Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Innovation Career Pathways and why should I join one?
According to DESE, “Innovation Career Pathways are designed to give students coursework and experience in a specific high-demand industry, such as information technology, engineering, healthcare, life sciences and advanced manufacturing. This learning and experience better prepares students for career, entrepreneurship, or higher education, as it is focused on the knowledge and skills needed for that pathway.
Innovation Career Pathways are designed to create strong partnerships with employers in order to expose students to career options and help them develop knowledge and skills related to their chosen field of study before they graduate high school.”
You should join a pathway because it focuses your education on a career pathway that is interesting to YOU and can help you develop the skills and habits necessary for early success in that field. Internships connect you with potential employers.
What Innovation Career Pathways does WMHS offer?
We offer TWO Pathways!
Advanced Manufacturing - Choosing the Advanced Manufacturing pathway in high school is a strategic decision that prepares students for success in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven workforce. Today’s manufacturing industry is no longer limited to traditional factory work—it is powered by innovation, automation, robotics, engineering, and advanced problem-solving. By engaging in this pathway, students build both technical and professional skills that are highly valued in modern careers.
This program gives students hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment and tools such as 3D printers, CNC machines, robotics systems, and CAD software. These experiences not only support strong STEM-related learning but also develop critical thinking, precision, teamwork, and creativity. With these skills, students gain a competitive advantage whether they choose to pursue higher education or enter the workforce upon graduation.
Health Care & Social Assisting - Our Health Care and Social Assistance pathway offers students a meaningful opportunity to build the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to support the well-being of individuals, families, and communities. As one of the fastest-growing and most impactful fields in the global economy, health and human services provide diverse career options—from nursing, physical therapy, and emergency medicine to mental health support, public health, counseling, and social work.
This pathway emphasizes both scientific learning and human connection. Students gain foundational knowledge in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, mental and behavioral health, and patient care. Through hands-on learning experiences, real-world simulations, and opportunities to collaborate with healthcare professionals, students develop critical skills including communication, empathy, ethical decision-making, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Both pathways include internships in the junior or senior year.
How do I enter a pathway?
Speak to your school counselor to get more information! There is a short application.
How do I “complete” a pathway?
Take and pass two “technical courses” and two “advanced courses," and complete an internship related to your pathway.
Go to each Pathway page on this site to get more details!
Who can help me if I run into a challenge or struggle?
First, connect with your teacher and let them know you would like help. (Then, follow their coaching advice for improvement!)
Next, make an appointment with your school counselor and troubleshoot with them.