high-demand, high-paying jobs by providing specialized training in various fields. This helps address local workforce needs and ensures students are equipped with skills that are sought after by employers.

• Rigorous, Project-Based Instruction: The center offers rigorous, project-based learning that provides practical experience and real-world application of skills. This approach helps students develop a deep understanding of their chosen field and enhances their problem-solving abilities.

• Industry-Based Credentials (IBC): CTEC provides opportunities for students to earn industry-recognized certifications and credentials. These credentials validate the students' skills and qualifications, improving their employability and career prospects. 

• Dual Enrollment Opportunities: Students at CTEC can earn credits that count toward an Associate Degree while still in high school. This dual enrollment pathway accelerates their educational progress and provides a head start on higher education.

• Equitable Access: CTEC ensures that all students, regardless of their home high school, have access to high-level career pathways. This central program provides opportunities that might not be available at their individual schools, promoting equity in career education.

• Partnerships and Collaboration: CTEC programs are developed in partnership with local business and industry organizations, including the Baton Rouge Area Chamber (BRAC), Baton Rouge Area Foundation (BRAF), and a business advisory board. These collaborations ensure that the training is relevant and aligns with current industry standards.

• Work-Based Learning Experiences: Internships and apprenticeships provide students with hands-on experience in real-world job environments, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge, develop professional skills, and gain valuable industry insights. 

• Impact on School Performance Scores: Credentials earned through CTEC contribute to improving the School Performance Scores (SPS) of the students' home high schools, reflecting positively on both the individual students and their schools.

Program Summary and Pathway Offerings

CTEC provides a variety of career pathways designed to meet regional business and industry needs. 

Available programs include:

• Culinary Arts

• Media Arts

• NCCER Instrumentation

• NCCER Electrical

• Process Technology (Oil and Gas)

• HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)

• Carpentry

• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

• Medical Assistant

• Patient Care Technician

• Pre-Licensed Practical Nurse (Pre-LPN)

• Computer Networking

• Computer Programming

• Automotive Technology

Student Experience

Students enrolled in CTEC remain registered at their home high schools but attend CTEC for half a day every other day. This arrangement allows them to benefit from specialized training while maintaining their connection to their home school.

CTEC is designed to provide comprehensive career and technical education that aligns with regional industry needs, promotes equitable access to career pathways, and enhances both student outcomes and local economic development.

"Your story starts here and ends WORKFORCE READY"

*Students attend half a day either A day morning, A day afternoon, or B day morning classes.