Career & Technical Programs

Career and Technical Programs Can Help You Get the Job You Want

Do you enjoy hands-on learning? Are you hoping to join the workforce somewhat soon? You may want to consider a technical college or career program.

Career and technical education programs vary widely in subject, length, cost, and other aspects. But they have one thing in common: an emphasis on training for a specific career, such as medical assistant, computer specialist, automotive technician, hairstylist, and many more.

There are a lot of job training options. Before selecting a program, you’ll want to do your homework:

• Learn more about fields you are interested in. Check out these online tools to connect your interests to potential careers and find related training programs:

  • College and Career Compass

  • Washington Career Bridge

  • Career Connect Washington

• Consider Washington’s outstanding public community and technical colleges. Students at community and technical colleges can train to enter into a job directly, take classes that will transfer to a four-year college, or pursue an applied bachelor's degree in a specific career field.

• Research any schools or programs you are considering. For private career schools in particular, confirm the school’s licensure status and look into its reputation.

Whatever you choose to do, remember that Washington College Grant can help pay for job training and approved apprenticeships. Explore your options and plan your future on the WSAC website.

Below are some links to career and technical education, adult and general education websites:

Advance CTE

The longest-standing national non-profit that represents State Directors and state leaders responsible for secondary, postsecondary and adult Career Technical Education (CTE) across all 50 states and U.S. territories. Advance CTE was formerly known as the National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium (NASDCTEc).

Association for Talent Development

Formerly known as the American Society for Training and Development, ATD helps others achieve their full potential by improving their knowledge, skills and abilities in the workplace.

Association for Career and Technical Education

The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the largest national education association dedicated to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for careers. It’s mission is to provide educational leadership in developing a competitive workforce.

Association for Skilled and Technical Sciences (ASTS)

The Association for Skilled and Technical Sciences (ASTS) is an organization for all instructors, administrators, teacher educators, industry representatives and others interested in the skilled trades.

National Association of Manufacturers

The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states.

National Coordinating Council for Career and Technical Student Organizations (NCC-CTSO)

The National Coordinating Council for Career and Technical Student Organizations (NCC-CTSO) is a coalition of national career and technical student organizations (CTSOs) serving career and technical education students and teachers in one or more of the 16 Career Clusters^® identified in The National Career Clusters^® Framework.

National Research Center for Career and Technical Education

The NRCCTE is committed to providing evidence-based solutions to the most vexing problems confronting CTE today, including how to better engage students in the school experience; how to improve academic as well as technical achievement; and how to improve the transition of college and career ready young people from high school to continuing education beyond high school.

Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME)

SME promotes advanced manufacturing technology and develops a skilled workforce. Its purpose is to advance manufacturing and attract future generations.

U.S. Department of Education

ED’s mission is to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access.