Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What types of programs does the CTC offer?

A: The CTC offers programs from 26 different career fields such as finance and marketing, welding, working with automobiles, careers in construction, nursing and health services, computer training, architecture and engineering, cosmetology, food service, law enforcement, fire rescue, and television and radio production.

Q: How do I get into a CTC program?

A: Enrollment into a CTC program is through a competitive application process. For most programs, students may apply in grades 9, 10, and 11 Acceptance is based on attendance, GPA, and a shadowing experience designed to measure aptitude and interest. Some programs have pre-requisites and additional acceptance criteria, and some are only available to 10 th and 11 th graders to apply. Specific course information is outlined in the individual program descriptions.

Q: How do I get an application?

A: Applications are available only through CTC. Students interested in applying to a CTC program must first meet with their high school guidance counselor for career counseling and to discuss scheduling options. At that time, a shadow experience will be scheduled for the student to come visit the program that they would like to apply for. An application is given out at the time of the shadow experience.

Q: What is a shadow experience?

A: A shadow experience gives the student an opportunity to experience the program they are interested in first-hand. Students spend two class periods at the CTC in the program they are applying for. They participate in classroom activities and are able to meet with and talk to the instructor and current students. The shadow experience is also a part of the acceptance criteria. Instructors evaluate students during their shadow experience on their use of time, enthusiasm and attitude, how well they follow directions, and their aptitude specific to the program being shadowed. Skill level and knowledge of the specific career field is not as important as a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.

Q: So how do I get accepted?

A: Many CTC programs are highly competitive, meaning that a lot of students are interested in enrolling. Due to safety concerns, only a certain amount of spaces are available for each class. To improve your chances of being accepted into the program of your choice be sure to do the following:

• Have consistently good attendance, not just the year you are
  applying to CTC but all through your school years. One of the goals
  of the CTC is to prepare students for post graduation success. An
  important characteristic to have is reliability and dependability.
  Good attendance in school is a good place to start.
• Maintain a good GPA (grade point average). A consistently good GPA
  shows that you are willing to do the work that it takes to meet the
  expectations set in front of you.
• Show a positive attitude when you come for your shadow experience.
  A willingness to learn and grow is a key factor successful people
  possess. It is not necessary to have all the knowledge from the
  start but it is essential to be open to learning and to working hard.

Q: When can I apply?

A: The shadowing and application process begins in October of each year and runs through February. You may apply at any time during that time period. Applications are accepted after February only for programs that still have available space.

Q: How will I know if I got accepted?

A: At the conclusion of the shadowing and application process in February, acceptance and denial letters are sent out, and a list is sent to each high school guidance department.

Q: What if I don’t get accepted?

A: If you do not get accepted to the program you applied for you are still eligible to shadow and apply to other programs that have space available. You may also shadow and re-apply the following year if you are still within the appropriate grade levels.

Q: How many programs can I shadow and apply for?

A: You may shadow up to two programs. You may apply for only one program at a time.

Q: How will I know what programs still have space available if I want to apply for something else?

A: Updated lists of open programs are sent to each high school guidance department on a regular basis starting in March and continuing through the summer until the start of the next school year.

Q: What do I get from my CTC program?

A: Students completing a CTC program receive intensive career specific skill training that may include on the job experience, mentoring from individuals in the field, industry certifications and licensures, apprenticeship training, and up to 27 articulated college credits. Specific benefits are included for each program in the individual program descriptions.

Q: Can I still go to college if I enroll in a CTC program?

A: Yes. With some planning, there is room to prepare for college and complete a CTC program. As a matter of fact, we encourage students to do both so that they have more options when they graduate. An added bonus is that almost all of the programs at the CTC offer articulated and/or transcripted college credits.

Q: Can I still take AP Courses and enroll in a CTC program?

A: Yes. There is enough flexibility in the CTC programs that you will be able to fit AP Courses into your schedule and still attend the CTC.

Q: Where can I find out more information about CTC?

A: You can find information about CTC on our website, in our brochure, at our Open House, through our Newsletter, from your guidance counselor, and you can also contact us directly at 240-236-8500 or at dalyk@careertech.net.