Students Showcase Career-Ready Skills at CTE Open House

Students are gaining hands-on experience and industry-recognized certifications through the district’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs — an opportunity on full display at this week’s annual CTE Open House at Crossland High School.

The event featured students demonstrating skills in culinary arts, barbering, electrical work, coding, and construction, highlighting the growing emphasis on career readiness in public education. As part of CTE Month, the showcase reinforced the district’s commitment to preparing students for success in high-demand industries.

“Not all students go to college,” said Pamela Smith, Director of Career and Technical Education Programs. “CTE allows students to explore careers they love while developing real-world skills that give them a competitive edge.”

Among the students featured was senior Danyelle Jones, enrolled in the CISCO Cybersecurity program. Passionate about technology, she described how the program has given her hands-on experience in coding and computer diagnostics.

“I love breaking down computers and figuring out how they work,” Jones said. “It’s been an amazing opportunity to do something I’m passionate about and could see myself doing every day.”

Senior Nakyra Wood shared a similar enthusiasm. A participant in the student-built house project, she has learned the fundamentals of networking and coding.

“It’s fun, hands-on, and gives me skills I can use in my future career,” Wood said.

With a focus on career pathways in fields such as healthcare, information technology, and skilled trades, PGCPS’ CTE programs provide students with practical experience and access to certifications needed to enter the workforce prepared and career-ready.